1 person found this review helpful
HUGS PROJECT INCORPORATED
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May 7, 2013
1 person found this review helpful
This is the best organization that I have worked with because the volunteers are so dedicated towards their cause. I don't think any money goes to "administrative costs" because all the volunteers reach deep into their pockets to pay for their high costs. The military are experiencing reduced supplies and they really deserve so very much. I pray for the service members who are so appreciative of their Hugs boxes and I hope they return safe. I am very grateful to the Hugs group for what they do.
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Was your donation impactful?
Definitely
How likely is it that you would recommend that a friend donate to this group?
Definitely
How likely are you to donate to this group again?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2013
May 6, 2013
I have been associated with the Hugs Project early on, since I don't know when exactly. I can't even remember where we met, it wasn't at the current Crossroads Mall though. I've volunteered time, money and talent since I first answered a newspaper article at its early beginnings. You see I did not know anyone in the military, but after reading the article I was so moved to do something for the troops, might have been Desert Storm. I haven't been as active as in the beginning because of raising my granddaughter, but have become more so because my granddaughter, age 7, can help as well. The 2012 Christmas campaign was memorable for her because she colored and wrote messages on the care packages. She even got a glimpse of her artwork when the local television station aired the event. She is always asking to go to the Hugs Project so she can help. Karen and Ray work Hugs Project 24 hours a day with only admiration, respect and love from the troops and members as payment for service.
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Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
May 6, 2013
AFTER A HARD DAY OF WORK I GET A UNKNOW CARE PACKAGE FROM THIS LOVING GROUP OF AMERICAN HEROS, THE HUGS PROJECT. I DID NOT ASK FOR ANYTHING OR KNOW THEM BUT THEY SENT ME GOOD STUFF I DID NEED AND SOME OF MY FELLOW DEVIL DOGS. THIS LOVING GROUP OF OKIES REALLY KNOWS HOW TO MAKE A GREATFUL NATION PROUD TO SERVE A GIVING GOD TO SOME MANY WITH NOTHING AND HERE I STAND GIVING IT BACK WITH MY FELLOW AMERICANS AND YES THE BAD GUYS. AND THE LOOK ON THEIR FACE, AS IF THEY THINK WE WERE GOING TO DO BAD THINGS TO THEM AFTER WE CATCH THEM. LORD CONTINUE TO BEST OUR COUNTRY AND THIS LOVING GROUP OF AMERICANS THE HUGS PROJECT. AMERICA BLESS GOD! SSGT TED KREY SEMPERFI
More feedback...
How would you describe the help you got from this organization?
A lot
How likely are you to recommend this organization to a friend?
Definitely
How do you feel you were treated by this organization?
Very Well
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
April 9, 2013
Good afternoon!
Hello!
I received your care package this afternoon and wanted to make sure you received my "Thank you!" It was a very welcomed surprise. We don't get very much mail where we are and this made my day. I especially love the 550 paracord bracelet. We hope to get more of these for the members of my command so don't worry, they definitely let us wear them.
I am currently stationed in Afghanistan. We play board games or read, when we are not on missions. Missions take up most of my time.
Keeping you guys safe at home isn't easy, but I am proud to do it for you. Packages like this from home make me know that you appreciate what we do out here.
Coming from a small town in Maine I really appreciate the support from all of you.
Thank you......everyone.......who helped put this together.
v/r,
Donnie
More feedback...
How would you describe the help you got from this organization?
Life-changing
How likely are you to recommend this organization to a friend?
Definitely
How do you feel you were treated by this organization?
Very Well
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2013
October 28, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
The best thing that can happen to a troop is to receive love and support from the American public. The Hugs Project goes above and beyond to send us that kind of love. They let us know they care about us and that they realize where their freedoms come from. We receive a lot of letters and they were passed around so that they brought a lot of smiles to many, many faces. Thanks, Hugs Project.
More feedback...
How would you describe the help you got from this organization?
Life-changing
How likely are you to recommend this organization to a friend?
Definitely
How do you feel you were treated by this organization?
Very Well
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
October 25, 2011
2 people found this review helpful
We got boxes while we were overseas. The care packages and letters of support make a big difference in our morale. It's good to know someone cares.
More feedback...
How would you describe the help you got from this organization?
Life-changing
How likely are you to recommend this organization to a friend?
Definitely
How do you feel you were treated by this organization?
Very Well
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
1 person found this review helpful
April 9, 2013
1 person found this review helpful
Been a member for about 4 years, even though it is a sweet long distance relationship. At 2:00 AM on Friday Dec. 8th 2012 I was instant messaging with Karen at HUGS in OKC, me in Houston, TX. She said they were sweating bullets packing the planned 5000 care packages out by Dec. 12th. Went to check the mileage, about 400plus. By noon Friday the 9th a friend and I were on our way up there in my RV I had just gotten. I didn't even know how to turn the furnace on in it and that was the 19 degree nights. We got in late Sat and met the bunch on Sunday and volunteered almost everyday until we had to drive back to Houston on Dec. 12th so we missed postal pickup. Most rewarding experience I have ever been a part of. Amazing young and old packing those packages. They wore me out, best tired I have ever had.
Dorinda McKenzie, Houston Texas
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
A lot
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
February 7, 2013
heY! there i will like to volunteer to help u guys for what i can help if i can't i will not be myself and it is so cool to work with u guys up so greeting to u guys without hope without life without goal without love without things without husband or wife without home without races without friends without show with bad one without fun without life without camping without movies without video games without cars without food without clothes with money without guns without war without fish without dogs without water that all i can things of the life without anythings inside ur or my life without life will become the mostly things in the world so i will try my best best best best best best best for u guys all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):):
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Quite well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Likely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2001
November 30, 2012
1 person found this review helpful
If you have read any of the posted reviews, you already know what the HUGs Project is and what they do for the US Military. I have been a "Career Volunteer" my whole life, and this is the one organization that has done/will continue to do, the most good for the most people that I have ever worked with. Non-military sometimes have a hard time understanding the career choice of men and women who have taken on the job of protecting their country. The HUGs Project champions these military members with unquestioning support year round...not just during the holidays (which is when they send out 5,000 packages!) but every day. Each week, 50-75 CARE packages are mailed to troops in all services who are serving in harm's way. This non-profit group is run by an amazing couple that are tireless in their dedication to the cause, with the promise, "As long as they are fighting for our freedom, we'll work to support them." This is a remarkable group that I am proud to be a part of.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
February 8, 2011
1 person found this review helpful
The Hugs Project in Oklahoma City has made a difference in so many lives. After 23 years of duty in the Air Force, my husband and I settled down in OKC to raise our children. Our son is now an active duty Air Force helicopter pilot. During his year in Afghanistan, I became acquainted with Karen and Ray Stark and started volunteering with THP . They started and have kept the HUGS program running from their Edmond home and the Crossroads Mall storefront location. Volunteers from all around the area meet Wednesday, Thursday, or Saturday's to make hand sewn items (the HUGS that go around the neck to be wet and help cool the body), take large quantities of goods and make smaller baggies of the items (beef jerky, candy, gum, hygiene items, etc.), write encouraging notes to the Troops, and fill CARE boxes. Usually about 30-50 boxes go out every week to Troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. Over 4,000 boxes were sent overseas in December, full of Christmas candy, mugs of hot chocolate mix, knitted hats, socks, homemade goodies, granola bars, Twinkies, wrapped presents, books, toys for local children, ornaments, and as much love as could be packed into them. The letters expressing thanks from the Troops who received these boxes can break your heart. Being supported by total strangers gives them a lift in spirit, hope that they are appreciated, and a touch of home in a very scary place. This volunteer organization touches the lives of the Troops, the lives of children and locals they come in contact with, and it touches the hearts of all the volunteers from various walks of life who come to work here throughout the week. The Hugs Project is an amazing, totally non-profit organization, that does a huge amount of good for all who work there and for all who receive the boxes that are sent. Every box that goes out from THP, goes with the love of those supporting our Troops in harm's way.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
The results of this organization can be felt by the volunteers working to send hope and support to our Troops in harm's way. My son was in Afghanistan for a year and received several CARE packages from THP. The letters of response from military members who received these packages are heat-rending. They are so greatful for the unsolicited love and support of their mission, both physically and mentally.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
If I could change anything in this organization, it would be to provide a public relations person to help with fund raising. Karen and Ray Stark, the organizers, are run ragged looking for support. Non-profits are all trying for the same funds, a limited amount, and many hands out.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
Nothing...Karen and Ray work as hard, or harder, than any of the volunteers, setting an example that is hard to beat. Our location is central and acceptable, the other volunteers are remarkable people, and the work we do is beyond helpful, it is life-changing...for the supporters and the Troops that receive the CARE packages.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
The folks that volunteer at THP are all of the same heart. Supporting the Troops in harm's way is our privilege, a duty to our country and the men and women who serve in the military.
How did this volunteer experience make you feel?
Absolutely wonderful! It is great fun to work at THP and the response letters from the Troops who receive the CARE packages is uplifting and heart-breaking at the same time. They are so far from home and loved ones, these packages are just a touch of home and love from stranagers who support them. It makes me proud to be one of those strangers!
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
November 9, 2012
I have been a member of The Hugs Project Oklahoma City for the past few years. Due to health problems, I have not been able to participate except through donations of fabric to make Cool Ties (Hugs) and other items to put in the Care Packages to send to our Military men and women. When I had family members serving overseas, The Hugs Project made sure they received a Care Package. They work very hard and are very dedicated to our Military men and women.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
October 25, 2011
1 person found this review helpful
Although I am not physically able to volunteer at The Hugs Project, my Mother and I donate fabric to this organization. I have also gotten donations of tooth brushes, tooth paste and dental floss from my dentist. I have family members who have donated their time. My daughter is an Extreme Couponer and has donated hygiene items, non-perishable food items. Our family LOVES our military men and women and The Hugs Project is a remarkable organization. God Bless America and this organization for their hard work.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I had a military person serving overseas and The Hugs Project sent them items they requested and needed.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
The only change I could think of is that we have more funding to help supply the items this organization needs to send to our military men and women.
2 people found this review helpful
November 5, 2012
2 people found this review helpful
I was so impressed with this organization that I started a chapter here in western Kentucky. The work that is done by the home group is amazing. A LOT of work and dedication is needed to run a group like this when EVERYONE is a volunteer. Not too hard when someone is getting paid to do the work but much different when it's done 100% with love. There have been MANY of our heroes who have told us the stories of how much it meant to them to get the love and support that goes into every box sent. Even after they come home it sometimes makes a difference. Just knowing someone cares is enough to get you thru a bad day over there. I love our heroes and I love The Hugs Project for doing what they do.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
November 5, 2012
The Hugs Project is a group of caring, hard working volunteers. They sent packages to my USMC son when he was in the sand box and just made his day. They truly "put their money, where their mouth is' when it comes to supporting our young men and women in harm's way. Working with them defines troop support to a whole new level.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
October 30, 2011
1 person found this review helpful
this organization absolutely rocks! They work very hard to support our troops and always insure that the very best they can do, they deliver to the troops. I have known and worked with them since 2005 and never have I been as impressed with the leadership and dedication of a totally volunteer organization such as this one.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
March 10, 2010
1 person found this review helpful
The Hugs Project is an incredible group of volunteers that serve our military men and women. they go beyond the call of duty to see to it that everyone they can reach knows they are appreciated. I am one of those volunteers and also the parent of a Marine. You can't imagine how wonderful it makes your deployed loved one feel when he or she receives a token of appreciation from strangers. The "fall out" from that is that everyone involved - from parents to other volunteers - gets a lift too. So much is negative in our world and this group makes a heroic effort to let our loved ones deployed in often hostile and abrasive situations, know that there are many out there supporting them and appreciating them.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
my son receiving care packages and enabling his buddies to receive care packages while deployed to the Middle East.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
be sure that everyone in the whole country knew about this organization and had the chance to participate in their activities.
More feedback...
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2011
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