In a world too often distracted by the noise of the everyday, one quiet nonprofit is speaking volumes—not through words, but through action.

Founded in 2024 by veteran and community leader Jose Cerda, Anonymously Grateful is more than just a nonprofit. It’s a movement. A mission. A promise to never forget the price of freedom—and to lift up those who carry its heaviest burden.

For Gold Star families—those who have lost a loved one in active military service—the grief never leaves. But neither does the pride. And Anonymously Grateful exists to honor both.

“Our mission is simple but powerful: Honor the fallen by embracing the families they left behind, and support our veterans still with us—especially those silently fighting battles we may never see,” says Cerda.

And true to its name, the organization does this without fanfare or spotlight. Gifts to Gold Star families are given anonymously—no strings, no expectations. Just compassion, wrapped in humility.

“When you give anonymously, it’s not about you. It’s about the person receiving it. And that’s how it should be,” explains Cerda.

Honoring the Fallen, Supporting the Living

This year, Anonymously Grateful will honor Marine Private First-Class Nick Skinner, a 2003 North Scott High School graduate killed in action in Iraq at just 20 years old. Known by his fellow Marines as “a Marine’s Marine,” Nick’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who served beside him—and now, through the mission that carries his story forward.

But Anonymously Grateful doesn't stop with Gold Star families. Their mission has expanded to shine a light on the invisible wounds many veterans carry. In 2025, the group is also honoring Army Specialist Joshua Lee Omvig, whom Mission Secretary Cherie Henningsen served alongside, and Marine Sergeant Brandon M. Ketchum, two servicemen who tragically lost their lives to suicide after battling PTSD.

Since 2001, more than 7,000 U.S. service members have died in combat. But over 140,000 veterans have died by suicide—a staggering number that underscores the urgent need for mental health support in the military community.

“Those numbers are not just statistics—they’re sons, daughters, husbands, wives, and friends. We can’t change the past, but we can change the future by showing up, speaking out, and creating safe spaces for healing,” says Mission Vice President Jessica Gross.

A Community Powered by Purpose

Anonymously Grateful is run entirely by volunteers, some Veteran’s themselves and some passionate Patriots—people who believe deeply in the cause and are driven by purpose, not paychecks. Every dollar raised goes directly to veterans, Gold Star families, and outreach events.

Through their “Bring to Light” monthly veterans coffee meetings, the group fosters camaraderie, connection, and resource sharing. “It's more than a meeting—it’s a lifeline for many.” Says Mission Executive Officer and VSO Cory Hawk.

And for those who want to show support, there are many ways to get involved. Their biggest events of the year are just around the corner:

Gold Star Family Banquet – September 12, 2025, at Rolling Meadows Event Center in Eldridge, IA. An evening of honor, remembrance, and community.
Honor Ride – September 13, 2025, a powerful motorcycle ride beginning in Eldridge that brings together veterans, families, and supporters in a moving tribute on two wheels, but any vehicle is welcome to join!

Both events serve not only to raise funds but to bring awareness and unity to a cause that touches so many lives—often quietly, often invisibly.

How You Can Join the Mission

“This is the People’s Mission. And it only works when people show up,” says Mission Community Outreach Officer Bobby Ray Bunch, who is also a veteran.

Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, sponsorships, or simply spreading the word, every action counts. You can follow their work on Facebook, donate through Venmo (@AnonymouslyGrateful), or send contributions by mail to P.O. Box 2265, Davenport, IA 52809.

And if you’re a business or organization looking to sponsor a Gold Star family or support their mental health initiative, reach out directly to anonymous@anonymouslygrateful.org.

In the end, Anonymously Grateful isn't about charity—it’s about connection, remembrance, and hope. It’s about honoring the legacies of the fallen, lifting up the grieving, and supporting those still fighting their way home.

Because freedom isn’t free—and neither is healing.

Anonymously Grateful Gold Star Banquet

"Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much"