Donnalee Shain, wife of Michael and mother to Thomas and Matthew, worked behind the scenes when Michael first began Thanks To Yanks. Realizing the positive impact Thanks To Yanks was having, she suggested to Michael to look at doing more than an annual dinner. Through her efforts, Thanks To Yanks became a 501(c)(3) organization that provides support and resources to military families, veterans and their families. Donnalee has always had a passion for helping others both in her professional work as a physical therapist as well as through her volunteer work. In 2014 she was recognized for her community service, receiving the Unsung Heroine Award from the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women. In regards to Thanks To Yanks, Donnalee feels blessed to be able to help those who have selflessly given of themselves to protect us and our freedoms.