Chapters Health Foundation's Valor Volunteers go well above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrating their deep respect and compassion for those who served on behalf of our country and citizens. These volunteers provide specific care to veterans and first responders in Citrus, Hernando, and Pasco counties. These individuals understand on a personal level the contributions that veterans and first responders make to their communities, with 10 of the 14 volunteers being vets and one a retired law enforcement officer. Ultimately, Valor Volunteers put in over 2,500 volunteer hours each year, ensuring our nation's heroes are provided quality end of life care. Valor Volunteers also work with homeless veterans, tirelessly providing outreach for those who need support.
The grant tonight will directly support the Chapters Health Valor Program for Military Veterans and First Responders. The Valor Program provides comprehensive healthcare solutions and related services to patients and families by acknowledging, identifying, and proactively responding to the unique needs of veterans, first responders, and their caregivers. Chapters Health provides a variety of services, including honor walks, community education and events, bereavement counseling for veterans, first responders, and their families, and Honor Flight participation.
Chapters Health Foundation became the 474th Lightning Community Hero since Jeff and Penny Vinik introduced the Lightning Community Hero program in 2011-12 with a $10 million, five-season commitment to the Tampa Bay community. Through tonight's game, in total, the Lightning Foundation has granted $24.8 million to more than 600 unique nonprofits in the Greater Tampa Bay area. During the summer of 2021, the Viniks announced that the community hero program will give away another $10 million over the next five seasons.
