Interview with: Scott “Intake” Kartvedt
What is the Blue Angels Foundation?
The Blue Angels Foundation is a national nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of veterans and military families by expanding access to trusted mental health, wellness, and recovery resources. We identify, support, and strengthen high-impact organizations that are already delivering exceptional care for our nation’s veterans and their families. By leveraging the trusted Blue Angels legacy, we help accelerate access to life-changing support and inspire communities across the country to invest in those who have served.
How did this organization come about?
The foundation was established by former and honorary Blue Angels who shared a common belief that service does not end when the uniform comes off. Built on the values of excellence, integrity, teamwork, and commitment, the organization was created to continue serving our nation’s heroes by supporting veterans as they navigate the challenges of life after military service. Today, we bring together military leaders, philanthropists, and community partners to ensure veterans have access to the resources they need to thrive.
What impact does the Blue Angels Foundation have on the community?
Our impact extends well beyond the veterans we serve. By investing in organizations with proven results, we help strengthen families, build healthier communities, and improve quality of life for those who have sacrificed for our country. Every partnership expands access to care, restores hope, and helps ensure veterans receive support before challenges become life-altering crises.
What are the future goals of your organization?
Our vision is to build a stronger national network of care for veterans. We are expanding partnerships with leading organizations, growing sustainable philanthropic support, and increasing our presence in communities across the country. As we continue to grow, our goal remains simple: ensure every veteran can find hope, healing, and a path forward, regardless of where they live.
What are some challenges your organization faces?
The demand for mental health, reintegration, and family support continues to grow, while many outstanding organizations remain underfunded. One of our greatest challenges is generating the awareness and philanthropic investment needed to connect more veterans with proven care before they reach a point of crisis. Earlier intervention changes lives, and sustained community support makes that possible.
What events does your organization host? Are they open to the public?
Throughout the year, the Blue Angels Foundation hosts and participates in signature fundraising events, community gatherings, and aviation experiences that bring together veterans, military families, supporters, and corporate partners. Our premier events include the US Naval Academy Luncheon and Air Show in Annapolis, Fleet Week celebrations in San Francisco, and the Blue Angels Foundation Invitational in Ponte Vedra, along with additional engagements at airshows and communities across the country. Many of our events are open to the public and provide opportunities to learn more about our mission while directly supporting veterans nationwide.
What is your role and how did you get involved with the Blue Angels Foundation?
As President of the Blue Angels Foundation, I have the privilege of helping shape our strategic vision, strengthen partnerships, and expand the Foundation’s national impact. As a retired Naval Aviator, former Blue Angels demonstration pilot, and lifelong servant leader, I was naturally drawn to the Foundation’s mission. Having spent my career serving alongside extraordinary men and women in uniform, continuing that service through the Foundation has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life. It allows me to remain connected to a mission that is larger than any one individual.
What’s your favorite thing about being involved with the organization?
The most rewarding part is seeing hope restored. Whether it’s meeting a veteran whose life has changed because they found the right support or watching communities come together to invest in those who served, those moments remind me why this work matters. Every partnership, volunteer, and donor plays a role in changing lives.
What would you like our readers to know about your organization?
The Blue Angels Foundation exists because we believe our veterans deserve access to the very best care our nation can provide. We are committed to bringing people together around a shared mission of service, ensuring generosity translates into real, measurable impact. Every contribution helps create stronger futures for veterans and their families.
How can someone get involved and/or support your nonprofit?
There are many ways to make a difference. Individuals and businesses can support our mission through charitable giving, corporate partnerships, event participation, volunteering, or simply sharing our story. Every act of generosity helps us expand access to life-changing resources and ensures more veterans receive the support they deserve (blueangelsfoundation.org).
