We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalia Earle & Angelo Martinez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalia Earle & Angelo Martinez, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The decision to establish our nonprofit foundation stemmed from a profound concern for the well-being of our veterans. With a staggering statistic revealing that 44 veterans tragically lose their lives each day to suicide, we felt compelled to take action. Our mission is laser-focused on combating this epidemic and bringing hope to those who have bravely served our country.
    

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At the Barracks Legend Foundation, our core mission is to orchestrate dynamic and engaging events designed to bring veterans from the shadows of isolation into a vibrant community, thereby enhancing mental well-being and combating the crisis of veteran suicide. Our commitment to regularly scheduled, impactful gatherings distinctly positions us in the non-profit sphere. While we acknowledge the effectiveness of other organizations, our approach is uniquely proactive, focusing on action-oriented solutions aligned with our foundational goals.

We are particularly thrilled about the impact our foundation has made, from the scenic expanses of Ohio to the picturesque beaches of Destin, Florida. Witnessing the growth and reach of our initiatives has been both exhilarating and deeply rewarding. Our journey, like many, has experienced its share of challenges and triumphs. Building our foundation from the ground up, we’ve encountered typical organizational hurdles, yet the positive transformation within the veteran community has been our greatest reward. A significant part of our journey has involved learning to surround ourselves with individuals whose hearts resonate with our mission and ethos, swiftly distancing ourselves from those whose intentions diverge from our values.

Key lessons have shaped our journey: the strategic power of “no,” the agility to pivot decisively, and the importance of prioritizing quality over quantity in our events. We’ve learned to overcome obstacles by fostering collaboration over competition, enhancing our ability to make a profound impact.

It’s crucial to highlight the urgent need our mission addresses: every day, 44 veterans lose their lives to suicide, a devastating statistic that often goes unspoken. From the silent battles with PTSD to the impacts of TBI, every moment is critical for those facing the daunting challenge of isolation. Our foundation is dedicated to changing this narrative, one event at a time, bringing light to the shadows and offering hope where it’s needed most.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Explore Miami’s diverse culture by starting your day at Calle Ocho in Little Havana for a taste of Cuban life. Try an authentic Cuban sandwich at Sanguich De Miami. Then check out the cool street art in Wynwood and enjoy happy hour at Mandolin Miami. Don’t miss South Beach and Ocean Drive for that classic Miami vibe.

Sports fans can catch a Miami Heat game or watch Jai-Alai League in Miami. Don’t forget to sip on Cuban coffee and do some shopping in the Design District. If you’re in town during Miami Music Week, check out the pool parties at the National. Finally, embrace the magic of a Miami sunrise at the iconic Club Space, where the rhythm of the night gives way to a new day filled with endless possibilities. Let Miami’s eclectic charm and vibrant spirit leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Our heartfelt shoutout is a tribute to the brave men and women who have selflessly defended our freedoms, often bearing great personal sacrifices. We also extend our gratitude to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for calling us to serve those who have sacrificed so much.

Website: www.barrackslegendfoundation.com

Instagram: @barrackslegendfoundation

Linkedin: barrackslegendfoundation

Twitter: barrackslegendfoundation

Facebook: barrackslegendfoundation

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.