Moments that save lives: Supporting veterans, first responders & Gold Star families

Making Every Moment Count

Each photo tells a story of hope, healing, and community. In 2025, Minutes Wisely proudly helped veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families create unforgettable memories — from special experiences and family getaways to moments of pure joy shared together. These smiles remind us why we do what we do: because every minute counts, and every life we touch matters.

This photo is filled with joy and gratitude as 9-year-old Mason Asher and his family pose with the gift box revealing the words every child dreams of—“You’re going to Disney World.” Surrounded by love and support, the moment also includes Richard and his wife Brenda, along with the incredible band The Rooster Fries, who brought the night to life with their music. Together, this picture represents the heart of Minutes Wisely: community coming together to create unforgettable memories for families facing life’s toughest battles.

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This photo captures a powerful moment at the Dearborn Heights Police Department, where Minutes Wisely had the honor of accompanying DJ Daniel. Standing together with the department’s badge proudly displayed on the wall behind us, the image represents more than a visit—it symbolizes community, support, and the bonds formed when law enforcement, veterans, and nonprofits come together to recognize and uplift those who inspire us all.

Make Every Minute Count. Save a Life Today.

At Minutes Wisely, we believe powerful moments can spark hope and healing. Whether it's a ticket to a game, a night out with loved ones, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience—your donation helps veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families reclaim joy and connection.

Join us in the fight against veteran suicide.
Donate now. Sponsor a memory. Be the reason someone keeps going.

[Give Hope Today]

A Few of Our Honored Guests

At Minutes Wisely, we are dedicated to honoring the brave individuals who have served and sacrificed for our country. Our mission is twofold: to provide veterans, first responders, and Gold Star family members with meaningful experiences by sending them to sporting events, and to work tirelessly to prevent veteran suicide. We believe that every moment matters, and by creating opportunities for connection, joy, and support, we can make a lasting impact in the lives of those who have given so much for us.

2024 Guests
Tony

Huge thank you to Richard Fleek and Minutes Wisely for the opportunity to attend last nights game! I look forward to future events and the help you guys provide for our veterans!

Tony Khazouz

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We don't do a lot of crowds like that tbh. Sunday morning church is already a lot for him. The last football game we went to was in 2017. We are both excited to go.

Army Ranger, 9 tours & 2 Purple Hearts

Jose & Julianne

Charlie

Today was special, Its Little Charlies Birthday and his first ever Tennessee Titans game. Thank you to Minutes Wisely for the great seats at the game today. We had some amazing people with us as well, thanks @romelmcmurrycountycommissioner for joining us today.

Charlie Eblen

JJ
I want to personally thank the team at Minutes Wisely, and Richard Fleek, for granting me tickets today for my #OnePride Detroit Lions!
This is an amazing nonprofit organization whose mission is to to provide meaningful experiences for veterans, first responders, and Gold Star families by sending them to sporting events.
I am more than honored to be today’s recipient as a hometown raised U.S. Army Veteran, Law Enforcement Officer, Federal Government K-9 Instructor, and Global Nonprofit Leader, born right here on 9 Mile.
Learn more about all the great work they do at: https://minuteswisely.org/

Jason Johnson

⚓️ **YOU SIGNED UP FOR SOMETHING BIGGER THAN YOURSELF.**

Bradley Harrison Rubash and Richard discuss the responsibility that comes with serving aboard a U.S. Navy warship—and what should happen when someone's actions potentially put the ship, its mission, or fellow sailors at risk.

This conversation gets intense. 🇺🇸

Duty. Accountability. Readiness. The oath.

🎙️ Where do YOU draw the line?

👇 Agree or disagree—tell us why.

#USNavy #Navy #Veterans #Military #MilitaryLife #UCMJ #VeteranCommunity #VeteranVoices #TomorrowNeedsYou #MinutesWisely

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🐕‍🦺 **THEY’RE NOT A PET. THEY’RE A TOOL.**

Military working dogs know their job.

Bradley Harrison Rubash remembers working with Sefri, a European German Shepherd who understood when it was time to relax and when it was time to WORK.

Kennel opens. Handler arrives. **GO TIME.** 🇺🇸

The relationship between a military working dog and its handler is something special.

🎙️ **Tomorrow Needs You — A Minutes Wisely Podcast**

Real Veterans. Real Stories. Real Purpose.

#MilitaryWorkingDog #WorkingDog #GermanShepherd #Veterans #Military #VeteranStories #TomorrowNeedsYou #MinutesWisely #MWD #Podcast

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Ever wondered what it’s like to serve in the military? 🇺🇸

Join me as I chat with Bradley about his journey from Pittsburgh to the Navy, the challenges of military life, and the bonds formed along the way. 

From the unique experiences of dog handling to the realities of deployment, we dive deep into the stories that shape our veterans. 

💬 What’s your favorite military memory? Share in the comments! 

Let’s honor those who serve and understand the sacrifices they make. 

#MilitaryLife #Veterans #NavyStories #ServiceAndSacrifice #DogHandlers

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Ever thought a cookbook could save lives? 📚✨

This isn’t just any cookbook; it’s a collection of stories and recipes that inspire and uplift. I pulled quotes from my podcast guests, like this one from Lieutenant Colonel Kettridge, who shares his journey in Vietnam. 

Cooking has always been my passion, and I wanted to blend that with the powerful stories I’ve heard. So, I created a cookbook that not only shares delicious recipes but also the heartwarming tales behind them. 

If you love cooking and storytelling, this is for you! Tag someone who needs to hear this or save it for your next cooking adventure! 

#Cookbook #Inspiration #CookingStories #FoodForThought #LifeChangingRecipes

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Ever felt frustrated waiting for hours at a civilian doctor's office? 😩

Drop a comment if you've been there! 

As someone who works in a hospital, I can tell you that veterans with VA healthcare are taken care of exceptionally well. 

Richard shares his experience: "I've been using VA services for just over a year, and it's been great! Unlike civilian doctors who overbook, my VA appointments are quick and efficient. I check in and within five minutes, I'm talking to my doctor. It's such a relief!" 

Imagine not having to wait for hours just to see a doctor. That's the kind of care our veterans deserve! 

What’s your experience with healthcare? Let’s talk about it! 

#VeteranCare #HealthcareExperience #VAMedical

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Thinking about joining the military? 🤔 Here's why you should just go for it!

"Do it. Absolutely do it and get everything out of it. The military will get everything out of you, too. If there's a class or a school that no one wants to do, you do it. You never know how something you didn't think you wanted to do will change your life. Joining the military was the best decision I ever made. It got a kid from a trailer park out and into a world of opportunities. I'm educated and have a completely different perspective on life now. That would have never happened if I hadn't joined the Navy." 

So, are you ready to take the leap? Tag someone who needs to hear this! 💪

#MilitaryLife #Navy #LifeChangingDecisions #CareerAdvice #PersonalGrowth

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Ever felt like life is both the best and worst at the same time? 🤔

Drop a comment if you can relate! 

Jenn shares her journey in the Navy, describing it as the slowest yet fastest time of her life. It was filled with ups and downs, but ultimately, it changed her perspective forever. 

"If I hadn't joined the Navy, I wouldn't understand the world the way I do now." 🌍

Looking back, she sees how it expanded her mind and education, contrasting her experiences with those who stayed in her hometown. 

Have you ever had an experience that completely shifted your worldview? Share below! 

#NavyLife #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons #MindsetShift #Journey

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Ever felt like your dreams were out of reach? 🌟

I grew up in a tiny town, living in a trailer, and became a mom at 17. College felt impossible until a recruiter walked into my algebra class and changed everything. I decided to join the Navy for five years to secure my future and get that college money. 

Fast forward, I chose a path in meteorology and oceanography, thinking it was just a short gig. Little did I know, that decision would lead to a 22-year career! 

If you’re feeling stuck, remember: sometimes, the path you least expect can lead to the most incredible journey. 

Tag someone who needs to hear this! 💪

#NavyLife #CareerJourney #Inspiration

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Lives we've impacted

Seats Filled. Memories Made. Since 2023

Our mission is to provide a platform through which we can raise awareness and support for veterans at risk of suicide, to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, and to enable veterans to connect with and support each other so that no veteran is ever left behind.

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"Minutes are worth more than money. Spend them wisely."

Thomas P. Murphy

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