Our Team
LaShay R. Marks | Co- Founder, President
Lashay Marks, Co-Founder of Operation Thrive, has a distinguished background as a U.S. Marine, where he served as an Artillery Cannoneer, Close Combat Instructor, and Recruiter. His military service, marked by dedication and resilience, also brought significant challenges, including bouts with PTSD and depression following his separation from the armed forces.
Determined to overcome these struggles, Lashay immersed himself in veteran non-profit organizations, including Operation Shockwave, PTSD-Veteran Athletes, and Run-Far. Through these organizations, he has been able to give back to the veteran community and support others facing similar challenges.
Lashay found peace and a renewed sense of purpose in various activities. He embraced his role as an event emcee, DJ, and a group fitness instructor at Flo Yoga & Cycle, and a gym owner of Phoenix Evolution OCR Training. His passion for physical and mental wellness led him to participate in and promote events such as Spartan Race, Tough Mudder, Terrain Race, hiking, Xterra trail races, yoga, and cold plunges.
Lashay's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support. His diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to helping others continue to inspire those around him, making a significant impact on the lives of many veterans and their families.
Lisa Shaffer proudly served as a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the United States Marine Corps, where she led and inspired her fellow Marines. Throughout her military career, she faced unique challenges as a woman and Military Police Officer in the Corps, often needing to prove her capabilities to gain the trust of her peers. With her unwavering determination and undeniable skills, Lisa quickly earned the respect of those around her. She remained dedicated to staying current on training and certifications ensuring that she was always prepared to excel in her role. Lisa's commitment to her mission solidified her identity as a proud United States Marine.
As a veteran, Lisa understands the vital importance of connection and support within the military community. After transitioning to civilian life, she actively sought opportunities to give back, focusing on serving active-duty personnel, reservists, veterans, and their families. Lisa played a key role in creating a military affinity group within her organization, highlighting her commitment to fostering a supportive network. In response to the activation of local National Guard Units for Operation Enduring Freedom, she established a community support group to assist military families, connecting them with essential resources to navigate the challenges of deployment.
In addition to her advocacy work, Lisa co-founded and served as President of the Board of Directors for the WWKD Foundation for over four years. In this capacity, she honed her skills in collaboration, working closely with small businesses, organizations, and community leaders to drive impactful outcomes in the United States and abroad.
With her wealth of experience, Lisa is eager to leverage her skills and passion to continue supporting and advocating for veterans, creating meaningful change within the military community.
Lisa Shaffer | Vice-President
Kayla Black, PT, DPT, EdD | Co-Founder, Treasurer
Kayla Black, PT, DPT, EdD is a dedicated physical therapist, educator, and researcher who aims to make a significant impact on the lives of veterans through her role as Treasurer of Operation Thrive. With a deep-rooted passion for promoting physical and mental well-being, Kayla is committed to ensuring that veterans of all abilities have access to the support and resources they need to lead active and fulfilling lives.
The profession of physical therapy was established post-World War I, as veterans surviving significant injuries were assisted in their recovery by early Reconstruction Aides. One of Kayla’s grandfathers served in the US Army during World War II in the Pacific, and the other in the US Navy during the Korean War. This family history and her work as a physical therapist in a hospital-based setting instilled a profound respect for veterans and a desire to give back to those who have sacrificed so much.
In her professional advocacy work, she has supported local and national legislation to improve access to physical therapy services. As Treasurer of Operation Thrive, Kayla plays a crucial role in managing the organization's finances and ensuring its sustainability.