November 11, 2011
Dear Pat Tillman Foundation Supporter,
Every November as communities throughout the country take time to celebrate Veterans Day, I am grateful that I have the privilege through the efforts of the Pat Tillman Foundation to honor military families and the sacrifices they make each and every day of the year. I am often asked what I enjoy most about the work that we do at the Foundation and the answer is simple – spending time and interacting with our amazing Tillman Military Scholars.
In June, the Pat Tillman Foundation welcomed the third class of Scholars into the Tillman Community by investing over $916,000 in educational scholarships. It was a highly competitive application process that saw over 1200 applications narrowed down to the 60 outstanding individuals that were selected. This summer, I had the pleasure of spending several days in Maryland at our annual Pat Tillman Legacy Summit with 90 of our 171 Tillman Military Scholars and was honored to see and hear first-hand the impact that Pat’s life, the Foundation and our supporters have made in their lives.
As I listened to the Scholars share their very personal stories with me, explaining why they chose to serve, what their experience was like and the challenges they face upon their return, it is clear that there is still a tremendous amount of work that needs to be accomplished. In addition to a lack of understanding by the general population, servicemembers are returning at unprecedented rates to an unstable economy and highly competitive job market resulting from high unemployment rates. Obtaining a degree is no longer an ambitious goal, but rather a required step to ensure economic stability. Through the Tillman Military Scholars program our goal is to bridge the gaps left by the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill. By removing obstacles that would prohibit a servicemember or spouse from achieving academic success, the program aims to provide the financial and educational resources needed to prevent undeserved debt and establish a foundation for greater career opportunities.
Today, we invite you to join us as we fulfill our mission of investing in military veterans and their spouses through educational scholarships; building a diverse community of leaders committed to service to others.
Below are just a few of the many ways you can get involved:
Run, Walk, Honor
Join 35,000 participants, volunteers and spectators from throughout the U.S. at the 8th Annual Pat’s Run. Registration is now open and space is limited. Register today to participate in the 4.2 mile run/walk or .42 mile Kids Run or donate your time and talents as a volunteer at the event.
Commit. Challenge. Support.
Become a member of Team Tillman. The Pat Tillman Foundation is honored to be recognized as an Official Charity Partner with guaranteed entries to participate in some of the most prestigious marathons in the world including the ING New York City Marathon, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and the Marine Corps Marathon. Individuals can also earn gear and raise funds to support the Pat Tillman Foundation in conjunction with any race or athletic event nationwide.
Give. Donate. Invest.
Invest in veterans and military families by making your secure tax-deductible credit card donation online now.
Stay Informed
The Pat Tillman Foundation is upgrading our e-communications tool and respectfully request that you confirm your preferred e-mail address to stay up to date on Scholar achievements, news and upcoming events by completing this form. We also invite you to Become a Fan on Facebook – Pat Tillman Foundation (Official) and Follow us on Twitter @pattillmanfnd.
Since the Foundation was established in 2004, through the generous support of individuals and organizations nationwide, over $4 million has been invested in men and women committed to a life of service, both in and out of uniform. In recognition of Veterans Day we invite you to take a moment to view the interactive Scholar map online to learn more about the Tillman Military Scholars who are making a difference in your community.
Thank you for helping us honor Pat’s legacy by inspiring others to create their own.
Warm regards,
Marie Tillman
Co-Founder & President
