Organization Reaffirms Commitment to Veterans in Crisis and Ongoing Mission of Service
[Nashville, TN] — [March 2, 2026] — The Board of Directors of BKVF today announces a leadership transition following the passing of its founder, Chris Cathers. The organization’s newly appointed Chairman of the Board, Robert Vaughan, will assume leadership responsibilities, reaffirming BKVF’s unwavering commitment to serving Veterans and their families — especially those facing crisis.
“As I step into the role of Chairman of the Board, I do so with deep humility and profound respect for Chris Cathers — a visionary leader and tireless advocate for Veterans,” said Robert Vaughan. “We will honor Chris not only in remembrance, but through decisive and continued action.”
Since its founding, BKVF has been driven by a clear and urgent mission: to provide immediate, compassionate, and effective support and resources to Veterans in need. Built on the corner of Pain and Purpose, the organization was shaped by lived experiences, strengthened through adversity, and guided by an unwavering sense of responsibility to Veterans who have served our nation.
“I had the privilege of serving alongside Chris when BKVF was still in its earliest stages,” said Sarah Schmiedeknecht, Executive Director for Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation. “What began as a bold vision required grit, sacrifice, and relentless dedication. From the beginning, this organization was intentionally built to be strong, sustainable, and capable of outlasting any one individual. That is the mark of a mission-driven organization grounded in structure, guided by purpose, and sustained by community.”
While Chris Cathers laid the foundation, BKVF’s strength lies in the collective commitment of its board, leadership team, partners, supporters, and the Veteran community it serves. The organization’s programs and crisis-response initiatives will continue without interruption.
“Our sense of urgency will not be diminished,” said Vaughan. “Veterans in crisis cannot wait. Families seeking support cannot be placed on hold. We will move forward with the same focus, the same discipline, and the same passion that defined our founding.”
Under the guidance of Sarah Schmiedeknecht, Executive Director and the Board of Directors, BKVF will continue expanding access to Veteran services, strengthening community partnerships, connecting Veterans to life-saving resources, and meeting Veterans where they are — particularly in their most critical moments of need.
The mission remains.
The work continues.
The commitment is unwavering.
Additional Information
To honor Chris Cathers’ life and legacy, his full obituary and memorial information can be found here.
About Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation
Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation (BKVF) is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee dedicated to supporting Veterans and their families through crisis response, connection, and community-driven programs. Founded by Green Beret Chris Cathers, the organization provides resources and initiatives designed to reduce isolation, strengthen mental wellness, and ensure Veterans receive the support they deserve.