Meet our team

Behind every service we provide is a dedicated team of professionals in their field, each bringing their unique expertise and enthusiasm to Heroes United to Heal.

Donna Michaels - CEO & Founder

 

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Donna is a U.S. Navy veteran and retired law enforcement officer who brings both professional experience and lived understanding to her work with veterans and first responders who are struggling with invisible wounds. Her service exposed her to the long-term impact of trauma and the challenges faced when injuries are unseen, misunderstood, or stigmatized.

Recognizing the need for accessible, judgment-free support, Donna began documenting her own journey toward healing - work that was later published in her book, Courageously Broken. Through sharing her experience, she aims to foster understanding, connection, and hope for others navigating similar struggles.

In 2022, Donna launched the HU2H website after hearing from countless veterans and first responders searching for private, trustworthy resources. Later that year, HU2H became a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing barriers to care and supporting those affected by invisible wounds.
At the heart of Donna’s work are the HU2H Big Sky Retreats, where veterans and first responders are brought together in a safe, supportive environment designed to encourage understanding, connection, and healing. Through education, shared experience, camaraderie, and a variety of outdoor activities, participants are given the opportunity to let their guard down, break through isolation, and begin the healing process together. 
 
Donna remains committed to early intervention, integrity-driven service, and creating meaningful pathways to hope and healing - ensuring those who serve never have to face the aftermath alone.

Erin Harris - Co-Founder

 

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Erin Harris is the co-founder of HU2H and a dedicated advocate for veterans, first responders, and their families who are impacted by invisible wounds. Her commitment to the mission is deeply rooted in personal experience and a lifetime of witnessing the toll trauma can take on those who serve—and on the families who stand beside them.

As the proud daughter of a Vietnam Veteran, Erin understands firsthand how service-related struggles extend far beyond the individual. Her connection to countless first responders, combined with her family’s legacy of service, has given her a clear perspective on the long-term effects of trauma and the urgent need for early, meaningful intervention. Erin’s mother, a flight attendant who was flying on September 11, 2001, continues to volunteer with the USO, further reinforcing Erin’s lifelong exposure to service, sacrifice, and resilience.

Drawing on her professional skills, Erin played a critical role in assisting with the formation and founding of HU2H, and in the creation of the HU2H Big Sky Retreats. Her attention to detail, organizational expertise, and unwavering dedication helped transform a shared vision into a mission-driven nonprofit organization. 

Erin’s personal ties to invisible wounds, along with bearing witness to Donna’s story, inspired her call to action. Together, they discovered that their healing began through camaraderie and sharing their experiences.

Erin dedicates her time and efforts to HU2H in honor of her late father’s memory, ensuring that those who serve - and their families - have access to support, education, and hope. In addition to her work with HU2H, she is an active leader with Scouting America, where she enjoys mentoring youth and spending time outdoors. She is also a proud mother of two daughters currently attending college, and remains deeply committed to service, leadership, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others. 

Makaala Mazat - President & CFO

 

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Commander Makaala Mazat, USN (Ret.), brings over 30 years of disciplined leadership and operational expertise to his role as President and CFO of Heroes United to Heal. A native of El Paso, Texas, Makaala’s Navy career began as an enlisted sailor in 1993, followed by a commission through the Nuclear Enlisted Commissioning Program in 1999.

An alumnus of the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics, Makaala holds a B.S in Computer Engineering from the University of Arizona and an MBA from the University of Houston. His naval service was defined by technical rigors and high-stakes environments, including multiple deployments aboard fast-attack submarines in the Western Pacific and Arctic. Throughout his career, he served in key locations including Diego Garcia, Japan, and Bahrain, culminating in his command of the Submarine Training Facility San Diego.

A graduate of the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, Makaala has translated his professional culinary training into a service-oriented passion. He serves as the HU2H Retreat Chef, utilizing the power of food to foster community and healing for veterans. His commitment to the veteran community is deeply personal; he is a dedicated advocate for those navigating the transition to civilian life, focusing on equipping veterans with the mentorship and tools they deserve.

Makaala resides in Dallas, Texas, with his wife, Lisa. He is the proud father of four daughters, continuing a family legacy of service: Sydney is currently on active duty in the Air Force, and Caroline is pursuing NROTC. An avid endurance athlete, Makaala is a frequent marathon and triathlon competitor. When not in the kitchen or on the trail, he is a passionate woodworker, laser engraver, and photographer. 

Dr. Jeremiah S. Owoh - Vice President 

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Dr. Jeremiah S. Owoh has dedicated his life to service, leadership, and mentorship - principles deeply rooted in the values instilled by his mother and grandmother. Raised with the belief that "to whom much is given, much is expected," Jeremiah has consistently committed himself to uplifting others and giving back to his community. 

A lifelong learner and servant leader, Dr. Owoh earned his Doctorate in Information Management from Syracuse University. He honorably served more than 27 years as a U.S. Army Officer, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, with a distinguished career in cybersecurity information systems, and enterprise IT leadership. Throughout his military service, he led complex global teams, managed large-scale technology programs, and mentored countless Soldiers and professionals, experience that now continues to benefit the organizations he serves.

After multiple combat deployments, Jeremiah was diagnosed with PTSD, social anxiety, and depression, at a time when acknowledging mental health challenges was often perceived as a threat to one’s career. Over the years, he witnessed many fellow service members struggle silently, fearful that seeking help would jeopardize their futures. As a field-grade officer, Jeremiah had seen firsthand the devastating impact of untreated mental health issues, including the loss of Soldiers to suicide. Determined to make a difference, he chose transparency over silence, openly sharing his own journey in hopes of encouraging others to seek help. Today, he is a strong advocate for mental health awareness, emphasizing that recognizing and addressing mental health challenges can strengthen, not diminish, both personal well-being and professional success.

Beyond his professional and advocacy work, Jeremiah is a proud father of three, and values time spent with his family. He enjoys bowling, cycling, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. 

Mike Hriciso - Community Relations

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Mike is a proud Navy Veteran and retired law enforcement officer who doesn’t seem to know the definition of "retired." He has been a member of the American Legion for 16 years and serves as Post Commander in Merritt Island, Florida.

Mike is a lifelong active member of the Boy Scouts of American and currently serves as a Scout Leader in Cocoa, Florida.

Mike has been married to his wonderful wife, Michele who is also a retired first responder  and together they adopted a son whom they’ve raised since he was four months old.

Both Mike and his wife have overcome serious adversity having sustained serious injuries during their careers in law enforcement. They understand the toll traumatic events take on veterans and first responders and their support for our team is appreciated beyond measure.

Mike recently started his own business, Beyond Therapy Designs, and is creating custom print merchandise. He has discovered graphic design to be cathartic outlet.

Mike’s other hobbies consist of hiking the Appalachian Trail, RV camping, traveling, NASCAR, and spending as much time as possible with his service dog, Ruger, who is also a member of the “Fab 5” Rescue.

John Paul Thompson - Board Member

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J.P. Thompson is an Officer in the U.S. Navy with two decades of military service. He is a Doctor of Law and Policy candidate at Northeastern University, and holds a Master's degree from the University of Kansas and a Bachelor’s from Ohio State University. He is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, and is a University of Illinois Dr. Sandra J. Finley Teacher Scholar. His operational experience spans AEGIS guided-missile destroyers, mine countermeasure ships, and theater anti-submarine warfare and intelligence operations, with deployments to the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Afghanistan.

Outside of his work and dedication to supporting veterans and first responders, J.P. enjoys spending time with his family. He is happily married to his wife, Samantha, and is a proud father of two daughters, Evelyn (11) and Amelia (4).

Dr. Jessie Holton - Mental Health Consultant 

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Dr. Jessie Holton is a combat Veteran, former law enforcement officer, and an organizational sociologist with over 20 years of service in public safety. A U.S. Marine Corps infantryman, and decorated veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, he later served 15 years in law enforcement across Florida and Montana in roles ranging from Major Crimes Investigator to Veterans Community Liaison.

Dr. Holton is nationally recognized for pioneering initiatives in officer wellness, child victim advocacy, and suicide prevention. He developed Holton's Concept-to-Practice Model®, a bottom-up approach to improving public safety organizations. He holds a Doctorate in Organizational Sociology and multiple degrees in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida.

Dr. Holton now resides in Big Timber, Montana, with his family, where he raises bison and supports first responders through his work with Heroes United to Heal.

Dr. David Day - Neurological Consultant 

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Dr. David Day's healthcare career began in 1990 with his enlistment in the U.S. Navy, where he served as a Hospital Corpsman, Surgical Technician, and a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman. He later earned a Master of Physician Assistant studies degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine and was commissioned as a Medical Service Corps Officer.

LCDR Day dedicated 26 years to active duty military service, retiring from the U.S. Navy in 2017. His distinguished service included multiple combat deployments to US Central Command for Operation Iraqi Freedom with the United States Marine Corps, the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) Carrier Strike Group Two, and Operation Enduring Freedom as the Joint Task Force Senior Medical Officer for Naval Special Warfare Development Group & Joint Special Operations Command.

He is a Marine Corps Fleet Marine Force Qualified Officer and a Navy Surface Warfare Medical Department Officer, and his military service is recognized with numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal (x3), Army Commendation Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal (x5), Presidential Unit Citation, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and Combat Action Ribbon, among others.

In 2019, Mr. Day established Neuroenhancement & Cognitive Optimization Associates, PLLC (NEUCOA) in Virginia Beach, Virginia. NEUCOA specializes in non-pharmaceutical treatment for neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress injury, and autism spectrum disorder. The practice utilizes personalized EEG-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation technology and has been honored to treat hundreds of the Nation’s Armed Forces members and First Responders with the generous support of benevolent organizations.

David is married to Dottie Day, also a Navy Veteran and a Vice President with Navy Federal Credit Union. They have three adult sons successfully pursuing careers in marketing, law enforcement, and as a chef at a Michelin Star restaurant.

Paige Devernichuk - Director of Marketing

 

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Paige Devernichuk is a Saskatchewan-born Métis woman with a background in communications, marketing, and business. She has a degree from Athabasca University (Alberta) and a certificate from First Nations University of Canada (Saskatchewan) and is a committed lifelong learner and community advocate. 

Paige serves as a leader with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Saskatchewan Branch, and is certified in Mental Health First Aid. With family and close friends who have served in uniform in both Canada and the United States, she has deep respect for those who serve and the importance of mental health support for military members, veterans, and first responders. 

A proud Western Canadian who bleeds red, white, and blue, Paige is passionate about service, healing, and connection. Outside of her work with HU2H, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling, volunteering, and cheering for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Montréal Canadiens.

Charles Stebbin-Williams - Tax Consultant 

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Charles Stebbin-Williams, CPA, MBA is an experienced finance and accounting leader with over 15 years of experience supporting mission-driven and nonprofit organizations, as well as complex, growing enterprises. He has held senior leadership roles including Managing Director, Controller, and Interim CFO, providing strategic and operational financial guidance to organizations navigating growth, compliance, and funding challenges.

Charles brings deep expertise in nonprofit financial reporting, GAAP, Uniform Guidance (OMB A-133), grant budgeting, cost accounting, and internal controls. He is known for building clear, reliable financial processes, strengthening audit readiness, and translating financial information into practical insights for executive teams and boards.

Outside of his professional work, Charles is deeply committed to causes that strengthen communities. He rescues dogs as a passion and actively supports organizations that serve veterans. Mental health advocacy is especially meaningful to him, shaped by the personal loss of a family member to suicide, and it informs his desire to support nonprofits doing impactful, compassionate work.

A New York-licensed CPA with an MBA, Charles partners with nonprofit leaders to improve financial clarity, ensure compliance, and maximize resources in service of their mission.

Jeannie Jenkins - Board Member

 

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Jeannie Jenkins.