Events
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
October 11, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis Air Force Base has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! Airmen and their families can visit our location at the Airmen’s Attic and grab what they need at no-cost. We added books, coloring books, crayons, educational activities and Halloween trick-or-treat bags to the Kids’ Corner! As always, we are truly grateful for the sacrifices military families make in service to our nation.
October 11, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis Air Force Base has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! Airmen and their families can visit our location at the Airmen’s Attic and grab what they need at no-cost. We added books, coloring books, crayons, educational activities and Halloween trick-or-treat bags to the Kids’ Corner! As always, we are truly grateful for the sacrifices military families make in service to our nation.
129th Rescue Wing Moffett Field School Supply Donation
October 2, 2021
We had a great time visiting the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Field! We brought art supplies, coloring books, crayons, markers and educational activities for the children on base. We truly appreciate the Shirts who helped process the donation and look forward to seeing everyone again soon! It’s an honor to continue to support military families as they serve and sacrifice for our nation.
October 2, 2021
We had a great time visiting the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Field! We brought art supplies, coloring books, crayons, markers and educational activities for the children on base. We truly appreciate the Shirts who helped process the donation and look forward to seeing everyone again soon! It’s an honor to continue to support military families as they serve and sacrifice for our nation.
West High School JROTC ABU Donation
September 25, 2021
We were honored to donate ABU’s from Travis Air Force Base to West High School in Tracy, California! We are so proud of West High School’s JROTC cadets and wish them the very best.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
September 1, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! Airmen and their families can visit our location at the Airmen’s Attic and grab what they need at no cost. We also added coloring books, crayons, books and other activities for children in the Kids’ Book Corner! As always, we're grateful to all military families for their service and sacrifice.
September 1, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! Airmen and their families can visit our location at the Airmen’s Attic and grab what they need at no cost. We also added coloring books, crayons, books and other activities for children in the Kids’ Book Corner! As always, we're grateful to all military families for their service and sacrifice.
Presidio of Monterey Volksmarch 2021
August 22, 2021
We had so much fun at Presidio of Monterey’s Volksmarch! It’s always an honor spending the day with military families who continue to serve and sacrifice. We distributed cookies and stickers to everyone who came to our booth and shared information about our emergency aid and scholarship programs! We are so grateful to have been included in this special day and look forward to visiting base again soon.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
August 22, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items. Airmen and military families can grab what they need for no cost. We also added children's books, educational activities, puzzles, coloring books and crayons! As always, we are grateful to all military families for their service and sacrifice.
Military Family Skateboard Donations
July 17, 2021
We donated 3 more custom skateboards and safety gear to incredibly deserving children at Travis Air Force Base! We truly appreciate Tragic Skate Co for making the boards for the kids and for their generosity to our foundation. Congrats Logan, Jushawn and Jake, we hope you enjoy your boards! We are so proud to support military families nationwide through our emergency aid programs and are grateful for the sacrifices they make everyday.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Monthly Re-Stock
July 17, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis Air Force Base has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items. Airmen and Families on base can grab what they need at no cost! We added a lot of books and activities to the Kids’ Corner – there are also bubbles, chalk and Play Dough sets for summer fun! We truly appreciate everyone who continues to support our emergency aid and pantry programs!
Kendra Scott Jewelry Fundraiser
July 3, 2021
We had a fun afternoon at Kendra Scott Jewelry at Santana Row!! We are so grateful to Kendra Scott for donating 20% of sales to The Cost of Courage Foundation! It’s not too late to support – if you visit Kendra Scott’s online store and use the Promo Code: GIVEBACK-ADUUF when you check-out! 20% of any sale today and July 4th will be donated to The Cost of Courage Foundation to help fund our programs that support Veterans, Military Service Members and their Families nationwide! Thank you to Kendra Scott and those who have supported this fundraiser Every sale makes a difference!!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock - June 2021
June 19, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! As always, airmen and families on base can grab the grocery and personal items they need for no cost. We also stocked the TCOCF Book Corner with educational books, puzzles, coloring books and crayons! As a special treat for the summer, there are some buckets and shovels for sandcastles that would be perfect for a family beach day! Thank you to everyone who supports our pantry and national emergency aid program! Since 2018, the pantry has been a resource for military families at Travis AFB. The pantry was in place before the pandemic, it provided assistance during the pandemic and will continue to be a support system as the pandemic subsides. We are committed to continuing our support of military families facing food insecurity and appreciate the sacrifices they make on a daily basis.
TCOCF Kendra Scott Jewelry Collection Design
June 17, 2021
We’re so excited to announce The Cost of Courage Foundation collection at Kendra Scott Jewelry - Santana Row! We had fun specially designing each piece with the help of very talented staff members The collection will be featured at Kendra Scott’s Santana Row store in San Jose on Saturday, July 3rd! 20% of sales will be donated to our organization. There will be IN-STORE and ONLINE options to purchase! More information and promo codes to come!
Moffett Field Homecoming
June 5, 2021
We were honored to welcome the 129th MXS, 131st RQS PJ’s and the 129th LRS home this morning and provide cookies for every service member and their family as they reunited at Moffett Field We are grateful for the sacrifices they have made and wish them the best. As always, we pray for those who are still deployed and are here in support of all military service members, Veterans and their families.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock - May 2021
May 16, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! Airmen and their families on base can grab the grocery and personal care items they need for no cost. We added books, coloring books and crayons to the pantry's Kids’ Book Corner. Thank you as always to those who continue to donate and support our emergency aid program and pantry! We couldn’t do it without you!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock - April 2021
April 10, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items that airmen and their families on base can access at no-cost! The TCOCF Kids’ Book Corner is also stocked with puzzles, books, coloring books and crayons! We are still so grateful for the new shelving units provided by the 660th AMXS and the Travis Spouses Club. We encourage all airmen and families on base who are struggling with food insecurity or financial hardship to visit the pantry – it is always there as a resource for those in need. We appreciate everyone who continues to support our emergency aid efforts – it helps so much!
April 10, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items that airmen and their families on base can access at no-cost! The TCOCF Kids’ Book Corner is also stocked with puzzles, books, coloring books and crayons! We are still so grateful for the new shelving units provided by the 660th AMXS and the Travis Spouses Club. We encourage all airmen and families on base who are struggling with food insecurity or financial hardship to visit the pantry – it is always there as a resource for those in need. We appreciate everyone who continues to support our emergency aid efforts – it helps so much!
223rd Military Intelligence Battalion Homecoming
March 14, 2021
We were honored to welcome the 223rd Military Intelligence Battalion home this afternoon and provide cookies for every soldier as they departed Moffett Field. We are grateful for the sacrifices they have made and wish them the best as they reunite with their families. As always, we pray for those who are still deployed and are here in support of all military service members, Veterans and their families.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Monthly Re-Stock - March 2021
March 12, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items. As always, airmen and their families can grab what they need at no-cost. During our re-stock we were overwhelmed with support from the Travis AFB community. The Top 3, 660th AMXS and the Travis Spouses Club came together to purchase and build new shelving for the pantry and provide a donation that will fund the purchase of pantry items. We are grateful to A&FRC for donating baby formula and for everyone who was there to assist with today’s re-stock. Since 2018, it has been our honor to sponsor the pantry and it warms our hearts to know that so many airmen and their families have come to rely on it as a resource during difficult times. We look forward to continuing this program as part of our emergency assistance efforts for military families and thank all who support our organization. We couldn’t do it without you.
Travis AFB Skateboard Donation
March 7, 2021
This morning we donated 3 more custom skateboards and safety gear to incredibly deserving children at Travis AFB! We truly appreciate Tragic Skateboard Company for making the boards for the kids and for their generosity to our foundation. We are so proud to support military families nationwide through our emergency aid programs and are grateful for the sacrifices they make everyday.
TCOCF Family Pantry Monthly Re-Stock February 21, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! As always, airmen and families on base can grab the grocery and personal care items they need at no cost. There is plenty of pasta, cereal, canned food, boxed dinners, cake mix, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste and more! The Airman's Attic will be open for E-5 and below, so be sure to stop by the pantry! Thank you to everyone who continues to support our emergency aid programs for military families. We couldn't do it without you!
School Supply Donation for Military Children
February 16, 2021
We've started putting together school supply kits for military children that will be delivered next month! Each kit includes a calculator, gluesticks, pencils, erasers, pens, scissors, permanent markers and dry erase markers. Though this school year has been challenging, we hope these supplies help these very dedicated students succeed. Thank you to all of our donors who continue to support our emergency aid programs for military families. We couldn't do it without you!
U.S. Army MWR Valentine's Day Treat Drop-Off
February 6, 2021
We had the pleasure of making and delivering Valentine's Day treats for troops serving at Presidio of Monterey! We truly appreciate the U.S. Army MWR for including us in their Valentine's Day event this year! During our visit, we also dropped off brand new jackets for children of military service members! We hope the treats and jackets bring some joy and we look forward to visiting again soon!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Monthly Re-Stock
January 16, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB was re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! As always, airmen and their families can grab what they need at no cost. This month, there is an abundance of cereal, boxed meals, snacks and baking items! There are also some fresh oranges near the canned food shelf. The personal care cabinet is stocked with hairbrushes, shampoo/conditioner, soap, deodorant and toothbrushes/toothpaste. It is an honor to continue to provide assistance to military families at Travis AFB! We look forward to re-stocking the shelves again next month!
Travis AFB Skateboard Donation
January 16, 2021
The Cost of Courage Foundation was honored to deliver 6 custom skateboards and safety gear for deserving children at Travis AFB! The children selected for the donation had an especially difficult 2020. In addition to the burdens military families face, many of these children struggled with the illness of a parent, bullying, or the loss of a loved one. One child gave their only Christmas gift to a friend in need. We hope these skateboards give these children some joy and that they have an easier 2021. We are so grateful to Tragic Skateboard Company, Five Suns Brewing, The Hate Dust Project, Jorge Lee and SK8 Gym for their generous donations! Thank you, Jessica Moser, for assisting with the pick-up!! There are so many deserving children on base and we will continue to provide assistance to Travis AFB families through The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at the Airman's Attic which we re-stock on a monthly basis. As always, families on base can grab grocery and personal care items from the pantry at no cost. We are so grateful to military families nationwide and are proud to support them any way we can.
Army SOS Gold Star Toy Donation
December 26, 2020
Christmas isn't over yet! We were honored to donate wrapped toys for Gold Star Children, Siblings and Pets that will be distributed this week! Special thanks to Army Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) for coordinating this special, after-holiday event! As we celebrate the holiday season, we keep Gold Star Families in our prayers and never forget those who gave their lives for our freedom.
TCOCF Family Pantry Re-Stock
December 12, 2020
We completed our monthly re-stock of The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis Air Force Base! As always, airmen and their families can grab the grocery and personal care items they need at no cost. This month, we added a Kids' Book Corner with books and activities for children 10 and under. We also received a special donation of 5 custom skateboards from Tragic Skateboard Company! These skateboards will be donated to deserving children at Travis AFB to brighten their holiday season. It's our honor to be able to support military families at Travis AFB. We wish everyone a safe holiday and a Happy New Year!
Fort Ord/Presidio of Monterey Stocking Stuffers
December 5, 2020
We had the pleasure of making and delivering 800 holiday marshmallow pop candy grams for troops serving at Presidio of Monterey and the Defense Language Institute! We truly appreciate the U.S. Army MWR for including us in their stocking stuffer event this year and hope these sweet treats bring some cheer to service members who can't be with their families for the holidays.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Thanksgiving Re-Stock
November 23, 2020
The Cost of Courage Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked for Thanksgiving! As always, Airmen and their families can grab grocery and personal care items at no-cost in our location at the Airman's Attic. We truly appreciate the efforts of the 6th Air Rescue Squadron who sponsored a collection drive for the pantry during the month of November You guys are amazing!! Last week, we celebrated the pantry's 2 year anniversary! We are honored to support military families on base and will continue to re-stock the pantry on a monthly basis. We appreciate those who continue to support our efforts - we couldn't do it without you!
Amazon DCX5 Community Partner of the Year Award
November 11, 2020
In honor of Veteran's Day, we were proud to present Amazon DCX5 with our 2020 Community Partner of the Year Award! We are truly grateful for their generosity and support of our emergency aid programs. Our emergency aid and food pantry programs provide vital assistance to military service members, Veterans and their families in need. On behalf of The Cost of Courage Foundation we extend our deepest gratitude to Amazon DCX5 and their staff who have made this partnership possible. Thank you to all who serve and sacrifice for our nation. You are the reason we keep moving forward. We will always be here for you!
Laneview Elementary School Letters For Deployed Service Members
October 29, 2020
We are so grateful to Ms. Scott's 2nd Grade Class at Laneview Elementary School in San Jose! These incredibly thoughtful students made cards for military service members deployed overseas this holiday season We are honored to send these and know that they will be greatly appreciated by those who continue to serve and sacrifice for our country.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
October 24, 2020
The The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! As always, airmen and their families on base are welcome to grab the grocery and personal care items they need at no-cost. Thank you to those who continue to support our food pantry and emergency aid programs that directly benefit military families locally and nationwide! We appreciate you all!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
September 29, 2020
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis Air Force Base was re-stocked on Tuesday! Airmen and Families on base are welcome to visit the pantry and grab the grocery and personal care items they need at no cost. There are non-perishable boxed meals, pasta, canned foods and snacks. The personal care shelf has been stocked with shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrushes, soap and other items. Please follow all safety guidelines when visiting our location at the Airman’s Attic. As always, we thank all of the airmen and their families for their service and sacrifice.
Amazon DCX5 Donation
August 28, 2020
We are truly grateful to our local Amazon Distribution Center (DCX5) for their generosity! We were proud to be in attendance during the Amazon DCX5 Grand Opening and graciously accepted their donation of food and personal care items for our Family Pantry and Emergency Aid Programs that support military service members, Veterans and their families locally and nationwide! Going forward, Amazon DCX5 will donate food and personal care items to our programs on a quarterly basis. We thank Amazon DCX5 for their kindness and support for our cause and look forward to our continued partnership!
Commissary Gift Card Distribution at Travis Air Force Base
July 2020
In continuing our response to COVID-19, last month, The Cost of Courage Foundation donated commissary gift cards to military service members, medical staff and families at Travis Air Force Base. Since our family pantry operations are temporarily limited to ensure everyone's safety, we have been committed to offering alternative forms of emergency assistance to those in need. A huge thank you to the Travis Spouses Club for assisting with distribution! More aid is on the way later this month! Thank you to everyone who continues to support our programs! We couldn't do it without you!
129th Rescue Wing New Shoe Donation
June 8, 2020
We were proud to donate brand new pairs of shoes to the service members and families of the 129th Rescue Wing at Moffett Field. Every pair of shoes comes with a new pair of socks. Any unit members in need may contact Airmen & Family Readiness. Thank you to the donors who helped make this happen! For those who recently returned from deployment, A&FR has a special thank you gift from everyone at The Cost of Courage Foundation! We're glad you made it home safe and appreciate all you do.
VA "Thank You" Crafts
May 12, 2020
Though we're still sheltering in place, it doesn't mean we can't share some love with our Veterans and their caregivers <3 We look forward to bringing these crafts to some local Veterans and the patients, families and caregivers at the VA to show our appreciation and remind them that we are thinking of them. When it is safe to do so, we can't wait to have our next art therapy class with the wounded, ill and injured at polytrauma rehab. Until then, we wish everyone good health and safety during this difficult time.
Moffett Field Armed Forces Month Banner
May 1, 2020
We made a quick trip to Moffett Field to hang a banner in support of the National Guard on base! The banner is hanging at the front gate in honor of Armed Forces Month! We appreciate all that is being done to support CA residents during this difficult time and are grateful to those who serve.
TCOCF Drive Thru Pantry Event at Travis AFB
April 2, 2020
Today's drive thru pantry event was a success! In an effort to support Travis AFB Airmen and Families through COVID-19, The Cost of Courage Foundation sponsored a Drive Thru Pantry Event. Military families on base were able to pick up relief kits filled with meals, personal care items and activities for kids. Special deliveries were made to families who could not leave their homes. In total 135 kits were distributed to those in need. As a reminder, The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at the Airmen's Attic is temporarily closed in an effort to minimize contact and comply with social distancing guidelines. We appreciate your patience as we adapt to this evolving situation and find alternative ways to continue to support families on base. We would like to thank everyone who continues to support our emergency aid program for military families! Your donations have helped so many families and we are truly grateful for your support.
City of San Jose TCOCF Emergency Aid Program Collection Drive
March 2, 2020
We are so excited to announce the City of San Jose District 4 Collection Drive in support of The Cost of Courage Foundation's Emergency Aid Program and Family Pantry for Military Families! We are truly grateful to City Councilmember Lan Diep for organizing this drive :) Between March 2nd and April 1st, anyone can drop off donations of non-perishable food and personal care items at the following locations:
Berryessa Community Center - Cherrywood Elementary School - Majestic Way Elementary School - Educational Park Branch Library - Alviso Branch Library
Thank you for your support and generosity!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
February 16, 2020
We had a great time re-stocking The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis Air Force Base this month! As always, the pantry is filled with grocery and personal care items for airmen and families on base to grab at no cost. This month, we added some additional baby items, toys and activities for kids. We look forward to visiting again next month and thank everyone who continues to support our emergency aid programs for military families.
129th Bill "Papa" Estes Flag Dedication
February 8, 2020
Words cannot express our gratitude for this incredible honor. On behalf of Papa Bill, The Estes Family and The Cost of Courage Foundation, we thank the 129th Rescue Wing for their kindness and support Words cannot express our gratitude for this incredible honor. On behalf of Papa Bill, The Estes Family and The Cost of Courage Foundation, we thank the 129th Rescue Wing for their kindness and support.
Club 911 Fundraising Event
February 6, 2020
We are truly grateful to CLUB 911 for hosting a fundraiser for us at Number One Broadway in Los Gatos! The generosity of this wonderful organization and everyone in attendance helped support our vital programs that benefit military service members, Veterans and their families. Thank you Club 911 for all they do for first responders and the community!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
January 11, 2020
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! As always, airmen and their families on base can stop by our pantry at the Airmen’s Attic and grab the grocery and personal care items they need at no-cost. We thank all of the airmen and families on base for their service and sacrifice. We are truly grateful for all you do.
Military Family Holiday Toy Donation
December 2019
We would like to thank everyone who donated toys and clothing this holiday season! Your generosity brought joy to so many military families! We appreciate all of our volunteers who helped us wrap and distribute gifts for children at Travis AFB and Moffett Field. As we celebrate the holidays, we remember those who have served, those currently serving and the families who support them every step of the way.
TCOCF Monthly Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital
December 21, 2019
We were honored to continue our monthly patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital. This month, we made Holiday Crafts – Snowglobes, Ornaments and handpainted Christmas signs. To celebrate the season, we had a holiday party with cookies, cupcakes and cranberry juice. To spread holiday cheer, patients hung their ornaments on the Christmas tree. We look forward to seeing everyone again next month and continue to pray for every patient at the VA hospital this holiday season. We wish them all continued progress in their recovery and never forget the families and hospital caregivers who give so much throughout the year. Happy Holidays from all of us at The Cost of Courage Foundation!
Military Family Holiday Toy Delivery
December 11, 2019
Thank you to everyone who donated toys this holiday season! All donated toys have officially been delivered to children at local military bases! We had a lot of fun wrapping each gift and making cookies for the service members we visited. Today, we made our final drop off at the 129th Rescue Wing - Moffett Field so if you are on base, please stop by Family Readiness and grab any of the wrapped boxes! In addition to toys, there are brand new slippers, gloves, hats and warm weather clothing. There is also a rack filled with houseware items and holiday decorations. We would like to thank Fiorillo's Restaurant for their generosity and appreciate everyone who donated toys and clothing to our military families in need!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
December 8, 2019
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! All Airmen and their families on base are welcome to stop by and grab what they need at no cost! In addition to the usual staples, there are also children's toys for the holidays and new winter jackets and sweatshirts for the cold weather. This month, we also brought granola bars, cereal and packaged snacks for the children at Scandia Elementary School on base and look forward to continuing to support them in the future. Thank you to everyone who continues to support our pantry. We could not continue offering this vital resource without the generosity of so many. Happy Holidays!
City of San Jose Commendation
December 3, 2019
This afternoon, we were honored to receive a City of San Jose Commendation from Mayor Sam Liccardo, Councilmember Lan Diep and the San Jose City Council. We are grateful to our wonderful city for commemorating our 5 Year Anniversary with such a special honor. We are proud to support the military and Veteran community locally and nationwide and look forward to the next 5 years.
Christmas in the Park Tree Decorating
November 27, 2019
We were honored to decorate our annual tree at Christmas in the Park. This year's tree is dedicated to service members Killed in Action and Gold Star Families. As we celebrate this holiday season, we keep them in our prayers and never forget the ultimate sacrifice they made for our freedom. Happy Holidays from our family to yours!
TCOCF Pantry at Travis AFB Thanksgiving Re-Stock
November 2019
We had a great time re-stocking the shelves for Thanksgiving and celebrating the 1 Year Anniversary of The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB! As always, the pantry was re-stocked with grocery and personal care items for airmen and their families in need to grab at no-cost! The pantry is ready for Thanksgiving with cans of Gravy, boxes of Turkey Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes and other necessities. On the bottom shelf, there is some brand new cookware and serving dishes so please stop by and take what you need! Happy Thanksgiving!
Veteran's Day Celebration at Golden Gate National Cemetery
November 11, 2019
We were honored to be at the Golden Gate National Cemetery Veterans Day Celebration this morning! Thank you Major General Garrett Yee for recognizing Sgt. Donald Fitzmaurice in your speech. It meant so much to us that you took the time to honor the fallen and all who have served our great nation. We truly appreciate Congresswoman Jackie Speier's support of the military community as well. We are grateful to every Veteran who has served and sacrificed and keep them and their families in our thoughts and prayers on this very special day.
2019 Bill "Papa" Estes Volunteer of the Year Award
November 11, 2019
We were honored to present The Bill "Papa" Estes Volunteer of the Year Award to Atria of Evergreen Valley Residents! Throughout 2019, these hard-working seniors, many of whom are Veterans of WWII, Korea and Vietnam, spent several hours per week making crafts for service members deployed overseas and Veterans at the Palo Alto VA Hospital on behalf of The Cost of Courage Foundation. These wonderful volunteers take their role very seriously and we are always incredibly proud to deliver their art projects to grateful service members and Veterans. Thank you guys for all you do, you are a treasure!
5th Annual Scholarship Banquet
November 2019
We were so proud to honor deserving Veterans and Military Service Members at our 5th Annual Scholarship Banquet! This year, The Cost of Courage Foundation awarded 5 scholarships. We were very excited to award our newest scholarship, The LCpl Travis Layfield Memorial Scholarship to Travis's son Dylan Layfield and are pleased to announce that the scholarship will be awarded on an annual basis to a deserving Gold Star Child in need. During the banquet, we also awarded our Community Partner of the Year Award to Therma Corporation and the Bill "Papa" Estes Volunteer of the Year Award to the Residents of Atria of Evergreen Valley. This was a wonderful way to celebrate our 5 Year Anniversary! We would like to thank the 129th Rescue Wing of Moffett Field for their presentation of colors and for their beautiful POW/MIA Ceremony. Thank you to everyone who attended and made the night so special!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
October 2019
We had a great time at our monthly patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehab Center/Polytrauma Transitional Rehab (PTRP)! This month's project was Pumpkin Painting! To celebrate Halloween, we had pumpkin pie, oatmeal cookies and apple cider! For patients unable to get out of bed, we brought pumpkins and art supplies bedside so they wouldn't miss the fun. We look forward to seeing everyone again next month and thank everyone who continues to support our art therapy classes with art supply donations!
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB Re-Stock
October 13, 2019
The Cost of Courage Foundation Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with grocery and personal care items! As always, Airmen and their families on base can stop by and grab what they need at no-cost. We launched a suggestion box for families to let us know if there are specific items they need. For details, please see the sign taped to the pantry shelf!
TCOCF Monthly Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital
September 2019
We truly enjoyed our monthly patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehab Center. This month's craft projects were Friendship Bracelets, Beaded Letter Bracelets and Lanyards. Everyone had fun making personalized bracelets for their friends, family and troops overseas. We look forward to being back again next month!
TCOCF Family Pantry Re-Stock at Travis AFB
September 15, 2019
We had a great time re-stocking The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at the Travis AFB Airmen's Attic. In addition to the usual staples, such as grocery and personal care items, this month we added additional baby items such as bottles, bibs and diapers. For school lunches, we replenished the snacks and added Gatorade and Juice Boxes. There are also Halloween costumes in the toy bin for the kids :) As always, items in the pantry are of no cost to airmen and their families so, if you are on base, please feel free to stop by and grab whatever you need. Thank you to everyone who continues to donate, we could not continue this program without your generosity!
129th Rescue Wing - Moffett Field Family Day
September 8, 2019
We truly enjoyed spending the day with military families during the 129th Rescue Wing’s Annual Family BBQ at Moffett Field over the weekend. As we do every year, we sponsored a Family Crafts Table with Painting and Coloring Sheets for the kids! It was a lot of fun watching the kids create and giving these wonderful families a much-needed break. As always, we extend our sincere gratitude to all military families for their service and sacrifice on behalf of our nation. We cannot thank them enough for their contributions. We hold them close to our hearts and they are always in our prayers.
Camp Pendleton Visit / SSgt Stuart DiPaolo Retirement Party
August 17, 2019
After two days of special events, we were honored to conclude our visit to Southern California by attending SSgt Stuart DiPaolo’s Marine Corps Retirement Ceremony at Camp Pendleton! We are so incredibly proud of you, Stu! Thank you for including us in your special day. You have come so far in your recovery and your strength and determination is truly an inspiration. SSgt DiPaolo, his wife Michelline and their daughters regularly attended our monthly art classes at the Palo Alto VA Hospital and brought so much laughter, joy and encouragement to other wounded, ill and injured service members and their families. Watching the DiPaolo Family triumph over adversity while never leaving each other’s side was truly incredible. In honor of his service and sacrifice, we were proud to recognize SSgt DiPaolo as our Veteran of the Month in September 2016. Stu, we wish you the very best as you move onto the next phase of your life and know you will continue to amaze everyone with your achievements. We are here for you and love you!
TCOCF Family Pantry Re-Stock at Travis AFB
August 11, 2019
The Cost of Courage Foundation Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! It is once again filled with grocery and personal care essentials for military families on base. In honor of Back to School month, some additional items for kids' lunches such as sandwich fixings, snack items, cookies, juice boxes, pudding cups and storage bags were added to our stock. There is also an abundance of cereal, pancake mix and other breakfast options. Please stop by our location at the Airman's Attic and grab what you need at no cost! Thank you as always to those who continue to support and donate to the pantry! We couldn't do it without you!
TCOCF Family Pantry Re-Stock at Travis AFB
July 14, 2019
We had another fun day re-stocking The Cost of Courage Foundation Pantry at Travis AFB! The shelves are once again filled with with grocery and personal care items for the families on base. Families can stop by our location at the Airman's Attic to pick up what they need at no cost. More Baby Items have also been added along with Summer BBQ staples! We look forward to re-stocking again next month!
129th Visit to The Cost of Courage Foundation Art Class at Atria of Evergreen Valley
June 21, 2019
Today was a really special day! Airmen from the 129th Rescue Wing - Moffett Field came to visit The Cost of Courage Foundation Art Class at Atria of Evergreen Valley. They were a big help! It was such an honor having them there today and greatly appreciated by all of the residents! Twice a week, the residents get together to make crafts for us to send to troops overseas or bring to patients at the Palo Alto VA Hospital! They work really hard and are so supportive of our military! For all of their contributions, the residents were recognized last year as our "Volunteers of the Year"! Thank you to the 129th for visiting today, you're welcome to stop by any time.
Monthly Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital
June 15, 2019
We continued our monthly Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehab Center! This month, we brought the beach to the VA! Our projects were seashell frames and layered sand candleholders. We made sandcastles and enjoyed summertime treats and lemonade! We also visited the VA garden where flowers from last month's projects were planted for all patients and families to enjoy. Can't wait to spend time with everyone again next month!
TCOCF Pantry Re-Stock at Travis AFB
June 13, 2019
Just in time for Father's Day, The Cost of Courage Foundation Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked with Grocery and Personal Care Items! There are summer BBQ staples and snacks for Father's Day celebrations so airmen and their families are welcome to stop by and take what they need. As always, thank you to everyone who supports the pantry! Your generosity ensures that this no-cost pantry is filled with essentials for military families in need!
Memorial Day Ceremony 2019
May 27, 2019
We were honored to participate in this year's Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at Oak Hill Cemetery in San Jose. We must never forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be free. Our hearts are with the Gold Star Families today - their strength and courage is truly an inspiration. We are grateful to all who have served and sacrificed, especially those who never made it home.
TCOCF Family Pantry at Travis AFB - Monthly Re-Stock
May 18, 2019
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB has been re-stocked! Families and Airmen are welcome to grab whatever they need. There are some extra items in the baby section this month so feel free to stop by! Thank you as always for the generous donations that help us maintain this vital resource for families on base!
Monthly Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital
May 17, 2019
We truly enjoyed this month's Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital's Polytrauma Rehab Center! This month's projects included hand painted flower pots and tissue paper flowers! The patients and their families were able to practice their gardening skills when they filled each pot with colorful flowers and soil. We celebrated Spring with cookies, cupcakes and iced tea! Can't wait to see everyone again next month!
TCOCF Pantry Re-Stock at Travis AFB
April 30, 2019
The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB was restocked last week with grocery and personal care items! There are also new toys in the bin! It warms our hearts to see airmen and their families “shopping” the pantry! As always, the items in the pantry are of no cost to service members or their families! As they focus on protecting and serving, we do our best to ensure that they have the essentials they need. We truly appreciate all the donations made to our pantry and emergency aid program as everything goes directly to the service members and their families. We really couldn’t do it without your support!
Palo Alto VA Monthly Patient and Family Art Class
April 18, 2019
We had so much fun at this month's Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital's Polytrauma Rehab Center! We colored Easter Eggs with the families and had an egg hunt with the kids! Some of the kids had never decorated eggs before which made this class extra special. As a second project, we also made Springtime centerpieces for the family dinners! In honor of Spring, everyone celebrated with some brownies, cupcakes and lemonade :) Can't wait to see everyone for crafts again next month!
Palo Alto VA Monthly Patient and Family Art Class
March 13, 2019
In honor of St. Patrick's Day this month's project at our monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class was "Pots of Gold" centerpieces! The patients and families at Polytrauma Rehab also enjoyed a party with cupcakes and juice to celebrate the special occasion :) The festive centerpieces were used to decorate the tables for family dinner so that everyone could enjoy them! Thank you to all of the patients and families who participated! We're so proud of your progress and can't wait to see you all again next month!
Travis AFB Pantry Re-Stock and Welcome Wagons!
March 3, 2019
The pantry at Travis AFB is now re-stocked with personal care items so please feel free to stop by the Airman's Attic if you're on base! We also brought Welcome Wagons for new families on base! Each wagon is filled with cups, bowls and spoons with crackers and soup for winter :) There are also dish towels, oven mitts and placements. A card and hanpainted Air Force frame is also in every wagon! Thanks to all the volunteers who helped us assemble the wagons, we couldn't do it without you!!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
February 7, 2019
We had so much fun celebrating Valentine's Day at this month's patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's projects were Valentine's Day cards and decorative heart centerpieces! The patients and families also enjoyed brownies, cookies and juice as a treat :) We're already looking forward to seeing everyone for art class again next month!!
Re-Stocking The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB
January 20, 2019
We had fun re-stocking The Cost of Courage Foundation Family Pantry at Travis AFB's Airman's Attic! In addition to the non-perishable food and personal care items that were added, the toy boxes are now filled with legos, dolls and other activities for kids on base! During our visit today, we were honored to have been presented with a flag that was flown in our honor during Operation Inherent Resolve. We are truly grateful for this thoughtful gift and will cherish it forever as a reminder of those who continue to serve and sacrifice for our freedom. It is an honor to maintain the pantry in support of the service members and their families at Travis AFB. We look forward to visiting again next month!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
December 13, 2018
We had so much fun at this month's patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's projects were mason jar snow globes, hand-painted keepsake ornaments and holiday cards! We also enjoyed building gingerbread houses and celebrating the holiday season with cupcakes and juice! As a special treat, everyone in attendance received a goody bag filled with candy. We're always inspired by the creativity and perseverance of the wounded, ill and injured patients at the VA and are honored to continue this monthly tradition throughout the year! Thank you and Happy Holidays to everyone who continues to support our programs! None of this would be possible without your kindness and generosity. We are truly grateful!
Volunteer of the Year Award Ceremony
December 6, 2018
Congratulations to the Residents at Regency of Evergreen Valley who were the recipients of this year’s Volunteer of the Year Award! These extremely dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly throughout 2018 to support our organization and we cannot thank them enough for all their hard work! As part of their weekly art class, they make homemade cards, beaded bracelets, keepsake ornaments and other crafts for us to send to troops deployed overseas or bring to the Palo Alto VA Hospital to wounded, ill and injured patients. Their enthusiasm and drive is truly inspiring and we are incredibly grateful for their contributions!
Christmas in the Park Tree Decorating
November 23, 2018
We spent the morning decorating our tree at Christmas in the Park in San Jose! This year's tree is a tribute to those deployed overseas this holiday season! Happy Holidays from The Cost of Courage Foundation family to yours!
The Cost of Courage Foundation Emergency Aid Pantry at Travis Air Force Base
November 17, 2018
We are so excited to announce the grand opening of The Cost of Courage Foundation's Emergency Aid Pantry at Travis Air Force Base! With the support of MSgt. Moser and Jessica Moser and the 660th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, we were able to set up the pantry this morning :) Grocery and personal care items are now available at no cost for service members and their families! Please visit our location at the Airmen's Attic. While on base, we also visited the 349th Air Mobility Wing and dropped off some aid packages and commissary gift cards so members of that unit may speak with family readiness if you are in need of additional assistance. Thank you to everyone who continues to donate to our Emergency Aid Program! We really couldn't do it without your support!
4th Annual Scholarship Banquet
November 3, 2018
We were so proud to celebrate our 4th Annual Scholarship Banquet! We awarded scholarships to three very deserving student Veterans! U.S. Navy Veteran Oscar Castillo was awarded the CPO Walter Kaczmarek Memorial Scholarship, USMC Veteran Leonard Vigil was awarded the Sgt. Donald Fitzmaurice Memorial Scholarship and SMSgt Tianna Herrera was awarded The Cost of Courage Foundation Scholarship! Bill "Papa" Estes was recognized for his achievements as a volunteer with the special announcement that the Volunteer of the Year Award would be renamed in his honor going forward. Applied Materials was awarded our first-ever "Community Partner of the Year" recognition for their contributions and continued support of our organization. We would like to thank everyone who participated in this very special event, especially the 129th Rescue Wing's Color Guard! We look forward to celebrating again next year!
Holiday Care Packaging 2018
November 3, 2018
We had so much fun at our 2018 Holiday Care Packaging event! Thank you to all of the volunteers who came out to support our efforts! We could not have done this without the support of everyone who donated items during our collection drive! We truly appreciate Applied Materials for sponsoring the drive and, for the 2nd consecutive year, giving us a facility to pack our boxes! The care packages will be sent to troops deployed overseas in need of supplies and a touch of home this holiday season! Thank you to the students who made cards and letters this year!! A portion of this year's drive was dedicated to our Emergency Aid program, so half of the items collected were donated to military families on the home front in need of assistance. We could not provide these resources to service members in need if not for the generosity of everyone who donated to the collection drive this year! Thank you and Happy Holidays from all of us at The Cost of Courage Foundation!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
October 25, 2018
We had such a great time at our Monthly Patient and Family Art Class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital's Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's project was Pumpkin Painting! To celebrate the season, we hosted a Halloween Party for the patients and their families with cupcakes, brownies and apple cider for everyone in attendance! We look forward to spending time with everyone again next month!
Gift of Sight No-Cost Laser Eye Surgery Day
October 17, 2018
For the fourth consecutive year, The Cost of Courage Foundation partnered with Furlong Vision Correction to offer no-cost Laser Eye Surgery to 6 homeless/disadvantaged local Veterans as part of the annual Gift of Sight Program! This donation of over $30,000 worth of LASIK is truly life-changing for our Veteran recipients. To date, 24 Veterans have received the no-cost surgery amounting to over $160,000! Following their surgery, those Veterans have been able to obtain and maintain gainful employment and, in several cases, complete their education now that vision troubles no longer limit their abilities. We are so honored to have been able to connect such deserving Veterans with this opportunity and wish them all the very best for their future!
The Cost of Courage Foundation Fundraising Event
September 26, 2018
We had a great time at our Capital Club Gives Fundraising Night! We enjoyed getting the word out about our programs supporting Veterans with special focus on our Emergency Aid efforts. Thank you to all who attended! We are truly grateful to our Celebrity Bartenders - Bay Area Sports Announcer Danny Miller, San Jose Giants 2017 Pitcher of the Year Conner Menez and San Jose Giants 2018 Pitcher of the Year Logan Webb! We truly appreciate Angela Tirado singing our National Anthem - it was incredible! We could not continue our programs without your generosity so we thank everyone for their donations that evening in support of Emergency Aid!
349th AMW Operation Family Circle Event
September 8, 2018
We had so much fun at the 349th Air Mobility Wing's Operation Family Circle Event this afternoon at Travis Air Force Base! It was an honor spending time with the service members and their families and getting the word out about our Emergency Aid Program! We look forward to visiting again soon!
VA Dinner Service and Gift Basket Distribution
August 8, 2018
We had so much fun serving dinner and distributing gift baskets at the Palo Alto VA Hospital's Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center tonight! Each patient received a blanket, a hand painted frame, a homemade card and a teddy bear :) We always enjoy visiting and can't wait to see everyone again for art class later this month!
Spirit of 45 Day!
August 4, 2018
We had a lot of fun today at the Spirit of 45 event in San Jose! It's always such an honor to participate in this special day every year and share WWII history with all generations!
VA Monthly Patient and Family Art Class
July 12, 2018
We were honored to continue our monthly patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's theme was Patriotic Crafts! We made red, white and blue wreaths, centerpieces and popsicle stick flags! We also celebrated with cookies and pink lemonade! We're already looking forward to spending time with everyone again next month!
Open Pantry Day at USCG TRACEN Petaluma
June 22, 2018
The Cost of Courage Foundation's first-ever "Open Pantry Day" was held at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Petaluma, California. Grocery and Personal Care Items from our emergency aid pantry were brought to the base and military families were able to go "shopping" at no cost. Grocery Items included boxes of pasta and sauce, canned food, packaged snacks and cereal. Personal care essentials such as hygiene products, socks and blankets were also available. We truly appreciate Blue Star Families for helping us coordinate the day, the Kohls Cares volunteers for all of their hard work and USCG TRACEN Petaluma for their continued support. Thank you to all who continue to donate to our emergency aid program. We couldn't do it without you!
VA Monthly Patient and Family Art Class
June 14, 2018
To celebrate the start of summer, we brought the beach to the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center for art class this month! We had so much fun building sand castles with the patients and their families, making layered sand candle holders and painting shells to decorate wooden frames! We also enjoyed a summer party with lemonade and cookies!
Santa Clara University Class Visit
June 8, 2018
For the sixth consecutive year, The Cost of Courage was taught as part of the curriculum for Santa Clara University's War, Cultures and Ideas class! Thank you Professor Riccomini for your continued support and for introducing the novel to your very inquisitive and engaging students! It was a lot of fun guest speaking in class and answering questions about the book!
Travis AFB 349th AMW Pre-Deployment Event
June 2, 2018
We were honored to participate in today's pre-deployment event at the Travis AFB USO and bring cookies to the 349th Air Mobility Wing deployers! We are truly grateful for the service and sacrifice of everyone serving in the 349th and pray for their safe return!
Pre-Deployment Cookie Baking Party!
May 18, 2018
We had so much fun baking cookies for those deploying with the 129th Rescue Wing this weekend and their families! We are so excited to distribute the cookies and will pray for the safe return of all who are leaving to serve our country overseas!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
May 10, 2018
We were honored to continue our monthly patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's project focused on gardening skills! Each patient was able to paint their own pot and plant beautiful flowers with soil. We were also excited to be able to bring butterfly candy grams to patients who were too sick or physically unable to join us for art class this month. We're looking forward to seeing everyone again next month!
129th SFS Homecoming Banner!
April 29, 2018
We were so honored to have made the banner for the 129th SFS homecoming this weekend! Thank you Sgt. Vazquez, Sgt. Santangelo, Sgt. Knowlton, Sgt. Coleman, Sgt. DeGuzman and Sgt. Sarmiento for serving our country! We are so proud of you and are happy to have you home! We really appreciate the 129th for including us in such a special day and thank those who were there to carry the banner and welcome the team back home!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
March 30, 2018
We were honored to continue our sponsorship of our monthly family arts and crafts class at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center. This month's projects were Egg Coloring and Spring Centerpieces along with a Spring themed party and Egg Hunt for the wounded, ill and injured Veterans and their families. As a special treat this month, we also brought a donation of toys for the play area at Polytrauma Rehab and the children staying at Fisher House. We had a lot of fun and can't wait until next month!
The Cost of Courage Foundation Pantry Grand Opening!
March 19, 2018
We are excited to announce the Grand Opening of The Cost of Courage Foundation Pantry in support of our Emergency Aid Program for Veterans, Military Service Members and their families! In October 2017, we broke ground on our pantry that now stores all food and personal care items to be placed in Grocery Boxes for Veterans and military personnel in need of support. To learn more about our Emergency Aid Program or to apply, please visit our Military and Veteran Emergency Support Program page.
Gold Star Honor and Remembrance
February 25, 2018
We were honored and humbled to have attended the Gold Star Honor and Remembrance event at Marine's Memorial in
San Francisco. Words cannot express our gratitude for the sacrifices Gold Star Families have made and we will never forget those who lost their lives fighting for our freedom. Thank you Dianne Layfield for including us in such a special tribute.
VA Monthly Patient & Family Art Class
December 22, 2017
Before Christmas, we sponsored our monthly patient and family art class at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehab Center! Our featured projects this month were hand-painted keepsake ornaments, bead ornaments, painting and coloring book creations and foam snowflakes, Christmas trees and gingerbread characters! To celebrate the holidays, we also decorated the craft room and provided cupcakes, cookies and fruit punch for all in attendance! We wish all of the patients currently recovering from their injuries and the family members who support them throughout the year a peaceful holiday season as we continue to pray for them to heal. It is our honor to be able to spend time with everyone during our monthly art sessions and we look forward to more classes in 2018!
LCpl Travis Layfield Plaque Ceremony
December 16, 2017
This morning we had the honor of visiting LCpl Travis Layfield at Golden Gate National Cemetery and presenting his mother, Dianne Layfield, with his plaque in honor of his service and sacrifice. LCpl Layfield is The Cost of Courage Foundation's first-ever Gold Star Memorial Tribute Page honoree and we are so proud to be able to recognize his heroism along with the strength and dedication of his Gold Star Mother, Dianne. We would like to thank the Layfield Family for including us in this morning's Christmas celebration with Travis. It was truly an honor we will never forget. For more on Travis's story, please visit our Gold Star Memorial Tribute Page.
2017 Holiday Care Packaging Post Office Visit!
November 25, 2017
Today, we visited the Post Office and mailed the personalized Care Packages we boxed last weekend! Thank you again to Applied Materials and ALL of our volunteers who helped pack 150 boxes and collect an abundance of supplies this year. We sincerely hope these care packages find their recipients well and continue to pray for the safe return of all military personnel deployed overseas this holiday season!
2017 Christmas in the Park Tree Decorating
November 24, 2017
We spent the morning decorating our tree at Christmas in the Park in San Jose! Sending love to everyone who has served in the military and those who are still serving. Happy Holidays from The Cost of Courage Foundation family to yours!
2017 Holiday Care Packaging
November 18, 2017
We had a great time care packaging! Thank you to all of our volunteers who helped us box everything up and for all of the supply donations that were collected. We truly appreciate Applied Materials giving us a venue and for all of their collection efforts this year!
2017 Scholarship Banquet
November 11, 2017
We are excited to announce this year's scholarship recipients! Congratulations Samantha Erickson, Jesus Miramontes, Jr. and Joseph Rodriguez! You are all so deserving of recognition for your service to our country and for your academic achievements! It was an honor to celebrate with you at our scholarship banquet at Fiorillo's Restaurant! :) In addition to our scholarship awards, we also recognized our Veteran of the Month for November 2017 Dave Walker and our Volunteer of the Year Bill "Papa" Estes! We had a wonderful time and are so proud of all of our recipients this year! Happy Veterans Day!!
Scholarship Recipients Jesus Miramontes, Jr., Samantha Erickson and Joseph Rodriguez with Veteran of the Month recipient Dave Walker and
Volunteer of the Year Award Winner Bill "Papa" Estes!
Volunteer of the Year Award Winner Bill "Papa" Estes!
Our scholarship recipients with their guests!
The CPO Walter Kaczmarek Memorial Scholarship Recipient Samantha Erickson
The Sgt. Donald Fitzmaurice Memorial Scholarship Recipient Jesus Miramontes, Jr.
The Cost of Courage Foundation Scholarship Recipient Joseph Rodriguez
Veteran of the Month Recipient Dave Walker
Volunteer of the Year Award Recipient Bill "Papa" Estes
2017 Gift of Sight Program Post-Op Appointment Day
November 2, 2017
Today is post-op appointment day for many of our Veteran patients who had no-cost Laser Eye Surgery last week! We had fun visiting with Dr. Furlong this afternoon and celebrating the continued success of the Gift of Sight Program! Already looking forward to next year!
2017 No-Cost Laser Eye Surgery Gift of Sight Program
October 26, 2017
For the third consecutive year, The Cost of Courage Foundation partnered with Furlong Vision Correction to offer no-cost Laser Eye Surgery to 7 homeless/disadvantaged local Veterans as part of the annual Gift of Sight Program! This donation of nearly $50,000 worth of LASIK is truly life-changing for our Veteran recipients. To date, 18 Veterans have received the no-cost surgery amounting to over $130,000! Following their surgery, those Veterans have been able to obtain and maintain gainful employment and, in several cases, complete their education now that vision troubles no longer limit their abilities. We are so grateful for our partnership with Dr. Furlong and his staff and look forward to Gift of Sight next year!
Monthly VA Patient & Family Art Program
October 26, 2017
We were proud to continue our Monthly Patient & Family Art Program at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's project was Pumpkin Painting! We celebrated Halloween with a costume party which included cookies, cupcakes and apple cider :) We had a great time visiting the pumpkin pumpkin patch finding the pumpkins for today's class!
Celebrity Bartender Fundraising Event
September 27, 2017
Moffett Field 129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard Family Picnic
September 10, 2017
We had the honor of attending the 129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard's Family Picnic at Moffett Field and bringing toys for the kids! Thank you to everyone who has donated toys to The Cost of Courage Foundation so that we may donate them to military families. Your generosity is much appreciated! We would also like to pray for members of the 129th who are currently deployed in support of the hurricane relief efforts. They are in our thoughts as we await their safe return.
No-Cost Laser Eye Surgery Program Q&A Session
August 14, 2017
Tonight we hosted a Q&A Session with Dr. Furlong of Furlong Vision Correction at the Veterans Transitional Housing Facility where he informed homeless Veteran residents about the program! They were able to learn more about Gift of Sight and apply for the opportunity! We are so grateful to Dr. Furlong for partnering with The Cost of Courage Foundation once again this year to offer this life-changing opportunity to our Veterans!
-- Wounded Warrior Battalion West --
Warrior Hope and Care Center (Camp Pendleton) and
Naval Medical Center San Diego Visit and Gift Basket Distribution
August 10, 2017 and August 11, 2017
We had the privilege of distributing over 300 gift baskets to wounded, ill and injured Marines and their families at the Warrior Hope and Care Center - Camp Pendleton and Naval Medical Center San Diego! Each basket contained a warm blanket, a handpainted frame, a teddy bear, a handmade card and a friendship bracelet :) Thank you to all of our volunteers who helped make all of the personalized items in the baskets, your efforts were greatly appreciated! We would also like to thank the staff at both facilities for being so hospitable to us following our drive from San Jose and for all of their assistance assembling the baskets on site! It was such an honor spending time with everyone. We are praying for the continued recovery of all the wounded, ill and injured servicemembers we met on this trip and look forward to visiting again soon!
Palo Alto VA Monthly Patient & Family Art Program
August 3, 2017
We proudly sponsored our monthly Family Art Program at the Palo Alto VA Hospital's Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's craft theme was Hawaiian Luau! We had a great time making Leis and Flower Lanterns and enjoyed treats and fruit punch!
Palo Alto VA Monthly Patient & Family Art Program
July 6, 2017
We had a great time this afternoon at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehab Center where we continued our Monthly Patient and Family Art Program! This month's 4th of July themed projects included Patriotic Centerpieces, Firecracker Blowers and Popsicle Stick American Flags! Everyone also enjoyed some Independence Day treats and punch!
Veteran of the Month Plaque Ceremony - PFC Lawrence "Candy" Valdez
Hanford, CA
July 1, 2017
We were honored to recognize PFC Lawrence "Candy" Valdez during his Veteran of the Month Plaque Ceremony in Hanford, California on 1 July 2017! Thank you to all of his family and friends who joined us for such a special day!
Monthly VA Patient and Family Art Class
June 15, 2017
We had a great time celebrating Father's Day during our monthly art class for the patients and families at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polyrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's projects were Keychains, Father's Day Cards and Macaroni Art! We celebrated with cupcakes, cookies and punch and enjoyed playing bean bag toss with the kids and their dads :) It was nice spending time with everyone as always!
Santa Clara University War, Cultures and Ideas Course Guest Speaker
June 8, 2017
For the fifth consecutive year, The Cost of Courage was taught as part of the curriculum for Santa Clara University's War, Cultures and Ideas class! Thank you Professor Riccomini for your continued support! It was a lot of fun guest speaking in class this morning and answering questions from the students! We had a great discussion about the book and look forward to doing it again next year!
Camp Parks (PRFTA) Art Class
June 4, 2017
We had a great time at Camp Parks (Parks Reserve Forces Training Area) this afternoon sponsoring a painting project for the service members and their families during Family Weekend! Thank you to everyone who attended! We are truly grateful for your service to our country!
Memorial Day Ceremony at Merrill Gardens
May 29, 2017
Today we had the honor of attending the Memorial Day Ceremony at Merrill Gardens in Campbell, CA. Our board member, Vietnam Veteran and Chaplain, Dave Walker spoke and read the names of service members who did not make it home and Veterans who have recently passed. We will never forget those who serve and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Facebook Everyday Heroes Festival
May 13, 2017
We had a great time today at Facebook Headquarters participating in the Everyday Heroes Festival honoring first responders, military personnel and those who serve their community! Thank you LT Lexi Daurenheim of Navy Wounded Warrior Safe Harbor for inviting us and for your support of our organization! We were so proud to support our previous Veteran of the Month SSgt Stuart DiPaolo as he gave an inspirational speech to the crowd during the event. Keep up the great work, Stu! We love you!
Monthly VA Patient & Family Art Class
May 11, 2017
We were happy to continue our monthly Patient and Family Art Program at the Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! In addition to this month's project of handpainted frames and tissue paper flowers, we celebrated Mother's Day with a Tea Party where all the moms were able to enjoy an afternoon of sweet tea and treats with their families!
Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) San Jose
Change of Command Ceremony
May 6, 2017
This morning we had the honor of attending Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) San Jose's Change of Command Ceremony where Commander Amy Hunt was relieved of her duties after two successful years. We would like to thank Commander Hunt for her incredible support of our organization! Over the past year and a half, we have had the privilege of partnering with NOSC on important initiatives such as Veteran/Military Suicide Prevention and directly benefitted from their assistance during our Holiday Care Packaging Season! NOSC's support of our organization and many other important causes is the direct result of Commander Hunt's genuine spirit of community service. We have been so inspired by Commander Hunt's leadership and dedication to her sailors and truly wish her the best on her next assignment!
Moffett Field Got Your 6 Event Breakfast
May 5, 2017
We proudly sponsored breakfast at today's Got Your 6 event at Moffett Field! It was very informative for all in attendance and we look forward to the next one!
Veteran of the Month Plaque Ceremony - Colton Hall, Monterey, CA
MMN2(SS) Jackson Sherry
April 28, 2017
Doolittle Raid 75th Anniversary Ceremony - USS Hornet
April 18, 2017
We were so honored to participate in the Doolittle Raid 75th Anniversary Ceremony on the USS Hornet! We proudly represented the families of the Doolittle Raiders, specifically Sgt. Donald Fitzmaurice who was KIA during the Raid and posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service and sacrifice. From the bottom of our hearts we thank the USS Hornet for giving us the opportunity to speak and for providing a wreath for us to bring to Golden Gate National Cemetery where Sgt. Fitzmaurice is buried. While we have expanded our services over the years, The Cost of Courage Foundation originally began as a scholarship fund in honor of Sgt. Fitzmaurice which makes today a sacred anniversary we will forever remember.
Monthly VA Patient & Family Art Program
April 6, 2017
We were honored to sponsor our monthly Patient and Family Art Program at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's project was Egg Coloring and Springtime Centerpieces :) We also had a fun Egg Hunt with the kids and cupcakes and juice to celebrate Spring!
Women's History Month Event
129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard - Moffett Field
March 31, 2017
We were honored to sponsor a social painting activity for the attendees of the Women's History Month Event at the 129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard at Moffett Field! It was a lot of fun spending time with these strong women who are serving their country as members of the military or as part of a vital support system on the homefront!
Monthly VA Patient & Family Arts and Crafts Class
March 9, 2017
We were proud to continue our Monthly Patient & Family Arts & Crafts Class this afternoon at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! This month's project was St. Patrick's Day Leprechaun Puppets, Pots of Gold and Shamrocks!
Monthly VA Patient & Family Arts and Crafts Class
February 9, 2017
We were proud to continue our Monthly Patient and Family Arts & Crafts Class at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center this afternoon! This month's project was Valentine's Day Cards and Hearts! To celebrate, we had a Valentine's Day themed party with cupcakes and juice and brought toys for the children living at Fisher House! Thank you to those who donated toys and games for the kids! Your kindness and generosity is greatly appreciated!
Oracle Military & Veteran Employee Network Meeting
February 8, 2017
It was an honor to serve as guest speaker for the Oracle Military & Veteran Employee Network quarterly meeting this morning! Thank you Oracle Corporation for your support and for inviting us to talk about our programs!
129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard - Moffett Field
Backpack & School Supply Donation
January 25, 2017
Thank you to those who donated backpacks to The Cost of Courage Foundation! We were able to bring the backpacks filled with school supplies for the children and families of the 129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard at Moffett Field!
129th Rescue Wing California Air National Guard Airman & Family Readiness Coordinator Carolann Wunderlin
Volunteer of the Year - 2016
Bill "Papa" Estes
While we value and appreciate all of our volunteers, every year we like to recognize the contributions of the individual who goes above and beyond for our organization and whose help directly impacted our ability to meet our goals and help our community!
We are proud to announce Bill "Papa" Estes as our Volunteer of the Year for his support in 2016. At 90 years old, Papa takes his role as a volunteer very seriously. He has spent countless hours making over 300 care package cards, more than 100 friendship bracelets and over 75 keepsake Holiday Ornaments that we send overseas or give in gift baskets to wounded Veterans at the VA Hospital. He is always eager to get started and inspires other volunteers to work harder everyday!
Papa is present at every event and helps out whenever and however he can. Thank you so much for all you do, Papa! We couldn't do it without you!
Monthly VA Family Arts & Crafts Class
Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center
January 5, 2017
Holiday Gift Boxes Donation to Homeless Veterans
December 19, 2016
The Cost of Courage Foundation brought Holiday Gift Boxes to Homeless Veterans at HomeFirst in San Jose, CA! The boxes were filled with Sweatshirts, Personal Care Items and Food along with Blankets and Beanies! Thank you HomeFirst for allowing us to distribute the boxes and bring donuts and coffee for the Veterans :)
Monthly VA Family Arts & Crafts Class and Holiday Party!
Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center
December 15, 2016
Holiday Care Packaging
Naval Operational Support Center (NOSC) San Jose
December 4, 2016
Christmas in the Park Tree Decorating!
November 23, 2016
Honor on the Row at Santana Row!
Veteran's Day 2016
The Cost of Courage Foundation was proud to serve as Co-Chair of Honor on the Row at Santana Row on Veterans Day this year!
2016 Scholarship Banquet
Maggianos Little Italy Restaurant - Santana Row - San Jose, CA
November 19, 2016
Congratulations to our 2016 Scholarship Recipients:
Logan Bekker, Jeremy Gottschalk and Chris Mascarina!
Monthly VA Family Arts & Crafts Class
Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center
November 15, 2016
Event Photos
Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center
Monthly Family Arts and Crafts Class
October 18, 2016
We are honored to continue our sponsorship of monthly family arts and crafts classes at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center. This month's project was Pumpkin Painting along with a Halloween Party for the wounded Veterans and their families. We had a lot of fun and can't wait until next month!!
Veteran of the Month Ceremony
PFC Tomas Cortez
October 2, 2016
PFC Tomas Cortez
October 2, 2016
Members of the United States Air Force joined us in honoring PFC Tomas Cortez at his Veteran of the Month Ceremony at Valley House Rehabilitation Center.
Silicon Valley Capital Club Celebrity Bartender Night Fundraiser
September 28, 2016
The event featured a Military Tribute Wall and a wreath to honor the fallen.
Celebrity Bartenders 94.5 KBAY DJ's Sam Van Zandt and Lissa Kreisler.
Celebrity Bartender Bellator MMA Fighter Josh Thomson.
Care Package Card and Letter Writing Table.
National Anthem Singer Angela Tirado - The Voice of San Jose.
Jeremy Winery Specialty Wine Tasting Bar.
Harry's Hofbrau in San Jose graciously donated dinner for the evening.
Theater of War Veteran Suicide Prevention Panel
September 10, 2016
The Cost of Courage Foundation was proud to co-sponsor and participate in the Theater of War Veteran Suicide Prevention Panel at the Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) in San Jose! We were honored to partner with NOSC in an effort to raise awareness for the 22 suicides per day that the Veteran community is now facing and discuss resources available to help active and former servicemembers through their struggles. We would like to thank Commander Amy Hunt and all of her sailors at NOSC for their continued support of our organization and for all that they do to serve our country on a daily basis!
Merryhill Elementary School Visit
September 9, 2016
Thank you Merryhill Elementary School in San Jose for your continued support of our Care Packaging efforts! We were so excited to kick-off our Holiday Care Package Drive this morning during the Patriot Day assembly!! We look forward to receiving more cards and letters from the students to send overseas!
2016 Gift of Sight Program
September 8, 2016
For the second consecutive year, The Cost of Courage Foundation was honored to partner with Furlong Vision Correction in offering no-cost Laser Eye Surgery to 6 homeless/disadvantaged local Veterans as part of the annual 2016 Gift of Sight Program! This donation of nearly $40,000 worth of LASIK is truly life-changing for our Veteran recipients!
Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center
Monthly Family Art Class - Care Package Cards
Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center Dinner /
Toy Donations for Children of Patients in the Polytrauma Unit and Fisher House!
June 1, 2016
Santa Clara University War, Cultures and Ideas Class Visit
June 1, 2016
Homeless Veterans Employment Workshop
HomeFirst (Emergency Housing Consortium) - San Jose, CA
May 10, 2016
Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center
Mother's Day Crafts
May 6, 2016
Palo Alto VA Hospital Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center Visit
March 23, 2016
The Cost of Courage Foundation had the honor and privilege of delivering gift baskets and serving dinner to wounded Veteran patients and their families at the Palo Alto VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center! We definitely look forward to visiting again and pray for the recovery of all wounded warriors at the VA.
Homemade Cards and Hand-painted Frames for the Gift Baskets! :)
USO 75th Anniversary Dinner/Dance!
February 13, 2016
Captain Jerry Yellin - Pilot who flew the last mission of WWII / Spirit of 45 National Spokesman
Former 49er Ricky Watters!
Swingin Blue Stars - USS Hornet
Medal of Honor Recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams
Care Packaging 2016
We were overwhelmed by generous donations and are happy to announce that we have completed our second wave of care packaging! Since December, we have sent care packages to U.S. Troops in ten locations throughout the world including Afghanistan, Kuwait, Iraq, Guantanamo Bay, Jordan, Qatar, Korea, USS Ronald Reagan, Kenya and the Horn of Africa. Thank you to all who donated supplies and to those who contributed to our shipping fund! Your generosity is greatly appreciated by The Cost of Courage Foundation and the military personnel who are the recipients of our care packages!
Care Packaging 2015
We are overwhelmed by the generosity of the Santa Clara County community! Care Package donations have been flooding in throughout the month of November! THANK YOU to everyone who donated care package supplies at the Berryessa Community Center and Mission College and to all of the elementary school students who made holiday cards and letters at Merryhill Elementary School, Ms. Guevara's 1st Grade Class at Los Paseos Elementary and Ms. Susnitzky's 4th Grade Class at Capri Elementary! We also truly appreciate our volunteers who helped up pack all of the boxes!
We can't wait to send everything to our Armed Forces overseas :) Happy Holidays!!
2015 Scholarship Award
The Cost of Courage Foundation was proud to honor US Navy Veteran Roger Ourthiague, Jr. as our first-ever recipient of the Sgt. Donald Fitzmaurice Memorial Scholarship! Congratulations Roger! You are incredibly deserving and we wish you the best of luck in your pursuit of a college education as a student at San Jose State University!
Merryhill Elementary School Visit and Care Package Holiday Cards
November 13, 2015
Reading to the students and discussing the importance of Veteran's Day!
Furlong Vision Correction Gift of Sight Program $30,000 Donation
September 17, 2015
5 Homeless/Disadvantaged Veterans Received No-Cost Laser Eye Surgery
San Jose State University and Evergreen Valley College School Supply Donations to Veteran Students
September 10, 2015
September 10, 2015
Silicon Valley Women's Equality Day
Kelly Estes, Founder/CEO of The Cost of Courage Foundation Recognized as "Barrier Breaker"
August 29, 2015
Congressman Mike Honda with The Cost of Courage Foundation Founder Kelly Estes
City of San Jose District 2 Councilmember Ash Kalra stops by The Cost of Courage Foundation booth!
San Jose State University Newspaper Interview
Spirit of '45
August 8, 2015
Santa Clara University War, Culture and Ideas Class Visit
June 3, 2015
Kaiser Permanente Memorial Day Celebration
Keynote Speaker
May 22, 2015
City of San Jose Vice Mayor Rose Herrera
Challenge Coin Ceremony
Kaiser Permanente PR Coordinators
Keynote Speech
Kaiser Permanente Commemorative Challenge Coins!
6th Annual LCpl. Travis Layfield Memorial Golf Tournament
May 1, 2015
Gold Star Mom Dianne Layfield
Donations
Donation to South Bay Blue Star Moms - May 2013
Donation to South Bay Blue Star Moms - December 2013
Veterans Transitional Housing Facility Clothing & Cupcake Donation
March 6, 2015
March 6, 2015
City of San Jose Commendation
Awarded to Kelly Estes in Recognition of Development and Leadership of the
Santa Clara County Veterans Proactive Assistance Task Force
November 6, 2012
Former City of San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed and Former City Councilman (now State Assemblyman) Kansen Chu present
City of San Jose Commendation to Kelly Estes at San Jose City Hall.
City of San Jose Commendation to Kelly Estes at San Jose City Hall.
Former City of San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed, Former San Jose City Councilman (now State Assemblyman) Kansen Chu, Former San Jose City Councilwoman (now City of San Jose Vice Mayor) Rose Herrera with Kelly Estes and members of the Santa Clara County Veterans Proactive Assistance Task Force at the Commendation Ceremony.
Community Events
Spirit of '45 - August 9, 2014
Rose, White & Blue Parade, San Jose, CA - July 4, 2014
Santa Clara University War & Cultures Class Visit / WWII Lesson - June 4, 2014
Archbishop Mitty High School Class Visit / WWII Lesson - December 9, 2013
2013 Bay Area Home Front Festival - Richmond, CA
2012 City of San Jose Veteran's Day Parade
2012 Spirit of '45 Conference - San Diego, CA
Barnes and Noble The Cost of Courage Book Signing - August 10, 2012
