WHERE IT STARTED
In 2009, Grunt Style was founded in a garage with a single screen-printing press and a vision to create apparel that honored the military lifestyle. What started as a clothing brand quickly became a culture — a community of Veterans, active-duty service members, and patriotic Americans united by shared values.
By 2021, the company's leadership recognized a deeper calling. The same community that wore the gear needed more than apparel — they needed advocacy, healing, and support. Grunt Style Foundation was established to meet that need head-on.
FORWARD WITH PURPOSE
A FORCE MULTIPLIER
Founded in 2015, Irreverent Warriors uses humor and camaraderie to improve mental health in the veteran community. Their signature Silkies Hikes bring veterans together in all 50 states for peer-based healing walks that prove laughter and brotherhood are powerful medicine.
"This merger means every Veteran who walks with us now has an entire foundation behind them. Humor gets them in the door — but real resources keep them alive."
CINDY McNALLY
Silkies Hikes now backed by GSF's full infrastructure and funding
Veteran retreats expanded from regional to nationwide programming
Combined donor base accelerates fundraising for mental health
Shared legislative advocacy amplifies the voice for veteran policy
Unified brand presence drives awareness at scale
New unified 501(c)(3) entity under EIN 47-4789126
A NEW CHAPTER
When the decision was made to merge Grunt Style Foundation and Irreverent Warriors, the leadership of both organizations committed to doing it the right way — not a takeover, but a true unification. The original GSF entity (EIN 86-3633516) was privately dissolved, and a new 501(c)(3) was formed to carry the combined mission forward under a single organizational structure.
A new board of directors was elected by vote — four members from the original Grunt Style Foundation board, two members from Irreverent Warriors, and a new Executive Director drawn from GSF's existing leadership. This structure ensures continuity of both organizations' values while creating a unified governance body with the authority and accountability to lead the combined mission.
The result is a single, stronger foundation — operating under EIN 47-4789126 — with the institutional knowledge of both organizations, a shared donor base, and the operational scale to serve veterans in all 50 states.
THE TEAM
Chairman of the Board & Founder
Co-Owner Grunt Style | CBO
Marine combat veteran who built Grunt Style from a garage operation into a nationally recognized brand. Founded GSF to ensure the company's culture of service extends beyond apparel and into lasting impact for Veterans and their families.
Executive Director
Day-to-day Operations
Oversees all Foundation operations, from program execution to partnership development. Brings deep nonprofit management experience and a relentless focus on accountability, ensuring every dollar drives measurable outcomes.
Director of Social Media
Digital Presence
Leads GSF's digital storytelling, building engaged communities across every platform. Translates complex mission work into compelling content that inspires action and keeps supporters connected to real-time impact.
Program Director IW
Silkies Hikes & Retreats
Directs the Irreverent Warriors program nationwide, coordinating Silkies Hikes and healing retreats in all 50 states. A passionate advocate for peer-based mental health support and veteran camaraderie.
GSF Veteran Fellow
Strategy & Veteran Needs
Bridges organizational strategy with front-line veteran needs. As a Veteran Fellow, Derek ensures that programs remain grounded in the real challenges service members and families face every day.
STRONGER TOGETHER