In the SpotlightOperation ReConnect: Giving the Gift of Time

It all started with a conversation in a war zone.

Back in 2014, while deployed in Afghanistan, Ryan Charrier learned that one of his fellow service members had served 28 years, done six combat deployments, and never taken a real family vacation. That lit a fire under him.

Ryan came home and built Operation ReConnect, a nonprofit dedicated to giving military families the “Gift of Time”—seven uninterrupted nights in a beachside resort, totally free of charge. No bills. No stress. Just sand, sunsets, and reconnecting with the people who matter most.

Sound simple? It’s not. But the mission is clear. These families have sacrificed enough. It’s time they got something back.

Operation ReConnect isn’t just giving families a break—they’re also rolling out rides that turn heads and open hearts.

It started back in 2017 with their very first giveaway: a Jeep they fittingly named the “Jeep of Faith.” They’ve kept the giveaways rolling, using each vehicle to bring in support and shine a light on the cause.

Why Jeeps? Because anyone can hop in and drive one, they’re tough, timeless, and made for adventure, just like the families Operation ReConnect serves. Add a few Rough Country upgrades, and you’ve got a ride that’s easy to enjoy from 18 to 80.

The 2025 Jeep they're giving away this year isn't just built—it's purpose-built. This thing's ready to roam, inspire, and carry the mission forward. And make no mistake—it's far from stock.

Thanks to Rough Country, it’s loaded with serious upgrades: a 3.5-inch Lift Kit, Pro Series Front Bumper, 50-Inch LED Light Bar, Rear Bumper with Tire Carrier, Power Running Boards, and more. It’s designed to turn heads and take on whatever the road—or trail—throws its way.

And because Operation ReConnect always keeps things interesting, there’s a custom golf cart in the mix, too. Not every ride needs mud tires and a gas tank—sometimes the best kind of adventure is a quiet cruise on a sunny day.

Want to know if all of this actually makes a difference? Just read the testimonials.

The story from The Klein Family is a standout. It’s more than just a feel-good moment—it’s a reminder that healing takes more than time. It takes space, peace, and a chance to reconnect. Families leave their ReConnect week changed, recharged, and closer than ever.

You can read their story—and plenty more like it—at Operation ReConnect’s website, where you can also purchase your chance to win the fully loaded Jeep or custom golf cart.

Whether you live down the street or across the country, there’s a way to get involved:

• Buy a raffle ticket. You could win a Jeep or a golf cart—and you’ll help fund more getaways for deserving families.
• Spread the word. Know a military family that could use a break? Tell them about Operation ReConnect.
• Volunteer. If you’re near the Alabama Gulf Coast, you can roll up your sleeves and help directly.
• Donate. Every bit helps them move closer to owning their own property and hosting even more families.

Operation ReConnect isn’t about flashy giveaways (though, let’s be honest, that Jeep’s a stunner). It’s about honoring service with something priceless: time with family. So if you’re into off-roading, adventure, or just doing something that feels right—this is worth your attention. Want to support a good cause and maybe drive away in a Jeep? Yeah, us too. Leave a comment below—whether you’ve served, supported someone who has, or just love what this nonprofit stands for. We’d love to hear from you.