Operation Hat Trick Surpasses $2M Raised for Wounded and Recovering Service Members and Veterans
Credit: OHT
Operation Hat Trick, an innovative nonprofit supporting the recovery of wounded service members and veterans, announced it has surpassed $2 million in money raised. Dot Sheehan, founder and CEO of OHT, said the milestone was reached in record time, validating a deep commitment to supporting American service members.
”This second million has taken less than half the time to reach than the first, thanks to our many committed licensees and passionate supporters. During a time in our country when there have been so many serious challenges, OHT has distributed more than ever before to assist those in need, and we are eternally grateful.”
OHT is differentiated from other veteran-focused nonprofits by its innovative operating model. OHT pioneered the first national philanthropic cobranded cause marketing retail apparel licensing program. Rather than relying on donations to raise money, OHT receives a royalty on every product purchase of co-branded apparel and merchandise in conjunction with over 500 supporting American colleges and universities, as well as many NHL, NBA and MiLB teams. Its products are also available via online retailers such as Fanatics, Amazon and national retailers including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Kohl’s, Lids, Scheels and more.
Another point of differentiation is OHT’s “pass through” model. Instead of keeping money raised for its own programs, the 501(c)(3) distributes funds to carefully curated veterans-focused organizations compatible with OHT’s mission. The $2 million+ OHT raised to date has supported approximately 80 organizations in 35 states. Consumer demand has increased tremendously thanks to OHT’s one of a kind partnership with Fanatics and Colosseum Athletics.
“Our ongoing partnership with Operation Hat Trick gives us an incredible sense of pride here at Fanatics,” said Mike Carlton, Fanatics Director of Partner Development. “Collegiate fans across the country have responded positively and in a meaningful way to our OHT collections over the years, which has led to much needed support for our valued military veterans.”
“Colosseum is honored to partner with Operation Hat Trick in apparel and headwear,” said John Pfeifer, EVP at Colosseum. “This will be our third year bringing a unique design and story to market with our retail partners to offer a purchase with a purpose. The money raised from the sales of the OHT collections is second to none. Helping our Veterans and their families, who have given up so much to protect us and our freedom - we are honored to help support them.”
Karen Guenther, president, CEO and founder, Semper Fi Fund said of OHT, "Your donation helps us provide grants to cover the cost of equipment to improve the quality of life for service members and their families. That includes optic enhancement devices for those with vision impairments, specialized wheelchairs for those who are not ambulatory and therapeutic mattresses for those with multiple injuries and burns."
Mike Money, assistant athletic director for marketing at Clemson University said, "It is truly amazing to see the impact of OHT on Clemson University and our surrounding communities. Through OHT and all of its licensing partners, Clemson has been able to identify and strengthen relationships with local Military organizations and make a difference in the lives of veterans."
Operation Hat Trick is recognized by GuideStar as a Platinum seal of transparency organization for its responsible stewardship (https:/learn.guidestar.org/platinum). Dedicated to Nate Hardy and Mike Koch, two Navy SEALs who were killed in Iraq in 2008 and are buried side by side at Arlington National Cemetery, OHT never forgets their sacrifice. Support and learn more about Operation Hat Trick by visiting www.operationhattrick.org.
Editor's Note: This press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with NonProfit PRO. The views expressed within do not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of NonProfit PRO and its staff.
