When ABC News journalist Bob Woodruff was critically injured by a roadside bomb while covering the war in Iraq in 2006, his life changed in an instant. But his recovery was not just a personal journey; it became the foundation for a mission that would change the lives of countless others. Together with his wife, Lee, Bob turned adversity into action, founding the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) to support injured service members, veterans and their families.

Since its inception in 2006, BWF has grown into a national leader in addressing the complex needs of veterans returning from service. From mental health and traumatic brain injury (TBI) care to employment assistance and housing support, BWF ensures that service members don’t just return home, but truly thrive in civilian life. This April, join Bob and Lee at the Norfolk Forum as they share stories from their bestselling memoir, In An Instant. Their story will captivate the audience and leave them with a new understanding of the fragility of life, the strength of family and friends, the bravery of the military and healthcare professionals who helped save his life and lessons on how to survive and overcome even the most tragic of circumstances.

“Bob and Lee Woodruff’s story perfectly embodies The Norfolk Forum’s mission to inspire, inform, and engage citizens,” The Norfolk Forum’s Executive Director Maura Murchake told We Are The Mighty. “Their courageous journey will shed light on the critical issues of injury recovery, caregiving, community support, and the sacrifices made by military families. Audience members will be reminded of the transformative power of love, resilience, the strength of the human spirit, and the power of storytelling to drive change.” 

Veterans and active duty service members are invited to the Forum for this incredible event on April 29, 2025, at 7:30 pm at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, VA. The promo code, “PATRIOT,” is for military and veterans and it reduces the regular single ticket price of $60 (plus fees) to only $40, inclusive of fees. 

The promo code needs to be UNLOCKED prior to checkout (see graphic):

For more information about The Norfolk Forum, visit TheNorfolkForum.org.

More about BWF:

Bob Woodruff’s injury was a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who serve in the military. As he recovered, he and Lee quickly realized that while top-tier medical care was available for high-profile cases like his, many other injured veterans struggled to access similar resources. The couple knew they had to do something.

Thus, the Bob Woodruff Foundation was born—driven by a deep commitment to “ensuring our heroes have a successful transition back to their communities and their families.”

With the backing of corporate partners, individual donors, and a network of nonprofits, the foundation set out to close the gaps in services for post-9/11 veterans. Today, it funds and supports programs that tackle some of the most pressing issues veterans face, from invisible wounds of war to financial instability.

Filling the gaps: How the foundation helps veterans

The Bob Woodruff Foundation takes a data-driven, results-oriented approach to its grantmaking, ensuring that every dollar donated is used effectively. The foundation focuses on three key areas:

1. Mental Health and Rehabilitation

One of the most urgent challenges veterans face is the lingering impact of post-traumatic stress (PTS), depression, and TBIs. BWF partners with organizations that provide therapy, peer support and innovative treatments to help veterans recover and regain a sense of normalcy.

BWF funds programs that use art therapy, equine therapy, and mindfulness training to help veterans cope with the psychological effects of war. It also supports initiatives that provide access to cutting-edge TBI treatment, ensuring that those with brain injuries receive the specialized care they need.

2. Housing and Financial Assistance

Returning to civilian life can be overwhelming, especially for those who struggle with unemployment or homelessness. The foundation invests in job training, emergency financial assistance, and housing support to prevent veterans from falling through the cracks.

A significant focus is placed on veterans experiencing homelessness — a crisis that disproportionately affects former service members. Through partnerships with local shelters and housing initiatives, the foundation provides safe, stable housing solutions to get veterans back on their feet.

3. Workforce Readiness and Purposeful Employment

Many veterans leave the military with a wealth of skills, but transitioning those skills into the civilian workforce can be challenging. The Bob Woodruff Foundation funds programs that help veterans translate their military experience into meaningful careers, whether in business, technology or entrepreneurship.

From resume workshops and interview coaching to corporate mentorship programs, the foundation ensures veterans are equipped to succeed in today’s job market.

Beyond funding: advocacy and awareness

The foundation does more than just provide financial support—it also works to raise public awareness about the unique challenges faced by service members. Through its “Got Your 6” initiative, BWF helps break down misconceptions about veterans, showcasing their resilience and contributions to society.

The foundation also collaborates with policymakers, employers, and healthcare professionals to ensure that veterans’ needs remain a priority at all levels of government and business.

How you can help

Supporting the Bob Woodruff Foundation means making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans and their families. Whether through donations, corporate partnerships, or volunteering, there are countless ways to get involved.

For those who want to contribute, visiting the foundation’s website offers opportunities to donate, attend fundraising events, or support veteran-owned businesses. Every dollar goes toward programs that directly impact veterans in need.

A legacy of care and commitment

Bob and Lee Woodruff took a deeply personal experience and transformed it into a nationwide effort to support America’s heroes. The foundation’s impact is undeniable, changing thousands of lives through access to mental health services, career opportunities, and essential resources.

As Bob Woodruff himself once said, “We owe it to our veterans to ensure they come home not just to survive, but to thrive.” Thanks to the Bob Woodruff Foundation, that mission is being carried out every day—one veteran at a time.

For more information or to get involved, visit bobwoodrufffoundation.org.