Board of Directors – 2025

Southwestern Oregon Veterans Outreach, Inc.

Board members of SOVO are more than volunteers—they are passionate advocates and dedicated leaders who believe deeply in our mission to serve veterans and strengthen community care.

Each board member chooses to serve in a personal capacity, offering their time, expertise, and heart to guide our nonprofit’s vision. While some may also hold professional roles in other organizations, their participation on the SOVO board is a voluntary act of service—not a formal extension of their employment or a contracted endorsement by their workplace.

Board service at SOVO is both a responsibility and a gift. Members engage in strategic planning, governance, fundraising, and advocacy—ensuring our programs remain responsive, ethical, and impactful. Their commitment enriches not only the organization, but their own lives through meaningful connection and shared purpose.

Serving on the SOVO board offers a unique opportunity to create lasting change, collaborate with like-hearted individuals, and contribute to a cause that uplifts veterans and their families. It’s a partnership in building a better future—one rooted in trust, care, and the quiet power of showing up.

Andrew Bice – President

Andrew, Raised in Myrtle Creek, Oregon, Andrew returned to the coastal region after dedicating over 20 years of his life to serving in the US Army. Following his retirement, he embarked on a mission to explore non-profit Veteran Support Organizations, seeking a meaningful way to give back. When the opportunity arose to serve as a board member for an organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families, Andrew eagerly stepped forward.

His commitment to the cause is evident in his words: “I am deeply honored to contribute to our mission of serving those who have served us. I look forward to making a difference in the lives of our esteemed Veteran community.”

 

Kim Wesman – Vice President

Kim Wesman, a fervent advocate for our veterans, hails from a lineage of devoted family members who have selflessly served. Her passion extends beyond words—she actively volunteers her time to address the needs of veterans and honor their unwavering commitment to our nation.

Beyond her dedication to veterans, Kim wears another hat: she is the owner and agent of Farmers Insurance in Coos Bay. Born and raised in this coastal community, she shares her life with her husband, Steve Wesman, a fellow resident of North Bend. Together, they’ve raised a beautiful family of four kids—two girls and two boys—who call this local haven home.

When they’re not busy with their insurance endeavors, the Wesman family embraces the outdoors. Boating, fishing, hunting, and camping are woven into their lives, creating cherished memories. Most importantly, they treasure the simple moments spent together as a close-knit family.

 

Kristi Rigel – Treasurer

Kristi did not serve in the military herself but comes from a proud family of veterans. Her grandfather fought in World War II, her stepfather and uncle served in Vietnam, her brother served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and two of her nephews and several cousins have also served. Her family’s deep love for this nation and its veterans inspired her passion to honor and support those who have served, leading her to join SOVO.

Kristi is also a devoted wife and mother to two sons and three daughters, as well as a proud grandmother to one grandson. She is the General Manager of 9 stations at Bicoastal Media in Coos Bay. She is an active supporter of St. Jude Children’s Hospital, serving on another board for the organization, and is also a Chamber Ambassador welcoming and assisting businesses to achieve success. In her free time, Kristi enjoys hunting and spending time outdoors as an avid outdoorswoman.

 

Michelle Thode 

Born into a legacy of service, I learned early the value of helping others—from my blind grandparents to immigrant parents navigating a new language. I joined the U.S. Navy in 1992, earning a Humanitarian Service Medal and NAM for disaster recovery in Guam, and left in 1997 with honors and pride.

After service, I supported military families with the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society and later improved public transit at Hill AFB, earning recognition from leadership and the SLC mayor.

Today, I serve weekly in my church and volunteer monthly—from trail cleanups to painting over graffiti and supporting local causes. Working the land has brought healing, and I strive to grow daily through prayer, wellness, and service.
With two resilient daughters as my inspiration, I push past PTSD and anxiety to live fully—and to be a source of strength for anyone who needs hope.

Fawn Mathis

Born and raised in Coos Bay, Oregon, Fawn Mathis is a proud Army veteran and dedicated community advocate. At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as an infantry soldier, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan. After completing his service in 2010, Fawn returned home with a renewed commitment to service—this time focused on empowering youth and supporting fellow veterans.

Today, he works with Kairo, a community-centered organization devoted to uplifting young people across Coos County and beyond. Fawn is a tireless champion for youth development and veteran care, bringing lived experience, resilience, and heart to everything he does.

                                        James Lindsey

 

 

 

 

 

Denise Cody – Interim Director

Denise, a dedicated Army veteran with three deployments under her belt, discovered her calling as a Veteran Support Officer (VSO). Her motivation? The belief that helping others was not only a noble pursuit but also a form of personal therapy. The work she does is more than a job—it’s a fulfilling mission.

Denise holds SOVO (Southwestern Oregon Veterans Organization) in high regard, admiring their tireless efforts. When the opportunity arose to serve and support, her response was unequivocal: “Of course, the answer was yes. It was a no-brainer.”