Craig Newmark delivering a briefing on “Craig Newmark and the Craiglist Foundation” (Photo: U.S. State Department)
Craig Newmark, the founder of Craigslist and now a philanthropist and Veterans advocate, has pledged to donate $100 million to organizations dedicated to supporting Veterans and military families.
Newmark, who has no personal connection to the military, says he feels a deep sense of gratitude towards those who risk their lives to protect others. He believes that we owe a debt of gratitude to Veterans and their families for their sacrifices.
Over the past eight years, Newmark has focused on charity work by launching the Craig Newmark Philanthropies to distribute his personal wealth. The recent $100 million pledge is a continuation of his efforts to support Veterans. Some of the funds have already been donated, with $10 million going to both Blue Star Families and the Bob Woodruff Foundation. The remaining funds will be awarded over the next three years.
Newmark’s goal in making this sizable donation is not only to provide financial support to organizations focused on Veterans and military families but also to bring attention to the issues faced by these communities. He hopes to inspire others, including individuals in the tech industry and the wealthy, to contribute their resources to help address the challenges Veterans and their families encounter.
The funds will be directed towards addressing pressing issues such as mental health problems, food insecurity, employment challenges, and loneliness among Veterans and military families. The impact of the donation is expected to be significant, with organizations like Blue Star Families expecting their operating budgets to nearly double. This infusion of funds will enable them to expand their research and outreach efforts, connecting spouses and supporting Military Families in a transformative way.
Newmark’s involvement in these organizations is primarily as a listener and supporter, allowing advocates and experts in the field to take the lead, while he uses his influence to raise awareness and mobilize others to support Veterans and military families. He believes that most Americans support helping military members and their families but may not know how to do so effectively. Newmark hopes to amplify the voices of those who serve and their families, advocating for their needs and driving positive change. By making this substantial donation, Newmark hopes to inspire others to contribute and raise awareness about the needs of Veterans and Military Families.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
