Programs

Turning Gratitude Into Action

Operation Not Alone provides programs that support veterans and active-duty service members while giving communities meaningful ways to show their appreciation.

From a package arriving at just the right moment to a handwritten message from someone they've never met, sometimes a simple reminder that someone cares can mean more than we realize.

Multiple cardboard boxes stacked on top of each other, with some yellow bags in front, inside a room with large wooden framed windows. The boxes have labels with slogans like 'Operation Not Alone' and 'Ready Post' and are marked with sizes such as M, L, and XL.

Active-Duty Care Packages

Bringing a Piece of Home to Those Serving Away From It

Operation Not Alone sends personalized Care Packages to active-duty service members stationed away from home.

Packages may include:

  • A handmade branch-specific tie blanket

  • Cards and letters from members of the community

  • Nonperishable snacks

  • Hygiene and personal-care items

  • Everyday essentials

  • Requested items

  • Reminders of home

Whenever possible, we personalize packages based on the individual service member and their circumstances.

How Can You Help?

  • Make a tie blanket to donate! You can find instructions here:

ONA Blanket Instructions

How to Tie a Blanket

Host a Supply Drive! Guidelines can be found here:

Supply Drive Items

From time to time, Operation Not Alone receives specific requests of supplies to send to active duty service members overseas. Be sure to check our social media and the homepage of our website for updates on special request items!

Do you know an active duty member of the military? Add their name to our database by filling out this form!

Multiple cardboard boxes and snack bags on a wooden surface. The boxes and bags display branding and slogans, including "Operation Not Alone." The snacks include popcorn and caramel-coated popcorn with dark chocolate drizzle.

Veteran Cheer Packages

A Small Package. A Meaningful Reminder.

Operation Not Alone's Cheer Packages are sent to veterans throughout the United States as a personal reminder that their service and sacrifice have not been forgotten.

Each package includes thoughtful items and messages of appreciation selected to create a meaningful experience for the veteran receiving it.

But what's inside the box is only part of the story.

The most important thing we send is the message:

You are remembered. You are appreciated. You are not alone.

Do you know a veteran who should receive a Cheer Package? Add their name to our database by filling out this form!

Close-up of a black cap with a Veterans of the U.S. Army patch, worn by an elderly man with glasses, in a row of similar caps worn by others at a gathering.

Veteran Visits

Bringing Gratitude Directly to Veterans

During the holiday season, Operation Not Alone visits veterans living in nursing homes and other senior-care communities.

Volunteers deliver personalized blankets and gifts, spend time with veterans and, most importantly, personally thank them for their service.

For veterans who may experience isolation during the holidays, a visit can mean as much as the gift itself.

It is one more way we make sure veterans know they are never forgotten.

Close-up of three patches with yellow background, white star, and the text 'ON A' embroidered on dark fabric.

Girl Scout Earn-A-Patch Program

Helping the Next Generation Honor Those Who Served

Operation Not Alone's Earn-A-Patch Program gives Girl Scouts an opportunity to learn about military service, veterans and the importance of community service while completing activities that make a meaningful difference.

The program is available year-round to Girl Scouts throughout the United States and can be completed individually or as a troop.

Directions:

  1. Click the PDF links below to open and download the program:

  2. Work together or individually to complete the worksheets- this can be completed virtually or in-person

  3. Email the information on the last page of the adult guide to mekenzie@operationnotalone.net.