About Us
“Receiving your packages truly made our day.” – Deployed in Africa
“Sending that little bit of home to
ensure they are not forgotten”
– Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar, Executive Director & Founder
September 11, 2001 changed our lives forever, as our country all stood united as one.
In October 2003, Forgotten Soldiers Outreach was born to help send that little bit of home to our troops. Service members were provided with much needed care items, as well as letters of encouragement.
Over the years, Forgotten Soldiers Outreach has become a nationally recognized organization receiving support from all over the country. We send out monthly “We Care” packages to our United States deployed military, who have been registered by family members, friends, commanding officers or themselves.
The fact remains that deployments continue all over the world, and our list continues to grow. Now more than ever, our men and women serving in the military can use that extra morale boost that is received through our “We Care” packages.
At Forgotten Soldiers Outreach (FSO), we stand for the families who wait at home, the patriots who give back, and the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces deployed around the world. We support all branches, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force, with a focus on those who receive little or no support from home, first-time deployers, and those stationed in remote or high-risk locations.
WE DO NOT RECEIVE
GOVERNMENT FUNDING
Our mission is sustained through grassroots generosity, individual donors, foundations, businesses, and community partners who believe no service member should ever feel forgotten.
Our Four Pillars of Sustainability
Our long-term impact is powered by four key initiatives:
Brand Partnerships
Corporate sponsors and foundations fuel outreach through in-kind support and campaign collaboration.
The Patriot Alliance
A coalition of veterans, recipients, and annual donors who sustain our daily operations.
Mission Investors
Philanthropic partners who fund infrastructure like warehouse space, staffing, and logistics.
The Legacy Battalion
Long-term donors who include FSO in estate plans, securing future support for the next generation of deployed troops.
Why It Matters
Every dollar invested in our infrastructure helps us reach those who need us most. From postage and supplies to operations and outreach, this behind-the-scenes support delivers more than care, it delivers morale, connection, and the unwavering reminder that someone back home cares.
Funding Our Mission
Since 2003, FSO has upheld one core promise: donations for care packages are used exclusively for that purpose. Operating expenses are covered through private donors, family foundations, and legacy partners who fund the systems that make our mission possible.
$1.5 Million in Hope, Care & Connection
Our top 10 donors have contributed more than $1.5 million, helping deliver tens of thousands of care packages across the globe. Their dedication has sustained us through pivotal moments and helped us bring encouragement, relief, and connection to deployed service members worldwide.
Honoring Our Legacy Champions
FSO proudly honors Judith Kelly and Albert Naar as Legacy Champions. A Vietnam veteran, Mr. Naar brings personal insight to our mission, ensuring today’s troops feel the support he once lacked. Ms. Kelly’s tireless advocacy has expanded our programs and deepened our reach. Together, their leadership and generosity echo through every package sent, and every service member reminded they are not forgotten.