Honoring those who have served this Veterans Day
Raymond James has long been a proud supporter of veterans, and we recognize the many sacrifices that military members, veterans and their families make for our nation.
In honor of Veterans Day, the firm celebrated by sharing stories from advisors and associates who have served, participating in and raising money through Valor’s annual golf tournament, and gathering for the Veteran Financial Advisors Network (VFAN) luncheon.
Giving back to those who gave their all
Valor Veterans Inclusion Network is an associate inclusion network that advocates for veterans' education, professional development and community outreach. Valor focuses on the development and growth of all associates by creating a strong community of leaders to include veterans, military spouses, family of service members and allies. We aim to support the veteran community nationwide through national and local outreach programs.
Each year, Valor’s annual Golf Outing brings associates, advisors and community partners together in support of local veterans and their families. This year’s fundraising weekend started with an evening at the Urban Stillhouse by Horse Soldier, where Valor Inclusion Network hosted an intimate dinner for Chef Robert Irvine, his foundation, and advisors and associates, including VFAN leadership and Raymond James senior executives. The dinner was aimed at raising awareness of the Robert Irvine Foundation, which supports and strengthens the physical and mental well-being of our service members, veterans, first responders and their families.
The next morning, through the fifth annual golf tournament on October 28, Raymond James Valor raised more than $194,000 (surpassing this year’s goal of $175,000) for 24 non-profit partner organizations. We humbly thank all who attended in person and participated in the raffle virtually in support of giving back to our veterans.
Celebrating at the Veteran Financial Advisors (VFAN) luncheon
VFAN is dedicated to supporting armed services veterans in the development of their financial advisor businesses and careers, and in helping other veterans and military family members discover a challenging, rewarding career that plays to their strengths. Partnering closely with Valor, VFAN provides access to customized skills programs, development opportunities and mentorships. The network’s initiatives include outreach to veterans who are considering their next move after separation or discharge to share information about how their skills can translate to a successful career in financial advising. VFAN advisors also give back to veterans and military family members through philanthropy and volunteerism in their local communities.
This year's VFAN Luncheon included discussions with featured guests Chef Robert Irvine on maximizing your community impact and with keynote speaker Zeke Crozier, wounded army veteran and artist, who spoke on overcoming adversity. Following the lunch were an advisor best practices panel on ways advisors can support veteran clients and a senior leadership town hall.
Sharing more about the transition from military to corporate life
On November 8 and 9, the firm hosted educational experiences and events in partnership with The Honor Foundation, a Valor community partner that helps Navy SEALS and U.S. Special Operations veterans transition from the military. At special events at our home office in St. Petersburg, Florida, and a branch in Dallas, fellows from TREK, a program put on by The Honor Foundation, joined to learn more about the firm and financial services industry. During a panel discussion, members of Raymond James leadership, Valor and VFAN discussed the transition to civilian work life, their career paths and career mobility at Raymond James – sharing glimpses into the firm’s culture and what makes it a good place for veterans to grow.
Learn more about our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion associate and advisor networks.
Honoring veterans through art
At Raymond James, we believe that art has the power to reflect our thoughts and the world around us, as well as connect us to one another – both at our firm and throughout our communities. Through their patronage, Tom and Mary James have supported the success and helped share the stories of veteran artists such as Greg Beecham, Dan Namingha, Kim Wiggins and many others. Learn more about their work by visiting their websites or if you are in St. Pete, scheduling an art tour at our home office by calling Sarah Etzkorn at 727.567.1361.
