Build Your Own

ifundraising@hfotusa.org      508-823-3300 Ext. 505

Tired of going to the same old fundraisers? Check out some of these “out-of-the box” fundraising events that show just how important a role your personal creativity can play into pulling off an amazing event. We love seeing our supporters try new things and come up with unique fundraising events in support of our mission. Whether you want to turn your hobby into a fundraiser, add a new twist to a classic event, or facilitate a massive party these folks are sure to help get your wheels turning!

Tip: The more the merrier! Never underestimate the power of who you know and word of mouth. A unique fundraising event can spread like wildfire around your community.

Stickball tournament


Turn your favorite pastime into a fundraiser! At a young age the Alter boys of Rumson, NJ, discovered the game of stickball while on a trip to New York City. After bringing the game home to their town, a tournament with neighborhood kids, friends, and family members emerged. Kevin Alter says, “Right after the first year, we discovered that we could make the tournament something special.” Since Kevin was interested in pursuing a career in the military, he started researching organizations that provided assistance to those that served. Once he heard about Homes For Our Troops and started reading more and more about the charity, it became the clear choice for Kevin and his brother. Fast-forward ten years, the Alter’s Stickball Tournament is approaching its 12th year and Kevin is serving as a first lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps out in Miramar, CA. He says they are very excited to continue the tournament out on the West Coast and everyone involved with the tournament are tremendously honored to make a positive impact on those who have devoted their lives to this country.

meat on a stick


HFOT staff member Dianne Travers teamed up with her local Portuguese-American Civic Club (PACC) to throw a “Meat on A Stick” fundraiser. By keeping her event local, friends and family came out in support where they had a great time cooking their own meat over the “pit.” With live music, raffles, and a silent auction, each announcement throughout the afternoon provided an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the Veterans HFOT supports.The PACC guys even decided to sell the extra meat to raise additional money! What better way to give back than to have a party? Dianne says, “So many people jumped in to help. It can seem overwhelming, but once you decide what you are going to do talk it up with friends and you’ll be amazed how many want to support Homes For Our Troops.”

Car Show


Every November, Connor Kohlbeck and the Cars For Our Troops group organizes an exotic and luxury car show in Jacksonville, FL. With over 60 exotic cars in attendance, this team is able to raise a significant amount of money for HFOT. After learning about Homes For Our Troops in 2011 and running a 5K to raise money for HFOT Veteran Tyler Southern’s home build, Connor decided to organize a car show fundraiser to support other Veterans in the area. Connor says, “While the hard work it takes to organize an event may be stressful and tiring, the end result is extremely rewarding”.

5K with a twist


Julie Withers, mom of HFOT Veteran Bobby Withers, decided she wanted to hold a fundraiser in her community to give back to Homes For Our Troops after her son received his home in 2015. Hounds 4 Heroes, which was later renamed Blaze a Trail For Our Troops in honor of Julie’s dog Blaze, became one of High Point, NC’s newest spin on a traditional 5K. Utilizing rescue dogs, compassionate participants, and volunteers, the race seeks to support Homes For Our Troops’ mission! By teaming up with a local animal shelter and looping in students from High Point University, Julie was able to match up participants with a dog to walk while raising money for her cause. She encouraged participants to bring their dogs to the event and those without a dog of their own could walk one of the shelter dogs. It’s not every day you and your pooch can raise money on one of your walks.