Nonprofit organizations are those that qualify for tax-exempt status by the IRS. With over 1.5 million nonprofits in the United States, over 45,000 of those are dedicated to military veterans and their families.
One way to honor those who served is to donate to a nonprofit organization with military-related missions.
I rounded up a few of my favorite military-focused nonprofits that are devoted to serving our veterans.
Fisher House Foundation
Related: 8 military charities dedicated to helping families like yours
Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes for families of military service members and veterans to stay at no charge, while their loved one is in the hospital.
Located around the world, you can find these amazing homes at VA and military centers.
Comfort homes are crucial for military families to be close to loved ones with extended hospital stays. It also helps the healing process when family is close by. Without Fisher House, the cost of staying away from their home would be out of reach for most families.
Each comfort home provides private bedroom and bath suites. Common areas for all families include kitchen, laundry, dining, and living rooms.
It’s been a wonderful home away from home for over 413,000 families since its inception in 1990.
The American Legion
Chartered by Congress in 1919, The American Legion is one of the oldest patriotic veterans organizations. I love their mission:
“To enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”
The American Legion has many programs ranging from family and youth, community, and national affairs. They provide a valuable service to communities, including support for homeless veterans, family support networks, and much more!
With over 12,000 posts in communities throughout the United States, there are many opportunities for you to volunteer, too!
K9s for Warriors
Related: Hank & Eli’s Fund: Giving back to dogs who serve
About 7 to 8 % of military veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs for disabled American veterans suffering from PTSD and other stress-related trauma.
Since 2011, K9s for Warriors has rescued over 1,000 dogs and trained over 650 dogs to help veterans heal and recover. I love that this organization helps both dogs and veterans.
Dogs offer unconditional love and can help improve the physical and mental state of mind of those they are partnered with. These special dogs are ADI accredited service dogs and are provided free of charge to veterans in need.
There are many ways you can help, including donations and foster volunteering.
Warrior Expeditions
The great outdoors is a wonderful way to heal. Nature contributes to our physical and mental well-being. Warrior Expeditions provides hiking, biking, and paddling expeditions in some of the most beautiful areas of our country. These include the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and many more!
They provide all the necessary equipment, clothing, supplies, and training for their long-distance journey.
They accept donations via four methods. It’s a wonderful way to contribute to a life-changing program for veterans.
The Gary Sinise Foundation
Gary Sinise has advocated for our defenders of freedom for over 40 years and founded the Gary Sinise Foundation.
Its mission is broad, supporting those who sacrifice for our country, including military, veterans, first responders, and their loved ones.
With nine programs, they have a number of ways to support American’s heroes. One program that stands out is the specially adapted smart homes for our nation’s most severely wounded heroes. These homes are mortgage free and customized based on the needs of the wounded hero.
Another fun program is Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. If you ever have the chance to attend a concert, you’ll love it! Since 2003, they’ve performed all over the world. Proceeds benefit the Gary Sinise Foundation.
Camp Patriot
Looking at the Camp Patriot ranch in Northwest Montana will take your breath away! Over 90 acres give guests an authentic Montana back-country experience with a few modern conveniences.
Founded in 2005, the ranch includes miles of groomed trails and provides a number of programs. The backcountry horse and mule adventures look like fun!
There’s much more, like hiking, running, cycling, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ATV, and other recreational activities.
Camp Patriot is dedicated to wounded and disabled veterans. They offer their unique adventures to those with a disability rating from the U.S. Military or Veterans Administration.
Make a difference through donations or volunteer
Donating to nonprofit organizations is a wonderful way to help make a difference for our military veterans and effect change.
I encourage you to check out the organizations I listed here and read the stories of those whose lives were impacted.
Read more from Sandboxx News:
- Give back: 5 military volunteering opportunities to help serve those who serve
- Military OneSource has special support for the military community during COVID-19 pandemic
- Working military families will soon get more access to DoD child care
- 10 ways to enjoy military family appreciation month
- 7 military benefits every service member should use
