Minutes Wisely, a local organization that supports veterans, first responders and Gold Star families—specifically with the aim of combating veteran suicide, depression, PTSD and mental illness—will hold two of its major fundraising events this September.

On Sunday, Sept. 7, the community will come together at Single Tree BBQ (2805 Old Fort Pkwy.) for a heartfelt cause: a BBQ fundraiser hosted by Minutes Wisely to support two military families whose young sons are facing serious medical battles.

The event, taking place from 4–8 p.m., will feature BBQ plates, live music, raffles and more, with all proceeds going directly toward helping the families with travel expenses, lodging and experiences aimed at lifting the spirits of the children.

The first child, D.J. Daniels, is the son of a U.S. Navy veteran and is currently battling brain and spinal cancer. Though D.J. will not be present at the event, proceeds will help send him and his father to Michigan, where D.J. will be honored as an honorary police officer in the cities of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights and attend a Detroit Lions game.

The second child is local to the Murfreesboro area and is the son of a U.S. Army veteran. He is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. Minutes Wisely is planning a separate special experience for him and his family.

“We’re doing more than just raising funds—we’re lifting hearts,” said Richard Fleek, founder of Minutes Wisely. “This is about reminding these families that they’re not alone and that our community has their back.”

He encourages community members to come hungry and leave inspired. BBQ plates will be available for purchase, and additional donations will be accepted at the event or online through the Minutes Wisely website.

The following week, on Thursday, Sept. 11, the organization will then hold its second annual CPL Isaac Diaz Memorial Golf Outing at Champions Run Golf Course in Rockvale.

This event honors the life and sacrifice of U.S. Army Corporal Isaac Diaz, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan. The golf scramble serves as both a tribute to Diaz and a fundraiser for Minutes Wisely, supporting the nonprofit’s growing mission to provide meaningful experiences for veterans, first responders and Gold Star families. Fleek invites golfers, sponsors and community members to come together for this day of remembrance, camaraderie and impact.

Whether it’s a sporting event, concert, zoo trip, play, or even a simple date night, Minutes Wisely creates moments of joy, connection, and healing—one experience at a time. The organization has provided Christmas gifts for children of fallen armed services members, and frequently sends veterans on outings to take their minds off of the stress that many military veterans deal with.

Minutes Wisely provides a platform to raise awareness and support for veterans at risk of suicide, to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, and to enable veterans to connect with and support each other so that no veteran is ever left behind.

“Maybe we can prevent someone from committing suicide by sending them to a simple event,” Fleek said. “I need to do good for these guys. They put their lives on hold, they went to wars, for us.”

To learn more about the organization and its mission, as well as the two September events, visit minuteswisely.org or call 313-909-0128‬.