FILE - Bob and Lee Woodruff attend the 15th annual Stand Up for Heroes benefit at Alice Tully Hall on Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, in New York. The Bob Woodruff Foundation, formed in 2006 to serve post-9/11 veterans and their families, has become a celebrity favorite with its annual fundraiser — headlined by Jon Stewart, Tracy Chapman, and Bruce Springsteen — raising $84 million since it was founded and $14 million last year. (The Canadian Press)
When assistance for American veterans is needed, the Bob Woodruff Foundation emerges as a prominent choice for billionaire philanthropists, celebrities, embassies, and the NFL. Established in 2006 after journalist Bob Woodruff's injury in Iraq, the foundation's star-studded comedy fundraisers have garnered $84 million.
Drawing support from notable figures like Jon Stewart and Bruce Springsteen. Beyond its glitzy events, the foundation has earned acclaim for its strategic grantmaking, leveraging a network of over 100 veterans charities and data analysis to pinpoint unaddressed needs. Major donors such as Craig Newmark and MacKenzie Scott have contributed substantial sums, while partnerships with entities like the Qatar Embassy and the NFL further bolster its impact. The foundation's acquisition of Got Your 6 in 2018 expanded its reach, integrating a coalition of 130 veteran-serving organizations. By surveying members and collaborating with stakeholders, including policymakers and military families, the foundation identifies gaps in support services and tailors its initiatives accordingly. Notably, it has prioritized funding for family issues, such as fertility treatments and children's mental health services, where existing resources fall short. Collaborations with organizations like Move United have led to innovative programs like the USA Wheelchair Football League, providing opportunities for wounded veterans to engage in adaptive sports. Through its targeted approach and commitment to collaboration, the Bob Woodruff Foundation continues to make meaningful strides in supporting veterans and their families.
