Recently awarded the Impact Award in the Category of Health and Wellness at the Nonprofits First organization’s Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Ceremony, Keiser University student Angelo Martinez is thankful to support fellow Veterans through his Barracks Legend Foundation.
“This milestone represents far more than growth. It’s a testament to healing, purpose, and the unbreakable bond of camaraderie. What began as one Veteran’s fight to live has transformed into a movement restoring the lives of many,” said Martinez, a Keiser University College of Chiropractic Medicine (KUCCM) student who founded the organization because of his own challenges while transitioning to civilian life.
In an earlier Keiser University Seahawk Nation Blog interview, Martinez shared his take on the intersection between mental and physical health and how the field of chiropractic medicine supports both. “Chiropractic medicine addresses critical health issues without reliance on medications. It promotes mobility and corrects posture, offering a holistic approach to health that counters the prevalent ‘pill for everything’ culture in America,” he said.
Developed to provide Veterans with opportunities to bond and participate in ‘electrifying’ experiences, The Barracks Legend Foundation serves as a valuable event platform for Veterans to unite while improving overall mental health and enjoying networking opportunities.
With attendance increasing dramatically since hosting its first five Veterans in 2023, The Barracks Legend Foundation has continued to expand in both reach and impact. “Each event, no matter the size, carries the same mission — to take Veterans from isolation to celebration, and now, to restoration,” said Martinez, now a third-year KUCCM learner. “Through the expansion of our Mental Health and Wellness Program and our six-week Ketamine Therapy initiative, we are bridging the gap between community and clinical care. We’ve witnessed Veterans not only reconnect but also begin to heal, bring their families closer, and rebuild their sense of belonging,” he said.
Martinez encourages fellow learners as they prepare for professional life. “Remove all distractions and focus on your philosophy and craft, as this will lead you to excellence in your field,” he said.
Angelo Martinez served eight years in the Marine Corps infantry, including deployments with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), experiences that shaped his resilience, leadership, and commitment to his fellow Marines. After facing a difficult transition to civilian life and overcoming personal struggles, he rebuilt himself, achieving more than a decade of sobriety and finding a new mission: helping Veterans navigate their own challenging transitions.
Through The Barracks Legend Foundation, Martinez has created a space where Veterans connect, heal, and thrive. Combining his personal journey, leadership experience, and academic background, including a Bachelor’s in Exercise Science and pursuit of a Keiser University Doctor of Chiropractic degree, he develops impactful programs focused on mental health and well-being. As CEO, he leads strategic planning, program development, and community outreach, building strong partnerships and advocating for Veteran mental health. He remains driven by a single goal: to transform the lives of Veterans, ensuring they never have to fight their battles alone or in silence.
One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Nonprofits First Organization’s Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Program recognizes the most accomplished Palm Beach County nonprofit organization volunteers and staff members who continually lead positive change.
The rigorous Doctor of Chiropractic program at Keiser University prepares graduates to make a difference by relieving patients’ pain, improving their mobility, and guiding them to lead healthier lives. The program combines traditional lectures with small-group learning, weekly conferences and seminars, laboratory and experiential sessions, and clinical training opportunities — all with an emphasis on case-based relevancy for chiropractic practice, a profession dedicated to excellence in whole-person health.
Transform Your Future at Keiser University
Since 1977, Keiser University has been empowering students like you to achieve their career dreams. As one of Florida’s largest private, non-profit institutions, founded by Dr. Arthur Keiser and Evelyn Keiser, we’re committed to your success with:
- Over 100 degree programs from associate to doctoral level
- Recognition as the No. 1 university in the U.S. for Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report (2023)
- Proud membership in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities
- A legacy of excellence in education spanning more than 45 years
Don’t wait to start building your future. Contact Keiser University today and take the first step toward your dream career. Call Toll-Free: 888-KEISER-9 or Contact a Keiser Campus near you. Schedule your campus tour and learn more about our flexible programs, financial aid options, and career services support.
Angelo Martinez welcomes Barracks Legend Foundation’s Annual Comedy Show guests before the Miami Improv performance in 2025.
Angelo Martinez, with his service dog Duke, enjoys the Nonprofits First Hats Off Awards Ceremony in West Palm Beach in 2025.
The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.
