Joint 4ces is a veteran-focused organization dedicated to empowering veterans through comprehensive agricultural training and entrepreneurial development. Our mission is to provide veterans with the skills, support, and community they need to build purpose-driven careers in agriculture and related industries. By fostering a holistic environment that integrates on-the-job training, personal development, and business networking, we offer veterans a unique pathway to success that benefits not only the veteran community but also society as a whole.
Bridging Agriculture and Entrepreneurship: Creating a Synergy for Veteran Success
The strength of the Joint 4ces program lies in the synergy between our agricultural training initiative and the veteran-owned business community. Veterans who complete our Active Duty to Agriculture training program gain valuable hands-on experience in crop production, livestock care, and sustainable farming practices, along with mentorship and support for personal development. These skills not only prepare them for employment in the agricultural sector but also lay the groundwork for entrepreneurial ventures.
Our soon to launch exclusive B2B engagement platform for veteran-owned businesses in agriculture and adjacent industries will complement this training by providing a space for veterans to connect, collaborate, and launch their own enterprises. Participants from our agricultural training program will be able to leverage the platform to identify business opportunities, find potential partners and suppliers, and access a support network of like-minded veteran entrepreneurs. This seamless integration will ensure that veterans not only have the technical skills and confidence to thrive but also the business acumen and connections to turn their aspirations into reality.
Building Value for Veterans and Society
We believe that by equipping veterans with both the practical skills of agriculture and the strategic tools of entrepreneurship, we are fostering a generation of veteran leaders capable of driving innovation and economic growth. The agricultural industry, facing labor shortages and increasing demand for sustainable practices, stands to benefit significantly from the leadership, resilience, and work ethic that veterans bring. Meanwhile, veterans gain a renewed sense of purpose and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society, reducing the risk factors associated with post-service mental health challenges.
By investing in veterans and providing them with a platform to succeed, Joint 4ces creates a ripple effect that strengthens the veteran community and enriches local economies. Our integrated approach positions veterans not just as participants, but as leaders and change-makers within the agricultural industry and beyond. This holistic model of growth and support redefines what’s possible for veterans, empowering them to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Our Team
Sunny Welch
President
Sunny Welch is the visionary founder of Joint 4ces, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veterans through sustainable agriculture and cooperative farming initiatives. As an executive and personal development coach, Sunny has successfully guided veteran entrepreneurs in overcoming organizational and industry challenges, building resilience and confidence in their journeys.
Known for her exceptional community-building skills, she has fostered networks of support and collaboration that create a sense of belonging and purpose among veterans and stakeholders. Under Sunny’s leadership, Joint 4ces addresses critical needs in food security, mental health, and career development, equipping veterans with the tools and connections to shape a sustainable future. Her commitment to empowerment through connection and growth drives her impactful work.
Donnie A. Graham Jr
Vice President
Donnie A Graham JR is an Army veteran who has dedicated his life to serving his country and his community. As the owner of Farmer Don Services, he combines his passion for agriculture with his entrepreneurial spirit.
In addition to running his business, Donnie is a devoted football coach, mentoring young athletes on and off the field. Above all, he cherishes his role as a father to two kids, instilling in them the values of hard work and perseverance.
Kristen Klawitter
Director Of Marketing
Kristen Klawitter is the Director of Marketing at Joint4ces.org, where she helps connect veterans and those struggling with illness, trauma, and mental health challenges to healing resources and holistic therapies. A farmer, web developer, and marketing professional, Kristen brings together her diverse skills and a passion for holistic wellness to support others on their healing journeys.
Through her work and personal platforms, she advocates for the power of natural healing methods for veterans and those in need of healing —including nutrition, mindfulness, and alternative therapies—to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Kristen’s mission is to empower veterans and those in need to heal and find balance by integrating modern resources with time-tested holistic practices & healing modalities.
Eric Zarnesky
Veteran OutreachEric is a special operations veteran who has worked in agricultural, automation, and wellness spaces.
When he is not helping joint4ces with webwork, outreach, community building and veteran outreach, he can be found in wellness spaces, tech events, or building an app that pays users to go green (https://app.powerup.vet/)
Eric is happy to connect, answer questions or offer support. Reach out by emailing him at eric@joint4ces.org
Lindsey Renner
Joint 4ces Advisor
Lindsey Renner is a Native American veteran dedicated to empowering communities through sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. Taking her extensive experience in the California cannabis industry, Lindsey transitioned into consulting with Tribal Nations on economic development and sustainable agriculture in 2022.
Lindsey’s passion for regenerative farming reflects her commitment to creating sustainable pathways that honor the earth as well as promote self determination and healing.