At HOPE, our committed team consists solely of passionate volunteers who work diligently to advance our mission. This includes military veterans who contribute their unique experiences and compassion, as well as individuals who manage full-time jobs while dedicating their time and energy to our cause.
2016- Present: HOPE Project CEO/Founder
2016- Present: EAGALA Mental Health Professional
2023-Present: Arenas for Change Professional
David retired in 2015 from the US Army after 33 years of military service, including 25 years of active duty. He is the founder and currently serves as the director of the HOPE Project, assisting Soldiers, Families, Wounded Warriors, and veterans.
His extensive military career includes 16 years as an Army Chaplain, during which he deployed to Iraq twice, as well as Afghanistan, Africa, and Kuwait, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include three Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart.
David specializes in trauma, combat stress, child loss, grief, and family ministries. He is a graduate of Welch College, Southeastern Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Covenant Theological Seminary, the Army Command and General Staff College, US Army Chaplain Basic and Advanced Courses, the US Army Military Intelligence Center and School, the Basic Airborne Course, and Clinical Pastoral Education.
Additionally, he is the coauthor of “First Aid for Veterans” and the author of “Operation Eternal Freedom,” as well as numerous published articles for magazines and newspapers.
Click the links below to preview his books.
Tabatha has been a cornerstone of the Hope Project since 2017. Starting as a volunteer, she now serves on the Board of Directors and as the farm and barn manager.
Her primary focus is ensuring the health and well-being of all our four-legged therapists, dedicating her time and expertise to their care and maintenance.
As a passionate equine owner and lifelong animal lover, Tabatha has played a vital role in the growth of the Hope Project, helping it thrive and continue its mission to provide life-changing equine therapy to those in need.
Lovingly referred to by the Hope staff as "the boss," Tabatha works hard making sure everything is running smoothly with the animals all while being a full-time business owner with her husband.
Tina, is an invaluable member of The Hope Project team, blending her lifelong passion for animals—especially horses—with her deep commitment to serving others. As an Army veteran, Tina’s dedication and compassion shine through in everything she does. Having been around horses since childhood, she has spent years riding, training, and forming lasting connections with these remarkable animals.
In her role as Equine Specialist, Tina goes beyond just caring for and feeding our four-legged therapists—she ensures their overall health and happiness, making them ready to provide life-changing therapy. Her extensive hands-on experience is a cornerstone of our animal care program. Tina has also inspired others to connect with these majestic creatures by briefly offering riding lessons at Hope, sharing her knowledge and fostering a love for horses within our community.
As Volunteer Coordinator, Donita ensures that every helping hand finds a meaningful role at The Hope Project. She also helps feed the animals, and various other chores around the farm, along with participating in events.
Known for her extra doses of love for our horses, Donita is lovingly teased by the staff for spoiling them. She often sings to them, showering them with hugs and kisses, and they’ve come to expect nothing less—even refusing to leave their stalls for others unless they do the same!
Outside of The Hope Project, Donita is a wife, mother, and proud grandmother. She also co-owns Southern Thyme Creative Designs with our Barn Manager, Tabatha, bringing creativity and care to everything she touches. A dental hygienist for 23 years, Donita’s heart has always been drawn to helping others.
Finding her place at The Hope Project has brought Donita tremendous joy. Her love for horses, animals, and people aligns beautifully with David Trogdon’s mission.
Erica is a wife, mother, and an Air Force veteran. She signed on the dotted line at just 17 years old, dedicating her career to travel, storage, and transportation logistics. She served four overseas tours and earned a degree in transportation and logistics, with a second degree in sociology currently underway. During her military service, Erica became well-known for her passionate advocacy for education, awareness, and prevention of sexual assault, domestic violence, and military resilience.
When Erica transitioned out of the military, she faced significant challenges but found hope and healing through organizations like Hope For Heroes. and with her The Hope Project, along with her equine partner and best friend, Chevy, continues to give her life meaning and purpose.
Erica cares for our animals by feeding, handling farm chores, and supporting our events.
Jessica has been a vital part of The Hope Project since she joined as a volunteer in 2017. Her passion for horses began in childhood, growing through years of ownership and participation in local horse shows. Now, as a member of our Board of Directors, Jessica combines her professional skills and love for equines to make a lasting impact.
As a trained Veterinary Technician, Jessica ensures that our four-legged therapists receive the top-notch care they need to thrive and continue delivering life-changing equine therapy. Her expertise is critical in maintaining the health and well-being of the animals, enabling them to serve veterans, first responders, and others in need.
Jessica’s dedication to our mission, along with her deep connection to horses, makes her an invaluable asset to The Hope Project.
Raised in a military family, Keven developed a deep sense of duty and resilience from an early age. He carried these values into his own service, spending over four years in the Army and an additional two years in the Army Reserve. As a veteran, Keven brings unique perspectives and experiences to his role at The HOPE Project.
Keven became part of the HOPE family shortly after Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle, including the HOPE Project ranch, in 2018. Starting as a dedicated volunteer, he quickly proved himself an invaluable asset to the organization.
Now serving as the Promotional Director, Keven uses his passion and creativity to raise awareness about The HOPE Project's mission, ensuring the community knows about the vital support and resources the organization provides. His unwavering commitment and leadership have made him a cornerstone of the team, inspiring both staff and volunteers alike.
Joshua Parker came to Hope in 2016. Joshua is a disabled Army veteran. He retired from the Military Police Corp. Joshua has a degree in Graphic Design and Media Arts that he puts to use by donating his time by updating our website and assisting with other graphics related tasks.
Copyright © 2025 Hope Project Inc - All Rights Reserved.
Powered by GoDaddy