Charitable organizations supporting Veterans & first responders is the topic of today’s show. Attacks on law enforcement personnel are on a record pace and the withdrawal from Afghanistan does not mean Veteran support needs are reduced. In fact, the opposite may be true.  We talk with representatives of four charitable organizations that deserve your support during this season of giving.

SPIKES K9 FUND – Founder & President James Hatch

Military working dogs regularly spared the life of Navy SEAL Jimmy Hatch. Now he is giving back by enhancing the training, care and preservation of working dogs. They provide vital equipment such as protective vests, heat alarms, GPS collars in addition to training for agencies all across the country. They have helped over 1600 dogs in 49 states.

CONCERNS OF POLICE SURVIVORS – Executive Director Diane Bernhard

Diane served in law enforcement for 23 years before assuming the lead role at COPS. She first learned of the organization when a colleague was shot and killed on duty.  Their mission is to rebuild the shattered lives of survivors and co-workers affected by line of duty deaths. In many cases they are able to contact families anywhere in the country within 24 hours.

THE GREEN BERET FOUNDATION – Lead Ambassador Travis Wilson

Travis wore our nation’s uniform for 21 years including 13 years as an elite Green Beret. The Green Beret Foundation was created in 2009 to provide Special Forces soldiers and their families with emergency, immediate and ongoing support. They have helped over 13,000 families and this coming year they will be expanding their services to Green Berets who served prior to 9/11.

BOULDER CREST FOUNDATION – Founder & Chairman Ken Falke

Ken is a 21 year combat Veteran of the Navy Explosive Ordinance Disposal community. He and his wife donated 37 acres of their family farm to build a retreat center to help Veterans struggling with PTSD. They added a second facility in Arizona and expanded the availability of their programs to the first responder community. They recently partnered with the Gary Sinise Foundation to establish 10 Traumatic Brain Injury centers and partner with other non-profits across the country to deliver their Warrior PATHH programs. Their programs have a tremendous success rate.