Skip to content



Chamber Member Chat Deck

Learn how YOU can add your message here, email Bob Nelson for more information.




New Veteran-Founded Nonprofit Expands Mental Health Support for Veterans and Their Families

New Veteran-Founded Nonprofit Expands Mental Health Support for Veterans and Their Families

Press Release General News Article Community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2026

Media Contact:
David Sauer
Founder & CEO
SauerPower Veterans Empowerment Alliance
Email: david@sauerpowervets.org

SauerPower Veterans Empowerment Alliance Announces 501(c)(3) Approval and Expands Community Fundraising Efforts to Support Veteran Mental Health

MESA, Ariz. — SauerPower Veterans Empowerment Alliance, also known as SPVEA, is proud to announce that it has officially received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, marking a major milestone in its mission to remove barriers to mental health care for veterans and their families.

Founded by Marine Corps veteran David Sauer, SPVEA was created to help veterans and their families access timely, affordable mental health support through community partnerships, financial assistance, and a growing network of providers and supporters.

“This mission is personal,” said David Sauer, Founder and CEO of SPVEA. “Too many veterans come home from war only to continue fighting battles in silence. SPVEA exists to make sure veterans and their families do not have to face those battles alone. We are building a community that supports, empowers, and honors those who served.”

The 501(c)(3) approval allows SPVEA to accept tax-deductible donations and expand its efforts to fund mental health services, build partnerships with local providers, and connect veterans and their families with resources throughout the East Valley.

SPVEA has already begun gaining momentum through several community fundraising campaigns and outreach efforts, including:

  • Papa Johns Fundraiser: Following a successful Memorial Day weekend campaign, Papa Johns has extended its support through the remainder of 2026. Customers can use promo code SAUERPOWER to receive 20% off their order, with 10% donated back to SPVEA.
  • Krispy Kreme Fundraiser: Running now through August 31, 2026, supporters can purchase digital dozens to help fund mental health access for veterans and families.
  • Dave & Buster’s Fundraiser: Launching June 25, 2026, giving the community another opportunity to support SPVEA’s mission.
  • Meineke Car Care Center Fundraiser: SPVEA has partnered with Meineke Car Care Center at 2056 W. Southern Ave. in Mesa for an America 250 fundraiser running July 1 through July 31, 2026. Supporters who donate $10 or more to SPVEA and show their donation receipt will receive $20 off their next oil change, helping raise funds to connect veterans and their families with needed mental health care.
  • Community Outreach: SPVEA has participated in ribbon cuttings, chamber events, veteran organization meetings, and local networking opportunities to build partnerships and increase awareness.
  • American Legion Partnership: SPVEA will host a table at the American Legion Cornhole Tournament on October 3, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

SPVEA has also met with Congressman Greg Stanton’s team, connected with American Legion Post 129, and participated in community events such as ribbon cuttings for Jacobs Hope and Nova Psychotherapy. Founder David Sauer was also recently selected as an ABC15 Salutes Arizona Veterans honoree, further highlighting his commitment to serving veterans and strengthening the local community.

As SPVEA continues to grow, the organization is focused on building a strong foundation through fundraising, provider partnerships, board development, and community collaboration.

“Our goal is simple,” Sauer said. “We want to get veterans and their families connected to the mental health care they need before they reach a breaking point. Every donation, every partnership, and every conversation helps us move one step closer to that goal.”

SPVEA will hold its next board meeting on June 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom to discuss upcoming fundraisers, community partnerships, and next steps for the organization.

Community members, businesses, providers, and organizations interested in supporting SPVEA are encouraged to reach out, donate, partner, or help spread awareness.

About SauerPower Veterans Empowerment Alliance

SauerPower Veterans Empowerment Alliance is a veteran-founded nonprofit organization based in Mesa, Arizona. SPVEA empowers veterans and their families by removing barriers to mental health care through community partnerships, financial support, and access to trusted providers. The organization is committed to ensuring veterans and their families receive the support, care, and resources they deserve.

Support. Empower. Honor.

For more information, partnership opportunities, or donation inquiries, contact David Sauer at david@sauerpowervets.org.

Powered By GrowthZone