April Events

Observe: April is the Month of the Military Child (MOMC). The life of a military kid is a blend of unique adventures and challenges. It’s important to keep in mind that they serve our country too, as part of a military family… not just in April, but all year long. Celebrate the challenges and triumphs of our military-connected children. These amazing kids selflessly sacrifice for our country and are brave, proud, and strong.

Observe: Gold Star Spouses Day is a solemn but important day of remembrance and recognition observed on April 5 each year. It is a day dedicated to honoring the spouses of military members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Get Involved: Tennis and Pickleball Tournaments including silent auction, raffle, wine pull and 50/50. Tennis & Pickleball start 8 am and run all day. All proceeds to benefit Tunnel to Towers Foundation. On Sept. 11, 2001, FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller strapped his gear to his back and raced on foot through the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel to the World Trade Center Site after he received word of an attack. There, he gave up his life while saving others. 

Observe: The Air Force Reserve was officially established on April 14, 1948, by President Harry S. Truman, seven months after the Air Force was established as a separate service. The Reserve’s lineage, however, dates back more than 100 years to when Reserve air power was established in the National Defense Act of 1916.

Get Involved: Join the Woody Williams Foundation, in partnership with the Nashville Sounds Baseball Club, is excited to present Gold Star Family Day at the Ballpark. This Outreach event was developed by the Woody Williams Foundation to host Gold Star Family members for baseball, food, community, peer support, and great fun! Families in attendance will enjoy watching the Nashville Sounds (AAA team of the Milwaukee Brewers) as they battle the Memphis Redbirds (AAA team of the St. Louis Cardinals).  A meal will be provided to all families. As a part of this special day, Gold Star Family members will be throwing out the first pitch. 

Observe: Formed April 23, 1908 as the Medical Reserve Corps, today’s U.S. Army Reserve has evolved into a global operational reserve force, engaged to support America’s active duty forces.

Get Involved: The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System hosts an annual baby shower for new and expectant Veteran mothers as a way to show appreciation for their service and support them as they embark on motherhood, according to the VA. The event, which is a continuation of a tradition that began in 2018, includes gifts like portable cribs, diaper bags, car seats, and baby clothes. This event is open to Veterans receiving maternity care through Bay Pines VA and their families. The baby shower is a collaborative effort between the Bay Pines VA Women Veterans Program, community volunteers, and donors. The event provides a supportive and welcoming environment for the mothers and families, with family-friendly activities and resources. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the C.W.Y. VA Medical Center Campus, Veterans Courtyard. 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., Bay Pines, FL 33744.  Email John Rummel  at john.p.rummel.iv@gmail.com for more information. 

Get Involved: This event reinforces our joint community of care for Veterans, and we are proud to offer various resources that will aid unhoused and at-risk Veterans who are on their road to recovery. We are joining Bay Pines VA Staff, fellow Veteran Service Organizations and volunteers from across the area to offer multiple forms of assistance to include: medical care, toiletries, clothing items, meals, benefits and housing information, employment assistance, veterinarian services, and DMV services. Veterans will also be able to receive assistance through the Stand Down Court, which provides opportunities for Veterans to speak with various legal experts from Pinellas County to address outstanding legal issues.

Get Involved: Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF) provides comprehensive “Cradle to Career” educational funding and advocacy for the children of fallen Special Operators, children of deceased SOF spouses.  This event is a Gala dinner for Special Operations Warrior Foundation (No Fundraising at this event.)

Get Involved: The Patriot Fund’s mission is to provide funding for the critical services Veterans deserve to ensure their lifelong needs are sustained. We fully vet and only support Best In Class partners who impact the lives of Veterans – TODAY. We recognize that the transition from military service to civilian life presents significant challenges for America’s Veterans. From mental health struggles to reintegration barriers, these obstacles can prevent our heroes from living the fulfilling lives they deserve. That’s why our mission goes beyond just providing funding; we build strategic partnerships with best-in-class nonprofit organizations that directly address the most pressing issues Veterans and their families face. We focus our funding efforts on five critical areas to ensure Veterans receive comprehensive, life-changing support: Mental Health and Wellness; 2) Disability Support and Adaptive Services; 3) Comprehensive Support for Basic Needs; 4) Reintegration & Civilian Transition; and 5) Military-Connected Families, Children & Youth.

Get Involved:  You are invited to the annual Robert Irvine Foundation Military Heroes golf event. The event is designed to provide our sponsors, veterans and wounded heroes with a unique experience honoring those who wear the cloth of our nation. Programming includes a foursome scramble golf tournament, on-course activities and stations, a chef-driven barbeque luncheon, and meet & greet with Chef Robert Irvine. As Robert reminds us, Nothing is Impossible – Let’s make a difference together!