Our Mission: Folds of Honor Scholarships for Military Dependents

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” ~ John 15:13. This profound verse encapsulates the spirit of sacrifice and service that defines our nation’s military and first responders. At Keyport, we believe that those who protect our freedoms deserve our unwavering support.

That’s why we are honored to partner with Folds of Honor, an organization dedicated to providing life-changing scholarships for the families of fallen or disabled military and first responders. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to supporting those who serve and allows our community - Keyporters, everyday carry enthusiasts, and beyond - to make a tangible difference in the lives of these deserving families.

Supporting veterans, military families, and first responders isn’t just a cause; it’s a mission we wholeheartedly embrace. These brave individuals have sacrificed so much, and by contributing to Folds of Honor, we can ensure their legacies live on through the education and opportunities afforded to their loved ones. Together, we can honor their sacrifices and provide hope for a brighter future.

How We Got Involved with Folds of Honor

The story of how Keyport became involved with Folds of Honor is rooted in a genuine connection made at a grassroots level. It began when Aimee, a member of our team, met Christian Meza, a Folds of Honor Regional Golf Impact Officer and scholarship recipient. Their conversation revealed the profound impact the organization had on his life, inspiring Aimee and the entire Keyport team to get involved.

Aimee & Christian at Keyport HQ in Las Vegas

At Keyport, our values of versatility, access, and community align perfectly with the mission of Folds of Honor. Just as our products are designed to meet the unique needs of our customers, Folds of Honor tailors its support to meet the diverse needs of military and first responder families. For us, this collaboration is more than just a partnership; it’s a shared mission to honor and empower the families of those who have served our country.

Looking ahead, we see this partnership as a long-lasting relationship, one that will continue to grow and evolve as we work together to support those who have given so much for our freedom.

About Folds of Honor: Scholarships for Military Dependents

Folds of Honor was founded in 2007 by Lt Col Dan Rooney, a former F-16 fighter pilot and PGA professional, with a clear mission: to provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled service members and first responders. This initiative ensures that families who have endured immense sacrifices can pursue their educational goals, creating a pathway to a brighter future.

Since its inception, Folds of Honor has awarded over 52,000 scholarships for military dependents and first responder families, with 91% of donated funds going directly to support these educational opportunities. Notably, 45% of these scholarships have been awarded to minority recipients, highlighting the organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Folds of Honor has earned prestigious accolades, including a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator and the GuideStar Platinum Seal of Transparency for 2024. These recognitions underscore the organization’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that every dollar donated is used effectively.

Keyport is proud to partner with Folds of Honor, an organization that aligns with our values of supporting those who have given so much to our nation. Through this collaboration, we are honored to contribute to a cause that directly impacts the lives of military and first responder families by providing the educational opportunities they deserve.

Scholarships for Military and First Responder Families

Folds of Honor provides several types of scholarships specifically designed to support the educational goals of military families and the dependents of first responders. These scholarships address the financial challenges that often accompany the loss or disability of a family member who served our nation.

1. Higher Education Scholarships: These scholarships are available for the spouses and children of fallen or disabled service members and first responders. They can be used for tuition, school fees, and books, ensuring that recipients have the resources they need to succeed in their academic pursuits.

2. Children’s Fund Scholarships: This program supports the educational needs of younger children, from kindergarten through 12th grade. Funds can be used for private school tuition, educational tutoring, or homeschooling expenses, helping children build a strong academic foundation.

Scholarship awards are up to $5,000 annually, with a maximum of $2,500 per term (minimum payment of $100). Recipients may reapply each year to continue receiving funds. The application process is streamlined through Folds of Honor’s online portal, ensuring accessibility and ease for applicants. Eligibility requirements can be found on the Folds of Honor website for military scholarships and first responder scholarships.

The impact of these scholarships extends far beyond financial support. They provide recipients with the confidence and resources needed to pursue their dreams and honor the legacy of their loved ones. Take, for example, the story of Christian Meza, a scholarship recipient whose life was transformed by the educational opportunities provided by Folds of Honor. Christian’s success is a testament to the power of education and the vital role these scholarships play in helping families rebuild and thrive. Here are a couple of other Folds of Honor scholarship recipient stories:

Folds of Honor’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is also evident in their scholarship programs, with 45% of scholarships awarded to minority recipients. This dedication ensures that all families, regardless of background, have access to the educational opportunities they need.

The application window for these scholarships runs from February 1st through March 31st each year, with scholarship award notifications sent via email by the end of July. This clear timeframe allows families to plan accordingly and take advantage of this valuable support.

How You Can Help Support Folds of Honor Scholarships

Supporting Folds of Honor scholarships for military dependents and first responder families is easier than ever, and there are multiple ways you can get involved.

1. Support the Cause Through Keyport:

   Explore the Keyport x Folds of Honor Collection where 25% of every purchase goes directly to supporting Folds of Honor scholarships. This unique collection not only offers high-quality everyday carry gear but also contributes directly to a cause that impacts lives. Visit Keyport’s Folds of Honor Collection to make a purchase that matters.

2. Direct Donations:

   If you prefer to donate directly, you can contribute to Folds of Honor through their official website. Your donations will go directly to funding scholarships for military and first responder families. To make a direct donation, visit the Folds of Honor donation page.

3. Find Your Local Chapter:

   Getting involved at the community level is a powerful way to support Folds of Honor. By joining a local chapter, you can participate in events, volunteer opportunities, and fundraising efforts. To find a chapter near you, visit the Folds of Honor Local Chapters page.

4. Get Involved Through Golf:

   The connection between Folds of Honor and golf is both significant and deeply rooted in the organization’s history and fundraising efforts. Golf is often seen as a sport that brings people together, transcending backgrounds and promoting values like honor, integrity, and respect - qualities that align with the mission of Folds of Honor. The sport’s emphasis on tradition and honoring the game resonates with the organization’s goals of honoring military service and supporting their families.

   Golf enthusiasts can support Folds of Honor through various golf-related events:

   • Participate in a Golf Event: Take part in national and local golf events that support Folds of Honor. These events are a great way to enjoy the game while contributing to a worthy cause. Check out upcoming events on the Folds of Honor Golf page.
   • Host an Event: If you’re interested in hosting your own golf event to support Folds of Honor, the organization provides resources and support to help you get started. Learn more about how to host an event on their Golf Events page.
   • Golf Marathons: Engage in a golf marathon, where participants play an extended number of holes in one day to raise funds for Folds of Honor. It’s a fun and challenging way to make a significant impact.
   • Folds of Honor Friday: Dedicate a Friday round of golf to supporting military families by participating in Folds of Honor Friday. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to contribute.
   • Spread the Word: Sharing this blog post or talking about Folds of Honor with friends, family, and social media followers can amplify the impact. By raising awareness, you help bring more attention to this important cause and encourage others to get involved.

Every action, whether purchasing a product, making a donation, or spreading the word, contributes to making a real difference in the lives of military and first responder families.

Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy.

Our partnership with Folds of Honor represents more than just a collaboration; it’s a shared mission to support the families of those who have given everything for our safety and freedom. Through scholarships, we can ensure that the legacies of fallen or disabled service members and first responders live on through the educational achievements of their loved ones.

By purchasing from the Keyport x Folds of Honor Collection, donating directly, or getting involved in local chapters and events, you can be part of this powerful mission. Every action counts, and together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these deserving families.

We are deeply grateful for your support, whether it’s through a purchase, a donation, or simply spreading the word. Your contribution is more than just a gesture - it’s a way to honor the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes and provide hope for their families’ futures.

Thank you for standing with us and Folds of Honor in this important cause.

The 13 Folds of Honor

We would be remiss if we did not provide a couple of links on the significance of a folded American flag and how to properly fold it.

The tradition of folding the American flag 13 times is rich in symbolic meaning, each fold representing a distinct aspect of the nation’s values and heritage. The first fold is a symbol of life, while the third fold honors veterans who have served in defense of our country. As the flag is folded, it becomes a powerful representation of the sacrifices made by military service members and the principles upon which the United States was founded.

For those interested in learning more about this revered tradition, we recommend visiting the National Flag Foundation and Military.com, where you can explore the significance of each fold and learn how to properly fold the flag according to military protocol. These resources provide not only step-by-step instructions but also historical context, helping to deepen our understanding of this solemn ceremony.

Folds of Honor Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Folds of Honor?

Folds of Honor is a nonprofit organization founded in 2007 by Lt Col Dan Rooney. Its mission is to provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled service members and first responders. The organization ensures that these families have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals, helping them build brighter futures.

Who is eligible for Folds of Honor scholarships?

Folds of Honor scholarships are available to the spouses and children of U.S. military service members and first responders who have fallen or been disabled in the line of duty. The scholarships support both higher education and K-12 educational needs.

How can I apply for a Folds of Honor scholarship?

Applications for Folds of Honor scholarships can be submitted through the organization’s online portal. The application window runs from February 1st through March 31st each year. Applicants will need to provide specific documentation to verify their eligibility. For more details, visit the Folds of Honor military scholarships and first responder scholarships pages.

How can I support Folds of Honor through Keyport?

You can support Folds of Honor by purchasing from the Keyport x Folds of Honor Collection. Twenty-five percent of each purchase from this collection goes directly to funding scholarships. Additionally, you can make a direct donation, join a local Folds of Honor chapter, or participate in golf events that support the organization.

Is my donation to Folds of Honor tax-deductible?

Yes, donations to Folds of Honor are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donors will receive a receipt for tax purposes.

How are the funds used by Folds of Honor?

Folds of Honor is committed to transparency and efficiency. Ninety-one percent of donated funds go directly to scholarships, ensuring that the majority of your contribution directly benefits the families who need it most. The organization has received top ratings for its financial stewardship, including a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator.

Can I get involved with Folds of Honor if I’m not a golfer?

Absolutely! While golf is a significant fundraising avenue for Folds of Honor, there are many other ways to get involved. In addition to purchasing products from the Keyport x Folds of Honor Collection (25% goes to Folds of Honor), You can donate directly, join a local chapter, volunteer at events, or simply spread the word about the organization’s mission.

How can I stay updated on Folds of Honor’s work and impact?

To stay updated on Folds of Honor’s work, you can follow them on social media or sign up for their newsletter on the Folds of Honor website. Additionally, by subscribing to Keyport’s newsletter, you’ll receive updates on our partnership and how we’re contributing to this vital cause.

What impact has Folds of Honor had on military and first responder families?

Since its founding, Folds of Honor has awarded over 52,000 scholarships, making a profound impact on the lives of military and first responder families across the nation. These scholarships provide educational opportunities that help recipients achieve their academic and career goals, honoring the legacy of their loved ones.

How can I spread the word about Folds of Honor?

You can spread the word about Folds of Honor by sharing this blog post, talking about the organization with your friends and family, and posting about Folds of Honor on social media. Every bit of awareness helps to support the mission and extend the reach of this important cause.

Keyport x Folds of Honor Collection