Darin Burk
Many Robson Ranch residents mistakenly think that the Support Our Troops organization is comprised only of veterans. However, our membership is open for any Robson Ranch residents to join, as our mission is to “Provide for the material, physical and emotional needs of our military men and women at home and abroad” who are sponsored by Robson Ranch residents. In other words, we are supporting our own neighbors’ sons, daughters, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Support Our Troops, Inc. is an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization, which means that our $10 annual dues and monetary donations are tax deductible. Dues offset any administrative costs allowing all donations to go directly to the support mission.
Led by a five-member board of directors and five executive officers, our 100 percent volunteer organization carries out the mission through eight committees: Meet, Greet, Support and Communicate Service; Golf Tournament; Silent Auction; Flag Display; Veterans Park; Outside Support; Webpage and Communications. Annually, our members fill over 200 volunteer opportunities associated with essential tasks and special events.
Our main task is fundraising to provide “CARE” type packages to sponsored military personnel and to Rest and Recreation Centers in hostile areas. Messages of support are conveyed via handmade greeting cards created by the Sassy Stampers, as well as birthday and Christmas cards. SOT tracks the locations of the sponsored military personnel, solicits businesses for fundraising support, shops for comfort and nutritional items, collects items from business and local organization partners, and ships the items to the designated locations. SOT also supports similar mission charities such as Patriot Paws, Fisher House and Center for the Intrepid.
Fundraising is combined with fun at our annual Golf Tournament, Silent Auction, Eggfest Dinner, 50/50 raffles, as well as Veterans Park brick sales and Yard Flag Kit sales. Other activities include assisting with the 4th of July Parade and conducting Veterans Park ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. We invite you to join us or participate in one of the many fundraising activities. It is a great way to support those who serve our nation and have some fun in the process. Visit us at supportourtroopstexas.com.