About MilVet Transitions
Founded by a retired U.S. Army officer who lived the transition himself — and decided no one else should have to do it alone.
Josh Shaver
MilVet Transitions was founded by Josh Shaver, a retired U.S. Army officer with 28 years of military service and multiple combat deployments. Throughout his military career and during his own transition to civilian life, Josh witnessed firsthand the challenges many veterans and their families face after leaving military service.
While benefits and support programs exist, too many veterans struggle with isolation, navigating complex systems, rebuilding their identities, and finding a renewed sense of purpose. Military spouses often experience their own unique challenges, including frequent relocations, interrupted careers, caregiver responsibilities, social isolation, and the difficult transition from military to civilian life alongside the veteran they have supported for years.
Inspired by both his personal experiences and those of countless veterans and military families he has served alongside, Josh established MilVet Transitions with a simple belief: no one who has served our nation — or supported someone who has — should have to face life's transitions alone.
The organization was created to bridge the gap between military service and civilian life by connecting veterans, military spouses, and their families with trusted resources, peer support, educational opportunities, mentorship, and community partnerships that promote long-term success.
At the heart of MilVet Transitions is a commitment to preventing and reducing veteran suicide by addressing one of its greatest contributing factors — isolation. We believe that connection saves lives. By creating opportunities for veterans and military families to build meaningful social and professional relationships, strengthen peer networks, and engage with others who understand the military experience, we help foster resilience, restore purpose, and build communities where individuals and families can thrive together.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13 (KJV)
Why we exist
MilVet Transitions exists to improve the quality of life for veterans and military families by promoting successful transitions, strengthening community connections, expanding access to resources, and reducing the social isolation that contributes to poor health outcomes and increased suicide risk.
We accomplish this through education, peer support, mentorship, collaborative partnerships, community engagement, and leadership development — while honoring the lifelong values of service, integrity, and commitment established during military service.
What success really means
We believe successful transition extends far beyond employment or accessing benefits. True success is measured by an individual's ability to build a fulfilling life marked by meaningful relationships, purposeful work, continued personal growth, and active participation in the community.
Our philosophy recognizes that suicide prevention begins long before someone reaches a crisis. Veterans who feel connected, valued, and engaged are more likely to seek help when needed, maintain healthy relationships, and experience a renewed sense of purpose.
Every meaningful conversation, every new friendship, every mentor relationship, and every opportunity to serve can contribute to a stronger, healthier military community.
The standards we hold ourselves to
Carried over from the uniform, and applied to every decision and program.
Service
We continue the tradition of selfless service by placing veterans, service members, military spouses, and their families at the center of every decision and program.
Integrity
We conduct ourselves with honesty, transparency, accountability, and professionalism while earning the trust of those we serve and the communities that support us.
Connection
We believe authentic human connection is one of the strongest protective factors against isolation, despair, and suicide. We intentionally create opportunities for lasting social and professional relationships.
Respect
Every person's military journey is unique. We honor each individual's experiences, dignity, culture, and personal goals without judgment.
Resilience
Transitions are challenging, but they also create opportunities for growth. We help individuals develop the confidence, knowledge, and support networks necessary to thrive.
Collaboration
No organization can meet every need alone. We actively partner with government agencies, nonprofits, healthcare providers, educational institutions, employers, and community leaders to maximize opportunities for military families.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in leadership, stewardship, program delivery, and organizational accountability through continuous learning and improvement.
Based in Fort Cavazos, serving all of Texas.
MilVet Transitions is based in the Fort Cavazos area and serves veterans, service members, military spouses, and their families across the entire state of Texas — meeting them where they already are.