501(c)(3) Nonprofit · EIN 47-2601144
501(c)(3) Nonprofit · EIN 47-2601144
The Warrior Wellness Program provides free, evidence-based therapies to active-duty service members, veterans, and their significant others. Whether you’re still serving or have already transitioned to civilian life, we know the road can be difficult. We’re here to offer timely, effective support to those ready to face their challenges and build a full, productive life, during service and after.
We help people build a life that is Healthy, Connected, and Resilient. An empowered life starts with sound physical, mental, and emotional health. Avoiding isolation and building meaningful relationships is extremely important. And the ability to care for oneself and weather difficult times is vital to long-term success. Founded by veterans, we operate the Team House in Holiday, Florida, where warriors find community, support, and a pathway to healing.
A military community that is healthy, connected, and resilient, during service and after.
The Warrior Wellness Program provides an opportunity to heal for those affected by the traumas of war. Through effective alternative therapies and community engagement, our goal is to promote a healthy, connected and resilient veteran and military population.
Integrity, compassion, excellence, community, and transparency guide every decision we make and every program we deliver.
We are committed to full financial transparency, ethical stewardship of donor funds, and accountability to the veterans we serve.
Our Story
Warrior Wellness began in 2013 inside Trinity Yoga Studio, the same place that helped our co-founder Janelle Norton, an Air Force combat camera photojournalist, through her own struggles. Her simple vision grew into a community effort, powered by volunteers and local businesses. With space generously provided by American Legion Post 173 in Holiday, they spent months turning it into a safe, welcoming place for healing, and opened their doors to local veterans in need.
The changes were almost immediate. The early program combined Accelerated Resolution Therapy, yoga, iRest guided meditation, mixed martial arts, and the camaraderie of people who understand each other. As demand grew, supporters from across the country helped fund a structured program model in 2015.
Today, the program continues under Executive Director Chris Sowell, one of its earliest success stories, and the team he has built. It now serves past and present military and their families, at no cost to participants from all over the US.
Our Team
Executive Director & Program Mascot
Clinician, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinician, Social Worker
Operations Coordinator, Social Worker
Clinician & Program Coordinator, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Director of Administration
Board Chair
Nicole has over twenty years of experience with a large non-profit organization, beginning as an accounting manager, then as finance director, and currently as controller. Prior to joining, Nicole worked in public accounting, where her focus was on auditing non-profit organizations. Nicole’s core competencies include accounting management as well as the day-to-day functions, budgeting, cash management, project management (software implementation), forecasting and auditing. Her strengths include customer service skills, a goal-oriented work ethic, and dedication to the organization’s mission. Nicole is also a licensed CPA in the State of Florida.
Treasurer
Michael Bertha and his family relocated to Florida in June of 2023 to be closer to loved ones. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, Michael served eight years in the U.S. Army as a field artillery officer.
During his service, he earned an MBA from Liberty University, and after completing his military contract, he pursued further education at the University of Pittsburgh, earning a Master of Accounting and Business Analytics.
Following the pandemic in 2020 and the birth of his son in 2022, Michael and his wife made the decision to move their family — including their two dogs — to Florida, where they are excited to grow deeper roots and engage in community service.
Professionally, Michael is the owner of Coastal Bay Tax & Consulting, where he serves individuals and businesses with financial and tax solutions. Most importantly, he is a devoted husband and father, committed to faith, family, and community.
Secretary
As a wealth management specialist, Amanda is conversant with the needs of high-net-worth individuals and their families, as well as the not-for-profit and foundation arena. Her integrity and trust naturally help her build and maintain strong relationships with her clients as well as her community. Charitable giving and philanthropy are a large part of Amanda’s life. As a leader in the not-for-profit and foundation arena, with extensive familiarity and experience in managing several prominent Tampa Bay Area foundations, Amanda works with major philanthropists in the region through charitable giving, legacy planning and private family foundations.
Amanda is a board member of the New Port Richey Main Street and a former board member of PACE Center for Girls and the SPCA Suncoast. She is also a member of Trinity Rotary, Leadership Pasco alumnus 2011, and PING. Past boards include the Community Service Council, NAIFA, Pasco Aging Network, West Pasco Chamber of Commerce, National Organization of Women, & the Junior Service League of West Pasco. From 2013 to 2016, Amanda was elected to public office and served as the State Representative for District 36, West Pasco, Florida. As the state representative, Amanda represented not only her constituents in Pasco but all Floridians.
Amanda is a proud graduate of Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. She enjoys kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, and serving her community through a variety of volunteer organizations.
Vice Chair
Thomas served four years as a Marine who attained the rank of sergeant. He was deployed during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2002 and again in 2003 for Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the First Marine Expeditionary Force (IMEF).
Thomas is actively engaged in the community and leads the Pasco’s Retired K-9 Fundraiser, paying the medical expenses for Pasco County’s retired law enforcement K-9s. He currently works as a school safety & security guard for Pasco County Schools.
Thomas married his wife, Jessica, who is the assistant director of a private school. He is the proud father of Thomas and Angelina. Thomas and Jessica make it a point to raise their children to honor and respect those who serve, and they make it a point to thank any veteran and law enforcement officer they see in public.
Thomas joined the board of the Warrior Wellness Program in 2022 and feels privileged to be a part of an organization that serves the needs of our veteran community.
Director
Cesar Rodriguez is a person in long-term recovery and a passionate advocate for prevention, recovery, and community service in Pasco County. Since 2015, he has been an active member of the Pasco ASAP Coalition, where he helped found the coalition’s Recovery Committee and was recognized as Volunteer of the Year in 2018. Over the years, Cesar has spoken at town halls and community events, championed recovery awareness, and led fundraising efforts to support local initiatives.
In addition to his involvement with Warrior Wellness, Cesar serves on the Board of Directors for The Hope Shot, Alliance for Healthy Communities, and is the Community Service Chair for Holiday Rotary. Professionally, he is the General Manager of Suncoast Roofing. Most importantly, he is a devoted husband to Kellie and father to Emma and Maia.
Cesar is a living testament that people can and do recover, and he is committed to sharing his journey to inspire hope and healing for those still struggling with addiction.
Director
Wayne Scott is a dedicated community leader, entrepreneur, and former NYPD officer whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to service and leadership.
Professional Background
Wayne began his professional career in IT, working with Deloitte & Touche, MetLife, Citibank, and ABN Amro Bank.
Following the events of 9/11, he joined the New York Police Department, serving in plainclothes and undercover assignments, with training in narcotics detection, tactical driving, and officer safety.
After his law enforcement service, Wayne entered the financial services sector, becoming life-licensed and assisting families with insurance, retirement strategies, and financial literacy. Today, he is the Owner and Broker of NEAT Realty & Investments, LLC, managing residential and commercial real estate, contracts, listings, and property management. He also owns and operates NEAT Coffee Bar, a third-wave artisan café designed as both a business venture and a community co-working hub.
Leadership & Community Service
Wayne is an active member of the League of Distinguished Gentlemen (LODG), Treasurer for Holiday Rotary Endowment, and a board member for G2 Community Youth Foundation, LLC. His service record demonstrates his commitment to fostering collaboration, reducing duplication of services, and strengthening nonprofit and civic partnerships.
Personal Commitment
From skydiving in his youth to coaching youth volleyball today, Wayne embraces diverse experiences that allow him to connect with people from all walks of life. Above all, he is passionate about supporting veterans, first responders, and their families — ensuring they have the resources, community, and opportunities they deserve.
Director
Kyle Robison is a United States Marine Corps Veteran and seasoned business professional with over a decade of experience in the telecommunications industry. He currently serves as an Enterprise Account Executive at Uniti Fiber, where he helps organizations design and implement reliable, high-performance connectivity solutions.
Kyle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of South Alabama and a Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University.
He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, driven by his passion for supporting the well-being of others, especially fellow veterans.
Throughout his career, Kyle has paired his professional success with a strong commitment to community service and veteran advocacy. He has actively volunteered with organizations such as Mission22, Stop Soldier Suicide, and Objective Zero, as well as at numerous local events. While at Verizon Wireless, he spearheaded an internal fundraising initiative that raised nearly $188,000 to support charitable causes.
In addition to his veteran-focused efforts, Kyle plays an active role in the local business community. He serves as an ambassador for the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, is engaged with the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, and contributes to the Economic Development Council through its Investor Relations Committee.
Kyle brings to the Warrior Wellness board a unique combination of military leadership, business expertise, and a deep dedication to advancing mental health and veteran support initiatives.
Director
Chris Dufala is a Florida-based entrepreneur, licensed contractor, and real estate professional with extensive experience in construction, demolition, and business operations. As owner of DHC Demolition he has built a reputation for disciplined execution, team development, and delivering high-quality results in demanding environments.
Chris is also a founding partner of Sunbelt Real Estate Florida, where he focuses on operational leadership, strategic growth, and community-driven real estate services throughout the Tampa Bay region.
Committed to service beyond business, Chris serves on the Warrior Wellness Program board, supporting free therapy programs for veterans and their families. His leadership style is rooted in accountability, resilience, and a belief that those who served deserve strong support systems when they return home.
