Board of Directors Biographies
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Raven Hilden
FOUNDER/CEO
Raven Hilden is the Founder/CEO of MilVet, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting deployed troops, veterans and their families. Her dedication to servant leadership has helped create programs aimed at making a positive impact in the lives of others and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humanitarianism in 2023.
MilVet won Nonprofit of the Year 2022 by the 67th California State Assembly and Menifee Chamber of Commerce in 2024 and 2022, best nonprofit 2021 by the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce and many more. The nonprofit has been featured on ABC 7 Salutes in 2024 in partnership with the Storm Stadium where hundreds of volunteers helped assemble military care packages.
Raven has earned the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award by three seated Presidents and was named Woman of the Year 2024 by the County of Riverside - Third District. She attributes her success to a supportive community and network of friends and volunteers that strive to make a difference in their communities.
She released a bestselling book in 2022 titled, “A Veteran’s Story – Courage and Honor,” a compilation of stories written by 30 local veterans. She has also contributed as an author to 6 other books.
Raven is married to a Marine Corps Veteran, and together they have 5 children and 2 grandchildren. Her passion is to help honor those who served and to help inspire others to reach new heights.
Awards/Recognition:
4/2026 - University of Phoenix Luminary Community Leader Award
12/2025 - Heroes of the Year Award - LOANI and GSFE
12/2025 - Innovator of the Year Award - Menifee Chamber of Commerce
8/2025 - UN World Humanitarian Hero Award
2025 UOPX Alumni Luminary - Community Leadership
4/2025 Raven Hilden Outstanding Citizen of the Month - City of Menifee
2025 Nonprofit of the Year - Lake Elsinore Chamber of Commerce
2025 Raven Hilden Service to the Armed Forces Hero – American Red Cross Southern California Region
2025 Ruby Nonprofit Of The Year - Temecula Valley Chamber Of Commerce
2025 Raven Hilden named Menifee Hometown Hero, Spring 2025
As seen on ABC7 Salutes July 2024 https://youtu.be/dYk3DJ01BkA?si=tC5caHMsE_32aQ-I
2024 MilVet named the recipient of the David Goldware "Friend of the Veteran" Award by Riverside County Veterans' Advisory Committee
2024 Raven Hilden Woman of the Year - Riverside County 3rd District
2024 Nonprofit of the Year - Menifee Chamber of Commerce
2022 Nonprofit of the Year - 67th California State Assembly
2022 Nonprofit of the Year - Menifee Chamber of Commerce
2021 Nonprofit of the Year - Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber
2021 Field of Honor Award Recipient – Service Above Self
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Leo Montoya - USAF
OFFICE MANAGER
Leo Montoya brings a lifetime of service, leadership, and commitment to veterans’ welfare. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran who served during the Vietnam era, Leo has dedicated his post-military life to public service and advocacy. After his time in uniform, he continued serving the nation through a distinguished career with the United States Postal Service.
Now retired, Leo volunteers actively with MilVet, where he channels his experience, integrity, and compassion into supporting fellow veterans. As a Board Member, he offers a deep understanding of veterans’ needs and a tireless dedication to community outreach, mentorship, and organizational growth. His dual background in military and civil service gives him a unique and trusted voice at the leadership table.
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Kathy Kilpatrick
INVENTORY SPECIALIST
I am Kathy Kilpatrick, a board member and volunteer with MilVet. I was a full time stay-at-home mom to my children, who are now adults on their own.
As an Army brat and daughter of an Army officer, I grew up in a military family, which shaped my lifelong respect for service and sacrifice. With more time now to give back, I am committed to supporting veterans and the military community, drawing on my personal understanding of military family life.
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Mayra Lewis
MILVET JR. PROGRAM MANAGER
My name is Mayra Lewis and I am proud to serve as a Board Member of MilVet, where I have been volunteering for over six years.
I lead MilVet Jr., our youth initiative, where I mentor and guide the next generation through service, leadership development, and community engagement. I am passionate about creating meaningful experiences that empower youth to build confidence, purpose, and compassion.
I am very grateful to serve at Milvet, where I can make an impact and give continuous support to our military community.

