Freedom Trek Expeditions Leadership

As an Army veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, he has dedicated years working with multiple veteran charities in a search for what he felt he was missing after exiting service in 2005. A passion for serving and helping other veterans, he has been relentless and tireless. He currently lives and is based in Chandler, AZ working in local government for the past 17 years. But his real passion has always been to serve others. Bringing back that camaraderie to others that have served and in experiencing the outdoors. He has always said, “What better way to heal than to get back out there with other like minded and shared experience individuals."

 Reese started this journey 8 years ago based on a conversation with a fellow veteran friend while marching the Bataan Memorial Death March in the high desert in New Mexico. That veteran  was a multiple Purple Heart recipient. As they were conversing they mentioned they were looking for the “what’s next”. When you live in an adrenaline fueled world, it is hard to slow down. Reese being the challenger that he is, explained that it should be, “Crossing the vast and open Grand Canyon together.” And a plan was formed.  

Now after officially founding Freedom Trek Expeditions in 2024, he has assembled a team of like minded individuals. He and team are ready to serve more and bring heath and mental wellness through FTE’s mission.

As a founding member of FTE, Betz currently resides in southeast Virginia.  She’s an enthusiastic supporter of FTE’s mission to provide camaraderie and support for our Nation’s military veterans.  Betz is a retired nuclear regulatory compliance auditor, having spent 34 years in commercial nuclear power generation.  Today, she enjoys working as a staff administrator at the College of William and Mary. 

Betz has also served several non-profits over the years either as part of a governance team or as a volunteer.  These included animal welfare organizations (Heritage Humane Society, Virginia German Shepherd Rescue), veteran organizations (Operation Enduring Warrior), and adaptive sports for special needs children and adults (Team Hoyt Virginia Beach).

She enjoys time outdoors, mainly hiking and camping, with her wife and two dogs.  Her wife currently serves as a U.S. Army Reserve officer.

In addition to Betz’s formal education, she attended the spouse component of the U.S. Army Reserve Battalion/Brigade Pre-Command Course at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and has a Certificate in Military and Veterans Health, Policy, and Advocacy from William & Mary Law School.

 Martin Cantu is a founding board member of Freedom Trek Expeditions, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for service to the organization. Over the past 22 years, Martin has built a distinguished career as a licensed attorney/manager in the insurance industry, known for his strategic thinking and leadership. Before law school, he served as an executive in the nonprofit sector, where he developed an appreciation for mission-driven work.

A lifelong adventurer, Martin has spent countless days exploring the outdoors, finding inspiration and clarity in nature. After moving to Arizona, he struck up a friendship with Michael Reese. Their shared love of adventure led to unforgettable experiences, including a one-day Rim-to-Rim trek across the Grand Canyon. Along these challenging trails, Martin and Reese spent hours envisioning the future of Freedom Trek Expeditions and its potential to transform lives.

Martin’s commitment to the organization is rooted in his deep respect for veterans, first responders and their families —the everyday heroes who embody courage, resilience, and sacrifice. Through Freedom Trek Expeditions, Martin is dedicated to empowering these individuals by providing transformative outdoor adventures that inspire healing, strength, and community. 

Dale is a founding member and currently resides in Mesa, AZ. Dale is the second of three generations of U.S. Marines. Dale enlisted in 1988, then deployed for Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He was honorably discharged in 1992.

After service, while working diligently on his career and raising two boys with his wife, it became clear something was missing this is when Dale found service after service. Dale started working with VSOs and became a certified personal trainer to serve the veteran community and his community better. During this time, a bond developed through a mutual desire to serve others with his longtime friend, Michael Reese. Fast forward to 2024, Dale has helped co-found FTE with Michael and continues to serve veterans and his community to reach their goals and lead healthier, fulfilled, purpose-driven lives.

  Abby, originally from Oswego, Illinois, relocated to Arizona in 2011 and now resides in Goodyear with her husband, a retired U.S. Marine. She has two adult children: her son lives in Phoenix, and her daughter resides in Seattle. Outside of her professional life, Abby enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, attending concerts, and cheering on her favorite sports teams.

A passionate advocate for community well-being, Abby has been involved with nonprofits such as March of Dimes, Play for Peace, United Way and various local organizations. While living in Chicago, she served as a board member for Play for Peace, contributing as Secretary and Director of Events. Abby believes strongly in the power of nonprofits to create lasting, positive change and is committed to supporting their missions by offering her skills in leadership, strategic planning, and relationship building. She thrives on collaborating with others to amplify impact and drive meaningful progress in communities.

Professionally, Abby brings over 35 years of experience in the private sector, having worked with organizations such as ComEd, APS, Republic Services and Microsoft, and currently serving as the IT Applications Manager at City of Avondale. A dedicated leader in technology and business, Abby has a proven track record of fostering collaboration and empowering others to achieve their full potential.

She is committed to driving innovation and change, leveraging her expertise in strategic direction, problem-solving, and aligning solutions with organizational goals. Abby’s combined professional skills and passion for service make her a valuable contributor to both businesses and nonprofit organizations alike, helping them achieve their missions and create a positive impact in the world.