Question 1

What is the Virtual FOB?

Accepted Answer

The Virtual FOB is Operation Gratitude's new online platform for volunteers. Through the Virtual FOB, you can find programs, connect with recipients, and say thank you to those who serve — from anywhere in the country, at any time.

Question 2

Why is Operation Gratitude making this change?

Accepted Answer

For more than two decades, Operation Gratitude has given Americans a way to say thank you to those who serve through physical locations here in Southern California. That model helped us reach hundreds of thousands of heroes and build a powerful community of volunteers. But we also knew this mission was meant to reach farther. This transition is a strategic step forward — one that allows us to grow from a primarily centralized model into a nationwide, community-powered movement. Through the Virtual FOB, volunteers can now create meaningful expressions of gratitude right where they live, helping us bring this mission closer to home for more Americans than ever before.

Question 3

Is Operation Gratitude closing?

Accepted Answer

No. Operation Gratitude is not closing. We are expanding. The launch of the Virtual FOB marks a major new chapter in our mission, allowing more people across the country to take part in new ways while we continue Assembly Days and other programs nationwide.

Question 4

Can I still drop off donations at the physical FOB?

Accepted Answer

No. Our Chatsworth facility is no longer accepting in-kind donations of any kind. Please do not drop off, mail, or ship items to that address. Items sent there cannot be processed, stored, or returned.

Question 5

Can I ship items to Operation Gratitude?

Accepted Answer

Some items, including letters and paracord, are still accepted through other channels. The best place to find the most current information on what is accepted and where to send it is the Virtual FOB.

Question 6

Can I still donate financially by check?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Checks made payable to Operation Gratitude can be mailed to: Operation Gratitude, P.O. Box 260257, Encino, CA 91426-0257. Financial contributions only — no items of any kind. Please do not send physical items to this address.

Question 7

I've been making scarves and handmade items for years. What should I do now?

Accepted Answer

The care and dedication behind every handmade item is something we do not take lightly — and we do not want it to stop. The Virtual FOB is designed to help volunteers find ways to share gratitude closer to home. For many Handmade with Love volunteers, that may mean creating projects that can be given directly to service members, veterans, or first responders in your own community. The Virtual FOB will also explain what items are currently accepted through Operation Gratitude and how to participate moving forward.

Question 8

What happens to the items I've already donated?

Accepted Answer

Every item donated to Operation Gratitude has gone directly into care packages for the heroes we serve. We are grateful for every contribution. As we move into this next chapter, the best way to support the mission is through the Virtual FOB.

Question 9

Can I still volunteer in person?

Accepted Answer

Daily volunteer sessions at our Chatsworth FOB will continue through April 30, 2026. After that, volunteer opportunities will continue through the Virtual FOB and through community Assembly Days and Volunteer Activations nationwide. Event dates and locations will be posted on our website and in the Virtual FOB.

Question 10

How do I volunteer through the Virtual FOB?

Accepted Answer

Submit a quick volunteer application. Once approved, our team will email you access details for the Virtual FOB, where you can explore volunteer opportunities and connect with recipients. It is free, open to all, and it takes just minutes to apply.

Question 11

Will there still be in-person assembly events?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and they are expanding. Assembly Days will continue as requests come in throughout the year, and we are now able to bring them to communities across the country. Sign up through the Virtual FOB, join our email list, and follow us on social media for announcements about upcoming events near you.

Question 12

I want to donate goods to service members — where can I send them?

Accepted Answer

We appreciate your generosity. The best place to start is the Virtual FOB, where you can find the most up-to-date guidance on accepted items, local opportunities, and ways to get your gratitude directly into the hands of those who serve.

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