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Frequently Asked Questions

Discover More About Sua Sponte Foundation

The Sua Sponte Foundation at a Glance

What is The Sua Sponte Foundation?

The Sua Sponte Foundation, a 501C3 organization based in Savannah, Georgia, is an all-volunteer organization comprised of former Army Rangers and patriotic civilians who provide immediate and meaningful support to the warriors and families of the 1st Ranger Battalion – one of three that make up the 75th Ranger Regiment.

What does the Sua Sponte Foundation do?

Since 2011, the Sua Sponte Foundation has helped Rangers transition to civilian life by:

  • providing financial assistance to families of wounded or fallen Rangers including medical, travel or logistics,
  • helping renovate Rangers’ homes,
  • sending care packages to deployed troops,
  • providing financial aid for medical expenses,
  • assisting Gold Star families who have lost a loved one in military service,
  • funding leadership and team-building retreats,
  • offering financial planning services to Rangers and their families at no cost,
  •  providing assistance with resume creation, job search and interviewing skills to help transition Rangers to the civilian world
  • issuing tuition scholarships ranging from pre-K to 12th grade, as well as home schooling,
  • creating and maintaining memorial grounds dedicated to the fallen warriors of the 1st Ranger Battalion.

What types of special morale elevating events does the Sua Sponte Foundation sponsor?

  • Leadership retreats
  • Team building exercises
  • Family picnics
  • Ironman events
  • Shooting competitions
  • Camping
  • Ministries
  • Fishing
  • Ranger’s Ball
  • Father/daughter dance
  • Father/son outings
  • Major anniversaries and reunions

What percent of Sua Sponte donations benefit the Army Rangers?

The Sua Sponte Foundation’s goal is to ensure ninety-eight percent (98%) of donations go directly to the Sua Sponte Foundation’s cause.

How was the Sua Sponte Foundation named and what does it mean?

The Sua Sponte Foundation is named for the 75th Ranger Regiment’s motto, Sua Sponte, which means “of their own accord” in Latin.

Is the Sua Sponte Foundation a government agency?

The Sua Sponte Foundation is a non-federal entity. It is not a part of, or officially endorsed by, the Department of Defense or 1st Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment.

Why and how was the Sua Sponte Foundation founded?

The Sua Sponte Foundation was founded by two retired Rangers and three civilians who wanted to assist Army Rangers that have been continuously deployed since September 11, 2011.  Many of these Rangers have been deployed at least 15 times during their careers for approximately four to six months at a time.

How has the Sua Sponte Foundation grown?

Formed under the leadership of Chuck Fountain (1st Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, from 1988 to 1993), the Sua Sponte Foundation had a single core priority:  to provide help when a Ranger was killed or wounded in action.  The mission quickly grew to embrace other ways to support our warriors.

It also transformed into a nimble, reactionary force -- ready and able to quickly direct funding, resources and effective aid to Rangers and their families.

Who are the Sua Sponte Foundation’s Board of Directors?

The Sua Sponte Foundation’s board of directors is a diverse group of volunteer men and women, including Gold Star parents, who are committed to the welfare of the Ranger community.   An advisory board is also in place to provide assistance and advice.  This group of dedicated volunteers receive no compensation for their services

Where is Sua Sponte Foundation located?

The Sua Sponte Foundation is headquartered in Savannah, Ga.  As an all-volunteer organization, there is no physical facility associated with the Foundation at this time.

 

The Ranger’s Memorial

Where is the Ranger’s Memorial located?

The Ranger’s Memorial is built on the grounds of the Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Georgia.

What is the significance of the Ranger Memorial?

A heartfelt desire to show added support for our Rangers and their families motivated the Sua Sponte Foundation to establish a memorial honoring our fallen.  With the help of a special 1/75 Memorial Board, the Savannah business community, The Hunter Army Airfield community, and the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), the hallowed Rangers Memorial was completed.

What does the Ranger memorial symbolize?

The Memorial is a beautiful and peaceful place of remembrance and reflection, designed using a number of elements that are symbolic of the Rangers and their sacrifice.  A large, hand-polished steel “dagger”, along with a granite shield in front of a monument listing the names of the fallen are the setting’s focal point.  They are flanked by oak and palm trees, representing the fallen Rangers. Intricate landscaping, including hand-selected azaleas, is maintained to the highest standard by the Sue Sponte Foundation. The Memorial’s perimeter also includes a granite monument etched with the Ranger’s Creed. Pavers, surrounded by oyster shells encircle the “shield”, allow for those paying their respects to also donate to the upkeep of the Memorial and have their name engraved on the stones.  Wrought-iron benches provide seating for those visiting the Memorial and intricate lighting highlights the entire setting.

Why does Sua Sponte Foundation support and maintain the memorial at Hunter Army Airfield?

The 1st Ranger Battalion, a unit in the Special Operations Command, is at the tip of the spear of our nation’s defense. The men who serve are extraordinary men of strength, courage, and bravery. As special as every Ranger is, equally extraordinary are their spouses and their families. The 1/75 Ranger Memorial represents an enduring recognition for the sacrifice of those Rangers who have given their lives for our nation’s freedoms.

 

Donations

How do I donate money to the Sua Sponte Foundation?

In order to make an online donation, please visit our Donate Page. Donations in the form of a check can also be mailed to:

The 1st Ranger Battalion Sua Sponte Foundation
PO BOX 60281
Savannah, GA, 31420

Please be sure to include a return mailing address and/or a valid email address in order to receive a receipt for taxation or other record-keeping purposes.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The Sua Sponte Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, so your donation is tax-deductible as a charitable contribution to the extent allowed by law. In order to qualify for deduction, donors will need to save their donation receipt. The Sua Sponte Foundation makes no guarantee and is not responsible for undocumented or altered claims inconsistent with our records.

What is The Sua Sponte Foundation’s Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Tax ID number?

The Sua Sponte Foundation’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) and tax ID number is #27-4386692

What percentage of my donation goes directly toward programming?

The Sua Sponte Foundation strives to ensure approximately 98 percent of donations are allocated directly to its mission.  Because none of the Board Members are paid administrative costs are extremely low. The normal fees for legal work and accounting are typically a large portion of charities’ expenses. The Foundation is fortunate its General Counsel donates time and expertise at no cost and the CPA does all work at a deep discount. In addition, the Board makes every effort to keep its administrative and fundraising costs low.

While many supporters that donate their time and expertise at no cost, the Foundation occasionally incurs one-time expenses such as new web site development, the reprinting of marketing materials and payment processing. These are customary to any charity or company. As well, the Sua Sponte Foundation is audited by a third party to ensure every effort is made to keep expenses low and provide transparency to our donors.

What forms of payment does the Sua Sponte Foundation accept?

The Foundation accepts monetary contributions in the form of check, all major credit cards, PayPal or money order. Stock donations are also accepted. If you make a stock donation, you must notify The Sua Sponte Foundation so that we can prepare a receipt for your contribution. To find out more about making a stock donation, please Contact Us and a Board Member will get back to you within 24 hours.

Will I receive a receipt for my donation?

You will receive an email receipt as acknowledgment for your donation.

Can I make a donation in honor or in memory of a loved one?

Donations made in honor of a loved one are always welcome. If you wish to make a memorial or honorary donation online, please follow the directions on the donation page. If you wish to mail in your memorial or honorary donation, please be sure to download and fill out a donation form to include with your check or credit card information.

If posting our address for an obituary requesting donations be sent to The Sua Sponte Foundation in lieu of flowers, please use the following contact information:

Sua Sponte Foundation
PO Box 60281
Savannah, Georgia 31720

How can I make a monthly gift to the Sua Sponte Foundation?

Recurring monthly contributions are a blessing to our organization and the Rangers and families of the 1/75. To make a reoccurring donation, follow the prompts on the donation page (link to donation page). By selecting this option, an automatic contribution will be made on the same day each month for the period of time you enter. If something comes up and you need to make a change to your monthly donation, please feel free to contact us at any time.

Do you participate in a matching gifts program?

Absolutely, we accept matching gifts. Matching gifts are any easy way to double the dollars you donate to support The Sua Sponte Foundation. Many people don’t realize their employers will match gifts made to our organization. In many cases, you can double your donation just by filling out a simple form. Please check with your employer to see if they match employee contributions.

Can I donate my car, home, or other real property?

We do not currently accept donations in the form of personal property. Donations of this variety can potentially raise significant practical and legal problems. If you have questions regarding a potential contribution, please contact us directly.

Can I make a restricted gift to The Sua Sponte Foundation?

The Sua Sponte Foundation does not accept restricted gifts at this time.

 

Event Sponsorships

Can I host a fundraising event to support the Sua Sponte Foundation and the Rangers of the 1/75?

Yes!  The Board is happy to work with you to set up your own fundraising event and to ensure the Sua Sponte Foundation brand is presented prominently and accurately. Please contact us directly to get started.

Can I create a personalized donation page?

The best way to get the word out is through the use of social media, email and websites. Through the Sua Sponte Events page, we are able to announce and promote your fundraiser and your efforts.  It will also include a hyperlink to your personalized page so your supporters will be able to donate online directly to your event.  Additionally, we will promote your fundraising event through the Sua Sponte Foundation Facebook page.

Who should I approach if I need sponsors for my fundraising event?

Many supporters have had success asking local companies and the local branches of larger companies for support. These are generally companies that you know or visit frequently. Think about what local companies, restaurants, etc. would benefit from getting their name out in support of a philanthropic effort. Look at companies that tie in with your event. For example, if you are doing a Triathlon, make calls to the local bike shops, running stores and swim centers. If possible, go up the ladder. Try to have them leverage their distributors or the national companies behind the gear they sell for cash and give away donations. Also, look to local restaurants to donate catering services to your event.

Can the Sua Sponte Foundation issue a receipt for my event sponsors?

The Foundation cannot issue tax receipts for your event sponsors, nor can it accept sponsor funds and funnel those funds back to the event organizer.

Can the Sua Sponte Foundation issue a receipt for donated goods or services to my fundraiser?

The Sua Sponte Foundation cannot issue tax receipts for the value of an individual’s time, goods or services donated to your fundraising event, as these items are not deductible under federal tax law and therefore are not eligible for a tax receipt. Only checks and monetary donations directly to the Sua Sponte Foundation are acknowledged.

Can I accept donations and then write the Sua Sponte Foundation one check from my personal account?

No, you should not use this method. If you deposit donations into your account, the IRS will consider that deposit income in your account and tax you on it. Also, because the check is from your account, we will not be able to issue your donors tax receipts for their gifts.

How should I handle cash donations?

It is never safe to mail cash. Have cash donors (or yourself) fill out a cash donation form with the donor’s contact information and donation amount. Transfer the cash into a cashier’s check and mail both the cashier’s check and the cash donation form to the Sua Sponte Foundation.

Can I receive Sua Sponte Foundation promotional materials for my fundraising event?

Upon request, the Sua Sponte Foundation can provide brochures or donation forms. To request these materials, please contact us.

Can the Sua Sponte Foundation help promote my event in the media?

While the Foundation cannot directly promote your event in the media, it can assist you with a press release to help you with pitching various media outlets including radio and television stations, newspapers and online news outlets.  Please be sure to share the final draft of your press release with us before it is issued to ensure approval with the Sua Sponte Foundation Board.

Does the Sua Sponte Foundation offer a vehicle to highlight our fundraising efforts post event?

Event hosts, sponsors, attendees and donors can relive your personalized fundraising event through the Sua Sponte Foundation Event Gallery.   Simply send us captioned photos, along with your event name and date, and the will be posted in the gallery.  Viewing post event photos on the Sua Sponte Foundation Event Gallery also provides an opportunity for additional fundraising for the Rangers of the 1/75 through direct donations and purchases in our online store.

 

SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Transitional Services
Medical and Bereavement Assistance
Memorial Grounds
Morale and Cohesiveness
Tuition Assisstance
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FOR RANGERS AND THEIR FAMILIES
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