North Star Valor

04/22/2026

North Star Valor turned 2 yesterday!

And because all great nonprofits apparently celebrate with a completely random lemon meringue pie, we did exactly that.

In just two years, NSV has:

Hosted 4 programs
Served 20 veterans
Logged 1,400 volunteer hours

That progress has only happened because this has truly been a team effort. Huge thanks to Board Members Guy Townsend and Hall, and Director of Operations Shinwon Noh, for helping build and carry this work forward. And to all our donors who stood up and stand by NSV, our sincerest gratitude.

And we’re not slowing down.

Our 5th event — Photography in Ely 2026 — is already taking shape. We’ve already recruited 5 participants and booked new lodging.

To mark the occasion, Shinwon and I even sang Happy Birthday to NSV, which may or may not become an annual tradition depending on public demand and vocal quality.

Thanks to everyone who has supported NSV in these first two years. We’re proud of what’s been built so far — and even more excited for what’s ahead.

04/10/2026

I know, I know... a post about every 4 months? I’m practically an influencer now. 😉

But in all seriousness, we just got back from Writing In Ely 2026, and I couldn’t wait another quarter to share this with you all. 🏔️✍️

This retreat was something special. Between the laughter, the "sh*tty first drafts" (as participant Jay Mastrud put it!), and the quiet moments of reflection, there was a deep sense of connection that’s hard to put into words. It’s a powerful reminder of what happens when veterans get the space, the nature, and the right people to just be themselves.

A huge "Thank You" to the village that makes this happen:

Our incredible participants: Stephanie, Dominique, Jim, Jay, Sherill, and Mike. You all showed up with such heart.

Our Volunteer Chef: Shinwon Noh, who gave up her spring break to keep us all well-fed!

The Instruction: Paul Van (Paul Van D**e), for teaching the workshop and continuing his vital work with Veterans Telling Stories.

Our Believers: The Kruizenga Family Foundation and Elicit Consulting (Chuck Densinger and Mason Thelen). We literally couldn't do this without your generosity.

Next stop: 📸 Photography In Ely (Sept 7-13, 2026)!

If you believe in the power of nature and community to help our veterans heal, we’d love for you to join our circle of supporters. Send me a message if you’d like to chat about how a donation can help us grow.

Check out some of the moments from the week below! 👇

12/02/2025

Wounded Veteran uses photography to help manage PTSD. And has a very fascinating alternative process with Polaroids.

In this powerful episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne interviews Justin Tedford, a combat veteran and photographer from Iowa, about his ...

11/23/2025

What an unforgettable night.

North Star Valor was honored to be a guest of J.P. Morgan at the first annual Magnus Veterans Foundation Gala on Friday, Nov. 21. It was a humbling and inspiring evening celebrating the life-changing work Magnus is doing for veterans and their families here in Minnesota.

A special thank-you to Joe Dokken VP at J.P. Morgan’s Minneapolis office, for hosting us. Joe attempted to have a neighboring table declared “violators of the mess” but his plan hilariously backfired, and our table ended up being sentenced to taste the Grog instead. 😅

Even with the Grog, we walked away grateful—for the partnerships, the shared mission, and the community rallying behind veterans’ healing through art, nature, and connection.

Magnus, thank you for a powerful night.
J.P. Morgan, thank you for lifting up our work.

Onward, together.

11/11/2025

Today, the North Star Valor team honors the veterans who have not only served our country but have continued their journey through creativity, connection, and fellowship.

At North Star Valor, we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside veterans who’ve joined our photography and writing experiences—men and women who remind us that healing and hope are found in community, in art, and in the quiet beauty of nature.

To everyone who has taken part in our programs, and to every veteran who carries the stories of service and sacrifice—thank you. You inspire us every day.

Shinwon Noh Guy Townsend Tom Hall Michael Phillips Photography Veterans Creative Arts Program

10/10/2025

Aimee McCaughey Army National Guard Shinwon Noh Michael Phillips Photography Guy Townsend hall

10/04/2025

While there is no official NFL team for NSV, if there was it would be the Green Bay Packers. Way to go, GBP!

Verizon will provide $100,000 of debt relief for Wisconsin veterans after each Packers win

09/26/2025

I'd like to introduce you to one of our participants from the Photography In Ely 2025 program. Kate Feider, US Army. Welcome to the NSV family, Kate. Shinwon Noh Guy Townsend Michael Phillips Photography

09/19/2025

I'd like to introduce you to one of our participants from the Photography In Ely 2025 program. Andy Burgess, US Marine Corps. Welcome to the NSV family Andy. Shinwon Noh Townsend

09/15/2025

I'm speechless. You know your donors and program are making a difference when a participant gets a tattoo of your logo. Great week in Ely!