By Danielle DeSimone

Since World War II, the USO’s mission has always been to serve the men and women in the U.S. military, and their families, throughout their time in uniform. As a nonprofit organization that is not part of the federal government, the USO relies on the generosity of patriotic Americans and corporations to support our programs, services and worldwide network of volunteers to get the job done.

That is why the USO is proud to partner with companies such as Lyft, the fastest-growing ride sharing company in the country that is dedicated to “improving people’s lives with the world’s best transportation” through its Round Up & Donate in-app donation product. When riders opt in to Round Up & Donate, Lyft will round up their fares to the nearest dollar, and donate the difference to the charity of their choice. The more you ride, the more you raise. The USO is one of Lyft’s chosen charities, which has brought in incredible contributions from Lyft riders around the country.

As of this month, Lyft riders have officially raised over $1 million for the USO through Round Up & Donate, supporting service members and their families throughout the world. These donations go towards USO programs and services, which are designed to keep our men and women in uniform connected to family, home and country, through toiletry and snack care packages sent to the front lines, support programs for military spouses, events for children whose parents are deployed and much more.

"We’re so excited to share that Lyft passengers have donated over $1 million to USO through our Round Up & Donate tool,” said Mike Masserman, head of social impact at Lyft. “These donations support USO programming offered at more than 200 locations around the globe and help to keep service members connected to family, home and country.”

Lyft’s support of the USO and our nation’s military has also extended to assisting service members and Lyft’s military veteran drivers in their transition from the military to civilian life. Lyft has also supported USO events such as the recent World’s Biggest USO Tour, during which Lyft provided discounted rides for service members and their families traveling to and from the first-of-its-kind event.

This holiday season, continue to be a Force Behind the Forces℠ with the USO by riding with Lyft and giving a gift to the USO by opting in to Round Up & Donate. To find out how you can participate in Lyft’s Round Up & Donate in support of the USO and our service members, click here.