GRAIN VALLEY, MO — The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) will officially launch its 20th annual Truckers for Troops campaign, Nov. 9-15.
“Truckers and military service members share the same core values of sacrifice, resilience and an unwavering commitment to this country,” said Todd Spencer, OOIDA president. “With nearly 40 percent of our membership having worn the uniform, Truckers for Troops is one of the most meaningful traditions we have at OOIDA. When our drivers pull together during Veterans Day week, every dollar sends a clear message to our troops and veterans that they are not forgotten.”
According to OOIDA, America’s truck drivers keep the country moving the week of Veterans Day, they are once again rolling out critical support for those who protect it.
Truckers for Troops
What began in 2007 as a grassroots effort to send care packages to personnel stationed in combat zones has grown into a powerful national lifeline. Today, Truckers for Troops continues its overseas mission while directly aiding stateside veterans facilities that shelter and assist wounded, disabled, and homeless service members.
Impact by the Numbers (2007–Present)
- $800,000+ raised by drivers and supporters.
- 3,369+ care packages shipped.
- 39,500+ service members supported worldwide.
- 65 veteran care facilities supplied with critical aid.
Among the key partners supported is the Veterans Community Project (VCP), an organization founded to eradicate veteran homelessness. Originally launched in Kansas City, VCP is actively building specialized transitional villages across the country. In addition to active sites in Sioux Falls, S.D.; Longmont, Colo.; and St. Louis, Mo., expansions are underway in Oklahoma City, Okla.; Milwaukee, Wis. and Glendale, Ariz.
How to Get Involved
During the one-week drive, drivers can join OOIDA or renew an annual membership for a discounted rate of $35.
- The OOIDA Match: 10% of every membership fee goes directly to the troops fund. OOIDA matches that 10% dollar for dollar, doubling every contribution.
- Direct Donations: 100% tax-deductible donations can be made directly to the fund through the OOIDA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity.
Three Ways to Participate:
- By Phone: Call 816-229-5791 during business hours, mention Truckers for Troops, and connect directly with Membership.
Online: Visit ooida.com anytime to join, renew or donate. - By Mail: Send checks payable to the OOIDA Foundation (for tax-deductible gifts) or OOIDA (for membership dues). Note “TROOPS” along with “Dues & Donation” or “Donation Only” on the memo line.
- Request a Care Package for a Service Member: OOIDA is actively collecting names and deployment addresses for care package distribution. Anyone with a family member or friend currently serving in the U.S. military who would like them to receive a care package can send the recipient’s full name, complete military mailing address and projected stateside return date to [email protected].
For full campaign details, stories of impact, or to donate online, visit the official Truckers for Troops webpage.
Additional background video on the history of the Truckers for Troops campaign is available here.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe.
