On My 6 brings together veterans for fellowship

Jan 8 – A new monthly gathering for active-duty service members, veterans and first responders will begin this Saturday in Cornelius, offering fellowship, support and a shared meal.

The program is a partnership between Cornelius Parks and Recreation and the On My 6 nonprofit. It will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month at Bailey Middle School. Attendance is free.

Participants will hear from town leaders and guest speakers who will share perspectives and offer practical takeaways, organizers said.

Christie Shein

At the inaugural event Jan. 10, the featured speaker will be U.S. Army veteran Natasha Nadeau, a Davidson resident and former Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter pilot. Robbie Westmoreland of American Legion Post 86 is also scheduled to attend.

On My 6 was founded by Cornelius resident Christie Shein, a Wells Fargo executive and longtime supporter of military and veterans causes. Shein served as the keynote speaker at the Cornelius Veterans Day program earlier this year.

Shein’s nonprofit focuses on fostering connection, understanding and advocacy within the military community. Its name refers to protecting someone’s most vulnerable position — “having someone’s back.”

She founded On My 6 to honor her late brother, Master Sgt. Scott Joy of the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division and Special Forces.

“My main inspiration for this was my brother because he always said he just didn’t know how to meet his community,” Shein said.

The entrance to the event is on the west side of Bailey Middle School at 11900 Bailey Road and will be marked with signage. Attendees can enter the cafeteria through the designated entrance at the back of the bus lot.