At only nine years old, Royal Neighbors member Graci Tubbs was attending a Veterans Day assembly in her Florida school when she was deeply moved by the In that moment, she felt a spark – an overwhelming desire to give back to those who protect our freedom.
“Even as a kid, I knew I could do something, even if it was small.” That “something” started as a small project, with Graci collecting a few items to send to active military members overseas. With support from the Difference Maker Fund from Royal Neighbors, Graci’s military appreciation project began holding “packing parties” with friends, family, and community members. Together, they filled each box with toiletries, snacks, and personal notes of thanks and encouragement.
“We owe so much to Royal Neighbors and the Difference Maker Fund. That was our first grant and the starting point for Operation: Military Matters.”
Soon, her project grew from a handful of packages into hundreds. Today, Operation: Military Matters is a nationwide, 501c(3) nonprofit, uniting communities across the country in their mission to send care packages to those serving around the globe. Each care package recipient’s name is suggested by friends, community members, and online submissions. The packages are personalized and filled with everything from laundry pods to jerky, candy, and even hand-knitted hats. “We have a group of women who have knitted over 200 hats to include in the packages,” Graci told us. “Those are a big hit.”
“One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that no matter how old you are, no matter how small your idea is, you can make a difference.”
In 2018, Royal Neighbors awarded Operation: Military Matters with a Royal Neighbors Nation of Neighbors℠ empowerment award and grant. Receiving the Nation of Neighbors grant allowed Operation: Military Matters to increase the number of packages sent to women serving on military bases throughout the world.
In 2023, Graci’s hard work was recognized when she was honored as one of Florida’s 100 Heroes at the inaugural Heroes’ Reception in Tallahassee. Meeting the Governor, First Lady, and fellow honorees was a big highlight on her journey from a young girl with a passion for service to a recognized community leader.
In 2024, Graci was awarded a Royal Neighbors Scholarship for excellence in academic merit, volunteer efforts, and leadership.
Graci’s mother and Royal Neighbors Chapter Leader, Kadi, has been by her side since day one, modeling leadership and encouraging her daughter’s passion. “Watching Graci take on this project and inspire others has been a gift,” says Kadi. “We hear back from soldiers who have received the packages, and it makes them smile and lifts their morale.”
With her sights set on further growth, Graci has been meeting with public officials about reducing shipping costs to increase the number of packages sent. “Shipping is a big expense for us,” she explains. “If I could, I’d talk to the President about making it easier to send these packages!”
Graci has shown that a single act of kindness can inspire and mobilize entire communities to uplift spirits around the world.
