Operation Give Back
Jacque Ecuyer, a tireless advocate for mental health and community welfare, has become a cornerstone of support in New York’s Capital Region through his nonprofit, the 4s4life Foundation. His latest endeavor, Operation Give Back, is a vibrant fundraiser set for May 10, 2025, at Slickfin Brewing Company in Fort Edward. This annual event, now in its fourth year, is a testament to Ecuyer’s commitment to honoring local veterans by raising funds and fostering community connection. Through Operation Give Back, Ecuyer is not only supporting veterans’ mental health and reintegration but also creating a space where gratitude and camaraderie thrive.
The Heart of Operation Give Back
Operation Give Back is a day-long celebration designed to uplift veterans and their families while raising money for local veteran organizations. Held from noon to 10 p.m. at Slickfin Brewing Company, the event transforms the brewery into a hub of music, food, and community spirit. Ecuyer, who founded the 4s4life Foundation to promote mental health awareness, suicide prevention, self-care, and sobriety, sees the event as a way to give veterans the recognition they deserve. Last year, it drew between 1,500 and 2,000 attendees, raising $14,000 in just five hours despite an hour of rain—a remarkable feat for a grassroots initiative.
The event is packed with activities to engage all ages. Eight musical acts, including local favorites like Richie Ortiz, Jared Stillatank, and Shannon Roy, will donate their performances, filling the air with acoustic and band sets. Two veteran-owned food trucks, Carnivore Brothers and Vested Veteran Grill, will serve up hearty fare, with Adirondack Peer to Peer covering the first $1,000 in food costs for attendees. Raffles, a 50/50 draw, and a silent auction featuring baskets donated by local businesses add excitement, while every dollar raised goes directly to veteran-focused nonprofits in Saratoga, Washington, and Warren counties.
Ecuyer emphasizes creating memorable moments, like the event’s poignant moment of silence. This year, he plans to enhance it with a rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner on electric guitar, followed by representatives from each military branch holding their flags alongside the American flag. “It’s about creating moments,” he says, noting that these shared experiences resonate deeply, reminding veterans of the camaraderie they felt during service.
Why Veterans Need Support
Veterans face unique challenges that make events like Operation Give Back critical. Mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress and depression, affect many, with the VA reporting high rates of suicide among former service members. Homelessness and difficulty accessing benefits further compound these struggles.
Operation Give Back channels funds to organizations like the Veterans & Community Housing Coalition, Adirondack Vet House, and the Argyle VFW, which provide housing, mental health care, and community support. This year, Ecuyer is exploring equine therapy programs to diversify the beneficiaries. By keeping donations local, he ensures transparency and impact, avoiding the pitfalls of larger charities where funds may not reach those in need.
The event also combats isolation, a silent struggle for many veterans. By creating a welcoming environment with live music, food, and conversation, Operation Give Back fosters a sense of belonging. The brewery’s veteran-heavy clientele, particularly Marines, adds to the familial atmosphere, making Slickfin the perfect venue.
A Community United
Operation Give Back thrives on collaboration. Sponsors like Winslow Realty and McMillan Construction, alongside volunteers who manage raffles and setup, are the backbone of the event. The community’s generosity—from bands donating time to businesses offering gift cards—fuels its success. Ecuyer encourages anyone interested to contribute, whether through donations or attendance, with details available via Slickfin or social media event pages.
As May 10 approaches, Ecuyer’s vision is clear: a day where veterans feel honored, families connect, and the community rallies for a cause. Operation Give Back is more than a fundraiser; it’s a movement to restore unity and gratitude, proving that even in divisive times, a small brewery in Fort Edward can be a beacon of hope.
