9/11 Packathon Succeeds to Honor and Give Back
Yes, our 6th annual Packathon returned on Monday, September 11. MAF and our amazing volunteers once again rolled up our sleeves for our annual Packathon event. MAF established Packathon to honors the men and women we lost during the tragic events of September 11th, 2001. It is our way of supporting the brave men and women who continue to fight to protect us. Our goal was to pack 2001 care packages to be shipped out to active duty military serving across the globe.
It is our fervent hope that we will never forget that day when our world profoundly changed. We hosted volunteers from the American Legion, Extended Stay America, Blue Diamond Almond Growers. Additionally, some loyal regular helpers show up. Thanks to this army of enthusiastic volunteers we were able to surpass our goal. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the terrorist attacks that united the country against terrorism world-wide.
Indeed, the horrific events of that day led thousands of young men and women to enlist in the military to serve and protect our country. Many of these brave troops are still serving to this day. Packathon also reminds Americans never to forget that our selfless troops are our first and best line of defense against terrorism ever returning to our shores.
Check Out Coverage of Packathon!
Care packages REALLY make a difference! We receive letters and notes back from the troops every day detailing just how important these care packages are to the troops who receive them. Moreover, veterans and active duty military members agreed by joining us on September 11 to help pack because they know first-hand the impact a simple care package can make.
Tower II Survivor Richard Hannaford Joined us for Packathon
Tower II survivor, Richard Hannaford was present to speak with local media. Furthermore, Richard is a MAF ambassador, and newly appointed member of our Board of Directors. Congratulations to Richard on your board appointment but more importantly, sincere thanks for sharing your personal story. Richard was on hand to speak with the media on the importance of remembering and honoring the victims of the 9/11 the terrorist attacks. Richard often speaks at MAF events regarding his experiences from that terrible day. He is a proud and grateful American. Richard can frequently be found lending a hand in our warehouse and pitched in in to pack boxes as his way to commemorate September 11.
The Heat is On
United States Military presence has quietly ramped up in the Persian Gulf. In fact, according to the Department of Defense there are upwards of 30,000 troops across all branches currently deployed to the Middle East. In July alone, the US deployed the USS Thomas Hudner an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. Couple this with an amphibious readiness group comprised of three ships and thousands of Marines. Truly, the US has reestablished a serious presence in the Middle East.
Requests on the Rise
Needless to say, with our troops in the Middle East, support is vital. Consequently, we are seeing a rise in requests for care packages to this area of deployment. The rising requests aren’t the only thing coming out of the Persian Gulf either. Indeed, the temperatures in the area are rising to alarming and unhealthy degrees as well.
According to Weather.gov, the heat index at the Persian Gulf International Airport reached a whopping 134 degrees today and the ten day forecast calls for much of the same. Needless to say the conditions are grueling with little relief on sight.
Additionally, heat Indexes such as these make for dangerous and miserable conditions for our troops. Imagine, having to contend with heat such as this while wearing 40 pounds of gear. Not only and we are continuing to see a rise in requests for items that will help our troops combat these unimaginable conditions but we are seeing a drop in support.
We can’t change the weather; however, we can make sure our care packages contain requested items. Items like Crystal Light and thirst-quenching GU Roctane Energy Drink Mix and GU Energy Gels are small, portable and deliver the instant energy our troops need. Care packages also include hand and face wipes, sunscreen and more – all thoughtfully included to deliver the heat relief our troops deserve.
Without a doubt, we can use your help to stand by our troops who are in harm’s way. Help our Troops Beat the Heat and consider making a tax-deductible donation to support them and show your gratitude for their service. It costs as little as $25.
Company Matching Gift
Looking for an easy way to maximize your troop support dollars? Many companies participate in Employee Matching Gift Programs. Companies who regularly have volunteers come in to help us pack, load, and ship boxes may also be eligible for volunteer grant programs as well. Indeed, there are a variety of ways individuals can enlist the support of their employers to help us reach as many waiting troops as possible.
Needless to say, you might have a few questions to help you figure out if this is something that might work for you. So, let’s see if we can address your concerns and put us on the path to spread our donation dollars to put care packages into so many waiting arms.
Common Questions
How do I submit my company matching gift?
Our online donation form already has the company match built into the donation form. Simply select your company during the check out process or use the search function.
What are employee matching gift programs?
Employee matching gift programs are corporate giving programs in which the company matches donations made by employees to eligible nonprofit organizations. Simply put, it’s an easy way to double your contribution to us!
What are volunteer grant programs?
Volunteer grant programs are corporate giving programs in which companies provide monetary donations to organizations where employees volunteer regularly. Furthermore, If you already volunteer with us, it’s an easy way to provide us with additional financial support!
How do I request a matching gift or volunteer grant?
In addition, requesting a matching gift or volunteer grant is normally a five minute process. However, the process must initiated by the donor or volunteer. You can do this by filling out and submitting a paper match form provided by your employer or through an electronic submission process above. Moreover, this can be done during the donation process. Please search our database for company specific information.
What if I still have questions?
For questions regarding your company’s programs, please contact your employer’s HR or community giving department. Much of the necessary information is also available on your company website.
For questions regarding submitting a matching gift or volunteer grant request to us, please contact us at (916) 441 – 6197 or [email protected] and we would be happy to help you through this process. Move America Forward Tax ID or EIN: 84 – 1627277
GU Thirst Quenchers Deliver
Imagine the delight our troops feel when they hear their name called out during mail call. Even better, once they tear into an iconic Move America Forward care package and find all kids of treats including a perfectly timed new addition of GU Roctane Energy Drink Mix and GU hydration drink tabs. Indeed, thousands of our troops are serving in areas still experiencing brutal weather conditions. Thankfully, GU Energy delivers with its ultra endurance performance drinks in tasty flavors like grape and lemons berry and tropical fruit.
Further, these handy no-mess resealable pouches and convenient tab cylinders make hydration easy and convenient. ROCTANE Energy Drink Mix delivers a carbohydrate intensive energy and hydration drink that provides just what our hard-working troops require. Moreover, Roctane is designed to keep our service members feeling replenished during often long and intense missions. Delivering a light and refreshing taste that is not overly sweet or syrupy, Roctane and GU hydration tabs contain the critical carbs and electrolyte replenishment needed. Furthermore, Roctane Energy Drink Mix and GU hydrations tabs dissolve easily in water without leaving unappealing globs to clean out later.
At MAF, we are always on the hunt for great products to offer our deserving troops. We are proud to offer up Roctane, GU hydration tabs as well as other GU products like Gu energy gels in our current care package offerings. Remember, as we head into Fall at home, our troops are still contending with record heat in many locations across the globe.
A Blessing from Home
Receiving a package from home is like when you’re a small child, and receive your first ever letter in the mail. Your heart races, the exhilarating anticipation of what it could be kicks in; and you find yourself grateful for your loved ones that care and most importantly thank God above all for another delightful blessing!
Nick A. Unites States Army — deployed