Spyder is extending its support to the sons and daughters of fallen service members by collaborating with the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in combat or training accidents.

The two organizations have launched a special edition hat to promote the need for debt-free college educations. The Fallen Patriot Hat (MSRP $40.00) was developed exclusively to support CFPF and proudly bears the Fallen Patriot logo, a profile of the iconic Minute Man. For every Fallen Patriot hat sold, Spyder will donate money to CFPF. With all of the foundation’s operating expenses covered by volunteers, every dollar donated goes to aid the children.

Tom McGann, president and CEO of Spyder, serves on the foundation’s board of advisers. “The Children of Fallen Patriots provides far more than just financial support for a college education,” McGann said. “The encouragement and emotional support the foundation provides inspires military children to attain their educational aspirations, which is critical to their future success. We’re raising awareness and fund raising through this initial special edition hat. I strongly encourage everyone to get involved and create a positive future for the children of our fallen patriots.”
 
Since its inception in 2002, CFPF has granted over $2.2 million in scholarships to more than180 children and started a pipeline for 1,400 more. CFPF estimates that over 15,000 children have lost a parent in combat or training accidents over the last 25 years.

The Fallen Patriot hat will be available beginning October 2011 at retailers who support the program. Consumers may find links to purchase the beanie and support the cause by visiting www.spyder.com. Click on www.fallenpatriots.org to support the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation.