About Our Foundation

At Wyoming for Heroes, we are proud to carry forward a mission inspired by an incredible man, Dr. Jerome (Jerry) Behrens. A compassionate and trusted orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Behrens cared for thousands of patients in Casper and across Wyoming. But his dedication to service began long before his medical career.

As a Navy doctor serving with the Marines in Vietnam, Dr. Behrens showed the courage and determination that would define his life's work. He went on to mentor active-duty service members, assist veterans through programs like the Semper Fi Odyssey transition program, and continue his lifelong commitment to those who serve.

We are humbled to follow in his footsteps, ensuring that those who have sacrificed for us receive the care and respect they deserve.

Dr. Matt Mitchell is the president of Wyoming for Heroes and played a key role in founding the former Jerry Behrens Foundation, helping develop it into the statewide nonprofit it is today. A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Mitchell served 9 years on active duty, including deployments to Iraq and Haiti. His military career also took him to France, where he completed the French military parachute course, and to the US Naval Diving & Salvage Training Center, where he became a diving medical officer. In his free time, Dr. Mitchell enjoys perfecting his golf swing and playing the bagpipes with the Lander Pipe Band!
Mary Behrens serves as the Secretary of Wyoming for Heroes and is committed to carrying on the legacy of her husband, Dr. Jerry Behrens. A Family Nurse Practitioner by training, Mary has been a powerful leader in Wyoming since 1983, serving as Mayor of Casper, a Natrona County Commissioner, and a Wyoming State Representative. Throughout her career, Mary has championed the nursing profession in both political and healthcare arenas. She has testified at state, national, and international levels on issues impacting nursing and patient care, and she has been recognized by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners for her long-term teaching initiative in Vietnam through Friendship Bridge, helping create educational pathways for nurses abroad. Mary also served eight years on the board of directors for the American Nurses Association and was honored with the University of Wyoming’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2024. She is dedicated to helping veterans around Wyoming through Wyoming For Heroes.
Charlie Robertson is our dedicated Treasurer and a driving force behind Wyoming for Heroes since day one. Charlie is the CEO of Casper Orthopedics and a lifelong resident of Casper, Wyoming. From the foundation’s beginnings as the Jerry Behrens Foundation to its growth into Wyoming for Heroes, Charlie has been with us every step of the way. He’s deeply involved in the local community and brings not only financial leadership but also a big heart for service. Charlie is especially passionate about supporting our local veterans and first responders.
Lisa Jackson is one of our dedicated board members who brings with her a wealth of experience and commitment. From a young age, Lisa has dedicated her time giving back through volunteer service and board participation. Her volunteer work has spanned a wide range of causes: from music, to business, to service and health. Today, she remains deeply committed to improving lives and building stronger communities. She is honored to be part of Wyoming for Heroes and helping to serve our veterans and first responders.
Vicki Orcutt is a powerhouse in the world of nonprofit service and one of our incredible board members here at Wyoming for Heroes. Vicki brings passion and experience to our mission. She’s the founder of Hope House in Casper, Wyoming, a transitional living program that supports men coming out of incarceration and addiction. She also serves as Chair of the Board for Kairos Global Foundation, working to empower women across the Global South. Here in Wyoming, Vicki is a steadfast advocate for veterans. Through both her personal work and her role on our board, she’s dedicated to helping veterans thrive and support their healthcare needs.