Russ Hanes is the founder of the Invisible Wounds Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans, first responders, corrections officers, dispatchers, medical staff, and their families with mental health resources and care.

Drawing on his 17 years in public safety as a police officer, corrections officer, and 911 dispatcher, and his own journey with PTSD and trauma, Russ created the Invisible Wounds Project in 2018 to ensure that no one who serves is left to struggle alone.

Under his leadership, IWP has grown into a trusted resource, including the Invisible Wounds Support Center in Forest Lake, Minnesota, which offers drop-in therapy, peer support, wellness activities, and a safe space for healing.

Russ continues to advocate for those who give so much of themselves, working to break the stigma around mental health and provide hope where it’s needed most.