Our Volunteers
Matthew Bonestell - Founder / Peer Contact
Hey, Matt here! I founded Badge for a Badge because I want to eliminate the stigma around first responders and military members reaching out for help when it comes to their mental health. While this organization focuses heavily on advocation for mental health outreach and suicide prevention- we are so much more! Our organization focuses on the building of friendships amongst peers within our fields. We host events to encourage socialization whether it’s just hanging out, eating in a group or grabbing a drink.
Our peer contacts are available 24/7. They are dedicated volunteers who have careers that make them capable of putting themselves in a position to listen and help with those who are struggling.
In regards to my background, I have spent six years on the road as a patrol officer. My duties ranged from community police officer to a special response team member. I also served six years with the Marine Corps reserve at both a tank battalion and headquarters in an infantry company. Currently, I am a K9 Handler for an agency in North Mecklenburg. I am committed to helping you and growing our community. My number is listed in the get in touch tab, never hesitate to reach out.
Please get in touch if you're interested in volunteering. We need you!
Doug Patschke - Co-Founder / Peer Contact
My name is Doug - I’m a Marine Corps veteran and I served with Matt. As soon as Matt told me he was starting this organization I knew I had to be involved. It’s too often that service members, police officers, and other first responders aren’t given the proper resources to allow them to succeed within civilian life. We are here to support those who have dedicated their lives to helping others.
My background consists mainly of reserve time within the Marine Corps (bring on the reservist jokes, I’m ready). I was activated once for a humanitarian mission that lasted roughly one year which was stateside. I spent my entire time enlisted and exited after obtaining the rank of Sergeant. While on reserve status I was able to complete a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Appalachian State University. After my time in the service was completed I obtained a job working in insurance.
Despite my counterpart having a totally fun job as a police officer - I found that having a slow paced desk job was a nice change of scenery. If anyone reading this is interested in knowing more about me, recently transitioning out of the military, or if you just want to grab some Buffalo wings in the Charlotte, NC area please don’t hesitate to shoot me a text or give me a call!
Jackie Redmond - Board Member - Mental Health Advisory
Jackie is a dual licensed professional in addiction and mental health counseling, with specialized education in addiction and offenders counseling. Bringing extensive experience in treatment settings and outpatient care across various leadership and counseling roles, Jackie is dedicated to promoting mental health well-being. Passionate about giving back to the community, she brings a compassionate approach to her work, inspiring others on their journey.
"We are thankful to have someone with Jackie's expertise on mental health to colloaborate with. She is truly an assest to our organzation with her extensive background and education. Not only that she has never met a stranger and is one of the nicest people I know. It is volunteers like this that keep our operation up and going." - Matt B, Founder
Josh Callahan - Board Member - Peer Contact
Hey I'm Josh. First, I am a father and a husband. I currently work as a commercial construction project manager. I served 4 years in the Air Force where I was an Ammo troop stationed in Minot, ND. After separating I received my Bachelors in Construction Management and Masters in Organizational Management.