Step Up for Soldiers no longer disbanding, donates more than $250K to several organizations

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Step Up for Soldiers held a donation event on Wednesday, handing out checks to several organizations totaling more than $250,000.

Founder and President Thomas Russell presented checks to the Veteran’s Day Parade Committee, The American Honor Guard, The NC National Guard Scholarship Fund, UNCW, and Cape Fear Community College.

“We wanted to give back to the soldiers and their families. Family is very important to me, so we’re trying to stick with the education,” Russell said.

Russell also promised to match up to $100,000 donated to Tunnel to Towers to help build a home for the family of a fallen soldier.

In a surprise announcement during the event, Russell shared the organization is no longer disbanding thanks to a partnership with Trash for Troops.

“Well, Step Up for Soldiers, someone stepped up,” Russell said.

The founder said a new board of directors for the organization will be announced in the coming weeks.