Operation Coffee: A Veteran-Owned Business Brewing Purpose
Marine veteran Sam Floyd faced immense challenges as he transitioned back to civilian life following his deployment to Afghanistan. Struggling with his mental health and contemplating suicide, Sam found a lifeline through Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund). With the support of Sue Baker, his Fund case manager, and The Fund’s Apprenticeship Program, Sam channeled his pain into purpose by launching Operation Coffee. This veteran-owned business not only provides great coffee but also donates 10% of every bag sold back to The Fund, the organization that helped save his life.
Through his coffee company, Sam discovered a new mission: raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention among veterans. His goal is simple yet profound: If his work can help just one person, then it’s all worth it.
Sam is deeply grateful for the community that continues to stand by him, even after his military service. Sue Baker saw in Sam a motivated individual who wanted to give back, and she was determined to help him achieve that goal. Together, they forged a partnership that has brought them to where they are today.
The SF&AF Apprenticeship Program: A Path to New Purpose
The SF&AF Apprenticeship Program helps veterans like Sam find new passion, direction, and purpose. Through powerful mentor relationships and guidance from leading industry experts, The Fund’s program provides a productive way for veterans to reintegrate into the community. This program helps service members find meaningful trades and small business opportunities through short-term vocational education and apprenticeships.
How It Works: The Fund’s staff works closely with motivated veterans, assessing their readiness, personal strengths, and professional interests. Apprenticeship Program Leads guide participants in developing training plans, timelines, and goals. Once training is complete, the program helps service members find apprenticeship opportunities and establish mentor relationships with industry leaders.
Sam’s Journey with The Fund
Sam’s journey with The Fund began when he reached out for help during his struggle to adjust to life after service. The Fund provided the support and guidance he needed to channel his experiences into something positive. With The Fund’s help, he launched Operation Coffee, a business dedicated to raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention among veterans.
Today, Sam’s business is thriving, and he continues to fulfill his mission of supporting veterans through meaningful conversations over coffee. His success story is a testament to the power of The Fund’s Apprenticeship Program and the impact it has on veterans finding their new path forward.
For a look at where Sam’s journey started, watch this special feature on the Today Show from 2020.
