PROJECTS

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE works regularly and diligently to locate and support projects to serve the mission. We have had the honor and distinction of participating in a number of valuable projects thus far which our Purple Heart Board felt were worthy of our support.

At present, the staff and dedicated members of both our Purple Heart and our Patriot Advisory Boards are considering a number of additional projects for which we are planning to provide funds and support in the future. These projects are only possible through your generous donations to San Diego military families and all military families who've sacrificed for our freedoms.

Please revisit this page often as it will be updated regularly with new and exciting information regarding how the funds so generously donated by supporters is being allocated to assist our wounded, their families and the families of the fatally wounded.

Concussion Clinic Refurbishing Project, Camp Pendleton, CA

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE funded, planned and arranged for the execution, at cost, of an extensive list of repairs and replacements at the Camp Pendleton, CA, Concussion Clinic. The project involved plumbing work – both repairs to leaky sinks and toilets, and the resolution of unsightly pipe protrusions; the installation of an HVAC system; flooring and window treatment measurements, purchases and installation; ceiling tile replacements; and a new coat of fresh paint upon completion.

Surviving Spouse Conference, San Diego, CA

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE arranged for the venue and accommodations for a surviving spouse conference in San Diego, CA. The event brought together nearly three dozen surviving spouses of fallen special operations (and special operations supporting) heroes for a weekend of healing, sharing, and hope. Women whose loss was as recent as 12 weeks came together with those whose husband’s were killed at the start of the conflict in 2001. They reflected on their progress and demonstrated that one can honor the past and find hope for the future. They participated in forums, lectures and discussions on such topics as how "Sudden Tragic Death" (and other aspects of a military spouse’s death) contribute to the unique grief experience of military widowhood; issues, concerns and targets to consider in financial planning; and de-mystify the complexities of survivor’s benefits. Smaller, more private breakout sessions gave women a chance to learn and share coping skills for those difficult first few years. More “veteran” spouses addressed challenges of rebuilding a life — including issues of when and how to date again, grieving alone is different than grieving with children, and more.

The value of the event is described best by the participants: "For just a while I feel the weight / grief of the United States raise off my shoulders. It isn't easy being the surviving spouse of a Special Ops solider KIA."

"I made some new friends I hope to keep in contact with from now on. The only time I really feel understood is when I'm around these ladies. Thank you for getting us together."

"It was a huge weekend for me. It has been on my mind constantly, the things I learned. It really helped me make strides in my process."

The success of this conference was directly attributable to your generous donations to San Diego military families.

Wounded Warrior Barracks Refurbishing Project, Camp Pendleton, CA

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE was actively involved in the logistics, planning and execution of the refurbishing project of the Wounded Warrior Barracks at Camp Pendleton, CA. The project involved a large number of materials to be purchased, on-premises installations of carpet, window treatments, ceiling tiles and more, and general contract work, such as painting and carpentry. Your donations were used to the direct benefit of our wounded veterans.

"Breakaway Project"

The Breakaway Project was established to convert donated sweatpants and sweatshirts to tear-away clothing for use by wounded (most road-side bomb, and burn victim) troops. FREEDOM IS NOT FREE provided a grant to the Breakaway project for one-time equipment purchase needs to enable the more rapid and efficient conversion of these much needed garments.