Harlen spent four decades serving veterans as a Kinesiotherapist at the Salem VA Medical Center, and 43 years volunteering for an educational scholarship program in Virginia, where he was presented with the National Academy of Honor Award for his leadership. With his multi-faceted experience in scholarships and leadership within organizations, Harlen believes in the importance of providing an opportunity for the young women in Virginia to earn financial assistance for their education while serving their communities and gaining confidence as well as personal growth.