PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes Golf Classic volunteers.
The PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes has successfully raised over $1 million to support veterans and their families during the 22nd annual Military Heroes Golf Classic held on September 8, 2025, in Tysons, Virginia. This national nonprofit organization, dedicated to assisting veterans in their transition to civilian life, celebrated a significant milestone in its commitment to the military community.
During the event, James Schenck, President and CEO of PenFed Credit Union and the PenFed Foundation, emphasized the importance of supporting those who serve. He stated, “For over 248 years, the brave service members of America’s Armed Forces have fought 12 wars to defend our freedom. The success of our tournament enables us to continue taking care of our nation’s veterans. At PenFed, we never forget.”
The tournament opened with a moment of remembrance for the victims of the September 11 attacks, honoring their families and the nation’s heroes. Andrea McCarren, President of the PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes, expressed her gratitude for the community’s support, remarking, “We are thrilled to have raised over $1 million at the Military Heroes Golf Classic this year and look forward to continuing to support our military heroes who have made profound sacrifices for our nation.”
Over the past 24 years, the PenFed Foundation has provided more than $55 million in financial aid, impacting over 150,000 military families. The event featured a lineup of inspiring speakers who shared their experiences, underscoring themes of courage and resilience. Among them was U.S. Army Captain Mary Kolars, who served in Afghanistan and played a pivotal role in training female Afghan soldiers.
Nick Grillo, a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom and the owner of Elevate Vending, also participated in the event. He highlighted the importance of entrepreneurial support for veterans, as he recently completed the PenFed Foundation’s Veteran Entrepreneur Program. Additionally, Steven Wheatcroft, a former professional golfer and founder of The Mulligan Foundation, spoke about the need for mental health services for athletes, further emphasizing the broader impact of support initiatives.
The PenFed Foundation for Military Heroes, established in 2001, is affiliated with PenFed Credit Union, which covers the operational costs of the foundation. This structure ensures that a larger portion of donations directly benefits programs aimed at assisting veterans and their families.
As the foundation looks to the future, its continued commitment to empowering veterans remains a priority. For more information about their initiatives and to support their mission, visit www.penfedfoundation.org.
