Charity for Charities

Independence Fund

What is the mission of the Independence Fund? 

Three pronged approach:

1. To provide veteran with the necessary tool that will allow him/her to lead a more independent life.
2. To promote re-integration into broader society through athletic and artistic endeavors.

3. Advocacy provided by a Family Advisory Network (FAN) comprised of veterans and or family members of wounded/injured veterans.

Tell us three things we probably don't know about the Independence Fund.

1. We're brand new, 501(c)3 designation granted in September 2007.
2. We believe in having fun while accomplishing the mission.

3. We believe success can only be had by forming strong relationships with other organizations that are trying to assist the veterans.

What has been the biggest factor in the success of the Independence Fund?

Being able to share and communicate the diversity of the need. 

Share one or two stories about people the Independence Fund has helped.

I don't give out SM's names but you can independently verify this. Former Army Ranger, 22yr. old male who on 14 February 2005, while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) was manning a position that was hit by incoming mortars. Shrapnel pierced his stomach, bladder, intestines, and his left lung, and Josh suffered Traumatic thoracic spinal cord myelopathy. Paralyzed from waist down. SM is self-sufficient but requested support for mobility assistance. Joshua lives alone in Florida with his dog, Lexus. SM initially had a very difficult time adjusting with the results of his injury, but since that time he has pulled himself up by the bootstraps and will be commencing his college education in the upcoming fall semester. Last week the Independence Fund wrote a check to Johnson and Johnson for a $25,000 iBOT wheel chair, (www.ibotnow.com). This was made possible thru the generous donation of Independence Fund supporter and future board member, Mr. Frank O'Keefe from Long Island, NY. Currently processing assessment at at Kennedy Kreiger Institute / Johns Hopkins. As SM is medically retired (TDRL) his travel expenses will not be covered. As soon as date for assessment is established will coordinate travel / per diem expenses.

Sgt B (ret.) from 101st ABN Div as injured by mortar shrapnel on March 14th 2006 during his second tour in Iraq. Sgt B suffered duel TBI / ABI from impact complicated by blood loss and oxygen deprivation.

Sgt B has regained much physical and cognitive function but has persistent hemi-paresis. Sgt B wears a leg brace that allows for weight baring and can ambulate. Sgt B is incapable of using his left arm and hand and has been told there is nothing more the VA can do for the condition. An Independence Fund $3000.00 grant allowed Sgt B to attend a 3 week CI therapy program at University of Alabama, Birmingham which has over a 90% success rate with specific injuries such as this case. 

Other than donations, what can people do to help the Independence Fund and its mission?

They can contact me and if they have a particular skill set maybe we can put them to work. 

Anything else you'd like to add?

Please view this PowerPoint presentation about the Independence Fund.

Comments By

Steve Danyluk
Founder
Independence Fund

Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund

Established in May 2004, the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund is a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization that has provided over 5,500 grants totaling over $14 million in assistance to our Nation's wounded heroes and families. This assistance helps with immediate financial needs and perpetuating needs, such as modified transportation, home modifications, and specialized equipment.

When a Marine, Sailor, or other service member is injured, families share the pain and the burden of recovery. Normal life is put on hold as loved ones travel great distances, to be at the bedside, often for weeks or months. Recovery from major and catastrophic injuries may take years to recover. When the family members take leave from their jobs, often without pay, and incur additional expenses for child-care, lodging, travel, and other necessities, most are unprepared for the expenses. They need help, and they need it quickly. The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund meets this need.  

The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund provides financial assistance and quality of life solutions to: 1) Marines and Sailors injured in combat, training, or with life threatening illnesses 2) their families- to help defray the expenses incurred during hospitalization, rehabilitation, and recovery 3) other service members injured while in direct support of Marine units and their families 4) help with expenses associated with the purchase of specialized equipment, adaptive vans or vehicles, and handicap home purchases and/or modifications. 

The Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund relies on the generous donations, both small and large, from patriotic citizens, corporations, and foundations from across the country. Please join us in our quest of "serving those who preserve our freedom."

Comments By

Karen Guenther
Founder and Executive Director
Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund

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