Jenna McDonald: Inspiring Veterans and Families Through Sports and Recreation
Jenna McDonald is one of those people who lights up a room the second she walks in.
Her infectious energy spreads to everyone she meets, inspiring and motivating every member of Team HOPE. As the Director of Physical Wellness, Sports and Recreation at HOPE, she supports veteran families and encourages resilience through physical activity.
“Surprise! You can go down that slide; I’ll time you. Ready, go!” she shouts enthusiastically at the San Antonio Rock ‘n’ Roll, where over 20 Team HOPE athletes and their families were in attendance.
Jenna is always ready to inject fun into every challenge. For Jenna, it’s not just about the competition; it’s about connection and fostering wellness in military families.
Jeramy, a veteran who ran his first 10K with Team HOPE in December 2023, recalls her constant encouragement.
“She kept on checking on me throughout the whole thing. You could tell that it wasn’t just about me showing up and wearing an outfit. She cared. She genuinely cared.”
Jenna touches the lives of hundreds of veterans and their families, pushing them to step out of their comfort zones.
Her impact on veterans like Andres Rosario is evident.
“My girl Jenna, what can I tell you? This girl is amazing. I told her, ‘Hey, I want to do this race.’ And she’s like, ‘Alright, I got you.’ She kept in touch with me, encouraging me to stay focused and keeping me up to speed with all the events and times.”
Jenna isn’t just a motivator — she’s a doer. A collegiate athlete, military spouse, mother of two, and now a director at Hope For The Warriors, she brings every piece of her experience to the table. Her role exemplifies women leaders in veteran support and adaptive sports for veterans.
“My passion for athletics, if you ask my parents, has been there since I was probably four,” Jenna shares. “I always wanted to find a way to combine the loves of my life — my husband’s service, what his dedication to our country has meant to our family and the life I had before meeting him, in strength and conditioning and sports.”
Jenna knows firsthand the struggles of moving to new duty stations and the loneliness that can follow.
“One of my goals as a young spouse was to get a medal at every duty station. It would go with our memories from that place. My motto has always been ‘more than nothing.’ Every day, I try to do more than nothing regarding physical wellness, and I try to translate that to our team, too. Life is busy, but you can always find a little time.”
Her philosophy has shaped Team HOPE. Jenna often says,
“They are the most humble group of individuals I’ve ever encountered in my life. If they can persevere through everything they have, show resilience, and keep their zest for life, then why can’t I?”
Jenna doesn’t just help others cross the finish line — she helps them find the strength to keep moving forward, no matter where the journey takes them.
“You got this! Woo, woo!” echoes behind her as she cheers on the next person, ready to take on their challenge.”
If Jenna’s story has inspired you, consider joining Team HOPE or supporting Hope For The Warriors. Whether you participate in an event, volunteer, or donate your involvement helps veterans and their families. Visit hopeforthewarriors.org to learn more and get involved today.
*For more from HOPE, check out their Expert Blog Page at M:M.
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