About 7 Days for the Troops

7 Days for the Troops has proudly served veteran communities for over 15 years and is dedicated to assisting disabled veterans with unmet needs. Founded by Scott Burns, a Marine Corps veteran, our organization was born from a deep commitment to giving back to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: to support disabled veterans by addressing the gaps in care and resources that often go unmet. We deeply understand the unique challenges that these brave men and women face, and we are here to ensure that their needs are not overlooked. Whether it’s through providing essential equipment, financial assistance, or simply a helping hand, 7 Days for the Troops is devoted to making a tangible difference in the lives of our nation’s heroes.

For over a decade and a half, we have organized and hosted various fundraising events, community outreach programs, and veteran support initiatives nationwide. Our work is fueled by the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community members who share our passion for honoring and supporting those who have served.

At 7 Days for the Troops, we firmly believe that no veteran should ever feel forgotten or unsupported. We are unwaveringly committed to ensuring that every disabled veteran we encounter has access to the resources and assistance they need to live a fulfilling life, despite the challenges they may face. Our organization is more than just a charity; it’s a community of people who are united by a common goal: to serve those who have served us.

As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we remain focused on assisting disabled veterans with unmet needs. We are inspired daily by the resilience and strength of the veterans we serve and are honored to be a part of their journey.

About 7 days for the toop

How It All Started

7 Days for the Troops began as a grassroots fundraising event in 2006, fueled by a profound duty to give back to those who have served our country. What started as a single event has since grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that assists disabled veterans with unmet needs. Over the first 16 years, 7 Days for the Troops events raised approximately $250,000, benefiting veterans’ organizations like Purple Heart Homes and Warrior Bonfire.

The inaugural event occurred in Tupelo, Mississippi, where the organization is still headquartered today. Founded by Scott Burns, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and amputee, the event was born out of Scott’s desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of his fellow veterans. Despite his physical challenges, Scott’s unwavering commitment to serving others led him to create a platform that would unite communities to support those who have given so much.

The concept was simple yet impactful: Scott would camp out in a visible location for seven days and seven nights to raise awareness and funds for disabled veterans. These events became more than just fundraisers—they evolved into community gatherings filled with music, raffles, worship services, and other activities that drew people together for a common cause. The sight of a Marine veteran camping out, rain or shine, inspired many to contribute to and support the mission.

As the organization grew, so did its reach. 7 Days for the Troops events have been held in Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. Each event carries the same spirit of community and service, with Scott’s personal story and commitment at the heart of it all.

Now, as a fully established nonprofit organization, 7 Days for the Troops continues to expand its mission. Beyond working with established partners, the organization is taking on special projects specifically designed to address the unmet needs of disabled veterans. One of the first major initiatives as a nonprofit is to raise funds to purchase Track Chairs—specialized mobility devices that enable disabled veterans to participate in outdoor activities, offering them a new level of freedom and independence.

The journey from a single fundraising event to a recognized nonprofit has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to veterans. As 7 Days for the Troops looks to the future, the organization remains steadfast in ensuring that no disabled veteran is left without the support and resources they need.

What is a Nonprofit Organization?

A nonprofit organization is an entity that operates for a purpose other than making a profit for its owners or shareholders. Instead, it focuses on furthering a social cause or providing a public benefit. Nonprofits can take many forms, such as charitable organizations, foundations, social advocacy groups, and service organizations. The primary goal of a nonprofit is to serve the community or a specific group of people rather than generating revenue for personal gain.
Nonprofit organizations typically rely on donations, grants, and fundraising efforts to support their operations and achieve their mission. The government usually grants them tax-exempt status, meaning they are not required to pay income tax on the money they raise. This status allows nonprofits to allocate more resources toward their programs and services, thereby maximizing their impact on the community or cause they serve.

Relevance of Nonprofit Status to 7 Days for the Troops

7 Days for the Troops exemplifies the purpose and significance of a nonprofit organization. By operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, 7 Days for the Troops can focus entirely on its mission of assisting disabled veterans with unmet needs without the pressure of generating profits for shareholders or owners. This status allows the organization to channel all of its resources and efforts into making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country.
As a nonprofit, 7 Days for the Troops benefits from tax-exempt status, enabling it to maximize the impact of every dollar raised. This means that more funds collected through donations, grants, and fundraising events can be directly applied to initiatives like purchasing Track Chairs for disabled veterans, supporting veteran-focused organizations, and addressing other critical needs within the veteran community.
Furthermore, being a nonprofit enhances the organization’s credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of donors, volunteers, and the broader community. People are more likely to contribute to an organization that is transparent about its mission and finances and that they know is dedicated to serving a higher purpose.
The nonprofit structure also facilitates partnerships with other charitable organizations, government agencies, and corporate sponsors, which can amplify 7 Days for the Troops’ reach and effectiveness. These collaborations are crucial for tackling the complex and ongoing challenges that disabled veterans face.
In summary, 7 Days for the Troops’s nonprofit status is integral to its ability to fulfill its mission. It ensures that the organization remains focused on serving disabled veterans, provides financial and operational advantages, and strengthens its ability to garner support from the community.

Interested in Donating to 7 Days For The Troops?

Your generosity can profoundly impact the lives of disabled veterans who have bravely served our nation. 7 Days for the Troops is dedicated to addressing the unmet needs of these heroes, providing them with essential resources and support that can help them regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
When you donate to 7 Days for the Troops, you contribute to a cause that benefits those who sacrificed so much for our freedom. Your donation helps fund vital initiatives such as purchasing specialized equipment like Track Chairs, supporting veteran-focused programs, and offering assistance to those facing physical and emotional challenges.
We believe that every veteran deserves to be honored and supported, and with your help, we can make that a reality. Whether it’s a one-time contribution or a recurring gift, every donation is a step toward ensuring these courageous men and women receive the care and recognition they deserve.
If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of our nation’s veterans, we invite you to join us in our mission. Click the button below to donate, and together, let’s continue to serve those who have served us.
Make a difference today—donate to 7 Days for the Troops and participate in our ongoing efforts to support America’s heroes.