Our Programs & Community Impact
Learn how The Sunshine Gang supports veterans, nursing homes, homeless neighbors, and local animals through volunteer efforts and donations.
Helping Hands Helping Others.
Honoring and Supporting Veterans
The Sunshine Gang is committed to showing local veterans that their service and sacrifice are never forgotten. Through a combination of funding, volunteer support, and heartfelt gestures, we aim to lift spirits, provide comfort, and celebrate the heroes in our community.
Honor Flights for Veterans
We help raise funds to send local veterans on Honor Flights — free, all-expenses-paid trips to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials that honor their service. These trips give veterans the opportunity to be recognized for their sacrifices and connect with fellow service members in a meaningful and unforgettable way. The Sunshine Gang proudly welcomes these heroes home at John Glenn Airport, celebrating their return and showing our gratitude in person.
Mail Call Letters
Each year, our volunteers write over 900 letters to veterans participating in Honor Flights. Known as “Mail Call,” this initiative shares gratitude, encouragement, and personal messages of thanks, letting each veteran know how much they are appreciated and remembered.
Click here to learn how you can write a letter to a veteran.
Chillicothe VA Medical Center Support
We also provide ongoing support to veterans at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, fulfilling Wish List items and supplying extra clothing and necessities. These efforts help ensure residents feel cared for, respected, and valued in their daily lives.
Bringing Joy to Nursing Home Residents
The Sunshine Gang spreads holiday cheer by adopting six area nursing homes at Christmas and Easter. Every resident receives a handmade gift — from crocheted blankets and knitted scarves to colorful hats and sewn keepsakes — each created to bring comfort, warmth, and a smile.
Gifts Made with Love
Volunteers contribute their time, skills, and creativity to make each item special. Their dedication turns simple materials into meaningful gifts that brighten residents’ days and remind them they are remembered and valued.
Tracker, the Sunshine Dog
Adding extra smiles to each visit, our yellow lab service dog, Tracker, accompanies volunteers to the nursing homes. Tracker’s friendly presence brings joy, comfort, and laughter, making each holiday visit even more memorable.
Supporting the Homeless
The Sunshine Gang partners with Jordan’s Crossing in Columbus to help neighbors experiencing homelessness. Volunteers provide sandwiches, clothing, and other essentials, ensuring that basic needs are met and that each person feels cared for. Through these efforts, we aim to bring comfort, warmth, and a reminder that someone is thinking of them.
Growing for Our Heroes
At the Grove City M.A.S.H. Veterans Honor Garden, our volunteers cultivate fresh produce to support veterans, first responders, and their families. Located at 5263 Harrisburg Pike, this garden features nearly 50 raised beds filled with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The harvested produce is shared with those who have served our community, providing them with nutritious food.
Helping Local Animal Shelters
The Sunshine Gang supports area animal shelters by donating blankets, towels, toys, and other items that bring comfort and care to animals waiting for their forever homes. Our volunteers also collect and deliver donated items throughout the year to meet each shelter’s needs. Learn more about what you can donate on our Give Supplies page.
Be Part of the Sunshine!
Every act of kindness makes a difference. Visit our Volunteer page or contact The Sunshine Gang at (000) 000-000 or [email address] to see how you can help.