Jerry Shaffer

Jerry Shaffer is an accomplished elementary school teacher, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for veterans and their families. With a deep passion for education and service, Jerry has dedicated his life to helping others. Whether through for-profit companies or nonprofit organizations, he continues to serve the broader community, with a special focus on military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones.

Born in January 1971 in Medina, NY, Jerry’s journey began with his service in the United States Marine Corps. After graduating from Medina High School in Medina, NY, he enlisted and served as an 0311 infantryman with a secondary MOS of 8151 in Security Forces, holding a secret security clearance. Jerry was honorably discharged in 1991, and his time as a Marine has deeply shaped his life and future endeavors.

Following his military service, Jerry pursued higher education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Health & Physical Education in 1997. He was a member of IUP’s 1993 football team that advanced to the Division II National Championship. His passion for education led him to teach at Lake Anne Elementary School in Reston, VA, from 1998 to 2001. During this time, Jerry was also enrolled full-time in pursuit of a master’s degree from Virginia Polytechnic University (Virginia Tech). Balancing his teaching responsibilities with further academic achievements. Jerry’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and nurturing classroom environment helped countless children reach their full potential, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues, students, and parents alike.

Some of Jerry’s personal highlights include giving away 2 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, raising money and awareness for the Young Marines, Toys for Tots, and working alongside General Al Gray, former Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, on the Youth Physical Fitness program. Additionally, Jerry founded the R. Lee Ermey Golf Classic, a charitable event that honored actor and Marine, R. Lee Ermey, and supported veteran and military causes.

In addition to his career in education, Jerry is a successful entrepreneur. In 2001, he founded Leatherneck.com, the oldest and largest online community for Marines. His entrepreneurial journey continued with the founding of Veterans Direct in 2007, where he partnered with the 12th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Gene Overstreet. Jerry also founded S2 Insite, a business consulting and technology company, providing innovative solutions for businesses and organizations.

Throughout his career, Jerry has been deeply committed to supporting veterans and their families. He co-founded Veteran Forces (Warrior City) in 2012, a Texas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of military personnel and veterans. In August 2024, Jerry co-founded the Red Star Foundation, a Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on combating military, veteran, and first responder suicides while offering critical support to their families.

Jerry’s commitment to veterans is further demonstrated through his active involvement in various veterans’ organizations, including the American Legion, Marine Corps League (Lifetime member), Disabled Veterans of America (Lifetime member), Florida Veterans Coalition, Semper Fidelis Society (Lifetime member), Pinellas Beaches Chamber of Commerce, Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce, and the Pinellas County Veterans Association. His dedication to mental health, suicide prevention, and financial assistance for veterans has helped create peer support networks and raise awareness of the challenges faced by the military community. He remains steadfast in ensuring veterans and their families have access to the resources and support they deserve.

Jerry’s service extends beyond his professional work. Whether in the classroom, the boardroom, or within nonprofit initiatives, he continues to leverage his platform to create lasting change for veterans and their families. His efforts to honor and support those who have served our country have impacted countless lives, earning him recognition for his entrepreneurial spirit, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.