Mission Margraten Plus, a 501 c (3) nonprofit organization, is celebrating its 11th anniversary. Founded by Stephanie and Roger Folwell, it aims to uplift and empower World War II veterans. The organization provides social engagement, meaningful travel, and opportunities for connection with younger generations.
Since its inception in 2014, the organization has grown from local outings and lunches into a full-year calendar of programs that inspire, motivate, and renew the spirits of veterans who have given so much of their lives to the country.
Mission Margraten Plus' signature event, and the crux of their mission, is its annual trip to the Netherlands, where veterans participate in a Gratitude and Peace Ceremony at an American military cemetery. This ceremony includes a grave adoption program in which Dutch families symbolically look after the resting places of the American soldiers. Each participating family receives a piece of marble from Lasa, Italy, which is the same stone used to craft the headstones, offering a tangible connection with the soldiers across generations. "It's our way of connecting gratitude across borders," Folwell says.
Aside from the international trips, the organization also hosts a variety of local events to maintain social connections and engagement for veterans, including Thanksgiving dinners, members' birthday parties, peer-group meetings, community forums, and classroom visits.
Folwell notes that many veterans are well into their 90s and older, and these programs provide opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible due to mobility limitations or social isolation. "We've become their set of wheels, their social activity," Folwell explains. "They love being active within the community again, and they really enjoy being in the company of friends who understand their experiences."
They also conduct the Education Bridge program, another vital aspect of their approach, where veterans meet with middle and high school students to share their stories. Small group sessions allow students to ask questions and hear firsthand accounts of history from those who lived it. "These students, who read about them in history classes, now get to meet them," she says. "You can see the engagement in the classroom, and the veterans are always asking if we'll do it again next year. They really value sharing their stories and imparting their wisdom onto the next generations."
Mission Margraten Plus's impact is visible in every aspect of the organization's work. Veterans are provided transportation, meals, and accommodations for all events and trips, and no veteran is asked to cover the costs. Locally, programs require transportation and logistical support, which often relies on donations and sponsorship. "We've been doing this for over a decade, and it's as rewarding as ever," Folwell says. "Every time I see a veteran laughing, dancing, or reconnecting with peers, I know this work matters. They held very important roles in their youth, and now they deserve more than just being considered old men."
As Mission Margraten Plus enters its second decade, its vision remains the same as it was for its very first year: to provide WWII veterans with meaningful experiences, maintain generational connections, and offer recognition and joy in the later stages of life. Folwell emphasizes the importance of community support, encouraging individuals, sponsors, and donors to help continue the work.
"These men have given so much already," she adds. "Now it's our turn to give back, to ensure their stories, friendships, and joy continue for as long as possible."
