Fundraiser raises awareness and critical support for veterans’ mental health
By CSLEA-CACI Member Wendy Port
California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) and California Association of Criminal Investigators (CACI) Member Miguel Espinoza, a dedicated law enforcement officer at the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and U.S. Air Force veteran, proudly participated in the Big Fish Foundation’s 6th Annual Challenge and Fundraiser, a grueling 30-hour endurance event aimed at raising awareness and critical support for veterans’ mental health. This event was held on June 19, 2025 through June 21, 2025 in Boulder, Colorado.
Supported by CACI, Espinoza joined a team of veterans and first responders from across the country in physically and mentally demanding exercises designed to foster resilience, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. For Espinoza, the event bridged two pillars of his life: military service and law enforcement, both professions rooted in discipline, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to others.
Throughout the challenge, Espinoza represented not only the veteran community, but also the broader law enforcement family, highlighting the parallel struggles officers and veterans often face, including stress, trauma, and the silent toll of service. His participation underscored the importance of mental health resources and the power of shared hardship in healing invisible wounds.
Thanks to the support of CACI, DHCS investigators, and various donors, Espinoza was able to take part in this transformative event and help advance the Big Fish Foundation’s mission: to reconnect veterans with one another and with themselves through challenge, community, and service beyond the battlefield.
Links: 6th Annual Challenge & Fundraiser – Miguel Espinoza’s Fundraiser on Donorbox
