Roy J. Moore, a tremendous and visionary leader with demonstrated history in tech, power and the telecom industry, impressive negotiator and strategic thinker, founded Be Strong in 2014. Moore’s retirement is celebrated by an impactful era dedicated to Be Strong’s mission. We always say you know when Moore enters a room, not only because of his dynamic presence, but by his radiant joy.
Moore began to explore how pervasive the issues of bullying, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation were for youth, while he and his resilient, determined wife, Lisa Moore, journeyed through helping their own children. To their surprise, these four issues affected about one third of the 55 million students in the US at that time. He was particularly troubled that one in eleven students in grades 9-12 had attempted to die by suicide one or more times in the previous twelve months.
The Moore’s knew they needed to take action so that parents like them, with children like theirs, could find help and guidance during a time of need, regardless of the family’s ability to pay.
The founding thought was that if they could save one life, the efforts would have been worth it. Under Moore’s leadership and dedication, 2025 marks ten years of impact at Be Strong. Our community is forever grateful for the vision, sacrifice, courage, and resilience required to launch a national charity set out to save and improve lives across the US.
“Roy J. Moore is my father, but he is also an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and leader. By combining these qualities, he fostered change in millions of children’s lives because he cared,” explained Matthew Moore, M.A., Pepperdine Doctoral PsyD student and Roy’s youngest son. “As a family, we never imagined this journey would lead here. I am continually humbled, grateful, and proud of what my father has accomplished.” Matthew is studying to become a clinical psychologist and continue the Moore legacy of saving and improving lives.
Roy J. Moore onstage at the Be Strong LIVE Tour, Los Angeles, Kia Forum
Whenever Moore is in front of an audience – whether a small group or ten thousand students and educators in the Los Angeles, Kia Forum – his palpable display of the joy he finds operating with an attitude of gratitude is both moving and inspiring. He ensures the audience understands they are known, loved, and that they belong.
“Roy attended UVA Darden and I’m currently at UVA. When I entered, he reached out and told me ‘Congratulations Rohan! As a proud UVA graduate, I know that you will love Charlottesville, be challenged, and make lifelong friends!’” recalled Rohan Sharma, Be Strong Student Rep alumnus. “I was nervous going in, but his words made me feel more comfortable starting school in a new environment and his words have proven to be true. That’s just the type of person Roy is!”
“I’ve had the pleasure of learning from and working alongside Roy for years. My favorite moments have been witnessing his servant leadership and his process of building and tackling a plan – the man is gifted at architecting a mind map.” Ashleigh Cromer, CEO of Be Strong shared, “Roy is brilliant and has consistently delivered the highest level of intellect and care to those we serve.” Cromer continues, “Witnessing his leadership and character has positively and unequivocally changed me as a leader, and the quote, ‘If you want to see the true measure of man, watch how he treats his inferiors not his equals’ embodies the immeasurable value of my dear friend and mentor Roy J. Moore.”
Roy J. Moore helping Global Food Solutions prepare to distribute meals to students following a Be Strong event.
Over the past decade, Be Strong has enjoyed the benefit of Moore’s extraordinary leadership. As we celebrate Roy’s retirement with great enthusiasm and unanimous support of the Governance Board, Ashleigh Cromer, Be Strong’s CEO has been elected as Chair of the Board of Directors.
Since joining Be Strong eight and a half years ago, Cromer’s passion, determination, and relentless advocacy have been driven by the belief that all young people are precious and worthy of dignity and respect. Having survived the effects of abuse and navigating mental health, Be Strong’s mission is personal for Cromer. Her goal is to help those who, like her as a young person, are seeking trusted help, hope, and healing.
Be Strong’s Governance Board, Advisory Board, team, and community celebrate this milestone with Moore and intend to continue his enduring footprint!
“Roy’s unwavering dedication and vision have been instrumental in guiding Be Strong to where it is today,” shared Dr. Francine Baugh-Stewart of Be Strong’s Governance Board. “His legacy will continue to inspire and drive us forward.”
Click here to make a donation in honor of Moore’s retirement and to ensure young people know they are never alone, and help is here.
Roy J. Moore (right) with NYPD officers at a Be Strong LIVE Tour event at Carnegie Hall.
