BOOT CAMPAIGN

SERVING THOSE WHO SERVED US

In the heart of America, where patriotism runs deep and honor holds steadfast, there exists a movement that speaks volumes with every stride taken. The Boot Campaign, founded with a spirit of gratitude and a mission to support our nation’s veterans, has become a beacon of hope and resilience.

It started with boots. Not just any boots—military combat boots. In 2009, five women from Texas looked at these boots and saw more than footwear. They saw a symbol, a statement, and most importantly, an opportunity to make a difference.

Their idea was brilliantly simple: step into the boots of our heroes. What began as five pairs of laced-up combat boots has marched forward into Boot Campaign, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that's changing lives through personalized programs addressing the hidden wounds of war.

Shelly Kirkland, CEO of Boot Campaign, reflects on the organization's humble beginnings: "Boot Campaign began when five Texas women wanted to outwardly express their gratitude for active duty service members, Veterans, and their families by lacing up one of the most visible signs of military service — combat boots!" Kirkland's leadership and passion for the cause have been instrumental in shaping the organization's growth. Today, Boot Campaign’s mission is to provide comprehensive, individualized care to Veterans and military families, addressing the root causes of hidden wounds of war.

Reflecting on the evolution of Boot Campaign, Kirkland shares, "What began as a fun, patriotic photo opportunity quickly gained traction and has led to the growth and mission we have today. We’re most proud of the impact we’ve made on the Veteran and military families we serve as well as continuing to maintain the foundational pillars on which Boot Campaign was created."

These pillars—financial transparency, individualized attention, and adaptability—have been central to the organization’s continued success. "On average, 87 cents of every dollar donated to Boot Campaign goes directly to our mission-driven programs," Kirkland proudly states.

The Health & Wellness Program and Seasons of Service Program are the core of Boot Campaign's offerings. These programs focus on providing personalized care for Veterans and their families to address service-connected health challenges, including PTSD, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, and more. Kirkland explains, "Our Health & Wellness Program provides treatment to Veterans and their families to mitigate numerous health challenges Veterans face, such as heightened stress, debilitating anxiety, chronic pain, depression, reduced cognitive function, fatigue, and burnout."

Through these initiatives, Boot Campaign has built a reputation for delivering holistic and highly personalized care to those in need. As Kirkland notes, "We want Veterans and military families to know and never forget these two words: YOU MATTER."

One individual deeply impacted by Boot Campaign’s work is Retired U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Lucas, who serves as a Veteran Ambassador for the organization. Lucas’s story highlights the transformative effect of Boot Campaign’s Health and Wellness Program. After a distinguished 30-year career in the Marine Corps, including serving as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, Lucas faced difficulties adjusting to civilian life after his retirement. He reflects, "I felt isolated and built a wall by lashing out at my family and friends for no real reason. All of the compartmentalized traumatic events were coming to the surface quickly and in a very negative way. I used alcohol to numb and forget those thoughts."

It was only with the support of his wife and Boot Campaign that Lucas was able to start his healing journey. “Boot Campaign’s Health and Wellness Program was in the back of my mind, but my ego blinded me. If it weren’t for my wife, the darkness would have consumed me and I would not be here today."

Lucas's experience is a powerful testament to the personalized approach Boot Campaign takes to supporting Veterans. He emphasizes, "There is no cookie-cutter approach to mental and physical health. The care and treatment have to be different for each of us."

As Boot Campaign grows, Kirkland is focused on ensuring that its services meet the evolving needs of the military and Veteran communities. "As our mission continues to resonate with new patriots each year, we hope to continue to meet the growing need for the programs we provide thanks to our network of supporters coast to coast."

Kirkland’s vision for the future is clear: to expand Boot Campaign’s reach and ensure that more Veterans and military families receive the care and support they deserve. She expresses, "Freedom is not a concept. It’s a commitment. And for the brave men and women who are serving and have served our great country, their commitment is clear for all to see. Yet, for the rest of us—how committed are we to them?"

Boot Campaign’s mission is more than just a call to thank Veterans for their service; it’s a call to action. Kirkland challenges all Americans, saying, “We want Americans to lace up, show gratitude, and also give back.” Through programs like Health & Wellness and Seasons of Service, Boot Campaign ensures that Veterans and military families are not only supported but celebrated for their sacrifices.

Lucas echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community involvement: "Boot Campaign changed my life. It helped me heal my mind, my body, and my soul through their individualized, holistic approach to health. FOREVER FORWARD!”

At Boot Campaign, honoring service isn't just a gesture. It's a promise that no Veteran will ever walk alone.