The H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to 29-PSP, a 100% volunteer-run organization that provides complimentary transportation for active-duty military personnel and their families who are traveling while on leave from the Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center.
“The Berger Foundation’s generous support helps us serve those who serve us,” said Ken Hedrick, CEO and President of 29-PSP. “Community support strengthens our ability to safely and efficiently connect Marines with their loved ones and offer a bit of comfort and encouragement along the way.”
29-PSP provides free, reliable transportation between the Twentynine Palms Marine Base and the Palm Springs and Ontario airports—locations that are 61 miles or more from the base and difficult to reach via limited public transit. The cost of commercial transportation can be prohibitive for young service members, often ranging from $200 to $300 each way. 29-PSP removes this financial burden by offering no-cost rides that can be requested easily online.
“We were impressed by the grassroots, volunteer model of 29-PSP and the direct impact it has on military families,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation.
The grant will help fund 29-PSP’s annual insurance costs and allow the organization to rent passenger vans during high-demand periods. More than just a ride service, 29-PSP creates meaningful connections between volunteer drivers—many of whom are veterans or military family members—and active-duty personnel. The nonprofit is celebrating its one-year anniversary with a fundraiser on May 28, from 6-8 p.m., at The Palm Springs Surf Club, which will include food, drinks, live entertainment and a silent auction.
“Featuring 29-PSP as an Impact Grant recipient at the time of the nonprofit’s anniversary is especially meaningful,” said Jerry Upham, General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3. “It is our intention that through this exposure, more people will learn about 29-PSP and the organization will attract more volunteers and donors.”
The Berger Foundation presents Impact Grants through a partnership with News Channel 3. Representatives from both entities look for local 501(c)3 nonprofits to recognize for their outstanding work to improve people’s lives and help those in need. Impact Grants are awarded on the concept that through service, funding, and awareness, we are “Making a Difference Together.” Beyond the funds, each organization also receives media coverage about its mission across a variety of News Channel 3’s platforms, including News Channel 3 News at 4 and kesq.com.
To learn more about 29-PSP, visit www.29-psp.org. For more information about Impact Grants, go to kesq.com/life/impact-grants.
