Monica Garcia
Director of Operations
Monica Garcia oversees the foundation’s operational strategy and program development. With a strong background in nonprofit coordination and community engagement, Monica ensures that all initiatives align with the organization’s mission to empower and support veterans. She plays a key role in organizing programs, maintaining partnerships, and supporting grant-related compliance and reporting. Her hands-on leadership and commitment to excellence help ensure the foundation’s continued growth and sustainability.
About Us
Heroes Unlimited Foundation
At Heroes Unlimited Foundation, we are dedicated to empowering and uplifting veterans through grants, training, and resources designed to help them thrive in their professional and entrepreneurial pursuits. Our mission is to support veterans in building successful businesses, and through community fundraising, we aim to offer small grants to help veteran-owned businesses thrive.
Empowering Veterans, Building Futures
Our Mission
Heroes Unlimited Foundation empowers veterans to succeed as entrepreneurs by providing free business consulting, training, and resources. We are committed to ensuring that every veteran has the tools and support needed to achieve their professional goals and create a brighter future.
Our Founder
Michael A. LaNasa
Retired Disabled Army Veteran | E6 Staff Sergeant | Founder
Michael A. LaNasa is the heart and soul behind Heroes Unlimited Foundation. A retired disabled Army veteran, Michael served over 20 years in the United States Army, including two deployments to Iraq. His distinguished military career reflects his unwavering commitment to serving his country and his fellow soldiers.
Michael began his military journey in 1998 with the C Co 337th Combat Engineers in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard before transferring to the North Carolina Army National Guard and beginning his AGR career. Over his 20 year career, he served with:
- HHC 1-120th Infantry, NC Army National Guard
- C Co 1-120th Combined Arms Battalion, NC Army National Guard
- HHC 113th Sustainment Brigade, NC Army National Guard
- 881st Engineer Company, NC Army National Guard
During his first deployment to Iraq in 2004, Michael served alongside the 1st Infantry Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His second deployment, in 2009, was during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation New Dawn, where he served alongside the 1st Cavalry Division.
Military Awards and Honors
Michael’s dedication and leadership earned him numerous commendations, including:
- Army Commendation Medal
- Army Achievement Medal
- Army Good Conduct Medal
- Army National Guard Achievement Ribbon with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf
- National Defense Service Medal with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf
- Iraq Campaign Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Ribbon
- Global War on Terrorism Service Ribbon
- Army Armed Forces Reserve Ribbon with Numeral 2, Bronze Hourglass, and M device
- Army Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
- Army Service Ribbon
- Army Overseas Service Ribbon with Numeral 2
- North Carolina National Guard Commendation Medal
- Meritorious Unit Commendation
Michael joined the military with a simple yet profound purpose: to help people. After retiring from active service, he channeled his passion for supporting others into founding Heroes Unlimited Foundation. His vision is to give back to the veteran community by providing the same support, mentorship, and resources that guided him throughout his own journey.
The foundation stands as a testament to Michael’s belief in the resilience and potential of veterans. Through grants, business training, and a network of support, Heroes Unlimited Foundation is committed to helping veterans navigate the challenges of civilian life and achieve their personal and professional goals.
Mary Anne Layug
Administrative Director
Mary Anne Layug manages administrative operations and internal communications for the foundation. With experience in organizational management and nonprofit administration, she is responsible for ensuring efficiency across all departments. Mary Anne assists with documentation, grant preparation, and overall program coordination, ensuring that Heroes Unlimited Foundation remains compliant, organized, and ready to serve the veteran community effectively.