7 Days for the Troops has proudly served veteran communities for over 15 years and is dedicated to assisting disabled veterans with unmet needs. Founded by Scott Burns, a Marine Corps veteran, our organization was born from a deep commitment to giving back to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to support disabled veterans by addressing the gaps in care and resources that often go unmet. We deeply understand the unique challenges that these brave men and women face, and we are here to ensure that their needs are not overlooked. Whether it’s through providing essential equipment, financial assistance, or simply a helping hand, 7 Days for the Troops is devoted to making a tangible difference in the lives of our nation’s heroes.
For over a decade and a half, we have organized and hosted various fundraising events, community outreach programs, and veteran support initiatives nationwide. Our work is fueled by the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community members who share our passion for honoring and supporting those who have served.
At 7 Days for the Troops, we firmly believe that no veteran should ever feel forgotten or unsupported. We are unwaveringly committed to ensuring that every disabled veteran we encounter has access to the resources and assistance they need to live a fulfilling life, despite the challenges they may face. Our organization is more than just a charity; it’s a community of people who are united by a common goal: to serve those who have served us.
As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we remain focused on assisting disabled veterans with unmet needs. We are inspired daily by the resilience and strength of the veterans we serve and are honored to be a part of their journey.
How It All Started
7 Days for the Troops began as a grassroots fundraising event in 2006, fueled by a profound duty to give back to those who have served our country. What started as a single event has since grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that assists disabled veterans with unmet needs. Over the first 16 years, 7 Days for the Troops events raised approximately $250,000, benefiting veterans’ organizations like Purple Heart Homes and Warrior Bonfire.
The inaugural event occurred in Tupelo, Mississippi, where the organization is still headquartered today. Founded by Scott Burns, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and amputee, the event was born out of Scott’s desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of his fellow veterans. Despite his physical challenges, Scott’s unwavering commitment to serving others led him to create a platform that would unite communities to support those who have given so much.
The concept was simple yet impactful: Scott would camp out in a visible location for seven days and seven nights to raise awareness and funds for disabled veterans. These events became more than just fundraisers—they evolved into community gatherings filled with music, raffles, worship services, and other activities that drew people together for a common cause. The sight of a Marine veteran camping out, rain or shine, inspired many to contribute to and support the mission.
As the organization grew, so did its reach. 7 Days for the Troops events have been held in Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Florida, and North Carolina. Each event carries the same spirit of community and service, with Scott’s personal story and commitment at the heart of it all.
Now, as a fully established nonprofit organization, 7 Days for the Troops continues to expand its mission. Beyond working with established partners, the organization is taking on special projects specifically designed to address the unmet needs of disabled veterans. One of the first major initiatives as a nonprofit is to raise funds to purchase Track Chairs—specialized mobility devices that enable disabled veterans to participate in outdoor activities, offering them a new level of freedom and independence.
The journey from a single fundraising event to a recognized nonprofit has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to veterans. As 7 Days for the Troops looks to the future, the organization remains steadfast in ensuring that no disabled veteran is left without the support and resources they need.
