2025 CEO Report

Greetings, 

I’m Al “Sarge” Raddatz, the CEO and one of the founding members of The Sub Zero Mission. As we welcome another Spring, I am privileged to share this report with our Board of Directors, donors and supporters, our incredible volunteers and employees, and anyone who believes in our Mission. 

We’ve just wrapped up an incredible milestone—our 16th season—and what a season it has been!  

From the outset, we challenged one another to improve, grow, and do more. We planned with intention, collaborated with partner teams, trained rigorously, communicated clearly, gathered crucial warming items, marched in parades, and hosted impactful fundraisers. Every single team member rolled up their sleeves and gave their all. 

This year, we took bold steps forward, especially in expanding and enhancing our programs for homeless veterans. Nearly 16 years ago, during our first outing on a frigid night, we encountered two veterans living under a bridge in our hometown. Walking away from them that evening felt profoundly wrong. Their plight wasn’t just heartbreaking—it was unacceptable. From that moment on, I made a solemn promise: we would do more than provide temporary relief. 

Our team, composed of veterans and their family members, works tirelessly out of respect for their service and sacrifices. At its core, our Mission is about preventing the loss of life due to homelessness, especially in freezing conditions. But beyond that, our true calling lies in finding and supporting the veterans who once served our country with honor. This year, we took meaningful strides in fulfilling that purpose. 

I cannot express enough my pride in the amazing individuals who make up The Sub Zero Mission. From long-time team members to those who recently joined our ranks, every person brought unparalleled energy and passion to what we call “Blue Fire.” Their dedication continues to fuel our progress and inspire our efforts. 

Together, we’re proving that nobody should freeze to death in America. Thank you for standing with us every step of the way. 

In the following pages, we will showcase the efforts made over the past 12 months to transform every dollar donated to our Mission into warming items for those in need. This report outlines how we operated in a way that aligned with the strategic goals established by our Board of Directors. Each Director develops a carefully crafted Goal-Aligned Plan, which is budgeted and translated into actionable projects. 

We bring these projects to life with the dedication of our small team of employees and the invaluable support of our many volunteers. We set clear objectives, monitor key metrics to measure our progress, and actively seek ways to improve when we fall short of expectations. 

At The Sub Zero Mission, our goals drive everything we do: 

• Building a culture of safety: Protecting those we serve and those who serve with us. 
• Finding and serving individuals experiencing homelessness: Reaching as many people as possible with warmth and hope. 
• Re-empowering homeless veterans: Helping those who have served regain stability and dignity. 
• Energizing our teams: Fueling the passion and collaboration that makes our Mission successful. 
• Fundraising to achieve our objectives: Ensuring we have the resources to make a lasting impact. 
• Fostering a culture of diversity: Honoring every individual’s unique contributions and perspectives. 

This report is dedicated to you—our supporters, donors, volunteers, and everyone joining us in this Mission. We are deeply grateful for the incredible help we’ve received in countless ways throughout the year. 

Thank you for being part of this journey! Together, we are transforming lives and creating brighter futures. 

Sincerely,  

Sarge, CEO
The Sub Zero Mission 

Preface to the Report 

Preface to the Report

In my report last year, referencing HUD’s numbers on homelessness from the prior year, I remarked, “Wait until they see the numbers this year!” While I don’t usually quote myself or seek to highlight my accuracy, I can tell you that the reality my team encounters during our outreach season goes far beyond what is shown on television. The stories and struggles we witness paint a far deeper and more urgent picture. 

It’s unusual for me to present this data so early in the report, but I believe it’s critical to share it upfront. Doing so sets the stage for understanding the challenges we face, the costs associated with our outreach season, and the focus of our training efforts. This context is essential as we reflect on the scope of our mission and the work that lies ahead. 

Link To HUD Report – The 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report (AHAR) to Congress

Key Insights from the HUD Report 

The latest HUD findings shed critical light on the ongoing homelessness crisis: 

• Record-breaking numbers: 2024’s Point-in-Time Count revealed the highest number of people experiencing homelessness on a single night ever recorded. 
• Widespread increases: Nearly every population group saw record-breaking levels of homelessness. 
• Families with children: This group faced the largest single-year surge, with nearly 150,000 children experiencing homelessness on just one night in 2024. 
• Veterans’ progress: Amid the broader crisis, veterans continued to see declining rates of homelessness, a bright spot among the data. 
• Older adults: Approximately 1 in 5 people experiencing homelessness on a single night were aged 55 or older, underscoring unique challenges for older populations. 
• Racial disparities: Individuals identifying as Black, African American, or African remain disproportionately represented among those experiencing homelessness. 

These statistics provide vital context for understanding the magnitude of the crisis and inform our efforts to drive meaningful solutions. Let me know if you’d like to expand further or add details! 

Hunger Reporting from our local county   

The Battery

I would be remiss if I submitted this report without thanking the team with whom I work every day in support of our Mission. This is the dedicated team that runs our mission.

They are a great team, combined with employees and permanent volunteers whom we call The Battery, because they keep everything going!  No business or charity could ever survive long-term without employees. And this team is worth every penny.  

Thank you, Team! The successes in this report are yours! 

Comings and Goings

Comings and Goings 

Welcoming Nick Ajdinovich to the Board of Directors!  

We are thrilled to announce that Nick Ajdinovich has joined The Sub Zero Mission’s Board of Directors this year, taking on the vital role of Director of Events and Fundraising. Nick’s journey with us began in October 2022, and his exceptional work as the E and F Operations Chief over the past year made him a natural fit for this position. 

A proud native of Lorain, Ohio, Nick graduated from Lorain Southview High School in 1975 before earning his B.S. in Computer Engineering from Case Western Reserve University in 1979. His professional career includes a successful tenure with The Allen-Bradley Company and later Rockwell Automation, where he progressed into middle management. After leaving Rockwell in 2000, Nick launched his own IT service business, which he operated until his retirement in 2022. 

Nick’s commitment to community service is remarkable. He has been actively involved in United Way campaigns and dedicated over 35 years to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Lake County, where he was matched with two Little Brothers and served on the Board of Trustees for nine years. 

Since joining The Sub Zero Mission, Nick has made a significant impact, not only through his leadership in events and fundraising but also as a Blue Coat Missionary, delivering warming items to the homeless during the winter months. 

Nick resides with his partner, Vicki, and is a proud father to two children, Nicole and Robert. 

Please join us in giving Nick a warm welcome as he takes on this critical leadership role. We are excited to see the incredible work he will continue to achieve with The Sub Zero Mission! 

Goodbyes To:  

A Fond Farewell to Vickie Maloney  

After many dedicated years with The Sub Zero Mission, we bid farewell to Vickie Maloney as she steps away from her role on the Board of Directors. 

Reflecting on her journey, Vickie shared: “When I became an empty-nester quite a few years ago, I was looking for something meaningful to occupy my time. I met Sub Zero Mission and started volunteering. Fast forward to 2019, and I became a Board Member (Secretary). I’ve loved my time supporting Sub Zero Mission in this role, but this last Monday was my last meeting on the Board. It was bittersweet, to say the least, but I know in my heart it was the right decision to pass the baton. I’ll, of course, still be supporting, just not in a Board capacity.” 

Vickie, your unwavering dedication, countless hours of service, and passion for our mission have left a lasting legacy. While we will miss your presence on the Board, we are so grateful you’ll remain a cherished part of the Sub Zero Mission family. 

Thank you for everything, Vickie—you will always have our deepest gratitude and admiration! 

A Heartfelt Transition: Honoring Barb Raddatz  

We want to take a moment to recognize Barb Raddatz, who is transitioning from her role as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. While Barb will be stepping away from her voting position, we are pleased to share that she will continue to contribute her expertise and dedication as our Board Secretary in a non-voting capacity. 

As one of the founding members of our Board of Directors, Barb has been a cornerstone of The Sub Zero Mission’s success and growth. Her leadership, tireless commitment, and involvement in numerous committees—along with thousands of hours of volunteer service—have left an indelible mark on our mission. 

Barb, we thank you for your unwavering dedication and passion for our cause. Your contributions have been immeasurable, and we are so grateful you will continue to be part of our team as we move forward.  

Please join us in celebrating Barb’s incredible service and her new role with The Sub Zero Mission! 

Creating a Culture of Safety

Creating a Culture of Safety

At The Sub Zero Mission, safety is at the heart of everything we do—whether within our headquarters or out in the field. The diverse range of safety concerns we face requires constant vigilance and preparedness. From hazardous ice conditions on the roads and underfoot to everyday risks within the office, the challenges are real and varied. Adding to this complexity is our large volunteer team, including many first-year members, and the individuals we serve, who may be battling substance use, sleep deprivation, hypothermia, or exhibiting behaviors associated with criminal activity or aggression.

Safety cannot be an afterthought—it must be prioritized at every level.

One example of how good intentions can lead to danger is a social media video we incorporated into our training, demonstrating an outreach worker being grabbed by an individual. Situations like this remind us of the importance of awareness and preparedness when assisting others. What would you do in this scenario?

When safety concerns arise, team members are instructed to immediately escalate the issue to their squad leader and the Safety Officer. The matter is reviewed by leadership based on its severity, and a Corrective Action Request (CAR) or Serious Incident Report (SIR) is initiated. These reports remain open until corrective measures are taken, necessary training is provided, and the team is informed.

Each year, we set a goal to ensure all CARs and SIRs are resolved by the end of the delivery season, which coincides with the start of Spring. This year, six CARs related to safety were opened and successfully closed.

Safety Issues Addressed This Year:

10 April 2024

• Issue: The passenger-side mirror on Fury fails to adjust with the power switch.
• Cause: Broken motor inside the mirror.
• Action Taken: Ordered and installed a new mirror.
• Closed: 20 April 2024.

24 July 2024

• Issue: Summer Wind vehicle visibility when parked.
• Cause: Old, non-LED lights that are period correct to 1994.
• Action Taken: Replaced round flashers with amber LED flashers for enhanced visibility.
• Next Step: If visibility remains insufficient, explore reflective wraps for the rear of Summer Wind.
• Closed: 1 August 2024.

24 July 2024

• Issue: Sharp edges and glass inside vehicles.
• Cause: Modifications made to prepare the vehicle for the mission.
• Action Taken: Removed glass doors and padded/removed sharp edges.
• Next Action: Re-inspect vehicles in Summer 2025 for new safety concerns.
• Closed: 4 August 2024.

1 September 2024

• Issue: Volunteers with disabilities carrying items up tight stairs.
• Cause: Additional SA5 storage located upstairs without safe access.
• Action Taken: Installed a freight dumbwaiter in the sorting center for safe item transportation.
• Closed: 1 October 2024.

1 October 2024

• Issue: Lack of a handrail along the stairs.
• Cause: Space constraints when transporting freight upstairs.
• Action Taken: Installed a full-length handrail.
• Closed: 6 October 2024.

22 January 2025

• Issue: Harassment of staff by a client after ineligibility for the HVRP program.
• Cause: Client became angry and began calling staff, sending Facebook requests, and contacting personal phone numbers.
• Actions Taken:
• Removed personal information from business cards and email signatures.
• Established enhanced safety protocols for HQ, including locking doors and screening entrants.
• Scrubbed personal information from the internet through an external agency.
• Documented encounters with the client and established protocols for involving local law enforcement if harassment continued.

Closed: 27 March 2025.

Safety as Our Top Priority:

Early in the season, we were reminded of the risks involved in working directly with individuals in vulnerable situations. By addressing safety concerns swiftly and implementing measures such as enhanced training and clear reporting procedures, we ensured the well-being of our team and maintained our commitment to creating a culture of safety.

“Our team remains vigilant, ensuring safety stays our highest priority as we continue to serve those in need.” — Tim Hickey, Director of Veteran Affairs

A Focus on Safety

Ensuring the safety of our teams remains a top priority at The Sub Zero Mission. This year, we worked on several projects aimed at improving safety measures and addressing the unique challenges faced during outreach missions.

Annual Training

This season, annual training was particularly comprehensive as we adjusted to the increasing risks associated with larger populations of homelessness, reflected in the statistics. Recognizing the growing complexity of our work, we focused on enhancing our protocols and introducing process improvements. Key training topics included:

• De-escalation Techniques: Equipping our teams with the skills to handle potentially volatile situations calmly and effectively.
• Camp Approach: Teaching strategies for safely engaging with individuals in their environments.
• Sub Zero Mission Vehicle Training: Covering the general functions of vehicles, differences between our fleet, operational best practices, and service window operations.
• Cold Weather Training: Preparing teams to navigate the challenges of freezing conditions.
• First Aid Essentials: Including puncture wound treatment and identifying signs of hypothermia and frostbite.

This extensive training reflects our commitment to ensuring the well-being of our team members and the individuals we serve.

New Reflective Coats

Many of our outreach missions occur at night, presenting unique visibility challenges. As teams move further away from the bus, especially in wooded areas, it becomes increasingly difficult for drivers and team leads to track their locations. Recognizing this issue, we invested in new high-visibility blue coats to enhance safety.

With the help of our vendor, we selected materials designed for maximum reflectivity, ensuring our team members are easier to spot in low-light settings. These new coats represent a significant improvement in the overall safety of our nighttime missions.

100 Day Meeting

Last year, our team faced a slow start despite a packed season of missions on the calendar. It often felt like we were playing catch-up throughout the year. To address this, we challenged our outreach team to come together earlier this season for a “100 Day Meeting.”

This meeting proved invaluable. It gave the team an opportunity to begin training, inspect upgrades, and identify areas for improvement before the season officially began. By starting earlier, we ensured our team and operations were better prepared for the challenges ahead.

Garage Safety Improvements

Our garage presents unique safety challenges, and this year, we focused on addressing two specific concerns:

1. Personnel Safety: Movement in the garage while large vehicles operate can be hazardous. To minimize risks, we’ve designated specific areas for individuals to stand when engines are started. Additionally, plans are underway to mark the floors with painted zones to identify safe spaces clearly.
2. Structural Safety: The combination of long vehicles and narrow doors creates a risk of buses scraping the garage door frame. To mitigate this, we plan to extend lane markings 40 feet beyond the garage doors. This will help drivers properly align vehicles before entering the doorway, ensuring smooth and safe movements.

Our New Cargo Lift

Early in the year, during team discussions on potential improvements, it was decided that installing a cargo lift between floors in the storage area would significantly enhance safety and efficiency. This project received swift approval and was fully budgeted for implementation.

While the lift addressed several issues, including reducing reliance on the stairwell and improving morale, the installation of the lift brought its safety challenges. Here’s how we mitigated risks:

• Restricted Usage: No person can ride the cargo lift beyond its capacity. The lift is marked with this rule, and all personnel are informed.
• Safety Signage: Both floors feature caution markings and signage to alert team members.
• Secured Resting Position: The lift’s resting position is locked on the top floor to eliminate the risk of falling into the shaft.

By closing the structure on three sides and adding a gated loading side with a secure latch, we’ve minimized risks and ensured safe operation.

Motor Transport Team and the Fleet

Meet Our Trusty Fleet!

At The Sub Zero Mission, our military-inspired ethos emphasizes the importance of reliable vehicles to support our outreach missions. Each fleet member has their distinct name and personality, reflecting the value we place on ownership and accountability within our team.

Here’s a look at our remarkable fleet:

• The Summer Wind: A retired Ohio Fire Marshal command center, serving as the nerve center of operations.
• The Pamela Dawn: A dependable long bus that ensures smooth transportation for our team.
• Fury: A versatile Topkick truck that pulls our 16-foot trailer, Cool Breeze, carrying vital gear and equipment.
• Scrape: A rugged side-by-side 4×4 that rides in the trailer, ready to tackle tough terrain and challenging missions.

We believe naming our vehicles fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among our team members, which translates into meticulous care and maintenance. Each vehicle is specially modified for diverse terrains, situations, and distances from our headquarters. During the offseason, we dedicate time to upgrading and refining our fleet, ensuring every vehicle is ready for the next mission.

A Dedicated Motor Transport Team

The safety and functionality of our fleet are paramount, which is why we field a dedicated team—the Motor T—to handle vehicle operations and maintenance with precision. I personally took charge of this team in May of last year, challenging them to elevate their standards to an elite level. Drivers and mechanics must know our vehicles inside out, leaving no room for error.

Here are some of the safety and functionality improvements made this year:

• Added a paid driver to our permanent staff.
• Required 4 hours of drive time per vehicle during the offseason, including specialized maneuvers unique to our missions.
• Relocated the exhaust on The Summer Wind and replaced its internal cabin exhaust fan.
• Installed new headlights and flashers on all vehicles.
• Covered battery charging posts with custom fittings on The Pamela Dawn.
• Removed all glass and covered sharp corners in the crew area of The Summer Wind.
• Added safety hold bars in the crew area of The Summer Wind.
• Repaired rear door, added a hasp, and established an exit process for The Summer Wind.

Red Light/Green Light Goals

To monitor the readiness of our three primary vehicles, we use a whiteboard system featuring stoplight indicators.

• Green Light: Vehicle is fully operational.
• Yellow Light: Maintenance issues or minor repairs needed.
• Red Light: Vehicle has a safety issue, non-start condition, or risk of permanent damage.

Our goal is to achieve green light status for all vehicles by the first day of Spring—and this year, we met our goal!

Fleet Challenges and Repairs

Although our fleet faced breakdowns and challenges during the season, each issue was addressed with care:

• The Pamela Dawn (TPD):
• Experienced a brake light issue on a Columbus trip. Repairs included replacing the brake CPU, fixing a cracked differential casing, and addressing a stall caused by a fuel line component. Unfortunately, the vehicle was deadlined for nearly five weeks due to these repairs.
• During the towing process, a bent bumper from improper handling was also repaired.
• The Summer Wind:
• Received complaints of exhaust smell in the cabin, an issue to be revisited during the summer. Otherwise, the vehicle performed dependably all season long.
• Fury:
• Entered limp mode during a mission in Elyria, requiring extensive tracing of a transmission control issue. Repairs included replacing a faulty O-ring, harness, and alternator.
• Scrape:
• Proved invaluable during missions in Ashtabula and Conneaut, assisting with storm dig-outs and deliveries. Additional training will ensure the team is proficient in attaching/detaching the trailer and safely operating the machine under various conditions.

Moving Forward

Our fleet is an integral part of our team, and the improvements we’ve made reflect our commitment to safety, efficiency, and excellence. We’re proud of the progress achieved this season and look forward to continuing our work together, one mission at a time.

Outreach

Finding and Helping as Many Homeless as We Can – Outreach Season 

Before diving into the incredible work accomplished during this outreach season, we must understand what we prepared for and why. 

As mentioned earlier, the 2023/2024 outreach season significantly increased unsheltered homelessness. We saw tents lining sidewalks in Downtown Cleveland and witnessed increased, often open, drug use in camps, even along roadways. The signs were clear—this season would demand focus and preparation. 

Our priorities this year focused on safety, with an emphasis on de-escalation training and finding experienced outreach partners in the cities we serve. 

One of our Mission’s highest-level goals is to “Find and Provide Outreach to As Many People Experiencing Homelessness as We Can.” During 2023/2024, we achieved remarkable milestones, serving in seven states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois, and New York. However, with the Homeless Veteran Re-Empowerment Program (HVRP) launch, we decided to scale back on overnight, out-of-town trips, limiting them to just two this season. This decision allowed our limited daytime staff to concentrate on follow-ups with veterans instead of coordinating partner teams and accommodations. 

The previous season highlighted another challenge—team fatigue. During the offseason, vehicle breakdowns and communication missteps led to some attrition and turnover, indicating that we needed to prioritize our team’s well-being. 

With these lessons in mind, we made strategic changes: 

• Missions requiring more than an hour of travel were rescheduled from weekday nights to Saturdays. 
• Rest days were built into the schedule to give the team downtime and allow vehicle maintenance. 
• Materials collections and “Stuff the Bus” events were essentially paused during the outreach season. 
• We enlisted the support of the most experienced guides for our missions. 

We were ready. 

And then the snow came… And it kept coming. And it came some more. 

Suddenly, in addition to our planned missions, we responded to emergency calls—tents crushed under snow in multiple service areas. It was go time! 

Our Incredible Team 

The scope of our work would be impossible without the dedication of our team. We have a genuinely GREAT outreach team! 

The Blue Coat Missionaries are the heart of our Mission. These brave individuals venture out into the freezing night with compassion and determination, bringing warmth and hope to those they meet. They embody humanity at its finest through their selflessness, discipline, and generosity. 

Every room in our headquarters features the image of The Blue Coat Missionary, a symbolic figure of our efforts.

This character carries: 

• A sword, representing the fight against death, the struggles our homeless veterans face, and our advocacy to help them find permanent homes. 
• A lantern, symbolizing the light of hope we bring to camps and our mission to light a path back to a safe, secure home. 

The blue coats worn by our team originated as a practical way to identify members during missions. Over time, they have become a badge of honor. Team members must earn their coat through service, completing at least 10 outreach missions or equivalent contributions to our cause. Members include prior military personnel, first responders, or specialists whose skills enhance our outreach efforts. 

Outreach Season Achievements 

Our outreach team set ambitious goals for the season: 

• Miles Traveled: Goal 3,500 / Actual: 2500 
• Warming Items Delivered: Goal 25,000 / Actual: 28,584 
• Donated Volunteer Hours: Goal 1,000 / Actual: 1,148 

Statistics from the Season: 

• 45 volunteers contributed 1,148 hours across 32 missions. 
• Served 14 cities, staying within Ohio. 
• Delivered 28,584 items to those in need. 
• Helped 1,318 homeless individuals. 
• Fortified and served 13 shelters. 

We are proud to say we MET OUR GOALS, and the season was a resounding success. No missions were canceled due to safety, personnel, or vehicle issues. Only one mission was canceled due to lacking new intel in the area. 

Items Distributed: 

• Hats: 7,047 
• Coats: 1,318 
• Boots: 767 
• Gloves: 4,719 
• Sleeping Bags: 808 
• Tents: 223 
• Socks: 13,692 
• Survival Coats: 10 

Total Items Delivered: 28,584 

Scrape: A Valuable Tool 

One exciting addition this season was using Scrape, our side-by-side vehicle. Barb and I donated this all-terrain vehicle a few years ago, and a generous supporter contributed a trailer, which proved to be an incredible asset. 

Although Scrape was only deployed on a few missions, it enabled us to access remote camps that might have been unreachable. The experience also helped our team build proficiency in loading, unloading, and maneuvering Scrape. 

With Scrape, we can now get closer to camps and reach people quickly and effectively. Our Motor T team did outstanding work integrating Scrape into our missions and ensuring its readiness for future use. 

Looking Ahead 

The 2023/2024 outreach season was a testament to the power of preparation, teamwork, and dedication. Thanks to the incredible efforts of our team and supporters, we delivered warmth, hope, and life-saving resources to those who needed them most. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our commitment to making an even more significant impact in the years to come. 

Fundraising for our Goals

Fundraising for Our Goals 

Over the years, The Sub Zero Mission has grown from a small group of friends using their personal vehicles to deliver warming items into a thriving organization with a profound impact. Since 2018, we’ve expanded our capacity, acquiring a fleet of three vehicles, establishing ownership of our headquarters, and most recently, adding a 3,600-square-foot garage to further support our operations. 

Why Fundraising Matters 

Fundraising is a cornerstone of our efforts to sustain and grow this vital mission. As a donation-driven organization, we rely heavily on the generosity of our supporters to cover critical expenses. For the 2024/2025 Outreach and Delivery Season, our budget of $625,000 supported key areas such as: 

• Vehicle maintenance and fleet expansion 
• Launch of the Homeless Veteran Re-Empowerment Program  
• Building projects and upkeep, including our new garage 
• Training and safety programs 
• Employee salaries for the dedicated team driving our mission forward
  

Your contributions make this work possible, enabling us to provide life-saving support to those who need it most. Together, we can ensure that nobody freezes to death in America. 

A Message from Nick Ajdinovich, Director of Events and Fundraising.

“I am honored to have joined the Board of Directors in January 2025 as the Director of Events and Fundraising. Over the past two years as the Events and Fundraising Operations Chief, we grew the volunteer organization, ‘The Bears,’ to over 110 people. We’ve standardized fundraiser dates, enacted standard operating procedures, created a contributor database, and built a team to handle all event-related activities. 

Looking ahead, we’ll focus on growing our grants team to secure more funding for the HVRP while continuing to develop corporate partnerships that expand our reach in the communities we serve. It’s truly an exciting time to be part of the Sub Zero Mission team!” 

Our Fundraising Team 

Along with our Director of Events and Fundraising, we have two employees, Kevin Williams and Monica Stark, and several volunteers on our day team who support the Events and Fundraising goal. They work with external entities and businesses that want to partner with us and with our internal planning team, “The Arsenal,” to ensure excellence and quality in our events.  

Then, there are “Bears”! 110 dedicated and motivated volunteers who show up to “have fun and get it done!” Our Bears team does it all!  

Special thanks to the Bears Team and Squad Leaders!  

Our Impact 

This expansion has empowered us to make a more significant difference. In the 2024/2025 season, we delivered over 28,000 warming items to individuals across 23 cities. Our outreach and delivery efforts are an essential part of our mission to serve those in need. 

The Events and Fundraising Team (aka “The Bears”) had a very successful FY24. Our team grew to 110 volunteers, contributing 2092 hours of service. This allowed us to conduct seven Major Fundraisers: Bowl for the Mission, a Motorcycle run, a Reverse Raffle, a Golf Outing, a 5K race, and participation in the Painesville Party in the Park and Deerassic Classic.  

Contributors and sponsors continue to be a big part of our fundraising efforts. We received over $43,000 from VFW chapters and $132,000 in various grants. We received over 110 auction items and many event sponsorships that we used in our fundraisers to help offset the costs of our events. The total value of these contributions was over $490,000. 

We also held 55 Stuff the Bus Events during October and November. Our Fundraisers brought in $140,537, and the Stuff the Bus Events brought in 25,000 warming items, which we value at $275,000.  

The Salvation Army standardizes the values of donated items, which are included in the Donation Value Guide.

Fundraising Successes 

This season, our efforts achieved several key milestones, including: 

• Corporate Donors and Volunteers: Generous contributions from organizations such as Parker Hannifin, Progressive, Lincoln Electric, Flexjet, Enbridge, and Park Place Technologies, among others, significantly bolstered our outreach efforts. 
• Airplane Contest: A creative and engaging event that drew strong community participation. 
• New Events: To diversify our activities and engage more supporters, we introduced new fundraisers, including the Bowl for the Mission and the Stay Alive 5K. 
• Social media and branding: Our social media Team assisted us in employing data-driven strategies to expand our online presence and enhance donor engagement. 

Outreach Preparation 

Before the season even began, we worked tirelessly to collect the necessary items for delivery. The team rallied together to ensure that: 

By the time outreach began, we were ready to make a meaningful impact thanks to the incredible support of our donors, volunteers, and community partners. 

This success allowed us to conduct 32 outreach missions this winter and launch our HVRP program in November 2024. We delivered over 28,000 to the homeless this winter. 

As we look forward to the future, we plan to maintain our fundraising goals and increase them to $150,000. We are expanding and have established a Grants Committee to explore additional opportunities. We hope to increase our grant dollars to $200,000. We have new volunteer training scheduled for April 2025 to continue growing our team. 

Fundraising is the lifeblood of our mission, and we are deeply grateful for every contribution that allows us to continue this work. Whether it’s through corporate partnerships, community events, or individual donations, your support enables us to continue growing and serving those in need. Thank you for standing with us! 

Warrior Shield Foundation

We are beyond grateful to have been invited to Orlando, FL, as beneficiaries of the incredible Warrior Weekend, hosted by The Warrior Shield Foundation. This annual event is dedicated to honoring and supporting veteran-related causes, and we are truly humbled to be part of it. 

The weekend was nothing short of amazing! It featured a fantastic concert with performances by Bo Bice, Ryan Weaver, and more, a thrilling police-escorted motorcycle ride, and a formal dinner and auction—all to raise critical funds for Veterans. Thanks to the generosity and dedication of these selfless individuals, we received an incredible $42,348! Combined with the $10,000 donation they made to us the previous year, Warrior Shield has made a lasting impact on our mission. Their support provided seed money for our Homeless Veteran Re-Empowerment Project, changing lives. 

We met so many wonderful people at this event, and we are excited to return this year, not just as guests, but as extra hands to support and give back. We’ll stand beside them this time as they honor and raise funds for The Cpl. Chad Eric Oligschlaeger Foundation for PTSD. 

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to The Warrior Shield Foundation and everyone who made this event possible. Your generosity and dedication to our Veterans inspire us, and we are honored to be part of this mission! 

Other Notable Information About the Mission

Other Notable Stories and Accomplishments 

Observations from Ron Marotto, Our Board Chairman, After His First Year 

Our first-year Board Chairman brought a fresh perspective and renewed energy to The Sub Zero Mission’s Board of Directors. His insights have played a pivotal role in shaping our strategies and ensuring we remain focused on our goals. 

“As I’m completing my first year with The Sub Zero Mission, I’ve been trying to come to terms with my feelings. The word I keep using is ‘overwhelmed’.  

First, I am overwhelmed with the wretched conditions, the sheer numbers, and the diversity of individuals who find themselves homeless. It is truly heartbreaking.  

I’m equally overwhelmed with the commitment and dedication of the people of The Sub Zero Mission to literally save the lives of these fellow humans with gentle compassion, love, and zero judgement. If you’re looking for the image of a true American hero, I can show you plenty. It’s been an honor to work next to these amazing people. “

-Ron Marotto, Chairman of the Board 

There were many things Ron could have done when he retired after a 45-year career at a local insurance company. We are fortunate to have him on our team and helping in this fight! Welcome aboard, Ron!  

Energizing Our Teams 

Charity work can be exhausting. We focus on keeping our teams engaged and infused with “Blue Fire”, the energy that keeps our Mission going. We want our team to know that their work is important, and, as importantly, that THEY ARE IMPORTANT.  

To build a cohesive and enthusiastic team culture, we implemented several initiatives, including: 

• Feedback Through Surveys: Actively listening to team members’ thoughts and suggestions. 
• Addressing Turnover: Identifying and addressing underlying causes to enhance team stability. 
• Branded Tees: A visible symbol of team pride and belonging. 
• Volunteer Gatherings: Hosting parties to celebrate and appreciate our volunteers. 
• Food Before Missions: Providing meals to fuel our volunteers. 
• Covering Training Costs: Investing in team development. 
• Gift Cards and Random Acts of Appreciation: Small gestures to show gratitude for their hard work. 

Sparks of Blue Fire- Volunteer and Employee Stories 

Eli Manley 

Here is a great photo of my friend Eli! I captured this picture randomly on an outreach mission. When I looked at the picture later, I liked how happy he looked. And that spoke to who Eli is as a person. We were out there that day, late in our season, and he was energized by helping people.  

For years, Eli expressed interest in joining the Blue Coat Missionary team. While scheduling conflicts initially prevented it, he found other ways to contribute by joining our Bears team, leading summer events, and even becoming a squad leader! 

When the opportunity to deliver during outreach season arose, Eli was the first to raise his hand. Eli is humble, dedicated, and filled with “Blue Fire,” Eli serves with a grateful heart and unwavering focus on the cause. 

Eli, you embody the spirit of our Mission—thank you for everything you do! 

Chris Huber 

Chris Huber joined our team in 2015. Another member of the Blue Coat Missionary team referred him to us as “a friend of my son, an Army guy, who the Mission might be good for…” I said, “Okay. Bring him in.” 

By his third mission with us, he had earned his nickname, “AntiFreeze.” We would learn through the years that there was not much he wouldn’t do for our mission. On this night, it was to be under our bus roadside in a snowstorm to trace out a leaking coolant line. He was soaked, but he found it, and we got it fixed and completed our mission in Buffalo that year.  

Chris became an employee the next year. A Purple Heart recipient, he was tired of hanging around his house, and most of his projects were completed. He was feeling depressed and was ready for something new! He has served in several capacities and titles. He has been a Donation Intake Specialist and Ops Chief and is currently the Lead Inventory Specialist. But he doesn’t stop at his paid duties. He also volunteers for the Blue Coat Missionaries, gathering intel for missions, providing mission briefings, ensuring the buses are loaded, training, and performing several other leadership duties. Successful missions occur because of dedicated people. Chris is one of them!  

“What the mission didn’t know was that I needed the mission more than it needed me. At the time, I had just gotten medically discharged from the Army, from injuries suffered during the war.  I was going through intensive, prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapies, and my next step in the plan with my provider was to find somewhere to volunteer and give back. This was important because it would coincide with my treatment. I needed a safe place surrounded by Veterans where I could slowly start to adopt to civilian life. The Sub Zero Mission gave me purpose, support, and structure to begin to rebuild myself. I was able to take my military training and use it to help people in my town. This was huge for my healing, and I could use the skills I acquired to do harm, and retool them for good in the community.  This would allow me to start replacing those tragic situations with good ones.  I am forever grateful for the opportunity to serve with The Sub Zero Mission.” -Chris Huber

Thank you, Chris, for all that you do for the Mission! I feel like you may have been as good for the Mission as the Mission has been for you!  

Legal Updates 

Programs such as our HVRP and our direct outreach program have significant legal exposures and the need for specialized contracts and knowledge of the law in our industry. Each year, our Director of Legal Affairs reviews new laws in the states that we serve and help us update our policies.  

These past delivery seasons required significant updates to align with changes in Ohio’s constitutional carry laws. Here’s how we’ve adapted: 

• Volunteers carrying weapons on missions must: 

1. 1. Complete 12 missions observing safety procedures. 
   2. Pass a shooting proficiency evaluation at a shooting range. 
   3. Register the weapon’s make, serial number, caliber, and model. 
   4. Attend three training sessions with Geauga Firearms Academy. 

The Sub Zero Mission recently updated its employee handbook, reinforcing our commitment to safety for customers, volunteers, visitors, and staff.  

“Our proactive measures help us maintain a safety-conscious environment that allows us to stay focused on our primary goal: reaching and serving as many homeless people as possible.” -Douglas R. Simek, Director of Legal Affairs Volunteer Board Member 

Awards and Recognition 

We are honored to announce that The Sub Zero Mission was awarded the Freemasons 22nd District Grand Master Community Service Award (Watch the Freemason’s Award Ceremony Video). 

Accepting this award was a testament to the relentless dedication of our team, who work tirelessly to serve those in need. To our team, partners, and supporters—this recognition belongs to you. Thank you for helping us make such an incredible impact in our community. 

Accreditations 

We are thrilled to share the following achievements: 

• FOUR STAR rating on Charity Navigator. 
• PLATINUM rating on GuideStar. 
• Accreditation with the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. 

These milestones reflect our commitment to transparency, sustainability, and financial efficiency. Thank you for trusting and supporting our Mission. 

Meeting a Hero 

Meeting Colonel Greg Gadson was a truly humbling and profound experience—one that left me in absolute awe. This year, through our partnership with the Warrior Shield Foundation, I had the incredible honor of meeting him in person. 

Colonel Gadson’s story is one of unimaginable sacrifice and resilience. While serving in Baghdad, his convoy was struck by a remote-controlled IED, hurling him 50 feet from his vehicle. He fought for his life, dying multiple times before being revived. After enduring countless surgeries, he made the difficult choice to remove his right leg and spent months with only his non-dominant hand as his sole functioning extremity. 

Though some may recognize him from the movie Battleship, it is his unwavering spirit and extraordinary courage that truly define him. Hearing him speak was nothing short of life-changing—his words carried a depth of strength and perseverance that moved an entire room to tears. It is a moment I will never forget. 

Finance Committee Wins  

Spending donations responsibly and being transparent with how the money is spent is important to us. Last year, we assembled a team that consisted of our Treasurer, our CEO, a licensed CPA, an analyst and two trustees. Accounting for and safeguarding our Mission’s funds, are a big part of this team’s job!  

This year, our Finance Committee achieved the following: 

• Implemented a monthly reconciliation process. 
• Introduced cost coding for expenses. 
• Automated payroll systems. 
• Streamlined the cash deposit process. 

“Our Finance Committee has grown too. We now have a CPA on our team to ensure all financial matters are handled properly and an AP/AR clerk to keep all the transactions in order. With multiple vehicles and the purchase and expansion of our headquarters, this was imperative. 

These improvements reflect our commitment to efficiency and operational excellence, ensuring we maximize every dollar donated to the Mission.” -Shane Hajjar, Treasurer 

Marketing and Social Media Wins 

We have a high number of events that we perform during the year. We have a professional brand that we want our supporters and would-be fans to see. Our supporters need to understand our needs. All of this involves messaging. Messaging occurs in many ways.  

At The Sub Zero Mission, we have a great group of people who perform our marketing and social media tasks. Our Marketing Director, James Hido, leads them.  

According to James, “Our team has delivered direct branding messaging utilizing efforts on digital freeway billboards. The marketing team secured a complimentary annual marketing campaign from 107.3 Alternative Radio. Our team aims to expand this channel of branding, exploring additional options for the year ahead.  We have continued our seasonal digital ad campaigns for donations, Amazon Wish Lists, and overall branding efforts to support the mission.”  

Here are some other marketing-related statistics and information:  

• Currently averaging 1.2 million views per 90-day period 
• 470k users reached within the given year, which is up 33% this year 
• Our content interaction rate has increased by over 90% 
• 72k total interactions to our content 
• Our video consumption year over year has increased by 154% with a total consumption time of 13 days and 10 hours of video content posted 
• Our social media audience has grown 103% year over year adding an additional 3k followers between Facebook and Instagram. 
• The marketing and events team has increased the total number of subscribers by 54% year over year from 1300-2400 users. 

Our Creed  

Our Creed

Years ago, a commanding officer shared a powerful lesson with me: “People are united by cause or colors.” In the Marine Corps, “colors” refers to the flags representing the United States, the Marine Corps, and each individual unit. These symbols serve as a rallying point, creating unity and purpose. In a similar way, our team is united not only by our cause but also by our “colors”—the logos and shields that represent our individual teams. 

In the early days, our team adopted a creed that resonates deeply with our values. I first encountered this creed in my professional reading during my service, and later, it appeared in a war film. Inspired by its meaning, I shared it with our Blue Coat Missionary team, and together, we embraced it. It has since become a defining expression of who we are and why we live by the principles we do. 

“So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.  

Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide. Always give a word or a sign of salute when meeting or passing a friend, even a stranger, when in a lonely place. Show respect to all people and grovel to none. When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only in yourself. Abuse no one and no thing, for abuse turns the wise ones to fools and robs the spirit of its vision. 

When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death so that when their time comes, they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.” – Chief Tecumseh