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GENERAL FAQs

1. When was Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP) founded?

   WWP was founded in 2003.

   
   
2. How was the organization founded and by whom?

   WWP was founded in Roanoke, Virginia by a group of veterans and friends who took action to help the injured service men and women of this generation. Read more about our history.

   
   
3. Is Wounded Warrior Project™ a legitimate charity?

   The Wounded Warrior Project was granted tax-exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service functioning as a charity under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations to the organization are deductible as charitable contributions. WWP's Federal I.D. number for donations is #20-2370934. Feel free to take a look at WWP's tax information and financial data.

   
   
4. Where is WWP located? Do you have a location near me?

   We're a national organization and offer services to warriors throughout the nation, regardless of whether WWP teammates are in your area. We have field staff across the country and maintain offices in:

   • Chicago, Illinois
   • Fayetteville, North Carolina
   • Jacksonville, Florida
   • New York, New York
   • San Diego, California
   • San Antonio, Texas
   • Seattle, Washington
   • Washington, DC

   
   
5. Who does Wounded Warrior Project™ serve?

   The WWP mission is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors who incur service-connected wounds, injuries and illnesses (physical or psychological) on or after September 11, 2001. You may also be eligible for the program if you are the spouse or family member and joining on behalf of a warrior.

   
   
6. Why don't you offer services to ALL veterans?

   WWP began as a small, grassroots effort to provide immediate assistance when a warrior of this generation was injured. We felt we could do the most good by providing more comprehensive programs and services to the newly injured, rather than spread ourselves too thin by trying to help all veterans. We also knew there were many terrific veterans' organizations for warriors from previous conflicts, but very few focused on serving our newest generation.

   
   
7. I'm a warrior. How can I join or get involved?

   Sign up online for our the WWP Alumni program. It's free to join, and alumni receive a free membership to Veterans Advantage and access to an exclusive social network just for warriors called WWP Connect. Throughout the year, we offer a wide range of events and activities around the country designed just for Alumni. These activities include sporting events, educational sessions, and social events that give individuals a chance to spend time with other Wounded Warriors. Alumni can also participate in many WWP activities and events for newly injured service members.

   
   
8. Why do you call wounded warriors who get involved WWP Alumni?

   There is a distinct difference between members and alumni. Anyone can pay membership dues to an organization and call themselves a member. The term alumni indicates a mutual shared experience and denotes that your place in an organization was earned. WWP Alumni have earned their place in our organization and share common bonds of sacrifice. Furthermore, we do not ask for member dues because those who are eligible for membership have already paid their dues on the battlefield.

   
   
9. How can I help wounded warriors?

   There are so many different ways to get involved and make a difference! Here are a few ideas...

   • Volunteer. Call your local VA medical center, and ask about volunteer opportunities.
   • Advocate for warriors. Call or write your congressional representatives or senators and urge them to make Wounded Warriors a legislative priority. Keep your ears open, too, on the WWP Facebook page for advocacy alerts with opportunities to sign petitions, write letters, and more.
   • Help raise awareness. Even the simplest efforts can make a difference. Help spread the word about the needs of Wounded Warriors and the work of WWP in your home community. If you know a Wounded Warrior who might benefit from WWP's services, urge them to get involved – it's free!
   • Consider a financial gift. If you're in a position to do so, financial contributions are always greatly appreciated. Perhaps you might even host a fundraising event with your friends to benefit warriors!
   • Honor warriors. If you know a warrior, thank them for their service and sacrifices. These small gestures mean so much!
   • Wear the WWP logo. You can show your support for WWP by wearing apparel. Items can be ordered online through UnderArmour or Overstock.com.

   
   
10. Other than the backpacks, what type of services do you provide?

    WWP provides more than 13 programs to Wounded Warriors and their families, in addition to numerous services and valuable resources. Please visit our Program page and browse all our offerings that are categorized by Mind, Body, Economic Empowerment and Engagement.

    
    
11. Can I hand out backpacks to warriors or read to them in the hospitals?

    Unfortunately, WWP does not offer these types of volunteer opportunities. We suggest contacting your local VA medical center for possible volunteer opportunities working directly with warriors.

     

    
    
12. I would like to receive WWP updates and news. How can I receive these communications?

    Anyone can sign up to join our email list through our online subscription form. You'll receive the latest news about Wounded Warriors plus our monthly e-newsletter.

    
    
13. I would like to know more about WWP's financial statements. Where can I find this information?

    Take a moment to look at our financials and browse through our annual reports to see the numbers and hear stories about the good things that are happening through WWP programs and services.

    
    
14. Can you send me a list of warriors in my area so I can help them?

    We cannot release names and contact information for warriors due to privacy concerns.

    
    
15. Does WWP have any events in my area?

    Wounded Warriors – sign up to be an Alumni and check out the events calendar on Connect for a list of upcoming events.

    Supporters – Check the community events calendar for third party events in your area.

    
    
16. Can I start a WWP branch in my area?

    WWP is not organized around branches or chapters. If you'd like to get involved in your area, we suggest finding an exisiting Proud Supporter event in your area or hosting one of your own!

    
    
17. I don't support (the war / a certain politician / a national policy / etc.). Why should I get involved with WWP?

    WWP is a non-partisan organization, and we don't take a stance on the war. We believe that regardless of your politics or beliefs, the men and women in our nation's military have made tremendous personal sacrifices on our behalf, and deserve our respect and any assistance we can provide. It's about the WARRIOR, not the WAR.

    
    

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Donation FAQs

1. What percentage of my donation goes directly to Wounded Warriors?

   We continuously strive to keep administrative and fundraising costs associated with the operation of WWP as low as possible. Based on our FY2010 audited financial statements ending September 30, 2010, 82% of total expenditures went to provide services and programs for our Wounded Warriors and their families. We're proud to far exceed the Better Business Bureau's minimum standard of $0.65 for every dollar. We're consistently working to improve our efficiency and better serve warriors. If you're still curious, take a look at our financials.

   
   
2. I'd like to sign up for a monthly gift, how do I do this?

   WWP's monthly giving program is called Advance Guard. This program provides WWP with a reliable, low-cost source of long-term income for WWP programs and services. Simply fill out our online donation form or download a copy and mail it in today.

   
   
3. Can I make donations to a particular veteran or their family?

   Unfortunately, WWP cannot direct funds to a geographic location or specific individual.

   
   
4. I would rather mail a check. To whom do I make it out and where do I send it?

   Please download and fill out our donation form, make your check payable to Wounded Warrior Project and mail to:

    

   Wounded Warrior Project
   PO BOX 758517
   Topeka, KS 66675

   
   
5. Can I make a donation in memory or honor of a loved one who has passed away?

   Donations made in honor of a loved one are always welcome. If you wish to make a memorial or honorary donation online, please use our online form. If you wish to mail in your memorial or honorary donation, please be sure to download and fill out a donation form to include with your check or credit card information.

    

   When making a memorial donation to WWP, please make your check payable to Wounded Warrior Project™. If posting our address for an obituary requesting donations be sent to WWP in lieu of flowers, please us the following contact information:

    

   Wounded Warrior Project
   PO BOX 758517
   Topeka, KS 66675

   
   
6. Will the honoree or their family receive a letter notifying them of my donation?

   The Wounded Warrior Project™ will notify the family or individual of your gift if the name and address of the acknowledgee is provided. You may enter this information on the bottom of our electronic and downloadable donation forms.

   
   
7. Is the donation amount (i.e. $50,000) stated in the letter received by the acknowledge?

   No, we do not state the donation amount unless specifically requested by the donor.

   
   
8. When will I receive a receipt for my contribution?

   Receipts should be received by the donor 4-6 weeks after the donation is made.

   
   
9. When will I receive a tax letter summarizing all my donations for the year?

   Tax receipts are sent in January and February of the following year. For example, a 2010 tax receipt will be sent to the donor in January or February of 2011.

   
   
10. I wish to mention the Wounded Warrior Project™ in my will. How can I do this?

    Read through our information on planned giving and then contact us at 877.832.6997. We will provide you with additional information you need to consider when making this decision.

    
    
11. I would like to donate my car, home, or other real property to WWP. How can I do this?

    Unfortunately, we do not currently accept these types of donations. The donation of such items raises significant practical and legal problems, depending upon the circumstances. Please contact our office directly via info@woundedwarriorproject.org or 877.832.6997 and we can address the situation on an individual basis.

    
    
12. How do I submit a matching gift form from my company to Wounded Warrior Project™?

    Many companies encourage their employees to make charitable contributions by matching their philanthropic support. Check with your human resource department to find out if you work for a company who matches charitable contributions. If so, fill out a matching gift form with our tax ID#, which is 20-2370934, and mail along with your donation to:

     

    Wounded Warrior Project
    Attn: Giving Outreach Team
    4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300
    Jacksonville, FL 32256

     

    If you are donating online, please forward your confirmation receipt and the matching gift form to the Giving Outreach Team at got@woundedwarriorproject.org. For all Matching Gift inquiries, please contact the Giving Outreach Team at 904.296.7350 or the email address listed above.

    
    

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Fundraising FAQs

1. Are there guidelines to adhere to when fundraising for Wounded Warrior Project™?

   Yes! Please view our Proud Supporter Guidelines.

   
   
2. Can WWP issue a receipt for donated goods or services?

   WWP cannot issue tax receipts for the value of an individual's time, goods or services donated to your proud supporter event, as these items are not deductible under federal tax law and therefore are not eligible for a tax receipt. We can only acknowledge checks written to Wounded Warrior Project™ directly.

   
   
3. Can WWP issue a receipt for purchases of admission tickets, drawing tickets, and auction items?

   WWP will provide a tax-deductible acknowledgement for donations made directly to WWP. WWP cannot issue a receipt for purchases of admission tickets, drawing tickets, and auction items, as there is a good or service exchanged.

   
   
4. Can WWP issue a receipt for my event's sponsors?

   WWP cannot issue tax receipts for your event's sponsors, nor can WWP accept sponsor funds and funnel those funds back to the event organizer.

   
   
5. What percentage of the funds I raise as a Proud Supporter go to the wounded?

   We continuously strive to keep administrative and fundraising costs associated with the operation of WWP as low as possible thus maximizing the funds available to fund the many programs and services offered by WWP. Based on our fiscal year ending on September 30, 2010 audited financial statements, $0.82 of every dollar donated went to provide services and programs for our Wounded Warriors and their families. With your assistance, we hope to elevate our percentage next year. View our financials.

   
   
6. Is WWP a legitimate charity? Can I obtain a copy of your tax determination letter?

   WWP was granted tax-exempt status by the Internal Revenue Service, functioning as a charity under § 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations to the organization are deductible as charitable contributions. WWP's Federal I.D. number for donations is: #20-2370934. View our financials.

    

   WWP meets all of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance's Standards for Charity Accountability.  

   
   
7. Supporters at my event may want to find out more about WWP. How can they do this?

   Once your event is approved, you can request access to a Proud Supporter resource page, which contains information you can make available at your event, in addition to the Proud Supporter materials mailed to you upon approval. You can also direct supporters at your event to the Mission portion of our website.

   
   
8. I would like to host an event to benefit local warriors. How do I do this?

   As a national nonprofit, our charter is to serve veterans through our programs and services. If you would like to ensure a warrior in your area benefits from our programs and services, please have them register for our Alumni program. We are also unable to allocate your event donation to geographically.

   
   
9. Can WWP send a representative to my event?

   We are unable to provide a representative for first year events. Availability for a representative to attend your event is based on the representative's schedule at the time of your event. We often are unable to find a representative for your event.

   
   
10. Can WWP provide me with a list of local warriors, supporters, or spokespersons?

    WWP cannot provide you with a list of warriors, supporters, or spokespersons due to privacy issues.

    
    
11. Can I organize a raffle or an auction for WWP?

    Regulations governing raffles differ from state to state. Please check with your local attorney or state official's office for your state regulations. An auction to benefit WWP is permissible however we are unable to provide our federal tax ID # for permissions to hold this type of event.

    
    
12. Can WWP refund or reimburse me for some of my expenses?

    To remain fiscally responsible, WWP cannot refund or reimburse any expenses related to externally instigated and managed fundraising events.

    
    
13. Do I need to register my event each year?

    Yes. You will need to register your event each year to hold a benefit for Wounded Warrior Project™ should you hold an annual benefit event.

    
    
14. Can I use the WWP logo to advertise my event?

    We are unable to provide our logo for your use of your event. We no longer provide our logo for the use of third party events in effort to maintain brand integrity. You are able to use the term “to benefit Wounded Warrior Project” while advertising your event.

    
    
15. What events do you have in my area?

    Please refer to our calendar of events for some upcoming fundraising events.

    
    
16. How can I volunteer at an event?

    For volunteer opportunities at registered proud supporter events in your area, please visit the Proud Supporter Events Map, locate an event in your area and contact the event organizer to inquire about volunteer needs. Please note: These volunteer opportunities are not directly with WWP.

    
    
17. Can I create a personalized donation page?

    A great way to spread the word about your fundraising efforts is through our online support function, Rally the Troops. This page describes the fundraiser and your efforts, and makes a great marketing tool! Visitors you email this specifically designated web page to will then be able to donate online directly to WWP. There are many great features you can adjust to your own preference with the personalized donation page.

    
    
18. Can I use Facebook or other social media to contact anyone about Wounded Warrior Project™?

    Please do not contact, arrange meetings with, or request information through Facebook and other social media.

    
    
19. Are there any fundraisers WWP does not support?

    WWP fundraisers can not be sexual, political or religious in nature, and cannot be partnered with alcohol brands or the exchange of firearms. This messaging conflicts with our mind, body, and spirit approach to programs. As everyone is aware, alcohol and substance abuse have been a significant problem with segments of the Wounded Warrior population, often with deadly consequences. WWP would not be honoring and empowering Wounded Warriors if the warrior population perceived partnerships with these types of events as encouraging the use of products that contribute to that problem.

    
    
20. May I contact WWP's corporate sponsors to help with my fundraiser?

    Please do not contact any of WWP's corporate sponsors. Each of our partners is already making significant contributions to our organization and the warriors we serve.

    
    
21. May I contact the local military base to see if warriors want to attend my event?

    Please do not contact military bases to invite warriors. These requests should come through WWP's event staff at events@woundedwarriorproject.org.

    
    
22. Can my fundraiser solicit donations at stores or gas stations?

    Please do not solicit people randomly at stores or gas stations. If you would like to fundraise, please support WWP through organizing a beneficiary event.

    
    
23. If I have further questions, who should I contact?

    For further information, please contact WWP's events staff at  events@woundedwarriorproject.org or 877.832.6997.

    
    
24. I'd like to sign up for a monthly gift, how do I do this?

    Thank you for inquiring. Yes, WWP does have a monthly giving program: Advance Guard. The Advance Guard monthly giving program provides a reliable, low-cost source of long-term income for WWP programs and services.

    
    

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Track FAQs

1. How is TRACK different than other veteran education initiatives?

   TRACK is a residential college and vocational skills program for wounded warriors.  TRACK is unique because the warriors attend classes as a group, with the ability to build new experiences with other Wounded Warriors.  In addition, warriors receive individual academic, career, and health counseling, with extensive goal setting and peak performance training.  Upon completion of TRACK, the warriors are prepared to be successful in college, vocational training, or a civilian job search.

   
   
2. How long does TRACK last?

   TRACK is a 12-month program in Jacksonville, FL and San Antonio, TX that prepares the warriors for success in college and the work force. The warriors receive college credit through Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) or The Alamo Colleges.

   
   
3. How much does TRACK cost each wounded warrior?
   • Wounded Warriors earn a student grant the entire 12 month period. After students begin receiving the grant, they must invest a portion of that grant. This investment will be returned in the form of a bonus upon successful completion of TRACK.
   • All moving and living expenses are paid for by Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP).
   • This program is approved for Veterans Affairs' VR&E benefits. Tuition, fees and books are paid for by VR&E. Additionally, each TRACK student receives a VR&E stipend allowance as a full time student. WWP pays a monthly grant to each student in addition to the VR&E benefits.

   
   
4. What type of classes will I take if I attend TRACK?

   The TRACK curriculum includes several college classes (English, Math, Information Literacy), as well as electives to introduce different career options for the warriors. All academic courses are taught by FSCJ/Alamo College instructors at the TRACK site or on campus. In addition to these classes, the warriors will attend life skills training, peak performance enhancement training, physical training, and financial preparation courses. The final three months consists of a full-time externship with local employers to prepare warriors for civilian employment.

   
   
5. Are moving and living expenses covered?

   Yes, all moving and living expenses are covered. This program does require relocation to Jacksonville, FL or San Antonio, TX for the 12-month period.

   
   
6. Why should I attend TRACK?
   • TRACK offers an opportunity to "earn while you learn," providing both an educational/vocational and financial foundation for future success in the business world.
   • TRACK prepares warriors to succeed when they proceed to a university or continue to a vocational training program. Wounded Warrior Project™ (WWP) feels that we must address the overall health and well-being of the warriors and prepare them for success in the classroom. The attention to the Mind, Body and Spirit of each warrior is critical to warrior's success.

   
   
7. What if I already tried college, and it didn't work out?

   This program is perfect, because you realize how important it is to be prepared for rigorous academic courses. We expect committed participants who are ready for the next phase of their life.

   
   
8. How do I apply to WWP's TRACK?

   If you decide you are interested in attending TRACK, download the TRACK application and complete the application process.

   
   

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