The past few weeks have been busy and exciting for Operation Not Alone! From bringing volunteers together to pack Veterans Day Cheer Packages to making new connections in our community, we have been reminded time and time again why our mission matters.
A Successful Cheer Package Packing Event
One of the highlights was finally bringing to life an event I had been dreaming about: our annual Veterans Day Cheer Package packing event! In previous years, packing all our packages could take more than 20 hours. This year, thanks to an incredible group of volunteers, we accomplished it in just two hours! Seeing so many people come together to show appreciation for our nation's veterans was truly special.
A huge thank-you to everyone who volunteered, Chick-fil-A East Madison for providing the space, and our longtime supporters, Door County Coffee and Green Bay Packaging, for their continued generosity and commitment to our mission. I'm also incredibly grateful to our founder, Susan, for her ongoing support and to the ONA Board for always encouraging new ideas.
It truly takes a village, and we're fortunate to have so many wonderful people and organizations helping us remind veterans that they are never forgotten!
Making Connections at The Good Exchange
We also had the opportunity to participate in The Good Exchange at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison. It was a wonderful day filled with new connections, conversations, and opportunities to introduce more people to Operation Not Alone. I met individuals from all different backgrounds, many with personal connections to the military and a shared desire to give back. Some conversations opened doors to potential partnerships and volunteer opportunities, while others reminded me just how many people care about our military community.
You never know what one conversation might lead to or whose life could be impacted because you took the time to share your mission. I left feeling incredibly encouraged by the connections made and excited about what they could mean for ONA moving forward.
The Messages That Remind Us Why
While preparing and sending packages is exciting, some of the most meaningful moments happen after they arrive. Over the past several weeks, we have received emails and phone calls from veterans sharing what their Cheer Packages mean to them.
One veteran shared that they had received packages from Susan for years and that each one brought a smile to their face. They even shared our website with other veterans in their community so they could experience that same appreciation.
Another message came from a husband and wife who were both veterans. He served four years in the Navy aboard two aircraft carriers, while she served two years in the Women's Army Corps followed by 21 years in the Navy. They expressed how surprised and grateful they were to receive their packages and how amazing it felt to be remembered and thanked for their service after all these years.
These messages are more than kind words. They are reminders of why Operation Not Alone exists. A simple package can mean so much more than what is inside. It reminds someone that their service mattered, their sacrifices are appreciated, and they have not been forgotten.
Looking Ahead: Golf for a Cause!
Our next big event is just around the corner! Join us November 15 at noon at PinSeeker Social in DeForest for an afternoon of golf, games, raffles, and fun. Half of the funds raised, along with all additional game proceeds, will go directly toward supporting Operation Not Alone's programs. Whether you're an experienced golfer or simply looking for a fun way to support our military community, we would love to see you there! Sign up here Operation Not Alone Golf Tournament
Thank You for Being Part of Our Mission
Every package delivered, volunteer who shows up, donation received, and new connection made helps us reach another service member or veteran. The impact of Operation Not Alone extends far beyond the packages we send. It lives in the relationships we build, the communities we bring together, and the reminders we give our military members that they are appreciated.
Thank you for continuing to believe in our mission and helping us ensure that support doesn't end when service does.
With gratitude,
Natalie Popp
Executive Director, Operation Not Alone
