Our Mission
Ending suicide by stopping the war within, by providing the necessary services to our heroes.
About Us
Where we got our name
“The national statistics for suicide among veterans are 22 veterans a day take their own lives which equals out to 1 every 65 minutes.” -The Department of Veteran Affairs, 2012
How we operate
Project 65 gives 100% of your donations to help cover the costs of crisis intervention, mental and other healthcare visits for veterans.
Our heroes need you
Thanks to continued support from our patrons, sponsors and the community; in 2018 we were able to begin offering our services to law enforcement and other first responders!
Law enforcement officers in Florida have the 3rd highest rate of completed suicides in the country. First responders have a 20% higher chance of completing suicide than the general public.
Our Story
Originally called "Veterans 1st", Project 65 takes on the ambitious goal of ending suicide in both veteran and first responder populations.
Founders, Annette and Shawn Owens started Project 65 in response to losing several friends and loved ones to suicide, many of which were veterans. After talking with the surviving family members, they found that many of their lost friends were suffering from PTSD-like symptoms. Seeing the impact on the surviving family members, and having firsthand experience with these issues, the two tried to find support for themselves and their loved ones.
Unfortunately PTSD and veteran mental health are difficult things to talk about. It was quickly discovered that there were limited resources for veterans with PTSD, and none for their families. Upon this discovery, Annette took the matter into her own hands and taught herself how to support those with PTSD, and those coping with suicide loss. The couple, with help from their community, began organizing the first support meetings (2014) for their surviving friends. These meetings would eventually grow into what is now Project 65 (2018).
Our Team
Shawn Owens
After spending 20 years in the Army as an "11 Bravo" (Infantryman), I knew I wanted to help veterans and their families. When I lost 3 battle buddies to suicide, I did what I could to stop it from happening ever again. Starting with educating myself, then co-founding Project 65 with my wife. I then became certified in Traumatic Resiliency Process (TRP) and The Emotional Management Process (EMP). Through Project 65, I hope to see the end of veterans who have completed suicides.
Bey Gonzalez
I have always had a passion for helping others. Early in life I was in the Army National Guard. Later I worked in EMS and as a Volunteer Firefighter. I now own a private practice with my wife, providing mental health care services to those in need. I hope to help veterans, EMS, fire and law-enforcement gain better home lives and do my part to put an end to suicide.
Annette Owens
Tired of seeing the poor treatment of veteran's and their families, I decided to take a stand. I formed a support group for spouses of veteran's with PTSD. My dream is to see the end all the mental health challenges that plague veterans, first responders and their families.
Teresa Gonzalez
While helping the local community by participating in Bob’s Vets (a group for veterans), I became aware of the community's needs. Having experienced suicide in my family, as well as having both a husband and an un-biological son with military experience, this issue is one that I am passionate about. I am proud to be a part of Project 65 and stopping the war within.
Ralph Flores
Member-at-Large