Our Founders

Loralee is a dedicated philanthropist who has put great effort into advancing mental and physical health initiatives and showing support to veterans. Drawing from her family’s experiences, she co-founded WestBridge.org, a nonprofit rehabilitation center that has transformed countless lives of adults with co-occurring mental illnesses. As an ambassador for Depaul USA, she champions the dignity and recovery of homeless individuals. She also supports Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, which provides therapeutic mentoring for veterans. Additionally, she has been a long-time contributor to the Navy SEAL Foundation.

Alongside retired veteran Ferris Butler, she created Boots for the Brave, offering custom cowboy boots to amputees, and Patriots Journey, which takes veterans on meaningful trips to honor their service. Passionate about her community especially the Aspen Chapel in Aspen, CO.; Loralee’s efforts continue to inspire and uplift those in need. Loralee enjoys traveling and spending time with her three children, six grandchildren, and extended family and friends around the world.

After graduating from the University of Maryland, Ferris continued his family’s military tradition by receiving a commission in the U.S. Army. Serving as an Infantry Officer with the 10th Mountain Division, Ferris deployed to Iraq in August 2006. On December 21^st, 2006, 1LT Butler was on combat patrol when his vehicle activated an Improvised Explosive Device, and he sustained extensive lower leg injuries. Ferris spent two years at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, attempting to salvage what remained of his legs. After 52 surgeries, he made the decision to amputate both feet and move forward with his recovery using prosthetics. 

Since retirement from the Army, Ferris has balanced his time between postgraduate studies, business ventures, philanthropic endeavors, and enjoying life with his wife, Laura, their son, Finley. Ferris credits his physical and emotional reintegration to the military medical care received, along with the countless volunteers and charities that have touched his family’s life in profound ways. That very support fuels his passion for paying it forward by continuing to better the lives of service members by directing Loralee’s philanthropic efforts through Boots for the Brave and Patriot’s Journey.