About Us
Meet the people dedicated to helping veterans and families heal, grow, and thrive together.
Where It All Began
Joe LaBranche, a U.S. Marine and Vietnam veteran, earned two Purple Hearts after being wounded in combat—but his greatest battle came after returning home. For more than 40 years, he faced the lasting effects of trauma, struggling with addiction and isolation before finding healing and purpose. Today, Joe channels that journey into helping others as the co-founder of AboutFace-USA, alongside his wife, Carol.
Learn more about Joe’s story below.
Leadership Team
Carol LaBranche
Executive Officer
Guides family programs, blending clinical insight with lived experience as a military spouse and caregiver.
Joe LaBranche
Founder
Leads peer mentoring for veterans, fostering trust, resilience, and practical skills for post-service life.
Karla Rodriguez
Social Media & Veteran Support Specialist
Karla earned a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and has built a diverse career in broadcast journalism, marketing, sales, and nonprofit work. She loves supporting veterans through outreach and social media engagement.
Stephen Roberson
AboutFace FARM Associate
Stephen is a retired Army veteran (1975–1999) with a background in commercial printing and law enforcement. He now works on the aeroponic farm, planting, watering, and caring for crops to keep the operation running smoothly.
Veteran Program Facilitators
Keegan Merritt
Keegan Merritt is a dedicated Veteran Peer Counselor at AboutFace-USA, that brings extensive experience from his service in the U.S. Army and his subsequent role at the Georgia Department of Public Safety Office of Public Safety Support. Keegan, who specializes in crisis intervention, understands the complexities of post-service life and is committed to guiding fellow veterans through their adjustment and mental health challenges.ongan
Mike Brooks
Michael Brooks has nearly 20 years of experience as a Georgia Law Enforcement Officer, including eight years on the State’s PEER Support Team. As a certified PEER through ICISF, he brings deep expertise in suicide prevention, critical incident response, and peer support for both law enforcement and military personnel. His combat service in Operation Iraqi Freedom, combined with his post-service career, gives him unique insight into the challenges veterans face.
Carolyn Agosta
Carolyn Agosta, a partner at AboutFace-USA and leader of our Online Healing Program, brings over 30 years of experience in holistic healing tailored for veterans and their families. Her compassionate approach blends traditional and alternative therapies, helping individuals find peace, release trauma, and reconnect with their true selves. Join Carolyn’s classes to experience expert guidance, community support, and transformative techniques that promote lasting well-being.