SPHS Seniors Raise Funds, Awareness For Veterans

Severna Park High School students, led by Ryan and Abby Crowley, teamed up with the Travis Manion Foundation this past fall to spread awareness for the struggle that veterans face when they return home from service as well as raise money for the foundation to provide services to veterans and their families. This in turn provides opportunities for veterans to feel more welcomed and comfortable in civilian life.

The seniors headed up a team of 10 volunteers to help at the 9/11 Heroes Run at the Naval Academy Stadium in Annapolis. At this event, students not only cheered on the people participating but also assisted in setting up and taking down the event. In addition to attending the run, the students raised over $518 for the foundation and sold T-shirts to students at their school to help raise awareness for the foundation.

“This service project was not only an enjoyable project for us but also meant a lot, as being able to help raise money and spread awareness for this foundation that helps veterans with mental health issues really makes you feel good that you’re making a difference in many peoples’ lives who are struggling to even do basic tasks,” Ryan said.

The Travis Manion Foundation was started in 2007 in honor of Travis Manion after his death. First Lieutenant Travis Manion, a United States Marine, made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007. The foundation is dedicated to his legacy and its goal is to carry on the legacy of selfless service and leadership embodied by Travis and all those who have served, or continue to serve, our nation. Their mission is to empower veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations and find a purpose in life after their service.