When a junior enlisted service member at Patrick Space Force Base in Brevard County needs help, the Warm Hearts program is there. When at-risk veterans seek connection and support, Veterans Connection steps in.
When female veterans face unique challenges and struggles, Their Voice of Hope provides assistance. And when families honor fallen heroes, Solemn Pride ensures dignity and respect.
These are just a few of the initiatives supported by the MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation (GDF), and with help from a grant from the VyStar Foundation, their reach continues to grow more each year.
“I’ve been a member of VyStar for 41 years, dating back to its Jax Navy days,” said Mike Gautreaux, Colonel, USMC (Ret.), Vice President. “I’ve always thought of VyStar as a personal partner, and now, through my relationship with the Good Deeds Foundation, it has become much more than that.”
A Mission to Serve
Established in 2014, the Good Deeds Foundation works to ensure veterans are never forgotten. The 501(c)(3) organization supports the Cape Canaveral Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAACC) by providing grants and direct assistance to military personnel, veterans and their families, ROTC and JROTC programs, Sea Cadets, Civil Air Patrol and other veteran-focused organizations.
Through the strength of partnerships, the Good Deeds Foundation has expanded its reach and amplified its impact across Brevard County. They uplift youth, assist active-duty service members and honor veterans through programs such as Honor Flight, Wreaths Across America and JROTC initiatives in local schools.
A Grant That Made a Difference
In 2024, the VyStar Foundation awarded a grant that boosted GDF’s budget and elevated its ability to serve. Annual contributions jumped from $130,000 to $165,000, a 20% increase in impact that directly benefits veterans, active-duty military and youth programs. “The only way that the Good Deeds Foundation can accomplish its mission of supporting local military and veterans is by receiving outside contributions,” Gautreaux said. “The grant from VyStar enabled us to finally meet our support goals.”
The Impact
The MOAACC Good Deeds Foundation made a significant impact in addressing food and housing insecurity among veterans through its MOAACC Good Deeds Fund. With a grant from VyStar Foundation, the organization extended critical support to those who served our nation, reaching more than 25,000 individuals through initiatives like Warm Hearts, Honor Flight and Voice of Hope. These programs not only provided essential resources but also fostered dignity, connection, and hope for veterans and their families, ensuring that those who sacrificed for our freedom receive the care and respect they deserve.
“When our relationship with VyStar started, it was never a one-way street,” Gautreaux said. “We’ve worked together to support our local veterans and youth, and we hope to continue that relationship long into the future.”
Looking Ahead
With continued support from partners like the VyStar Foundation, the Good Deeds Foundation is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact. Every dollar, every volunteer hour and every act of kindness contributes to a stronger, more supported military and veteran community in Brevard County.
To learn more or contribute to the mission, visit the Good Deeds Foundation website and be part of the good.