BFL x Marine Corps University Foundation

We are incredibly proud to share that our founder, Brett D’Alessandro, was selected as a finalist for the inaugural General Al Gray Jr. National Service and Education Award, presented by the Marine Corps University Foundation.

It was a fantastic evening filled with inspiration and community, and we were honored to have Alexa D’Alessandro, our Executive Director, represent Backpacks For Life at the event. We are truly inspired by the powerful stories and impactful work of all the other finalists who are each leading with purpose and continuing to serve beyond the uniform.

Brett, a Marine Corps veteran from Jersey City, New Jersey, served six years and completed a seven-month deployment to Afghanistan. When he returned home, he struggled to find direction in civilian life and began experiencing symptoms of what would later be diagnosed as PTSD.

It was during that challenging transition that a chance encounter with a homeless veteran sparked an idea—one that would grow into Backpacks For Life.

What began with handing out backpacks filled with critical supplies has grown into a nationwide effort to support homeless and at-risk veterans. Since its founding, Backpacks For Life has distributed nearly 12,000 backpacks across 36 states and provided personalized mentorship to over 1,000 veterans.

Brett’s mission is deeply personal:

“It was a lot returning home, I saw some Marines committing suicide and I wanted to do something,” he said. “Through Backpacks for Life I found my purpose, which is caring for other people, other veterans.”

Years ago, Brett had the honor of meeting General Gray, who encouraged him to continue this work. Being recognized as a finalist for an award named in General Gray’s honor makes this moment especially meaningful.

We are deeply grateful to the Marine Corps University Foundation for this recognition and for hosting such a memorable evening.

To learn more about all of the inspiring finalists, visit: https://generalgrayaward.org/finalist/