The Carolinas Freedom Foundation was founded in response to former prisoner of war and retired Air Force Col. Quincy Collins’ concerns about the lack of an organization in the area to promote patriotism. Working with Mayor Richard Vinroot and former Mayor John Belk, a blue ribbon committee recommended that an organization be established for the specific purpose of promoting patriotism. The foundation was charted in 1995 as a 501(c)(3) corporation, originally as the Charlotte’s Veterans Association.

Today, the work of the foundation has expanded into nine initiatives, including those to educate young people and the community on the importance of citizenship while continuing to honor both those who serve in the military and those who serve in other fields of community service.
 
 
Each year, the Carolinas Freedom Foundation organizes nine programs and awards: the US Airways Freedom Breakfast, the Freedom Award, the Wreath Laying Ceremony, the Patriotic Art Competition, the US Airways Salute to Veterans Parade, the Flags in Classrooms Program, the Bank of America Shelton Leadership Challenge, and the AT&T Cadet Achievement Awards.