The Military Veteran Project (MVP) was founded in 2012 by war widow Melissa Jarboe to carry on the dying wish of her late husband, Staff Sergeant Jamie Jarboe—to ensure his fellow service members were never left without care, support, or hope. Following his passing, Melissa made the life-changing decision to step away from her corporate career and lead the Military Veteran Project as its Volunteer Executive Director.
Along the way, she has built and guided a dedicated, mission-driven team of volunteers committed to honoring service, saving lives, and standing in the gap where systems fall short. Read more of OUR STORY.

Melissa Jarboe Founder & Executive Director

Melissa Jarboe leads the Military Veteran Project (MVP) as its Executive Director and lead volunteer for a nonprofit built entirely on service, compassion, and community.
MVP was founded to carry on a promise Melissa made before her husband, SSG Jamie Jarboe, passed away from combat-related injuries, Melissa made the life-changing decision to donate to her time, life and over $500,000 to establish and fund the early foundation of the organization.
What began as one widow’s promise to honor a hero has grown into a volunteer-led movement of hope. Today, Melissa continues to serve--unpaid and full-hearted—alongside the many volunteers and donors who make MVP’s mission possible.
Together, they ensure that service members, veterans, and their families have access to life-saving support, wellness resources, peer connection, and care that too often falls through the cracks. Every program, every act of service, and every life touched is a reminder of why she began this journey: because no veteran should ever feel forgotten, alone or left behind.

Meet the Board of Directors
Steve Ennis – President

Steve Ennis is a dedicated mortgage banker and lifelong advocate for the veteran community. Born and raised in Mora, Minnesota, alongside Melissa Jarboe, the widow and founder of the Military Veteran Project, Steve grew up witnessing firsthand the sacrifices, resilience, and challenges faced by service members and their families. As the proud son of a combat-wounded Vietnam War veteran, Steve’s passion for supporting veterans was forged early and has only deepened over time. This personal connection, combined with decades of observing the unmet needs within the veteran community, fuels his commitment to ensuring no veteran is left without support. Steve brings a strong work ethic, financial expertise, deep community roots, and an unwavering dedication to the mission of the Military Veteran Project. Through his service on the Board of Directors, he remains committed to helping veterans and their families receive the honor, care, and opportunities they have earned through their service.
Joe Root - Vice President

Joe Root honorably served four years in the United States Marine Corps, returning home during a time when many veterans did not receive the welcome or support they deserved. His own challenges navigating the VA system inspired a lifelong mission to help fellow veterans overcome similar barriers. Joe became one of the founding board members of the Military Veteran Project, offering his experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to strengthen support for service members and their families. A founding member of Marine Corps League Detachment #967, Joe is also a long-standing member of American Legion Post #12, where he serves as Post Service Officer. His passion for honoring service and preserving military history led to one of his most significant achievements—developing the concept, design, and construction of the Clinton County War Memorial on the Courthouse Square. Joe oversaw every detail, including pavers, flags, benches, and the integration of existing memorials.
Today, the memorial stands as one of the most meaningful and impressive community-built tributes in the United States. Since 2001, Joe has continued to serve as the Clinton County Veterans Service Officer, ensuring veterans receive the care, resources, and dignity they have earned. His leadership extends across multiple organizations: • Board Member, Clinton County Historical Society • Master Mason, Beard Lodge #641 • Accredited Veterans Service Officer, National Association of Veterans Service Officers • Accredited Service Officer, American Legion • Accredited Service Officer, State of Indiana • Graduate, Indiana Law Enforcement Academy • Member, Board of Directors, Military Veteran Project Joe retired from the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department after 21½ years of dedicated service. He has served more than 24 years on the Frankfort Utility Service Board, was the 2017 Indiana Veteran of the Year nominee, and is a Past Commander of American Legion Walter T. Cohee Post. In 2024, Joe was recognized as a Vietnam War Commemoration Top Performer, ranking among the top 15% of more than 13,000 national partners.
Kelly Hibl – Secretary 

Kelly Hibl was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and relocated to Florida in the early 2000s. She currently serves as Vice President of Sales and Marketing in the Florida insurance industry, where she brings strategic leadership, business expertise, and a strong foundation in client advocacy. Kelly holds a Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies and Business Administration, equipping her with a well-rounded understanding of both legal frameworks and organizational management. Kelly comes from a proud military family. Her grandfather honorably served during World War II, and multiple family members have continued the legacy of service through careers in the United States Army. This deep connection to military service has shaped Kelly’s lifelong respect for and commitment to supporting veterans and their families. Beyond her professional role, Kelly is actively involved with a local Florida nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans, first responders, and their families. Guided by compassion and a strong sense of purpose, she remains deeply committed to ensuring that those who protect our nation receive the care, resources, and opportunities they have earned.
Nathan Kirschner - Treasurer
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Nathan Kirschner is a financial services professional with more than 20 years of experience supporting agricultural producers and rural communities. Throughout his career, he has specialized in guiding clients through complex financial decisions, strengthening operations, and building long-term stability. With deep roots in agriculture and a commitment to serving underserved regions, Nathan is known for his practical guidance, integrity, and people-first approach. Nathan’s connection to the Military Veteran Project (MVP) began in his hometown of Mora, Minnesota, where he grew up and attended high school alongside MVP Founder and Executive Director Melissa Jarboe. Inspired by Melissa’s personal story and the life-changing impact of MVP’s work, Nathan felt called to support the mission in a more meaningful way. Today, as a member of the MVP Board of Directors, Nathan is dedicated to advancing the organization’s efforts to improve the lives of military veterans and their families. His service honors both the community that shaped him and the values—service, integrity, and commitment—that continue to guide his professional and personal life.