My name is Mason Howell, and my journey into nonprofit work began in the spring of 2015 when I toured the Shepherd Center Rehabilitation Hospital in Atlanta. I had the privilege of touring the facility with Dean Melcher from the Shepherd Center Foundation and later met Travis Ellis, co-founder of Shepherd’s Men. Seeing firsthand the incredible work they were doing to support veterans in need, I knew I wanted to help.

Later that year, with the support of my employer, White Cap Construction Supply, I organized our first charity golf tournament. Thanks to the generosity of White Cap’s vendor community, local businesses, and dedicated participants, this tournament has grown into an annual tradition. Over the past nine years, we have raised more than $325,000, with 100% of the net proceeds going to Shepherd’s Men, who, in turn, donate every dollar directly to the SHARE Military Initiative—a program dedicated to helping veterans recover from traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress.

As this journey evolved, it became clear that forming a nonprofit was the next step. With the full support of my family as board members, MDH Charitable Foundation Inc. was created to continue our annual golf tournament while also expanding our reach. Now, in addition to supporting Shepherd’s Men, we proudly raise funds for other incredible organizations: Purple Heart Homes, Tunnel to Towers, and Project to Heal—each dedicated to improving the lives of veterans and first responders.

Through fundraising events, raffles, and community-driven initiatives, we are committed to making a lasting impact on those who have sacrificed so much for us. This mission is personal, and with the support of our community, we look forward to growing our efforts and helping even more heroes in the years to come.