Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation Honors Iowa Military-Connected Youth

The nonprofit provided 'Proud Military Kid' t-shirts to 1,480 Iowa youth for the Month of the Military Child.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:46pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph featuring a group of children wearing bright t-shirts, their faces obscured in a warm, dreamy light, conceptually representing the Foundation's efforts to honor military-connected youth.The Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation's celebration of Iowa's military-connected youth brings a sense of community and appreciation to those who sacrifice alongside their families.West Des Moines Today

The Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation's Henry's Heroes program supported 1,480 of Iowa's military-connected youth with 'Proud Military Kid' t-shirts for the Month of the Military Child, an annual celebration recognizing the important role military children play in supporting their families and communities.

Why it matters

The Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation is committed to supporting Iowa's military community, and this initiative aligns with the nonprofit's mission to celebrate and support Iowa youth. Providing 'Proud Military Kid' shirts helps recognize the resilience and contributions of military-connected youth, who often make sacrifices of their own while their family members serve.

The details

Through the Foundation's Henry's Heroes program, 1,480 'Proud Military Kid' t-shirts were distributed to Iowa's military-connected youth. This is part of the Foundation's ongoing efforts to support the military community, including initiatives like Pork for Patriots, My Veteran Hero, and the Pork Care Package program.

  • April is recognized nationally as the Month of the Military Child.
  • Purple Up! Day, when people wear purple to show support for military children, will be celebrated on Friday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation

A nonprofit organization committed to supporting Iowa's military community and youth.

Henry's Heroes

An initiative of the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation that celebrates and supports Iowa youth.

Laura Noehren

Foundation Program Manager for the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation.

Erin Coogler

Iowa National Guard Child and Youth Program Coordinator.

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What they’re saying

“The Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation is committed to supporting Iowa's military community. It's especially meaningful to align that mission with this year's Henry's Heroes initiative. Providing 'Proud Military Kid' shirts to 1,480 Iowa youth is one way we can recognize their important role in military families.”

— Laura Noehren, Foundation Program Manager

“Military children show incredible resilience as they navigate the unique challenges that come with having a parent or family member serving in the military. They often make sacrifices of their own and demonstrate strength, adaptability, and support for their families during difficult times. Recognizing military children helps ensure their experiences are valued and reminds them that their sacrifices and contributions do not go unnoticed.”

— Erin Coogler, Iowa National Guard Child and Youth Program Coordinator

What’s next

The Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation will continue its efforts to support Iowa's military community through initiatives like Pork for Patriots, My Veteran Hero, and the Pork Care Package program.

The takeaway

The Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation's commitment to supporting Iowa's military-connected youth and their families is a heartwarming example of how local organizations can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for their country.