Kevin D. Shoun: Elevating Veteran Advocacy Across 62 Global Platforms Through National Invest In Veterans Week®
Kevin D. Shoun is a name synonymous with transformation, leadership, and impact in the realm of veteran advocacy. Appointed as the Senior Advisor for Civic Leadership and Policy Development at National Invest In Veterans Week® (NIVW®), Kevin is tasked with creating and overseeing policies that extend across 62 platforms globally. His contributions are reshaping how veterans access economic opportunities, mental health resources, and entrepreneurial tools while building systems that empower their success for generations.
Kevin’s career spans over a decade of military excellence, entrepreneurship, and policy leadership. His understanding of the unique challenges veterans face stems from his firsthand experience in the U.S. Army, where he served as First Sergeant, managing teams of over 100 personnel and logistical resources exceeding $2 million. These skills have translated seamlessly into his role at NIVW®, where his work impacts thousands of veterans and their families.
National Invest In Veterans Week® has grown into a global initiative with platforms that provide localized and tailored resources for veterans. Kevin’s efforts focus on ensuring that the policies guiding these platforms are not only comprehensive but also actionable, bridging the gap between recognition and tangible support.
A Leadership Foundation Built in Service
Kevin’s journey to becoming a leading advocate for veterans began during his 12 years in the U.S. Army. As a leader responsible for ensuring operational success and team cohesion, Kevin’s focus was on people as much as it was on mission objectives. His leadership style emphasized mentorship, trust, and growth, creating an environment where those he led could thrive both personally and professionally.
In his role as First Sergeant, Kevin’s responsibilities extended beyond tactical operations. He developed training programs, facilitated resource management, and fostered a culture of collaboration. These experiences laid the groundwork for his approach to policy development at NIVW®, where he integrates strategic thinking with a commitment to addressing the real needs of veterans.
Expanding Global Influence Through Policy Development
At the core of Kevin’s role at NIVW® is his responsibility for crafting policies that address the evolving needs of veterans. These policies guide 14 U.S. state-specific platforms, 29 country-specific platforms, and 9 regional or organizational platforms. Together, they create a global network designed to uplift and empower veterans as entrepreneurs and leaders.
Key Policy Pillars
Economic Empowerment
Kevin’s initiatives focus on expanding access to funding for veteran-owned businesses. By fostering relationships with private investors, nonprofits, and government organizations, he is creating financial systems that enable veterans to build sustainable ventures.
Localized Solutions
Kevin ensures that each platform is tailored to the unique needs of its audience. For example, platforms like FloridaVeterans.com and KansasVeterans.com provide region-specific resources, mentorship opportunities, and connections that directly benefit veterans in those areas.
Mental Health Advocacy
Building on his military experiences and previous advocacy work, Kevin incorporates mental health resources into entrepreneurship programs. This integration ensures that veterans can access holistic support that addresses both personal and professional challenges.
Global Collaboration
Kevin’s policies emphasize the importance of international partnerships. Platforms like AustraliaVeterans.com and UnitedKingdomVeterans.com connect veterans with opportunities beyond their borders, fostering innovation and economic growth on a global scale.
Driving Impact Through Action
Kevin’s work at NIVW® is about more than just policy—it’s about creating systems that produce real, measurable results. His leadership ensures that veterans can transition from military service to civilian life with the tools and support they need to succeed.
By focusing on partnerships, Kevin has expanded NIVW®’s influence, securing endorsements from organizations like New York Life Investments and features in prominent publications like DVIDS’ The Focus. These collaborations amplify the organization’s mission while creating new opportunities for growth and impact.
Mental Health Advocacy as a Cornerstone
Kevin’s dedication to mental health advocacy has been a defining aspect of his career. In 2019, he authored an award-winning article for Aviation Digest titled “Why is Suicide So Difficult to Talk About?”. This piece, which earned the publication’s Article of the Year Award, addressed the stigma surrounding mental health in the military and provided actionable insights for fostering open conversations.
This commitment to mental health continues to shape Kevin’s work at NIVW®. By integrating mental health resources into entrepreneurial programs, he ensures that veterans receive the comprehensive support they need to navigate challenges and thrive in civilian life.
Building on the Legacy of National Invest In Veterans Week®
National Invest In Veterans Week® was founded in 2019 by Jeff Shuford, whose vision transformed the way society recognizes and supports veterans. Under Jeff’s leadership, NIVW® achieved milestones such as Congressional recognition, global expansion, and partnerships with influential organizations.
Jeff’s retirement in late 2024 marked a transition to new leadership, with Kevin stepping in alongside Angel Shuford, Vice President and CFO. Together, they are building on Jeff’s legacy while introducing new strategies to expand the organization’s reach and impact.
A Vision for the Future
Kevin’s work is not just about addressing current challenges—it’s about creating systems that ensure long-term success for veterans. His vision includes scaling international collaborations, enhancing digital platforms, and fostering corporate partnerships to create more opportunities for veteran-owned businesses.
Scaling Global Collaboration
By building relationships with international organizations, Kevin is expanding NIVW®’s influence and connecting veterans with global markets.
Digital Transformation
Kevin is driving efforts to enhance the organization’s digital platforms, making it easier for veterans to access resources, funding, and mentorship opportunities.
Corporate Engagement
Strengthening relationships with corporations, Kevin aims to create programs that provide veterans with the tools they need to succeed in the private sector.
Expanding Platforms Across the Globe
U.S. State-Specific Platforms (14):
International Country-Specific Platforms (29):
UnitedKingdomVeterans.com
(And more…)
Kevin’s leadership ensures that these platforms continue to provide veterans with the support they need to succeed as entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders. For more information, visit National Invest In Veterans Week®.
