A Sanctuary for Military Families Inc

Overview

A Sanctuary for Military Families Inc, commonly known as Project Sanctuary, is a nonprofit organization designed to support military families. Founded in 2007 by Heather Ehle, Project Sanctuary operates on the principle that when one family member serves, the entire family serves. The organization focuses on providing comprehensive therapeutic retreats and ongoing support to veterans, spouses, caregivers, and children as a whole family unit.

Programs and Mission

Project Sanctuary offers a six-day therapeutic retreat program that includes recreational therapy, communication skill workshops, and financial awareness sessions. These programs are led by licensed counselors and volunteers and aim to help families heal from the traumatic effects of military service. The mission is to empower families to recover and thrive, enabling service members to reintegrate into their families and communities healthily.

In the fiscal year 2022, Project Sanctuary assisted over 840 individuals from 262 military families across 27 retreats. The organization's approach emphasizes connectedness and family support, addressing unique challenges such as PTSD, unemployment, and isolation faced by military families.

Financial Overview

The organization generates revenue primarily through contributions and fundraising efforts. In recent years, Project Sanctuary has consistently maintained high program expense ratios and demonstrated strong financial health. For example, in a recent fiscal year, the organization reported revenues exceeding $2 million and net assets over $1 million.

Governance and Leadership

Project Sanctuary is led by a diverse board of directors with expertise in various fields, including finance, law, education, and mental health. The board conducts regular evaluations of its performance and the chief executive, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Impact and Recognition

Project Sanctuary has received high ratings from Charity Navigator for its accountability and financial management practices, achieving a 100% score. The organization is recognized for its personalized support to military families and has been studied by institutions like Clemson University for its long-term impacts on family healing.

Research and Challenges

The organization highlights the critical need for its services due to rising challenges faced by military families, such as increased suicide rates and mental health issues exacerbated by recent global events. Project Sanctuary's programs are grounded in research and aim to address these challenges comprehensively.

Values and Vision

The organization operates with core values of honor, integrity, excellence, inclusivity, and hope. Its vision is a world where military families can find healing and strength together, recognizing that family support is essential to the well-being of service members.