OUR FOUNDER
USMC Major Teddy Colegate
Decorated Marine Corps veteran, nonprofit founder, and mental health advocate — 22 years of service, 7 deployments, and a decade of healing.
Years of Active Duty Service
Overseas Deployments
Raised for veteran & first responder mental health
"We never want red tape to be in the way of heroes being whole."
HIS STORY
Major Colegate's Story
Major Teddy Colegate is a decorated Marine Corps veteran, nonprofit founder, and mental health advocate whose life story is one of service, survival, and transformation. With 22 years of active duty and seven overseas deployments, Teddy's military career took him from the deserts of the Middle East to the skies above Washington as part of the elite Marine One presidential helicopter unit. Rising from enlisted ranks to officer status, he embodied leadership under pressure.
But after retiring in 2012, he faced a battle he never expected — the invisible wounds of war. In 2016, Teddy reached his lowest point. Struggling with PTSD, moral injury, and a profound sense of disconnection, he almost took his own life until his son came around the corner and asked for juice. That moment became a turning point.
Through faith, therapy, and a renewed sense of purpose, he began the difficult work of healing. Determined to help others find their way back from the brink, Teddy co-founded First Coast Heroes Outreach in 2013. Initially serving veterans, the nonprofit expanded its mission in 2021 to include first responders and active-duty personnel. To date, it has raised over $100,000 and continues to provide confidential, proactive mental health support designed to prevent crises before they start.
Today, Teddy speaks across the country, sharing his journey and advocating for a culture of connection and resilience. His keynotes and workshops deliver an unflinching look at the realities of PTSD and suicide, but they also offer hope, practical strategies, and a vision for stronger, more compassionate communities. Teddy's passion now is helping people find their own juice.
Pictured above: Major Colegate speaking about the importance of community involvement in fighting invisible wounds
MEDIA
Guest Appearances
Faith, service, and the road to recovery
Personal stories of resilience and purpose
KEYNOTES & WORKSHOPS
Speaking & Advocacy
Organizations, companies, and communities looking to address mental health and leadership turn to Teddy for his unique ability to connect with audiences through authenticity and lived experience. His keynotes deliver an unflinching look at the realities of PTSD and suicide — and a vision for stronger, more compassionate communities.
Book Teddy to SpeakReady to Take the First Step?
Whether you're active duty, a veteran, or a first responder — you don't have to carry this alone. Reach out today.
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