History

The Founders

Rachel and Kelsi Okun are the founders of ThanksUSA. Together, using their curiosity and the inspiration from the military families that surrounded them, they came up with the idea of ThanksUSA. Ten and eight, respectively, at the time of the organization's foundation, both girls still actively support and participate in the program and its activities.
They both juggle school, extra-curricular activities, and the responsibilities of the organization. They are two of the sweetest and nicest girls I've met, and they truly love the organization and what it does.

Where Did ThanksUSA Come From?

ThanksUSA stands for "Treasure Hunt Aiding Needs of Kids and Spouses of those serving the United States of America." The idea for the organization came about when Rachel and younger sister, Kelsi became interested in treasure hunts. The movie National Treasure and Michael Stadther's book, A Treasure's Trove were part of their inspiration.

The two wondered about using a treasure hunt to support a national goal: they picked military troops and their families as that goal.

Using American values and American history as the clues for the treasure hunt, the idea began. Soon after, they researched the types of programs they could offer military troops and their families and came up with the scholarship program.

The treasure hunt now raises awareness and funds for the scholarship that provides opportunities for so many families.