About us

What We do

At the Inland Northwest Heroes Foundation, we are committed to ensuring that our first responders, active military, and veterans never feel alone. We provide financial assistance for medical and emotional care, housing support, and access to essential resources such as food and shelter. In times of need, we stand by their side, working to prevent suicide and offering hope and healing to those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country and communities. Through strong community partnerships, we connect individuals with diverse treatment options, counseling services, mental health retreats, and camaraderie-focused events, fostering support, resilience, and recovery.

Our youth initiative is dedicated to fostering resilience, discipline, and mental well-being through long-term athletic opportunities in Jiu-Jitsu, golf, and hockey. By engaging young individuals in structured, skill-building sports, we aim to instill confidence, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that extend far beyond the game. In addition to athletics, we provide critical mental health resources, including counseling, and connect families with essential local services to ensure a strong foundation for overall well-being. Through partnerships with community leaders and organizations, we strive to create a lasting impact, empowering our youth to thrive both mentally and physically.

MEET THE TEAM

Kyle Wagner

Executive Director

Kyle proudly served in the U.S. Navy actively from 2005 -2009. After leaving the service & returning to civilian life there was always something missing. The camaraderie, the brotherhood, the unity, but that support is what was missing the most. The desire to bring that feeling back to not only himself but to every other service member is why we serve those members of our community who share the same principles, passions & servitude to our country.

“Mental health has always been a part of my adult life, most of it not in a good place. After seeing too many friends & fellow veterans take or lose their own lives, I wanted to make a change, I had to make a change. In that process. I quickly learned about the massive presence of these same issues within our local hero communities, Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS, Dispatch & all those that support. As a long-time hockey coach & parent of 3, the issues that our kids face & the toxicity it creates have never been more apparent or obvious. These kids don’t stand a chance without having support that they couldn’t normally reach.

These major issues are now my new purpose & mission in life. Our goal will always be to take care of those that need it most to try & provide a better place for all of us & our future!”

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Del Avery

President

As a proud Army veteran, I have dedicated my life to serving my country and community. My passion for helping others extends beyond my military service, as I am committed to supporting fellow veterans, law enforcement, first responders, teachers, and youth programs. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by these groups, I offer guidance, resources, and mentorship to empower and uplift those who serve and protect our communities. With a strong sense of duty and a heart for service, I am dedicated to making a positive impact both professionally and personally. Whether through financial guidance or community support, I am here to serve and make a difference.

Shanna Avery

Secretary

Shanna holds Bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Law, Society, and Social Policy. Currently working in the insurance field, she leverages her expertise to support individuals navigating injury claims. Married to an Army veteran, and a career built on helping others, Shanna is passionate about serving the community, particularly through the Inland NW Heroes Foundation, which focuses on assisting first responders, veterans, and at-risk youth. Their goal is to create positive change and foster inclusive communities.

Carrie Byrum

Treasurer

Rooted in a proud lineage of 14 generations of U.S. veterans, Carrie Byrum carries forward a
legacy of discipline, resilience, and unwavering service. As a seasoned Accounts Receivable
Specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, she blends precision with
compassion—delivering financial excellence while staying deeply connected to the people she
serves.
Carrie’s life has been shaped by service—not only through her family’s military tradition but also
through her personal journey as the spouse of military husbands. These experiences have
instilled in her a profound empathy and a genuine desire to help others. She thrives on
researching new ways to support those around her, drawing from both professional expertise
and lived experience to make a meaningful impact.
Her work is guided by integrity, dedication, and a deep respect for others. Carrie manages
complex account responsibilities with accuracy and care, but what truly sets her apart is her
ability to build trust and foster long-term relationships. She consistently goes beyond
transactions, creating lasting connections that drive loyalty, respect, and mutual success.
Whether she’s resolving a billing issue or offering a reassuring voice during a tough moment,
Carrie brings heart to every interaction. Her commitment to helping others isn’t just a skill—it’s a
reflection of who she is, and the legacy she proudly continues.

Charley Charlebois

Dir. of Growth and Development

Charley is a U.S. military veteran, entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for those who serve. With decades of experience building and growing businesses, he brings a results-driven approach to every mission he takes on. A proud resident of Hayden, Idaho, Charley has deep roots in the Inland Northwest and a strong commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

At the Inland Northwest Heroes Foundation, Charley leads growth and community outreach efforts—connecting with veterans, first responders, and supporters to expand the foundation’s reach and impact. He works to build lasting partnerships, organize fundraising initiatives, and ensure that every project aligns with the organization’s mission: to honor and support the heroes who protect and serve our communities.

Charley’s combination of strategic thinking, hands-on experience, and genuine passion for service makes him a driving force behind the foundation’s efforts to create meaningful change for our local heroes and their families.

Frank Lopez

Veterans Director

I proudly served in the Military from 2002 to 2014, completing two tours of duty. During this time, I demonstrated exceptional leadership and organizational skills, which I now bring to this foundation: After experiencing a personal low point, I found solace and healing through outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting, thanks to the support of close friends. This transformative experience ignited a passion in myself to help other veterans find similar therapeutic benefits in nature.

With a strong background in family, leadership, and organization, I’m dedicated to fostering a supportive community for veterans. I bring valuable insights and a deep understanding of the challenges veterans face, ensuring that the organization’s programs are impactful and relevant. My envisions are a world where every veteran has the opportunity to experience the healing power of nature and build a supportive network of peers. I am committed to creating and supporting programs that promote healing, camaraderie, and personal growth for veterans and their families.

Having been in a difficult place myself, I know firsthand how powerful and life-changing the support of friends and nature can be. I’m dedicated to giving back and helping fellow veterans rediscover their strengths and find peace through our programs.

Angel Musick

Strategy and Grants

Angel Musick holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University and brings thoughtful leadership, community-minded experience, and a collaborative spirit to the Inland Northwest Heroes Foundation. She is committed to supporting the Foundation’s mission and strengthening resources that make a lasting impact in the region.