Where Community Meets Commitment
Cape Fear Veterans & Allies (CFVA) was founded with a clear mission: to be the central hub for veterans, their families, allies, businesses, and organizations in the Cape Fear region. We believe those who served deserve more than just a “thank you for your service”—they deserve a strong, connected community that actively supports their well-being and success.
Through collaborations with local small businesses and nonprofits, we are building something bold: a regional network where veterans can find their community and build roots in a place that supports them. We aim to provide access to resources and support, as well as actionable services that extend beyond the uniform and into the community.
Our Mission & Vision
MISSION STATEMENT
Cape Fear Veterans & Allies (CFVA) connects local businesses, organizations, and individuals to create a strong support network for veterans and their allies by promoting a sense of belonging, increasing resources, and honoring service through community-driven collaboration.
VISION STATEMENT
Uniting the Cape Fear region where every veteran finds belonging, every ally finds purpose, and every small business becomes a force for good.
Meet the Co-Founders
Cape Fear Veterans & Allies (CFVA) was founded by two individuals united by a shared vision.
Co-Founder
Josh Straub
Josh Straub served eight years in the Marine Corps infantry, with deployments to Afghanistan, the 31st and 15th Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), and other operations supporting the Global War on Terror. He knows the challenges of transition firsthand.
In his free time, you’ll find Josh exploring parks and trails with his dog Luna, surfing along the Cape Fear coast, or embracing his inner nerd playing Star Wars Unlimited™ with friends.
Co-Founder
Liz Church
Liz Church grew up in a family with strong military ties, including parents in the Air Force and relatives in other branches. A lifelong ally, she aims to continue the legacy of her grandfather, Frank Dosio, a Vietnam veteran, who helped launch PT Phone Home with the CWA Local 1120 in the 1990s.
Liz is a podcaster, graphic designer, and automotive photographer—she dabbles in a lot of things. She’s a cat mom with hopes and dreams to make her community a united place.
Action Hub:
Coming Soon
CFVA will host and coordinate events throughout the region, creating meaningful opportunities for veterans and allies to engage, connect, and lead.
We’re working hand-in-hand with local businesses, veteran service organizations, providers, nonprofits, and advocacy and community groups to launch the CFVA Action Hub—a living map of support and connection.
From job opportunities and legal aid to peer support groups and small business mentorship, the hub will serve as a comprehensive guide for veterans, their families, and allies.
Think of it as your community compass—powered by partnerships, grounded in connection.
Do you have a resource that we should be aware of? Would you like to discuss partnering with us in our efforts to support events?
Send us an email.
In the resource hub, we will have...
Spaces for Community Building
We will share local spots, community events, and small businesses in the area where veterans can gather and find their tribe, and allies can expand their circles throughout the Cape Fear Region.
Veteran Support Organizations
Support organizations play a vital role by offering a range of services and programs to help veterans transition to civilian life, support allies, build resilience, and enhance their overall well-being.
Advocacy Groups
Veteran advocacy groups tirelessly champion their rights, raising awareness, securing support, and resources. Our goal is to uplift those organizations and help members find them.
Cape Fear Veterans & Allies Events
We will host events throughout the year, from community fairs to "school circles", welcoming all members to meet like-minded people and learn about veteran-based organizations and ally groups.
Announcements
CFVA will host a Veterans "School Circle" in Downtown Wilmington, NC at Waterline Brewing Company on August 3rd from 6 pm to 8 pm.
This event will allow veterans to share their challenges and opportunities as a veteran living in the Cape Fear area. Using this time to highlight local veteran-focused nonprofits and organizations where they have found community, and discuss other important information. This is an unscripted, non-monetary gathering designed to unite veterans and their allies.