At Undersummers, our mission has always been to empower women with confidence and comfort, but for our founder, CarrieRae, her dedication to well-being extends far beyond the clothing she designs. Together with her husband, CarrieRae is tackling one of the most pressing crises of our time: the suicide epidemic.
Through their non-profit organization, FOB Rasor, CarrieRae and Jeff "Gunny" Shilanski are working tirelessly to provide hope, resources, and community for veterans, first responders, and their families. This blog is a tribute to their shared mission, their unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy, and their vision for a world where no one feels alone in their struggles.
The Passion Behind FOB Rasor
They founded FOB Rasor out of a shared passion for mental health wellness and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by veterans and first responders. Both have witnessed the devastating effects of untreated mental health issues within these communities, from feelings of isolation and stigma to the heartbreaking reality of suicide.
Determined to make a difference, they created FOB Rasor (Forward Operating Base Rasor) to serve as a beacon of hope. The organization focuses on providing critical support for veterans and first responders, while also addressing the needs of their families—because mental health challenges affect not just individuals, but entire households.
Learn more about CarrieRae and her story on her About Us page.
What Is FOB Rasor?
FOB Rasor is more than just an organization—it’s a lifeline for individuals and families affected by mental health struggles. Its mission is to create a world where veterans, first responders, and their loved ones have the resources and support they need to navigate the challenges they face.
The organization’s focus areas include:
- Suicide Prevention: Providing education, resources, and direct support to help at-risk individuals find hope and healing.
- Mental Health Resources: Offering access to counseling, peer support groups, and workshops tailored to the unique needs of veterans and first responders.
- Family Support: Recognizing that mental health challenges ripple through families, FOB Rasor provides tools and resources to help loved ones support and care for each other.
Why Veterans and First Responders?
Veterans and first responders dedicate their lives to serving others, often at great personal cost. Their work exposes them to high levels of stress, trauma, and danger, leaving many with invisible wounds that can lead to depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.
These communities also face disproportionately high rates of suicide. Despite their strength and resilience, veterans and first responders often encounter barriers to accessing mental health care, whether due to stigma, lack of resources, or systemic challenges.
CarrieRae and her husband are deeply committed to breaking down these barriers. Through FOB Rasor, they aim to provide a safe space for healing, understanding, and support—not just for those on the front lines, but for the families who stand beside them.
The Role of Families in Mental Health Wellness
FOB Rasor recognizes that families are an integral part of the healing process. Spouses, children, parents, and close friends often bear the weight of their loved one’s struggles, but they’re also powerful sources of strength and support.
By offering resources and programs specifically designed for families, FOB Rasor helps create an environment where everyone feels equipped to navigate the challenges of mental health together. From family counseling to educational workshops, the organization ensures that no one feels alone in their journey.
Undersummers and Mental Health: A Shared Mission
While Undersummers is primarily focused on creating solution-based garments, the connection to mental health is undeniable. Feeling confident and comfortable in your clothing can have a profound impact on overall well-being, just as feeling supported and valued can transform mental health.
CarrieRae’s dual mission—empowering women through Undersummers and supporting mental health through FOB Rasor—is rooted in the same core belief: that everyone deserves to feel seen, valued, and cared for.
As a community, Undersummers is proud to support the vital work of FOB Rasor and help spread awareness about the needs of veterans, first responders, and their families.
How You Can Support FOB Rasor
If you’re inspired by CarrieRae and her husband’s story and their mission to stop the suicide epidemic, here’s how you can get involved:
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Visit the Website
Learn more about FOB Rasor’s initiatives, programs, and impact by visiting FOBRasor.org. -
Donate
Every contribution, big or small, helps FOB Rasor provide critical resources and support to those in need. Consider making a donation to support their work. -
Spread Awareness
Help raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by veterans and first responders by sharing FOB Rasor’s mission with your network. -
Volunteer
If you’re passionate about mental health advocacy, reach out to FOB Rasor to explore volunteer opportunities. Your time and skills can make a meaningful difference.
A Message of Hope
CarrieRae often says, “Hope isn’t just a feeling—it’s an action.” Through FOB Rasor, they’re taking action every day to create a world where veterans, first responders, and their families feel supported and valued.
Whether you’re a customer of Undersummers or simply someone looking for inspiration, your support helps fuel a mission that goes far beyond fashion. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against the suicide epidemic.
Thank you for joining us on this journey.
With love,
The Undersummers Team
