The Independence Project is a cooperative effort among the Lightfoot Endowment Foundation and national, local and grassroots non-profit organizations that commit to partner together to assist individuals and communities establish and maintain their independence.

Visit: www.independenceproject2009.org

Two signature events, the Stars & Stripes Gala and Independence Project Family Day support military, first responders, and homeland security personnel and their families.

The Stars & Stripes Gala is a fundraiser event held to honor and thank our nation's defenders that serve abroad and on the home front.

Visit: www.starsandstripesgala.org

Celebrities, athletes, high profile individuals, businesses, organizations, public supporters and our sponsors will provide a free night of entertainment for 2500 Soldiers that have or will serve in Afghanistan and Iraq, are on active duty, are veteran's of other wars, and reservists.  

50% of all proceeds from Independence Project are provided to non-profit organizations supporting the military and their families.

The remaining 50% of proceeds fund the annual Family Day Event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC honoring the families of the military, first responders, and homeland security personnel and the Independence Project which provides financial support to the non-profit organizations listed below:

National Military Family Association, DC National Guard Youth Programs, Rebuilding Together, Bob Woodruff Foundation's Remind.org, Michael Baisden Foundation, and Lightfoot Endowment Foundation.