While known for portraying a hardline lieutenant turned seafaring amputee in Forrest Gump and an unwavering astronaut dedicated to getting his friends home in Apollo 13, Gary Sinise’s impact on American society goes farther and pays many more dividends.
A cinematic rendering of what war can be like only goes so far, and most of us will never truly experience what our veterans go through for us. The challenges they endure leave physical, emotional, and psychological wounds. We have a responsibility to thank those who make certain that our families are protects. They keep watch so that we can sleep at night.
The Gary Sinise Foundation was established to provide services to active duty, veterans, first responders, and their families. The programs offered by the Foundation were conceptualized by Mr. Sinise through personal relationships he had with friends in the military and the first responder community. Mr. Sinise has spearheaded the effort to give care and show gratitude to those who keep us safe.
The Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) provides disabled veterans with mortgage-free, customized smart homes. These homes are tailor-made to meet disabled veterans’ needs according to their specific injuries, in order to give them the means to care for themselves in the most effective manner possible. Home modifications such as ramps, elevators, counters and shelf height, and special vehicles for ease in mobility are just a few of the features.
Moreover, the Foundation organizes events such as the Snowball Express, an annual five-day experience at Walt Disney World® Resort for veterans and their families, and Invisible Spirit Festivals, which are day-long celebrations at our nation’s military medical centers to show gratitude to both veterans in care and the hospital staff who care for them.
Additionally, the Foundation sponsors and hosts concerts by the Lt. Dan Band, retreats for disabled and traumatized veterans and first responders, and arts and entertainment community outreach events.
Fast Forward Esports is glad to support The Gary Sinise Foundation, because while we can never adequately give back to our veterans for the invaluable sacrifice they have paid on our behalf, we can show some modicum of gratitude by paying it forward to make their burdens a little less heavy. Join us in supporting such an intrepid cause.