Utilizing my experiences as a Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer and a lifelong public servant, I lead Veterans Helping Veterans USA in Marion County, Florida, where I champion local solutions to improve the lives of veterans and their families. With decades of leadership in nonprofit, military, and civic sectors, I build coalitions, amplify missions, and drive resources where they’re needed most. 

Let’s connect and collaborate in service to those who served.

A native of suburban Detroit, Belknap was born into a family rooted in military service. Following in those footsteps, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after high school and served honorably from 1982 to 1990. Rising to the rank of Sergeant, he spent five years in the Infantry and another three as a Recruiter. From 1988 to 1990, he recruited Officer Candidates for the Marine Corps, focusing on universities across Connecticut and western Massachusetts. He also targeted law schools in his search for future Judge Advocate General (JAG) officers.

Upon receiving his second honorable discharge, Belknap joined the Manchester, Connecticut Police Department, where he served for ten years. His responsibilities included but were not limited to Patrol Officer, Commander of the Department Honor & Color Guard, Field Training Officer, Co-Chair of the Quality Management Council, and Co-Chair of the Employee Assistance Program.

Over the past 25 years, Belknap has been actively involved with a wide array of nonprofit organizations across the United States, including churches, public schools, and civic and military groups. His passion lies in elevating organizational missions through strategic marketing and outreach to drive awareness, donations, and broader community support.

In addition to serving as Executive Director of Veterans Helping Veterans USA, Belknap holds leadership positions with several other veteran organizations in Marion County, Florida. He is the 1st Vice President of the Marion County Veterans Council, Vice Commander of American Legion Post #27, and a member of both AMVETS Post #99 and Marine Corps League Detachment #061.

Belknap’s son is a United States Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who has, amongst other billets in the past 11 years, served as a diplomat for the Department of State.

Belknap’s commitment to supporting veterans and their families is widely recognized throughout Marion County and beyond. Known for his relentless drive and collaborative spirit, he forges and nurtures partnerships that amplify impact across organizations. He believes the well-being of a community’s veterans is a direct reflection of its values—and he continues to champion local solutions that support those who have served.