The Gary Sinise Foundation
May 20, 2026
Helping Veterans, First-Responders, Wounded Heroes, and Their Families Everywhere by Volunteering Their Time and Resources to Aid Them in the Ways They Need
Founded by Actor-Humanitarian Gary Sinise, the foundation has served thousands of heroes who need support as they navigate life changes as people who serve.
Sinise sought to continue representing veterans and heroes beyond the screen after portraying Lt. Dan Taylor, a disabled American veteran in the film Forrest Gump in 1994. “Lt. Dan had become more than just a character in a movie. He had become a symbol for all veterans who live with the visible and invisible wounds of war.”
The Gary Sinise Foundation is made up of many initiatives like building homes, serving meals, and donating funds to help support heroes who are in need, just to name a few:
- First Responder Support: Over 21,700 pieces of essential equipment donated and 939 grants awarded to first responders.
- Reclaiming Personal Mobility: 146 mobility devices and 152 specially adapted vehicles have been provided to wounded heroes.
- Grant Awardees: Over 1,000 Honoring Our Programmatic Endeavors / Heroes grants have been provided to those in an urgent time of need.
- Educating the Next Generation: Over 2,800 students have participated in educational experiences, visiting historical sites, and learning about the impact of the events that took place.