USAA Foundation has been a national partner of Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) for the last seven years. With a shared purpose of serving the military community, the organizations have worked together in several ways to empower veterans and families of fallen heroes. “Since its beginning in 1922, USAA’s mission has been to support our military community and their families.” says Justin Schmitt, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at USAA. “Similar to TMF, the USAA Foundation focuses on empowering veterans and families of fallen heroes to find purpose and meaning after service and loss.”

USAA Foundation has been the primary benefactor of TMF’s Survivor Expeditions, unique service-based trips designed specifically for family members of fallen heroes. Travel and accommodations in locations such as Alaska, Montana and Puerto Rico are provided at no-cost to participants, which allows them to focus on important work. “Survivor Expeditions give family members a chance to come together with others who understand what they’ve been through,” says Robyn Magee-Skinner, Manager of Survivor Engagement at TMF. “It’s the next step in their grief journey. Expeditions empower them to serve others like their fallen heroes did.” 

After Expeditions, which incorporate a blend of service and personal development, participants often go on to engage in other TMF programming and events. In 2024, thanks to funding from USAA Foundation, TMF created the Empowerment and Service Expedition, which elevates survivors to leadership roles. The first round of participants, who gathered in Texas last year, will all serve as Expedition mentors in 2025. 

Creating a ripple effect and extending legacies are at the core of TMF’s mission, and the reason USAA Foundation believes so strongly in supporting it. “Military caregivers and families of the fallen often face unique and significant challenges and need different types of resources and support,” says Schmitt. “USAA Foundation sees these individuals as critical to the family and community and we want to ensure they have the necessary help and advocacy.”

The relationship between TMF and USAA Foundation continues to grow. Both foundations have joined forces on a new initiative called Face the Fight. Established by USAA, Reach Resilience and The Humana Foundation, Face the Fight is aimed at combating veteran suicide. In addition to providing funding for programs that focus on mental health for veterans, and raising awareness about the risks facing this population, Face the Fight brings together more than 250 military nonprofits—including TMF—to create a comprehensive support network for veterans. For more information about joining Face the Fight, visit www.wefacethefight.org.