Arkansas Freedom Fund Officers & Administrative Team

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Rae Brown, a longstanding and committed member of the Arkansas Freedom Fund (AFF), currently serves as the CEO. A veteran of both the U.S. Army and Air Force, Rae brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the organization. Her leadership is instrumental in ensuring the continued growth and success of the AFF, as she effectively wears multiple hats, managing various aspects of the organization’s operations.
Rae’s hands-on approach is key to the smooth execution of AFF events, where she is often found proactively addressing challenges before they arise. Her welcoming and compassionate nature fosters an inclusive environment that encourages all veterans to feel supported and valued. Rae is not only a strategic leader but also a guardian of AFF’s core values of inclusivity, ensuring that every member and veteran served by the organization is treated with dignity and respect.
Rae's commitment to AFF goes beyond her title; her ability to balance operational demands with personal engagement makes her an invaluable asset to the organization. Under her leadership, AFF continues to thrive, reaching new heights in its mission to serve veterans across Arkansas.
Please note that reception in Hector can be unreliable during bad weather. During such times, it’s best to text her at (479) 206-2485. Otherwise, feel free to call or email her at [email protected].
Chief Operations Officer (COO)
Brandy Sullivan, a U.S. Air Force veteran, serves as our Chief Operations Officer. Her extensive experience as a Director of Operations equips her with valuable insights on how to ensure the organization's processes run efficiently. As a veteran, she brings a deep understanding of leadership, adaptability, and commitment, which are crucial to advancing the mission of the AFF. Her expertise in operations management helps drive the organization's continued success and impact. You will see her at events behind the camera!
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Brandy can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 501-631-0595. Text is preferred for the quickest response.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)​

Doug Downing, our Chief Financial Officer, served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from Little Rock Air Force Base. Doug brings a wealth of experience in both military service and financial management. His exceptional fundraising ideas and skills have been instrumental in supporting the AFF’s mission. As a veteran, Doug offers a unique perspective on the financial needs of the organization, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to maximize the impact on the veterans we serve.
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You can reach Doug at [email protected] or by phone at 501-831-4740.

​Administrative Staff

Secretary​
Kendra Mackey, a U.S. Navy veteran, is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. With a love for fishing, photography, and outdoor adventures, Kendra joined the AFF to step outside her comfort zone and embrace the outdoors. Her passion lies in supporting veterans, particularly in addressing issues such as homelessness and food insecurity within the veteran community. Kendra is also committed to encouraging more women to become active members of the AFF, and she aims to contribute to the organization through grant writing and other initiatives.
Equipment Manager
Thomas Volker serves as the Equipment Manager for the Arkansas Freedom Fund, overseeing the maintenance and readiness of key assets such as kayaks, golf carts, and other equipment essential to AFF’s programs. With a keen attention to detail and strong organizational skills, Thomas ensures that all equipment is in top condition, allowing events and activities to run smoothly. His commitment to maintaining AFF’s resources ensures that veterans and participants always have access to safe and reliable equipment for their outdoor adventures.

Outdoors Coordinator

AJ Sullivan, an Air Force veteran and lifelong outdoors enthusiast, brings a wealth of experience and passion to the Arkansas Freedom Fund. With expertise in survival, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and kayaking, AJ is dedicated to creating safe, inclusive, and welcoming outdoor experiences for veterans of all eras.
AJ understands that the barrier to entry for many outdoor sports can feel insurmountable, often leaving these activities seeming out of reach. His goal is to break down those barriers, offering veterans the opportunity to explore the outdoors, try new activities, and find joy in nature—whether it’s their first time hunting or fishing or they’re seasoned sportsmen.
Through AJ’s leadership, the Arkansas Freedom Fund fosters fellowship and camaraderie, ensuring that even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts find value in shared time outside. His commitment to accessibility and inclusion ensures every veteran has a chance to discover the rewards of outdoor adventures and the connections they build.