Press Release

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation Donates $1 Million Grant to Support the George W. Bush Institute’s Military Service Initiative and Veteran Wellness Program

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has awarded $1 million to the George W. Bush Foundation for its military initiatives and ongoing dedication to improving overall veteran wellness.

DALLAS (November 14, 2016) – The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has awarded $1 million to the George W. Bush Foundation for its military initiatives and ongoing dedication to improving overall veteran wellness. The Military Service Initiative (MSI) of the George W. Bush Institute honors the service and sacrifice of post-9/11 veterans and their families, ensuring they make successful transitions to civilian life with a focus on gaining meaningful employment and overcoming the invisible wounds of war. The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation was established in 2012 by well-known American entrepreneur Bob Parsons and business executive Renee Parsons to serve low-income and underserved populations, marginalized communities and causes often overlooked or underfunded. For Bob Parsons, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran, support of the military community is a critical aspect of The Foundation’s mission.

“The men and women who have served and sacrificed to protect our country deserve our unwavering support,” said Parsons. “Our partnership with the Bush Institute will go a long way in helping those struggling with serious issues, many of which are too often overlooked.”

The wellness component of MSI focuses on addressing the “invisible wounds of war” which speak to mental health injuries such as traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress. Unfortunately, many in need don’t ask for help because of the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and perceived lack of adequate resources. The Bush Institute has developed a library of resources to combat negative stereotypes and raise awareness of the symptoms, seriousness, and treatment of these issues.

“Laura and I have dedicated the rest of our lives to supporting our veterans and their families,” said President George W. Bush “At the Bush Institute, we are focused on addressing the invisible wounds of war, removing the stigma that surround them, and ensuring veterans and caregivers seek and receive comprehensive care. I’m grateful to The Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation for helping to make this important work possible.”

According to the Bush Institute, the MSI was inspired by the courage of the military, who serve and sacrifice to defend the United States in support of enduring freedom. The Initiative also highlights organizations that support U.S. service personnel and their families during deployment and after they return home.

“Ongoing support for our nation’s veterans is not only one of the core areas of focus for The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, but a cause close to our hearts,” said businesswoman and philanthropist, Renee Parsons. “We are proud to support an organization that is helping deserving men and women get critical care that goes beyond treating their physical injuries.”

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation deals primarily in the areas of homelessness, medical care, at-risk youth, education and veterans’ support. The Foundation provides transformational gifts to nonprofit organizations that are successfully addressing these issues and can demonstrate and measure the impact of their work. To learn more about The Foundation and organizations they support, visit tbrpf.org.

About The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation inspires hope by providing critical funding at critical times to communities striving to make a difference. The Foundation primarily focuses on issues in the greater Phoenix area. The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation believes every person is entitled to an education, good nutrition, medical care, a stress-free, happy environment and the hope that they too, will share in the American Dream. The Foundation provides funding to nonprofit organizations that are successfully addressing these essential needs. The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation is also committed to the children of Haiti, helping to grow and improve schools, medical services and overall well-being for communities in rural Haiti. tbrpf.org.

About The Bush Institute

Housed within the George W. Bush Presidential Center, the George W. Bush Institute is an action-oriented, nonpartisan policy organization with the mission of cultivating leaders, advancing policy, and taking action to solve today’s most pressing challenges. The work is achieved through three Impact Centers – Domestic Excellence, Global Leadership, and our Engagement Agenda – by which the Bush Institute engages the greater community with its important work.