AVoptics collab with B.R.U.C.E for Veterans in Action
AVoptics Donates £500 to Veterans in Action in Collaboration with B.R.U.C.E.
AVoptics is proud to announce a £500 donation to Veterans in Action (V.I.A.), in collaboration with British Riders United Charity Events (B.R.U.C.E.), supporting their ongoing work with veterans and humanitarian aid efforts.
This contribution represents more than financial support. It reflects a shared commitment to community, purpose, and helping others in times of need.
From a Simple Question to a Growing Movement
The story began in February 2022, when war broke out in Ukraine. Dave, Pete, and Jane asked a simple but powerful question: How can we help?
That’s when they formed BRUCE. In the meantime, Richard and Justyna had been fundraising for Ukraine. Dave was introduced to Richard and Justyna by a mutual long-time friend, and they all formed a plan to raise funds as soon as possible.
They started holding a monthly ride out and also held a Medieval banquet and other things. In 2 years, they had raised £13,000 to help the refugees in Poland.
Their mascot is a bear, and they provided a bear for each refugee child with knitted hats in Ukrainian colours.
Connecting with Veterans in Action
Through their fundraising efforts and their friendship with Julian Pablo, they met with the VIA and agreed it was such a good cause very close to their hearts, as they had several supporters who were ex-service men.
VIA is the charity they choose to help every year.
Led by Billy MacLeod MBE, V.I.A. was born from lived experience. Billy himself wanted to help others as a way of managing his own struggles. He has said that without V.I.A., he does not know where he would be today.
Duncan, who was also searching for purpose, joined V.I.A. and found exactly that. Together, they discovered a powerful truth: by helping others, they help themselves.
Practical Support, Real Impact
Veterans in Action offers workshops that many participants describe as being as powerful as therapy. They produce podcasts sharing soldiers’ stories, giving voice to experiences often left untold. For many suffering from PTSD, being told they “Can’t do it anymore” only deepens the struggle. V.I.A. provides an alternative path grounded in action, teamwork, and service.
Their impact is tangible:
- 13 tons of medical aid delivered to Ukraine
- 1,800 people supported
- A strong, growing community of veterans helping veterans
Sadly, three members have been lost along the way, a sobering reminder of why this work matters so deeply.
B.R.U.C.E.: A New Family with a Shared Purpose
B.R.U.C.E. represents a new kind of family, one that makes every effort count. By focusing on helping others, members shift attention away from their own difficulties and towards the needs of those around them. This approach naturally attracts like-minded people and strengthens communities.
The partnership between V.I.A. and B.R.U.C.E. is about belonging, about joining communities together to form something bigger, stronger, and more impactful.
Billy summarises it best: “It’s never about the money; it’s about helping others. We’re always looking at the next plan to support people.”
A Shared Commitment
AVoptics’ £500 donation supports this ongoing mission, empowering veterans, assisting communities, and ensuring that practical help reaches those who need it most.
Because when communities come together, whether through motorcycle rides, knitted hats, podcasts, or medical aid, they create something far greater than funding alone.
They create hope.
Visit Veterans In Action on Facebook - Veterans In Action - VIA
Visit B.R.U.C.E (British Riders United Charity Events) on Facebook - B.R.U.C.E.
Category: Charity Committee
Published On 18th Mar 2026
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