WHY TAMPA?

Tampa is a city defined by resilience, community, and service, making it the perfect location for our 9th Annual Mass Deployment, Operation Tampa Bay Blitz. Known for its ability to bounce back stronger after severe weather-related disasters, Tampa’s strength comes from its deep ties to the military and veteran communities. With over 120,000 veterans in the Greater Tampa Bay Area and MacDill Air Force Base housing more than 12,000 active-duty personnel, Tampa is a city that embodies service and dedication. 

As we prepare for Operation Tampa Bay Blitz, we’re excited to build on this foundation of resilience and unity. The event will bring together veterans, local partners, and volunteers for a week of electrifying service, working hand-in-hand to create lasting change in this vibrant community. Since 2016, our Mass Deployments have reached major cities across the US, deploying veterans to drive sustainable impact. This operation is not only about making a difference but also inspiring future leaders to take on new roles of service.

Tampa’s spirit of collaboration and determination makes it an ideal backdrop for this impactful event. Join us as we work alongside this incredible community to create positive change and inspire others to serve.

The service projects will take place Friday, June 20 – Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

OPERATION TAMPA BAY BLITZ SPONSORS

OPERATION TAMPA BAY BLITZ COMMUNITY PARTNERS

We carefully select locations that are in need of a boost, where our resources and efforts can create sustainable change in the long term. Along with making a difference in the community – our Mass Deployments serve as an opportunity to inspire future leaders and encourage more veterans to take on new roles of service. Watch this exhilarating movement unfold as local partners and volunteers create positive change and inspire others to serve as well.

Project details and registration for local volunteers coming mid-April!

Volunteers of America – James Cole Village 

https://www.voaflorida.org/locations/james-cole-village/

The Volunteers of America – James Cole Village is a supportive housing community in Tampa, FL, dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve stability and independence. This campus provides safe and affordable housing while offering essential services such as case management, life skills training, and employment assistance. The James Cole Village is committed to empowering residents by providing the resources and support they need to build brighter futures. 

The Sustainable Living Project 

SLPTampa.com 

We describe SLP as an urban farm and education center where people can be immersed in the world of sustainability. We implement innovative and traditional technologies that help reduce our impact on the environment. Our 1-acre plot houses 34 grow beds (10 of which are dedicated to Veteran volunteers), 3 sheds, a water catchment patio with solar panels, a greenhouse with aquaponics, a chicken coop, bee hives and a 10-stall compost station. All of these elements play a part in our exploration of what it means for our bodies, communities and planet to be healthy. 

Sunrise Children’s Services 

https://sunrisegroup.org/

Sunrise is one of the largest, private 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations in the country dedicated to serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Children’s Services prepare children at a very young age for the next stages of development, which may include on-site therapies as needed. These critical services educate parents on how to navigate the complex education and healthcare system for children with disabilities. 

Tampa Parks & Recreation – MLK Recreation Complex 

https://www.tampa.gov/parks-and-recreation

The MLK Recreation Complex in Tampa, FL, is a vibrant community hub offering a variety of programs and amenities for residents of all ages. The facility features a computer lab, gymnasium, and pool, providing opportunities for learning, fitness, and fun. Families can take advantage of the after-school program, summer camp, and Stay and Play activities, ensuring kids have a safe and engaging environment throughout the year. The MLK Recreation Complex is dedicated to fostering community connections and promoting active lifestyles for Tampa residents. 

West Tampa Grows Healthy Garden 

https://coalitionofcommunitygardens.org/garden/west-tampa-grows-healthy/

West Tampa Grows Healthy is a community initiative focused on cultivating a vibrant, sustainable garden that embodies the heart and spirit of West Tampa. The garden aims to provide fresh produce, foster community engagement, and offer educational opportunities for gardeners of all levels. 

Sweetwater Organic Community Farm 

https://www.sweetwater-organic.org/

Sweetwater Organic Community Farm was established in 1995 as a nonprofit community-supported urban organic farm and environmental education center in Tampa, Florida. We are located on 6 acres of suburban property along the Sweetwater Creek in Tampa’s Town ‘n’ Country neighborhood, in Hillsborough County, Florida. At Sweetwater, community members come together to grow and enjoy fresh organic food, acquire sustainable living skills, support local agriculture, enjoy nature, make new friends and be a part of the community. 

Support the Mission


Make a Donation

If you would like to support our future missions, including our next mass deployment, please consider making a donation. We will make sure to put it to use!

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We are always updating our community about new opportunities with our leadership programs and service projects. Follow us on Facebook, as well as on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Past Mass Deployments

Want to read about previous mass deployments and what kind of projects they entailed so you can better prepare? Head on over to our main mass deployment page where we showcase the impact of mass deployment over the years.

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Read about Our Impact

Operation Tampa Bay Blitz is supported by:

Platinum Sponsor
Official Beverage Sponsor