GOT QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS
About the Organization
Q: Is A Million Thanks a 501(c)(3) organization?
A: Yes! We’re a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Tax ID 26-0361789.
Q: How long has A Million Thanks been operating?
A: We’ve been delivering gratitude since 2004. Over 21 million letters and counting!
Q: Can my school, business, or group host a letter-writing event?
A: Yes! We love group efforts. Visit our Host an Event page or reach out—we’ll send you tips and tools to get started.
How the Program Works
Q: Where do the letters actually go?
A: We send batches of letters to deployed service members, veterans, and military hospitals. Most are sent to a unit contact who shares them with others.
Q: Will a service member write back?
A: While your letter will be deeply appreciated, service members and veterans will not be able to write back. We ask that you don’t include any personal contact information.
Q: Is there a cost to participate?
A: There’s no fee, but we suggest a $1 donation per letter if you’re able. It helps us cover screening, packaging, and international postage.
LETTER GUIDELINES
Q: Can I write a letter to a specific service member?
A: No. Due to military privacy regulations, we cannot distribute individual names or addresses. All letters should be addressed generically—such as “Dear Hero” or “Dear Service Member.”
Q: Why do my letters have to be handwritten?
A: A handwritten message feels more personal and genuine—it shows time and care. Our service members say it makes the message more meaningful and heartfelt.
Q: Why can’t I use commercially printed cards?
A: We no longer accept store-bought or commercially printed cards—even if they’re personalized. Please send homemade cards only. No exceptions.
Q: Can I include stickers or drawings?
A: Yes! Stickers, kid art, and creative touches are welcome—they help make each letter feel personal and special. Just be sure everything is securely attached and that you don’t use any glitter.
CONT'D
Q: Why can’t I use glitter? It’s festive!
A: It can be dangerous in combat zones – Glitter that ends up on a uniform, gear, or skin can reflect light and compromise a service member’s safety at night or in tactical environments.
Q: What if my handwriting is terrible?
A: As long as your message is sincere and legible, it’s perfect. You can also type your letter and sign it by hand for a personal touch.
Q: Can I include my contact info in the letter?
A: Yes, feel free to include your name, city, and email or mailing address. Some service members reply, but it’s not guaranteed.
Q: Why do I have to write a message on children’s artwork?
A: Artwork alone is wonderful—but without words, the message can be unclear. If a child is too young to write, we ask that an adult add a short note on their behalf. A simple “Thank you for your service” goes a long way and helps make the intent of the artwork meaningful to the recipient.
Mailing & Shipping
Q: Do I need to include an envelope for my letter?
A: All letters are reviewed before being sent to the military. Please do not place letters in individual envelopes! We do not send envelopes to the troops. Including them will slow down the screening process and they will be discarded.
Q: Can I send snacks or care package items with my letter?
A: Please don’t. We only collect letters (and optional donations). We do not ship care packages or accept other items.
Q: When should I send holiday letters?
A: Holiday-themed letters must arrive at least one month before the holiday so we can screen, sort, and ship them in time.
Q: Where should I send my letters?
A: All letters go to our National Mail Intake Facility. Visit our Send a Letter page to get the current mailing address.
VOLUNTEER HOURS
Q: Can I earn volunteer hours by writing letters?
A: Yes! We’re happy to verify volunteer hours for individuals or groups who write letters. Please include a tracking sheet with your full name, contact info, and the number of letters written.
Q: Will A Million Thanks sign a school or service hour form?
A: Absolutely. If your school or organization requires a specific form, just include it with your letters—or email it to us after sending.
Q: How many volunteer hours can I claim?
A: As a general guideline, most people take about 15 minutes per letter. So if you write 4 letters, you can log 1 hour. You’re welcome to log actual time spent or use this estimate if your group needs a consistent tracking method.
Q: Can I start a club at my high school to write letters?
A: Yes, you can! Many students have started official A Million Thanks (AMT) Clubs at their schools. All you need is a faculty sponsor and a passion for active and veteran military.