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About QRF

Erica Leffler, MSW

Director, Board of Directors, QRF

US Army

Licensed Master Social Worker, Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ

Erica Leffler grew up as the 2nd of 6 children in a single parent household. Prior to 18, she had moved 18 times and lived in 6 different states. She has been divorced twice and still hopes to find that special person to live out her days with.

Erica is a single mother of three beautiful people and is really looking forward to grandparenthood.

She served in the United States Army as a behavioral health tech and owes her success to a captain who told her she’d “make a really great social worker.”

After her time in service, she earned her Master’s degree in social work from ASU. She now serves the Veteran population at the VA as the community mental health liaison.

She is passionate about helping Vets heal from their wounds both emotionally and physically. She spends much of her time volunteering with Veteran service organizations to build networks that support her passion.

Throughout all her struggles and triumphs, personal fitness and exercise have been part of her healing journey. For her, movement is the only medicine she needs. She will tell you that without exercise she would not be where she is today. She feels strongly that her personal fitness goals have helped her realize her own potential and led her to great accomplishments. She has competed in several triathlons, 1⁄2 and full marathons. She will tell you that one of the most surreal moments of her life was crossing the finish line of the Bataan Death March. There, she was greeted by the survivors of the actual event. She will say the pain and the negative internal dialogue ceased the minute she realized she was surrounded by the epitome of bravery.

Erica believes she has found her purpose and enjoys getting out of bed everyday knowing that she has freewill and a choice to live the best life she can and hopes to continue to model that for others who also hope to find their way.

"We are a veteran owned gym. Kurt served four years in the Army and was deployed to Iraq after the 9/11 attacks in 2001. He has seen and experienced the impact that serving our country has on our soldiers. Several of our members are also veterans and some are still active. Helping our heroes is something that is very meaningful to us and our community. We want to show our support in any way we can. “It takes a village…”

CrossFit Raidho, affiliate

"I want to support QRF because of my deep gratitude to those who stand on a wall and protect us. I feel those people should get all of our admiration and support, yet they are often pushed to the back and forgotten. Our former military members endure such horrible experiences so that we don’t have to and it breaks my heart to see them suffer when they come home. If I can do a small thing, such as supporting QRF, I will."

Rhonda Guerra, Mother of a veteran

"So it started out when I signed up for an event on Memorial Day hosted by QRF in Phoenix. I was able to meet Chris and discuss what this organization was all about. From there, I was hooked. I’ve lost many friends to suicide and I’ve noticed one commong thing: their fitness was declined. You guys are one of the few organizations that understands the importance of fitness in the veteran community, so that’s why you’ll always have my support. For me, I just got let go from my job at the police department but knowing that I have an organization like you guys backing people like me is making this rough patch better. I’m happy to see you grow and can’t wait to see what the future holds."

Kevin Crewse-Pinedo, Veteran

"QRF gave me the ability to work out with like-minded people and use actual equipment, rather than roughing it in my garage. I made lots of friends, lots of gains, and competed in three competitions where I had lots of fun."

Mitch, Veteran

"I just won’t ever forget how sad you were that day at Crossfit when your friend committed suicide. I remember we encouraged you to pursue what you were thinking was needing to be done to help veterans as well as raise suicide awareness. That day, we promised we would support you. So here we are, still supporting you and believing in your organization. I know one day if my boys need you that you would be there for them in a heartbeat. I also know how very real the suicide is in active duty as well. Sadly, both boys have had to be a part of all that with their guys. I know at the end of the day, if you help and save one veteran then all your hard work is worth it. I love that your team has expanded and I’m looking forward to the great things that will be happening."

Francine, Mother of two active duty soldiers

"Thanks to QRF, my life has genuinely transformed for the better. Their unwavering support has given me the tools necessary to overcome adversity and reclaim my purpose by competing in strongman. QRF recognizes the importance of rebuilding one’s life after the military and the struggles that come with it. After being injured in Afghanistan I would have never thought to be competitive in strength sports. I stand as a testament to the profound impact that QRF has on the lives of veterans, and I remain eternally grateful for the opportunities they have provided me."

Austin, Veteran