John Mayer is most known for his mega music hits. But the 48-year-old singer has another passion: supporting veterans battling PTSD.

Mayer founded The Heart and Armor Foundation in 2019, after first meeting wounded warriors in 2008. Deeply moved by who he met and what he saw, it planted the seed for a journey to help them heal.

This week, Mayer also earned The Hollywood Reporter‘s honor for Philanthropist of the Year for his work with Heart and Armor—which has raised $13 million so far in scientific research towards veteran health, including earning a grant from the Department of Defense.

Why Mayer began helping veterans

Mayer first encountered wounded warriors during a 2008 visit to Marine Corps base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Getting to know them had a deep impact on him.

He told CBS News, “It was not set up as a celebrity visit. So, they didn’t know I was coming, but it was the most........

© Upworthy