Our History
How we started , where we are today, and our mission.
It is with great honor that we carry on the legacy of those who have passed on who were instrumental in the inception of this remarkable event and dedicated to supporting our Wounded Warriors.
Our History
Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival was established in 2014 by Dan Fogleman and Travis Goebel. Dan approached Travis with the idea of organizing an event at the Fogleman Farm featuring live music, a pig roast, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Their collaboration led to the inaugural event being held in September of the same year under the name Fall Fest. Despite challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, the event successfully raised $24,000, which was donated to Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc.
Encouraged by the first year's outcome, Dan and Travis rallied their supporters to continue the initiative. The following year, the event was rebranded as Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival, in alignment with its philanthropic focus. The festival's second edition also raised $24,000 for Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc, reinforcing its commitment to the cause.
Building on the growing success, the organizers formalized the festival by incorporating it with the state of Pennsylvania and seeking nonprofit status from the IRS. By 2019, the festival had evolved into a highly anticipated community affair, with ticket inquiries starting as early as January. It had earned a reputation as a premier entertainment and fundraising event, culminating in an impressive fundraising total of $90,000 in 2019.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the decision to cancel the event was a difficult yet necessary choice made by the board of directors. Despite the setback of a national shutdown, these individuals were determined to continue supporting those who have made significant sacrifices for our country.
In place of the music festival, the board organized a drive-thru BBQ that remarkably raised an additional $24,000 for the cause, showcasing incredible community and business support. In 2021, the event experienced a record attendance, with attendees seeking a sense of normalcy by participating throughout the day in what was poised to be the festival's most successful year to date.
The significant achievement of raising $104,000 in a single day was a testament to the grassroots origins of the event, spearheaded by two community members. This brings the total contributions from Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival to Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc. to an impressive $420,000 since its inception in 2014.
Following the event in 2022, we donated $110,000 to PA Wounded Warriors, making it the largest yearly contribution to date. PA Wounded Warriors recognized our organization as their largest donor for 2023 when we presented the check to them.
Where We Are Now
In the transition year of 2023, Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival underwent organizational restructuring, resulting in the formation of two distinct groups, each dedicated to supporting wounded veterans and their families.
As part of this development, the original entity, Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival, relocated its venue to the Campbelltown Fire Company Fairgrounds. Furthermore, to prevent scheduling conflicts with the newly separated organization, the festival's customary date in September was adjusted to June.
These adjustments signify the festival's continued commitment to providing a platform for honoring and supporting wounded veterans, navigating changes with a steadfast dedication to their mission.
Partners in Support
In 2024 it is our great honor to partner with Courtyard of Honor for Michael Horrocks Veterans and Emergency Responders in presenting the event on June 29. This years event, Summer on the Rocks, promises to be the next step in the evolution of this amazing event as we continue to grow and support our veterans and their families.
Our Mission
At Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival, our primary mission is dedicated to addressing, educating, coordinating, and providing aid and relief in support of the Veterans and their families who have endured physical, mental, or emotional wounds while serving the United States of America. It is imperative to recognize the sacrifices made by these Veterans in answering the call of duty across various conflicts.
Many of these esteemed individuals are currently undergoing recovery either at military hospitals, Veterans Administration medical facilities, or within the comforts of their homes with the care of their families. A significant number of them are facing financial challenges that require immediate attention. It is our solemn responsibility to ensure that these Veterans and their families receive the necessary support during times of difficulty, aiding them in attaining resources that may be inaccessible to them during these trying moments.
Through the collective generosity of our supporters and contributions from local businesses, we strive to alleviate the burdens carried by these brave individuals. By organizing our annual event, we seek to raise awareness at the local, state, and national levels on the challenges faced by these wounded Veterans and their families. Furthermore, the funds raised during these events provide immediate relief and assistance, regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion, catering to the diverse needs of those who have served our country.
Our Board of Directors and Volunteers
The Board of Directors at Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival fulfills their roles on a voluntary basis, driven by their strong belief in our organization's mission. Annually elected, the Board convenes monthly from October to May, and weekly from June to September to ensure the seamless operation and success of our endeavors. Additionally, we are fortunate to have a dedicated cohort of volunteers whose invaluable assistance plays a pivotal role in the triumph of our annual event.
Foglemans Wounded Warrior Music Festival is an established corporation registered in the State of Pennsylvania. We proudly hold a 501(c)(3) non-profit status recognized by the IRS, with an Employer Identification Number (EIN): 47-3184376 issued on September 22, 2016, effective January 14, 2016.
As we express our gratitude for the collective efforts that have marked another prosperous year, we extend a profound thank you to our esteemed committee members, hardworking volunteers, and generous sponsors. Your unwavering dedication empowers us to continue honoring our wounded veterans, ensuring that their sacrifices are forever remembered as a beacon of our enduring freedoms.