Programs

The Foundation believes that saying Thank You is not enough and that in order to make a lasting impact we must take action and make a commitment to improve the overall quality of life of the community we serve.

The Foundation has developed several programs that not only say thank you, but also help provide assistance and resources that when viewed in their totality, offer support at a greater level than surface level generosity.

The Foundation also realizes that no one group or individual can fulfill all needs and strives to work with other existing groups and agencies that may be able to provide greater assistance especially in situations where more long term support is needed.

The Foundation also believes that cooperation and communication among the various groups will cause everyone to be more efficient, effective, and ultimately provide resources to a greater amount of Veterans, Military Personnel, and their families.

The Foundation continuously works to forge relationships with VA Outreach programs, county and state level service boards, and chapters of the Military Order of The Purple Heart, Blue Star Mothers, VFW's, AMVETS, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and other similar organizations

The Foundation targets its efforts in affecting the overall welfare and morale of Veterans, Troops, and their families and operates the specific programs listed below:

Family Readiness Support (FRG's, Family Readiness Groups, Military Support Groups)

The Foundation works closely with Family Readiness Personnel and Military Personnel in an effort to provide direct support for activities such as family deployment and mobilization briefs, Family Day activities, and Deployment and Homecoming Ceremonies.

The goal is to assist the Family Readiness Personnel so that they maintain maximum efficiency and support for the families of their Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Airman.

The Foundation also works closely with various Military Support Groups and Family groups to help provide them with information and resources.

Gas & Groceries Support Program

This program offers temporary assistance to the individual for those times when they are caught short or as interim relief while more permanent resources are found. Individuals may apply for these resources up to twice per year and are required to fill out an application which may be downloaded here.

Ideally the individual will use the funds and/or gift cards to help put gas in their car or food on the table while they are seeking assistance from another agency but also may be used to help pay rent and utilities.

When appropriate the Foundation may require the individual to register with the VA and or State or County Veterans Services. For those on Active Duty the Foundation may require a letter from a Unit Commander or Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC).

Download Application (227k -PDF)

Holiday Support Program

Each year the Foundation provides support during the Christmas Holiday Season for military families that are facing financial hardship due to deployment, injury, or loss of employment.

Through donations and partnerships with businesses, the community, and other organizations the Foundation is able to provide up to $500 worth of gifts and food to each family.

Since 2007 over $20,000 worth of food and gifts have been distributed through the Holiday Support Program.

Download Application (208k -PDF)

Tickets for Troops

As an expression of appreciation the foundation offers tickets to sporting and entertainment events to Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan when they are made available.

Individuals, companies, and groups have donated tickets and suites to a number of events across the country.

Being able to provide these tickets is sometimes therapeutic to those who are suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) or whose financial situation may not give them the opportunity to attend an event while on leave.

The Foundation has occasionally been able to expand the program to all Veterans, and has had the opportunity to provide tickets to Bengals and Redskins professional football games, and other entertainment events.

This program also allows the Foundation personal time with the individual service member and their family to offer further information and resources around support or needs that they may have.

Certificate of Appreciation Program

All Veterans and Active Duty Military Personnel are eligible to receive a Certificates of Appreciation from the Foundation. Certificates have been awarded to as few as one person at a local VFW to 120 Veterans at the Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown.

Certificate presentations may be done in conjunction with other events and activities such as homecomings, unit reunions, City Council meetings, large festivals. awards dinners, and other events honoring our military.

Mobile Health Unit - Cincinnati

In an effort to address issues such as PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)and other health care related problems, the Foundation spearheaded a project to build a 40 foot mobile health unit for the Cincinnati VA.

Cincinnati based CINTAS and the Farmer Family Foundation financed the unit which began operation in May 2009. Since its launch the unit has registered well over 500 Veterans for health care benefits.

The unit is utilized by the VA's Outreach Program and is a one-stop mobile clinic where Veterans can enroll for care, receive initial examinations, have access to mental health counseling.

The Thank You Foundation has made a financial commitment to help keep the unit operational by providing funds for maintenance and upkeep of the vehicle.

Veterans' Serenity Garden - Cincinnati

With the support and resources of community partners, a Veterans' Serenity Garden will be constructed on the grounds of the Cincinnati VA Medical Center. The serenity garden will serve as a tribute to American Veteran Heroes, in addition to providing a serene area for residing Veterans and family to gather and enjoy the beauty of nature while being undisturbed by the surrounding urban environment. The proposed Veterans' Serenity Garden will duplicate a park-like setting and feature an infinity water fountain, tribute bricks lining the pavement, array of bright and fragrant flowers, manicured shrubs, decorative boulders, outdoor speaker system, benches, and patriotic artwork.