VIGILANT TORCH

The application period for the TORCH Scholarship is open! Last year, we awarded over $120,000 to more than 90 TORCH Scholars attending both undergraduate and graduate programs, and we hope to have another wonderful year! To apply, scholarship candidates must fall within one of the three populations below or be the family member or grandchild of a sponsor who does... >> Active-duty service members currently assigned to one of our select SOF units (includes activated Guard and Reserve members) who are either: 1. A current Vigilant Torch member in good standing (either a lifetime member or your annual membership is current through June 1, 2025 and not expired), or... 2. If you are not a member, you must first register (at no cost). This facilitates our vetting process. To get started, email Christie Blake at membership@vigilant-torch.org to begin the process. >> Veterans of one of our select SOF units: A current Vigilant Torch member in good standing (either a lifetime member or your annual membership is current through June 1, 2025 and not expired). >> DoD Civilians who served in one of our select SOF units: Please email Christie Blake at membership@vigilant-torch.org to discuss membership options to be eligible to apply for scholarships. The deadline for applying to the scholarship program is 11:59pm EST on March 15, 2025. MORE INFO AND APPLY > https://ow.ly/H88X50UH4Mm

As we wrap up another incredible year, members of the Board of Directors wanted to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and generosity. Whether you're a member, donor, or volunteer, you are the heartbeat of Vigilant Torch, and your commitment to our mission makes an extraordinary difference. This year has been filled with milestones, meaningful connections, and impactful work, all made possible because of your belief in what we stand for. As we look ahead to the coming year, we do so with gratitude, optimism, and excitement for what we can achieve together. From all of us at Vigilant Torch, we wish you and your loved ones a joyous New Year. May it be filled with peace, happiness, and continued purpose. Thank you for being an essential part of our Vigilant Torch family. Send Me!

As we close out 2024, we cannot help but reflect on the incredible impact the generosity our members and donors have had on Vigilant Torch and the community we serve over the last year. It has been a remarkable year filled with programs and events that have truly made a difference in the lives of our nation’s elite Special Operations community and their families. By making a donation before midnight TODAY, not only will you support our mission into 2025, but you may also benefit from a tax deduction for the 2024 tax year. Your year-end contribution ensures we can continue delivering these essential programs and services throughout the new year. DONATE > https://ow.ly/aK9E50Uyo8x Send Me!

As we approach Christmas, we are reminded of the power of generosity and community. We are incredibly grateful to St. Michael's Inc. for their generous support of Vigilant Torch. Being selected as one of their “12 Days of Giving” charities this year is an honor, and their kindness will make a meaningful impact on the service members and families we support. Thank you, St. Michael’s Inc., for embodying the true spirit of giving this holiday season!

As we approach Christmas, we are reminded of the power of generosity and community. We are incredibly grateful to St. Michael's Inc. for their generous support of Vigilant Torch. Being selected as one of their “12 Days of Giving” charities this year is an honor, and their kindness will make a meaningful impact on the service members and families we support. Thank you, St. Michael’s Inc., for embodying the true spirit of giving this holiday season!

On Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join us in this global day of giving to make an impact in our unique subset of the Special Operations community by making a donation to Vigilant Torch today. Why Your Support Matters >> Impactful Funding: 81% of every dollar we receive directly funds our programs and initiatives, ensuring your contribution makes a meaningful difference. >> Trusted Steward: With a Gold Seal of Transparency from Candid, Vigilant Torch is committed to being an excellent steward of the donations we receive and meeting the needs of our SOF members and their families in ways that change lives. Our Mission and Programs We provide holistic well-being initiatives tailored to address the challenges faced by SOF members and their families: >> The Philo Project: A dedicated initiative offering vital medical scans for SOF members as they transition out of service and continue into their civilian lives, ensuring early detection and long-term health. >> Mental Health Support: Access to confidential resources, wellness programming, and peer-to-peer mentoring to combat the invisible wounds of service. >> Educational Assistance: Scholarships and internship programs to help SOF members and their families achieve their academic and professional goals. >> Family Support: Emergency relief, bereavement assistance, and resources designed to strengthen and uplift SOF members and their families as they navigate challenges together. How You Can Help >> Donate: Your contributions make these vital programs possible. Each dollar helps us deliver critical care and resources to those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms. Together, we can ensure that their sacrifices are met with unwavering support. >> Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage them to support Vigilant Torch and join our community of donors. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of those who have given so much to our country. Together, we can achieve remarkable things! DONATE HERE >> https://ow.ly/5aMY50UjV4k

Check out this scholarship opportunity from TF-7294!

🦃 Happy Thanksgiving from Vigilant Torch! 🦃 Today, we pause to reflect on the many blessings we share and to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible community we’re honored to serve. To our Special Operations service members, veterans, and their families—your courage, sacrifice, and resilience inspire us every day. This Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the importance of coming together, supporting one another, and carrying the torch of hope and strength. We are grateful for the opportunity to stand with those who have given so much and to help light the way forward. What are you thankful for today? Share your thoughts and join us in celebrating the spirit of gratitude and connection. 🧡 #Gratitude #Thanksgiving #VigilantTorch #TogetherWeAreSTRONGER

Special Operations Fund (SOFund) has partnered with AFS-Faces of America to offer students the chance to study abroad for the summer. The deadline for applications is TOMORROW, November 19 by 11:59pm EST. There will be several locations to choose from. Each country will have varying but specific travel dates and age requirements (15- 18). Some locations may require some knowledge of the host language. The minimum GPA required is 2.5. The scholarship includes tuition, fees, meals, and travel. Studies show that students who have had the opportunity to study abroad are more self-confident and likely to have acquired the leadership skills that are required to succeed in today’s workforce. For more information and to download an application, visit https://ow.ly/YAkz50U1fFm Please send all questions and/or completed applications to scholarship@vigilant-torch.org.

Today, on Veterans Day—and every day—we at Vigilant Torch honor and thank the men and women who have served our country with unwavering dedication. Your courage, sacrifices, and resilience have kept us safe and free, and your impact reaches far beyond your time in uniform. From protecting our freedom to leading and inspiring us in civilian life, you continue to exemplify strength, commitment, and service. We are grateful for all you’ve done and continue to do, in ways both seen and unseen. Thank you for standing vigilant through peace and war, for your selflessness, and for inspiring us all to serve and support each other. Let’s take a moment today to honor these heroes, not just in words, but in action. #VeteransDay #ThankYouVeterans #HonorOurHeroes #SpecialOperations #VigilantTorch