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2016 ANNUAL REPORT Corporal Kyle Carpenter, USMC (Ret.), Medal of Honor recipient, and his mother, Robyn Carpenter

2016 ANNUAL REPORT - Semper Fi Fund · “Our vision is simple: to provide our country’s heroes with the best care ... in making a true difference in the lives of veterans and their

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Page 1: 2016 ANNUAL REPORT - Semper Fi Fund · “Our vision is simple: to provide our country’s heroes with the best care ... in making a true difference in the lives of veterans and their

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

Corporal Kyle Carpenter, USMC (Ret.), Medal of Honor recipient, and his mother, Robyn Carpenter

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 2

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

James F. AmosChairman of the BoardGeneral, USMC (Retired)35th Commandant of the Marine Corps

Annette ConwayVice-Chairman

Robert M. (Bob) Bowlin, CPATreasurerFormer Chairman of Sony Music InternationalCPA (Retired)

Wendy LethinSecretaryVice President, Community Outreach

Bonnie AmosDirector

John R. CampbellDirectorDeputy Under Secretary of Defense (2010-13)U.S. Marine (1967-1970)

Edward (Kim) Foley IIIDirector, Audit CommitteeChairman of Foley, IncU.S. Marine (1967-1971)

Karen GuentherPresidentExecutive Director, Founder

Carlton W. KentDirectorSergeant Major, USMC (Retired)16th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps

John F. SattlerDirectorLieutenant General, USMC (Retired)

Dr. James WrightDirectorPresident, Dartmouth College (1998-2009)U.S. Marine (1957-1960)

James D. WeiskopfDirectorColonel, USA (Retired)

Alfred M. GrayChairman, EmeritusGeneral, USMC (Retired)29th Commandant of the Marine Corps

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As another annual report is upon us, I confess that I remain a little awestruck by how quickly the years have passed. When we began the Semper Fi Fund in the spring of 2004 with just $500 and a desire to help, we had no idea of the level of assistance that was needed to support our post–9/11 wounded, critically ill and injured service members — and their families. Since then, that $500 has grown to $141 million in assistance to more than 18,000 service members and their families. While we started by providing a specialized van and some care bags filled with toiletries and gift cards, we now offer a broad range of assistance programs. Along the way, we have seen that the needs of those who serve us all continue to grow. In 2016, the Fund provided 5,400 service members and their families with $19.5 million in financial assistance. That is our highest year ever - and a vivid reminder that the need for the services we provide to our service members isn’t going away anytime soon. As we move forward, we continue to rely on the generosity of supporters like you — not just for financial support, but also for spreading the word about the Fund. So, after you’ve had the opportunity to review this report, please tell your friends, family members and social media audiences about the vital work we do. Thank you for your continued support — and THANK YOU for being part of the Semper Fi Fund family. You should be proud of having such a direct, positive impact on so many lives.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT, CEO & FOUNDER

Twelve months ago, I joined this honorable effort as the Semper Fi Fund’s new Chairman. Today, having completed my first full year, I am more impressed than ever by the remarkable team I’ve been watching since this organization began. The work being done around the clock, non-stop, to provide support to our service members and families who need it most, has without a doubt changed thousands of lives for the better this year alone. Please take a moment and read all about it on the following pages. There you’ll see that the Fund itself has changed as well. The needs of our veterans and their families have evolved, and thus so have we. We are busy developing and implementing new programs and expanding existing ones to serve the ever-changing needs of our military community. What hasn’t changed, though, is the passion and dedication I see on the faces and in the hearts of all involved with the Fund.

There is a unique spirit to this organization that I often hear about from those we assist — they frequently use words like “selfless,” “life-saving” and “amazing” in describing the Fund. I am deeply honored to be serving those who’ve so faithfully served us all, and remain humbled every day to see how this organization positively impacts so many lives. Above all, I am grateful to you for supporting the Semper Fi Fund; by doing so, you enable our staff and volunteers to provide critical programs and services to our nation’s heroes. Thank you. I remain ... Semper Fidelis.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Chairman of the Board, 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps

President, Executive Director & Founder

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“I wouldn’t be where I am

today without the Semper Fi

Fund. It’s been 12 years since

my injury, and they’re still

with me, making sure I have

everything I need and making

sure me and my family are

comfortable. That means the

most to me. When they call and

check up on me, they ask about

my family. I’m a family guy,

that’s something I really love.”

Between the Alpha-Stim and Irlen eye glasses, my life has improved so dramatically! I can now enjoy a portion of the day physically with my son instead of laying in bed with a migraine or because of my back pain! I cannot use words to tell you how much this means to my family and I!

I cannot say how thankful I am for

the help. I feel better as a father

and husband, being able to work with my hands. Thank

you again.

Thank you for connecting me with so many wonderful, talented, intelligent battle

sisters who walk the same path as me. This weekend assured all of us that we

are NEVER alone.

God bless you and your

outpouring of support for us

caregivers. I came here depleted

and am leaving refreshed and

with a new hope – to know

that I’m not alone, there is a

community of support, and to not

be afraid to ask for help. Thank

you for being such a generous

donor – your gift changes lives.

We just wanted to THANK YOU for the cooling mattress pad and pillows along with the sleep kit! It is amazing! I was hopeful but had no idea it would work so great. He has been sleeping soundly and not waking at night!! Thank you so much for everything!

I appreciate you so much and I’m crying tears of

joy because in a vulnerable state, at my weakest

moment and on the brink of giving up, God put a

light at the end of the tunnel and it was you.

Semper Fi Fund helped

to restore hope in our lives, always treated us

with respect, not pity, and encouraged us to live a full

life again.This is a group of people that does whatever they can to help you out, from financial help to moral support or a shoulder to cry on or an ear to talk to.

MORE THAN WORDS

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report5

THE BOB & RENEE PARSONS FOUNDATION

Semper Fi Fund is thrilled to announce that thanks to The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation (www.TBRPF.org) a grand total of $20 million was raised through the “Double Down for Veterans” fundraising campaign to help serve our nation’s heroes. In 2016, for the fifth year in a row, the Parsons Foundation pledged to match all donations for the last two months of the year, dollar for dollar, up to $10 million resulting in $20 million to help us serve post-9/11 wounded, critically ill and injured service members from all branches of the Armed Forces and their families.

Vigilant champions for veterans’ issues, Bob and Renee Parsons are long-standing supporters of the Semper Fi Fund and, through The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, have generously granted more than $31 million to the organization. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Mr. Parsons – a U.S. Marine Corp Vietnam Veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry – issued a personal rallying cry to join him and Renee in caring for our nation’s veterans.

“Our vision is simple: to provide our country’s heroes with the best care and support available in their hour of need,” said Semper Fi Fund President, Executive Director and Founder Karen Guenther. “We are humbled by the outpouring of support for this campaign, and are incredibly thankful to Bob and Renee for their remarkable generosity. These funds will go a very long way in making a true difference in the lives of veterans and their families.”

Once again this year, cloud platform giant GoDaddy jump-started the campaign with a $50,000 donation, along with a pledge to hire a minimum of 500 veterans, or spouses, over the next five years. Mr. Parsons, who has long been recognized for his philanthropic and entrepreneurial leadership, founded GoDaddy in 1997 and instilled the importance of charitable giving as a priority at the company.

“Renee and I want to thank everyone who joined us in donating to the Double Down for Veterans challenge and for answering the call to give back to the men and women who have sacrificed so much to serve our great nation,” said American entrepreneur and philanthropist Bob Parsons. “Semper Fi Fund is doing incredible work, providing critical support to veterans during what is often the most vulnerable and difficult time in their lives.”

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The Semper Fi Fund provides immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to post-9/11 wounded, critically ill and injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, and their families, ensuring they have the resources they need during their recovery and transition back to their communities.

The Semper Fi Fund was created by a group of Marine Corps spouses in early 2004, and those same women run the Fund today alongside other spouses from all service branches and retired service members; all of whom intimately know the needs of our military families. We have been by our injured and ill service members’ sides from day one, helping them as they navigate lengthy recoveries and rejoin their communities.

“SERvING THOSE WHO PRESERvE OUR FREEDOM”

HOW WE ARE UNIqUE

The Semper Fi Fund pledges to stay by the service member’s side throughout his or her recovery and to help that service member transition back home.

Our streamlined structure keeps overhead as low as possible because we realize every dollar saved can be put to better use serving those who have served us all in the ongoing mission of preserving our nation’s freedom.

Program Expenses91.7%

Fundraising Expenses2.7%

Management & General Expenses5.6%

Fiscal Year 2016Expense Distribution

Source: Fiscal Year 2016 Audited Financials

facebook.com/semperfifund

youtube.com/semperfifund

twitter.com/semperfifund

linkedin.com/company/ injured-marine-semper-fi-fund

instagram.com/semperfifund

Charity WatchDog Ratings

Charity Watch — A+• Of 64 veteran & military charities reviewed, Semper Fi Fund is one of only two charities to earn their highest ranking of A+

Charity Navigator — “4-Stars”• Sixth consecutive year for a 4-star rating • Only 3% of charities achieve six or more consecutive 4-star evaluations

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report7

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lsFISCAL YEAR 2016

SEMPER FI FUNDFINANCIAL STATEMENT SUMMARYFISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30,2015

REVENUE & EXPENSESContributions & Gifts 30,627,000 Investment and Other Income (108,000)

TOTAL REVENUE 30,519,000

EXPENSESProgram Expenses 25,940,000 Administrative & Fundraising 2,334,000

TOTAL EXPENSES 28,274,000

Change in Net Assets 2,245,000

Net Assets Beginning of Year 15,849,000 Net Assets End of Year 18,094,000

Source: The above Financial Statement Summary was derived from the Semper Fi Fund's audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016. A complete copy of the audited statements along with the Fund's Form 990 are available on our website.

3rd Battalion 1st Marines Unit ReunionOregon

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 8

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GROWTH IN ASSISTANCE OVER THE PAST FIVE FISCAL YEARS

THE NEED CONTINUES TO GROW...

Num

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(Red

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FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16Grant Dollars $12,200,000 $14,600,000 $15,600,000 $18,900,000 $19,500,000Number of Grants 12995 15545 16128 19973 22349

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

$0

$2,000,000

$4,000,000

$6,000,000

$8,000,000

$10,000,000

$12,000,000

$14,000,000

$16,000,000

$18,000,000

$20,000,000

FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16

12% Annualized Growth in Assistance

Grant Dollars Number of Grants

5,400service members

& families touched

22,300grants

delivered

$19,500,000assistanceprovided

Fiscal Year 2016Impact

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report9

# Grants Amount GrantedFamily Support Assistance 9,501 5,700,000$ Housing Assistance 2,134 4,164,000$ Transportation Assistance 941 1,366,000$ Medical Support 3,251 1,877,000$ Transition Assistance Program 1,543 1,878,000$ Adaptive Equipment Assistance 736 978,000$ Team Semper Fi 4,114 3,498,000$ Therapeutic Arts 129 37,000$

TOTALS 22,349 19,498,000$

FY2016Grants Issued to Service Members and their Families

Types of Assistance

...WE CONTINUE TO BE THERE

Tim & Sandy DayCanine Companions

737grantsissued

Adaptive Home Modifications & Repairs

SpecializedComputers/

Software

338grantsissued

Vehicles Expenses

816grantsissued

Caregiver Retreats

902grantsissued

572

Alpha Stim

grantsissued

1,169

PTSD/TBIDevices

grantsissued

Therapeutic Furniture

232grantsissued

Critical Illness SupportVA Reunions

254grantsissued

741grantsissued

141grantsissued

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 10www.TeamSemperFi.org

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report11

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MJose Ramos enlisted in the Navy in March 2000 and less than a month after the events of 9/11, was on his way to Pakistan. Later that same deployment, he served alongside the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit as they became the first U.S. troops to go into Afghanistan. In 2004, he volunteered to return to Iraq for a third deployment with the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines. “I left the states in the spring of 2004,” Jose says of his third deployment, “and was injured on July 28.”

“I think the biggest help to all service members is to get us back in the community, to bring us in, to ask us how else we can contribute,” Jose adds. “We have so much to give back, so many qualities to contribute that get lost because of everything else. We have so much to offer — and we might have lost a limb, but we have so much more to give, so help us give more and don’t limit our opportunities based on one small perception.”

HOSPITAL CORPSMAN JOSE RAMOS, USN (RETIRED)

Captain Sarah Bettencourt, USMC (Retired) graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2005. She earned a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Stanford University — while serving with the 23rd Marine Regiment. In 2008, Sarah developed a rare neurological disorder which doctors have yet to figure out. Sarah explains that “my current working diagnosis is cerebral inflammatory disorder. Essentially, I have lesions of inflammation in my brain — the part of my body, which that part of my brain controls, stops working properly.”

When Sarah went through the medical retirement process, she asked her case manager how she could get involved with sports. “I had no idea about adaptive sports or adaptive equipment. My case manager told me about the Semper Fi Fund. They purchased me a recumbent bicycle that I’m able to use when my legs are operational and I have the coordination to cycle.” Sarah also got involved with Team Semper Fi —“Going skiing with Team Semper Fi in January 2013 was my first adaptive sports experience” — and soon discovered sled hockey, which she says is her greatest passion. In 2015, she made the U.S. Women’s Sled Hockey team.

CAPTAIN SARAH BETTENCOURT, USMC (RETIRED)

In 2000, Thomas McRae enlisted in the Marine Corps. Thomas deployed four times as an infantryman before he volunteered for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) work. Thomas deployed twice more and on January 16, 2012, his life took a turn. “I lost both legs above the knees, lost my left arm above the elbow and had a bad head wound — something hit my eye socket and shot bone fragments into my brain,” he explains.

Thomas became involved with the Semper Fi Fund Apprenticeship Program and the Jinx McCain Horsemanship Program. “They came with the intention of Thomas getting back on a horse and getting comfortable in the saddle again,” John Mayer, Foreman of the program and three-day horsemanship clinic said.

“When I got back up on a horse, I never felt more normal. When I’m on a horse, the anxiety just goes away, which is so satisfying. When you talk about PTSD, it’s nice to have something that ‘fixes’ it,” McRae says of riding horses.

GUNNERY SERGEANT THOMAS MCRAE, USMC (RETIRED)

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 12

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The Semper Fi Fund Apprenticeship Program (SFFAP) is our holistic program dedicated to helping veterans find meaning and purpose through a trade, career or small business opportunity. SFFAP matches veterans with short-term vocational education and apprenticeships with trade experts. For veterans who want to become entrepreneurs, we provide resources for small business training, obtaining state and federal tax ID numbers, setting up a website, and opening a business checking account.

Special thanks to the incredible generosity of one very special family for helping to provide funding for this important program in memory of their brother who wished to remember those who serve.

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sStefan lost both his legs in 2012 about four months into a deployment to Afghanistan. He stepped on an IED while carrying a stretcher that held one of his friends. “My case manager met my family promptly in the hospital to make sure the family was settling in. She is always there to help make sure all the guys have what they need.” Stefan’s recovery lasted nearly three years and as he progressed, Stefan found that athletics is where he wanted to direct his energies. “I just put on legs instead of putting on running shoes. It didn’t change the core of who I am.”

SERGEANT STEFAN LEROY, UNITED STATES ARMY

Mario was attached to the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines when he deployed to Iraq in 2004. While on a mission, a car bomb blew up near his convoy and Mario took shrapnel to the face, neck and arms, suffered a grade 3 concussion and incurred damage to his fifth cranial nerve. “I had a hard time adjusting when I first got out,” Mario says of his return to the States and departure from the Navy. “I was out maybe a year or so and a veteran buddy told me about the Semper Fi Fund. They did so much — my mortgage, utilities, food, gas cards, back-to-school family day, caregiver retreat for my wife, car repairs, service dog needs, woodworking tools. You know, the gas cards, they sound like a small thing, but they helped me get back and

forth to my appointments. That helped a lot.”

HOSPITAL CORPSMAN MARIO BORREGO, UNITED STATES NAVY

“I saw some pretty devastating things that left long-lasting scars.” For Corporal Lisa Forcia, who deployed to Iraq in 2003, PTSD profoundly affected her personal and professional relationships. “I connected with the Semper Fi Fund, which really helped me get back on my feet.” Lisa became a member of Team Semper Fi and, shortly thereafter, met her service dog, Dante. Training her own service dog has opened all sorts of doors for Lisa. She’s currently working on a business plan through the Apprenticeship Program with the hope of securing a grant to attend the K-9 Academy in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

CORPORAL LISA FORCIA, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 14

DOC’S CORNERh

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Dr. Robert Koffman, USN (Ret.)Medical DirectorHonorary Board Member

Navy Captain Robert Koffman, M.D., is the Senior Consultant for Integrative Medicine & Behavioral Health at the National Intrepid Center of Excellence in Bethesda, Md. With over 17 years of operational experience as a naval medical officer, Koffman’s operational mental health expertise is unparalleled in Navy medicine.

Dr. Koffman holds a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Santo Tomas and a Masters in Public Health degree from the Harvard School of Public Health. He also has collaborated on numerous studies and projects, including the work of the Mental Health Assessment Teams and a landmark study on the psychiatric sequelae of combat duty in Iraq, and was the 2008 recipient of the Sears Award, presented to the leading Navy psychiatrist. Read more about Dr. Koffman at semperfifund.org/leadership/dr-robert-koffman.

PTSD: YOU’RE NOT ALONE Anyone can experience symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — and if you’re suffering from PTSD, it’s important for you to know: You are absolutely not alone.

The National Center for PTSD recommends that PTSD sufferers Learn, Connect and Share: Learn the facts about PTSD … Connect to a friend, a battle buddy or a teammate by reaching out … Share what you know and have learned. Remember: Remaining connected can mean the difference between struggling and thriving.

WHEN SYMPTOMS PERSIST Sometimes trauma has lasting effects on the brain and nervous system — these may take months (or even years) to fully manifest as PTSD, affecting the individual, family, community and even the society. For veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, their sacrifice and service may increase their risk.

The repeated and often-overlooked mild traumatic brain injuries suffered in combat can impact the brain’s ability to heal and repair itself. This in turn leads to anxiety, irritability, insomnia and a whole host of symptoms that can lock that individual in that moment of time of their trauma. The persistence of symptoms over time is referred to as PTSD.

UP TO HALF OF ELIGIBLE VETERANS NEVER SEEK TREATMENT It is vital for those who suffer from PTSD (as well as their family members and friends) to realize that treatment for PTSD works — and is readily available.

An unacceptably large number of veterans are not connected with the VA or with a local therapist. Unfortunately, not all providers are skilled in offering the full repertoire of evidence-based therapies, so it’s important for service members and families to know and understand that they have choices to make from among several treatment options.

Patient empowerment — exercising that choice — leads to developing a powerful therapeutic relationship that in turn leads to long-term healing. Read the rest of this article at https://semperfifund.org/docs-corner/ptsd-youre-not-alone/

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HIGHLIGHTED STORIES

Wounded veteran gets surprise backyard makeover: ‘I had to pinch myself’

Scott StumpFebruary 10, 2016

When U.S. Army veteran Jae Barclay returned from Afghanistan in 2006 with severe burns down the left side of his body, it prevented him from enjoying his passion for the outdoors.

Thanks to a heartwarming surprise revealed Tuesday on TODAY, Jae now has a backyard that meets all his

needs — and it also serves as a remembrance of his friends and fellow soldiers who have lost their lives.

“I had to pinch myself a couple times,’’ he told Jenna Bush Hager. “I was like, ‘Maybe I’m asleep on the airplane right now (from a business trip).’”

Warriors to Ride the River WithA cattle drive in the Bighorn Mountains sets the stage for big changes in these veterans’ lives.

G.R. Schiavino

It’s late July and warm in the Little Horn Canyon. The riders have split up to keep the cow-calf pairs moving so they don’t get jammed up on the narrow trail that follows the Little Bighorn River, which briefly parallels the border of Montana in Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains.

The trail is not for the faint of heart. Even with years of riding in the mountains under my belt, there are eroded sections that leave me looking skyward at the canyon wall, forced to trust that my mare will manage without slipping, sliding treacherously down the steep slope to the river. Thankfully, she is masterful in navigating this technical terrain. Still, we reach a stretch where we all dismount, allowing our horses to pick their way across a section of slick, slab rock without the burden of our weight.

Photo credit: G.R

, Schiavino

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GIFT OF GIvINGr

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sWhy be a recurring donor?

• “It is important for me to make monthly contributions to help these Marines and their families,” says Mike Johnson of Las Vegas, a recurring contributor to the Semper Fi Fund. “I consider it my service to them.”

• Ruth Uhl of Highlands Ranch, Colorado – also a recurring contributor to the Semper Fi Fund – agrees. “The men and women who have served this country honorably deserve to know that they can count on my support,” says Ruth. “As a former Navy wife and Navy-Marine mom, I believe it is essential to help provide a secure foundation for our injured service members and their families.”

Why did these recurring donors first decide to support the Fund?

• “I felt that not enough was being done to help our veterans,” says Mike, “and the Marine Corps has a special place in my heart. My father served 28 years as a Marine aviator. I’ve met many outstanding Marines, and strongly feel that wounded Marines in particular, and their families, should be helped in recognition of their sacrifices and service.”

• “I just felt it was the right thing to do,” observes Ruth. “We are a Navy/Marine family – my husband served in the Navy, one son is active-duty Navy, his wife is Navy, two sons are Navy Reserve and our youngest served on active duty as a Marine. My husband’s dad served in the Navy in WWII, and his uncle was a Marine who served in the 5th Division, was killed on Iwo Jima and was awarded the Silver Star.”

• “I read the story of the Fund,” she adds, “and realized that the people involved would do the most with my donation – helping our injured service members not only financially, but also with necessary adjustments and assistance to help them live their new normal.”

And for anyone thinking about supporting a charity for wounded service members, Mike has this message:

“I would encourage them to take a look at the Semper Fi Fund website and to make donations there. I would tell them about the good things that Semper Fi does, and the support and assistance that is given.”

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2nd Battalion 7th Marines Unit ReunionRunning Springs, California

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 18

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shiP HONORARY BOARD

James T. ConwayGeneral, USMC (Retired)34th Commandant of the Marine Corps

Wallace “Chip” Gregson, Jr.Lieutenant General, USMC (Retired)President, WC Gregson & Associates

Richard R. JeffriesRear Admiral, USN (Retired) Former Medical Officer of USMC

Dr. Robert KoffmanMedical DirectorCaptain, USN (Retired)

David J. McIntyre, Jr.President & CEO, Triwest

Lynne Pace Advocate for Military Families

Peter PaceGeneral, USMC (Retired)16th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Suzie Schwartz Vice President, Military Spouse Programsfor Victory Media

Barbara Woodbury President & Trustee,The Navy & Marine Association

EXECUTIvE TEAM

Karen GuentherPresidentExecutive Director, Founder

Sondria SaylorVice President, Western Region Case Management

Wendy LethinSecretary of the BoardVice President, Community Outreach

Susan RoccoVice President, Eastern RegionCase Management

Tom BenoitChief Financial Officer

Dr. Robert KoffmanMedical DirectorCaptain, USN (Retired)

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report19

Just t

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frequently asked

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What Makes the Semper Fi Fund Exceptional?• Since our inception, overhead has averaged only 6% of revenues.• Since our inception, 93 cents of every dollar spent has been for program expenses.• We offer lifetime support to qualified service members.

Who does Semper Fi Fund Assist?When the Semper Fi Fund was founded in 2004, the Fund’s assistance was initially focused on post-9/11 active duty Marines and Sailors who were wounded, critically ill, or injured and their immediate family members. In 2012, the America’s Fund was started as a program of the Semper Fi Fund specifically to offer assistance to members of the Army, Air Force, National Guard, Coast Guard and their Reserve components who had catastrophic injuries or life threatening illness.

How Do You Decide How Much Financial Assistance and Contact is Appropriate for Each Case?Each case is worked from a needs-based approach. One family may only need two gas cards, while another family may need an adaptive vehicle. The severity of the injury, the length of recovery, and the needs of the family are all considered. Contact is shaped by need as well. For urgent cases, it can be contact every day. As the case stabilizes, the contact moves to once per week, then once per month, then every six months for those who are fully recovered. Even for those fully recovered, we make check-in calls just to stay in touch. We also send Christmas ornaments each year to show that we are always there, when and if needed.

Where Do You See the Fund in Five Years? Ten?Service members with catastrophic injuries, PTSD and TBI resulting from combat and training incidents will require both financial assistance and recovery support throughout their lives. The Fund’s vision is to be strong, relevant and successful for years to come. While assisting with new cases that arise, we will continue to serve those who have sustained catastrophic injuries and illnesses over the last 12 years and who need ongoing care. Our service members work and train daily in challenging environments, and our goal is to be at the ready when they need us so they are never alone or forgotten.

Why the Name Semper Fi Fund?“Semper Fidelis” (or Semper Fi) means “always faithful,” and we pledge to always be faithful to those we serve – from their bedside, through their recovery and beyond.

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2016 Semper Fi Fund AnnuAl report 20

ARMY · MARINE CORPS · NAVY · AIR FORCE · COAST GUARD

Semper Fi Fund825 College Blvd, Suite 102PMB 609Oceanside, CA 92057www.SemperFiFund.org

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