Capturing the Untold Stories of Service
The Hero Project Network™ was born out of the deeply personal and professional experiences of our founders, Lucy Bustamante and Karen Swensen. As seasoned journalists, both have spent their careers telling the most important stories of our time. But it was their connection to the military, law enforcement, and first responder communities that ignited their passion to create this platform—one that honors the untold stories of service, sacrifice, and resilience.
Shedding Light on Stories of Service and Sacrifice
Every day, service members, veterans, and first responders quietly endure challenges and make sacrifices that go unnoticed. Yet, their stories—their real, human experiences—are rarely given the spotlight they deserve. The Hero Project Network™ exists to change that. Through authentic storytelling, we aim to bridge the gap between those who serve and the public, preserving these narratives for future generations and fostering a deeper understanding of their incredible contributions.
Meet Lucy Bustamante
From Journalist to Navy Spouse: A Voice for Military Families
Lucy Bustamante is a journalist with a profound connection to the military community. A former NBC News Veteran Beat reporter and TV anchor in New Orleans and Philadelphia, Lucy has dedicated much of her career to covering veterans' issues. As a Navy spouse, she understands firsthand the strength and sacrifice required of military families.
She co-founded The Hero Project Network™ to ensure that the voices of service members and their families are heard, respected, and preserved for the nation’s collective memory.
Meet Karen Swensen
A Lifetime of Service: From FBI Daughter to Police Widow
Karen Swensen has spent decades in front of the camera as a journalist and contributor to NBC News' TODAY Show. With a family history rooted in service—her father was the FBI Special Agent In Charge, and she is the widow of a New Orleans Police Department homicide detective—Karen’s life has been shaped by the experiences of those who serve.
Her intimate understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement and first responder families drove her to co-found The Hero Project Network™. For Karen, this nonprofit is a way to ensure that the sacrifices of those who serve, and their loved ones, are never forgotten.
Together, Lucy and Karen bring unparalleled expertise in journalism and storytelling, combined with a deeply personal commitment to honoring the stories of military and first responder communities. They had to create The Hero Project Network™ because these stories are not just news—they are legacies that deserve to be shared, remembered, and celebrated.