Joel Carter

Background

About Joel Carter

I believe service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. As a veteran, father, husband, neighbor, and coach, I try to live out service in every part of my life—from leading the annual VETSports Gala, to organizing block parties for our neighborhood, to Trunk-or-Treats, and Easter egg hunts through our local church, to my long-standing effort writing a funny, sarcastic, and practical parenting book meant to encourage other parents in the trenches. I volunteer as the Chair for the annual VETSports Gala, a night that raises support and spreads awareness for a mission close to my heart: helping Veterans achieve better physical, mental, and emotional health through sports, physical activity, and community involvement. It’s one of my favorite nights of the year—and a powerful reminder that connection heals. Professionally, I’ve served in the Department of Defense as a civilian since 2009, and I’m a certified leadership and performance coach, working with individuals and teams to unlock potential and drive purpose. Whether it’s within the office or outside with my volunteers efforts, my leadership mantra is to: Create the environment for my team to thrive. That could mean clearer communication, building a strategy, empowering voices, more transparency, better alignment to purpose—or just knowing when to get out of the way and let people shine. Whether I’m building teams, planning a fundraiser, or navigating parenthood through humor, I’m always asking the same question: How can I serve, strengthen, and connect the people around me? If you’re passionate about veterans, team culture, community connection, or parenting with grace (and a little chaos), I’d love to connect.