Oregon Director
Linda Exceen
Linda was born in Pomona, California, and moved to Oregon in the 1970s. She graduated from Eagle Point High School, married shortly after, and devoted the next chapter of her life to raising five children. While raising her family, Linda also worked in retail management for over 20 years.
Two of Linda’s sons proudly served in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, continuing a long family legacy of military service—her father served in the Navy, her grandfather in the Marines, her uncle was a Navy pilot for 40 years, and several nieces and nephews have also served in the Navy.
After her children were grown, Linda transitioned into healthcare, working as a technician in the PCU and ICU at the local hospital. She served there for 18 years before retiring.
Linda now dedicates her time to her family and enjoying the great outdoors—she loves swimming, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, camping, and spending quality time with loved ones.
After the heartbreaking loss of her grandson, Linda’s life was forever changed. Alongside Lorea, Brandon, and Stacy, she became deeply committed to supporting the veteran community and raising awareness of veteran suicide. Together, they helped start the Ride for 22 Oregon Chapter in 2017, working to honor the fallen and support the families left behind.
Linda has lived in California, Oregon, Jacksonville (Florida), Charleston (South Carolina), and Texas—and wherever she goes, her heart remains devoted to service, remembrance, and community.
Board Member
Stacy Anderson
Stacy was born in Anacortes, Washington, and has proudly called Oregon home for the past 56 years. She graduated from South Umpqua High School in 1977 and went on to enjoy a long and successful career at Roseburg Forest Products, retiring in 2016.
Since retirement, Stacy stays active and purpose-driven. She lovingly cares for her 4-year-old grandson, who is on the autism spectrum, four days a week. In addition, she juggles three part-time jobs and one casual part-time position, proving that retirement is anything but slow-paced for her.
Stacy became involved with Ride for 22 in 2022 as a volunteer for the annual motorcycle ride. The powerful turnout of veterans arriving on motorcycles to support the mission left a lasting impression. That one event turned into a calling—and before long, she found herself joining the board.
Though Stacy does not have a personal connection to veteran suicide, it has become her passion to support those who do. Just a few years ago, she was unaware of the staggering statistics surrounding veteran suicide. Today, she is determined to be part of the solution—supporting struggling veterans, standing with the families left behind, and helping raise awareness in any way she can.
Board Member
Luara White
Born in Millington, Tennessee, Lorea is a proud Navy brat, raised by her father, Tim Wasson, who served in the U.S. Navy. His service instilled in her a deep respect for the military and inspired her involvement in this nonprofit organization. She is honored to be part of a mission that brings awareness to mental health and shares the stories of loved ones left behind.
A 1989 graduate of Sutherlin High School, she is proud to call herself a Bulldog for life. Now 54, she is the devoted mother of two grown children and the joyful grandmother of three: Dante (13), Penelope (7), and baby Stetson, born just three months ago. Her family is the center of her world.
She has been happily married to her husband, Kyle White, for 14 years. Together, they support the nonprofit and enjoy spending their free time camping with their five beloved dogs—four Shih Tzus and a pit bull/lab mix. They often travel in their 16-foot trailer and are used to the surprised looks they receive when people realize they all fit—but they wouldn’t have it any other way (well, maybe a slightly bigger trailer someday!).
She is passionate about spreading awareness of the number 22 and the urgent need for suicide prevention—not just for veterans, but for anyone battling mental health challenges. Her heart is in this mission, and she is committed to helping others feel seen, heard, and supported.
Board Member
Brandon Anderson
Born and raised in Roseburg, Oregon, [Name] is a 2007 graduate of Roseburg High School. Shortly after graduation, he began working at Roseburg Forest Products, where he spent seven years before joining his uncle’s construction company. In 2015, he transitioned to North River Boats, where he remains employed today.
He is a proud single father to two amazing children—his son Carter (16) and daughter Ava (13). His children are his greatest passion, but he also finds fulfillment in helping others, which keeps him actively involved in both his community and personal interests.
An outdoor enthusiast, he enjoys hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, and taking scenic drives to adventurous places. He also loves spending time with family, playing video games, and working on his “new to him” pickup.
His journey with Ride for 22 began six years ago when he was invited to volunteer during a visit with longtime friend Terry, the husband of Linda Exceen. That invitation sparked a deep commitment to the organization, and he has now served on the board for two years. His main role involves organizing and leading the annual motorcycle run—an event that brings him both purpose and adrenaline. He finds inspiration in the stories of the diverse individuals he meets through the ride, which continually reminds him why this mission matters.