SKY SOLDIERS FOUNDATION, INC.

FOUNDATION HISTORY
The first mission of the Foundation traces its roots to the 1970′s and the Association’s collection of donations earmarked for college scholarships, which grew into a fund with ever increasing number of awards. With 9-11 and the War on Terror in full swing, the 173d Airborne Brigade jumped into Iraq and the Foundation mission adapted to those needs. The Foundation was formed in 2006 as an independent 501(C)(3) organization with a broader scope in honoring and supporting past, present, future generations of Sky Soldiers and their families. The Sky Soldiers Foundation and the 173d Airborne Brigade Association operate as full partners in delivering support to the members of the Sky Soldier Community.

FUNDS AND SUPPORT MISSIONS

General Assist Fund
This fund receives all non-designated donations
It is used to fund support for stateside families of the active duty Sky Soldiers of the 173d Airborne Brigade. Also used to cover the operational expenses of the organization as well as all requests for support that do not fall under any of the other Foundation funds.
This fund can have temporary dedicated fundraising subaccounts such as in case of catastrophic Sky Soldier or family member illness or accident, natural or manmade disasters, golf outings or tournaments.
Distribution from this fund can be made to the other funds in case of unusual demand on any of them.

Gold Star Assist Fund
This fund is dedicated to supporting the Gold Star family members in a variety of forms. It is to be used to support them in their immediate time of need and beyond, keep close and within the Sky Soldier community, and to give them access to events where the Association gathers in order to present opportunities to meet Sky Soldiers who had served with their loved ones as well as find and offer mutual support with other Gold Star families.

Scholarship Fund
This fund reaches out across generations of Sky Soldiers and delivers our gratitude to active duty or separated Sky Soldiers themselves as they pursue a path to grow in their careers and it also extends to their immediate families. Earnings from Sky Soldier couple’s substantial endowment will fund additional scholarships for current and future generation Sky Soldiers and their families.

Sky Soldier Assist Fund
This fund is dedicated to support the Sky Soldiers on active duty and their families who reside wherever the Brigade is headquartered or deployed. The fund is directed by a Foundation Vice President who themselves are with the Brigade HQ, either on active duty or who had served with the 173d Airborne Brigade and now work in direct support of the Brigade HQ and live nearby.

Veteran Sky Soldier Assist Fund
This fund supports members of the Association and Sky Soldiers who left active duty service and their families. The Foundation provides support during their challenging times and as an extension of the local Chapter’s functions and members participation. It is a long term relationship through the cycle of life, living the commitment to never abandon each other.

Wounded Sky Soldier Fund
Once a Sky Soldier is wounded and evacuated out of the Combat Theater, when the Unit notifies the family and the Association, the Foundation comes on board. This fund is dedicated to facilitate resources not otherwise provided in the care of the Sky Soldier or his immediate family. The Foundation comes in as a partner to the Association, in particular the local Chapter and its members, in contributing to the Sky Soldier’s healing and recovery and their family’s ability to support their loved one. The families also have access to direct assistance from the Foundation.