by Aidan Sloan
Ukraine Support through Project C.U.R.E
As humans, we like to put others in boxes, making broad generalizations about them based on their race, gender, income, and where they’re from. But people can surprise you if you let them. In the heart of Wyoming, two men with contrasting backgrounds have found their way to the same cause: making impactful contributions to global welfare. Their stories highlight how individuals from unexpected places can drive meaningful change, serving as a powerful example for others.
John Marshall Evans, a former nuclear industry executive from Wyoming, has channeled his career achievements into a remarkable philanthropic endeavor. After earning an MBA from the University of Wyoming in 1974, he worked on nuclear power plant development and research. His commitment to philanthropy was inspired early on by his grandmother, a staunch believer in charitable giving.
“She always believed that making money and giving it away to wise causes was the ultimate calling,” Evans said.
This philosophy guided Evans as he transitioned from the nuclear industry to humanitarian work, focusing on making a tangible impact in global crises. When the war in Ukraine broke out, he knew he had to do something. His experiences as a soldier stationed in Germany shaped his views of Russia and influenced his decision to support Ukraine.
“Facing constant pressure from the Russians during my service, I developed a strong stance against them,” he said. “When the war in Ukraine started, I wanted to support them in a meaningful way, focusing on aiding civilian hospitals rather than military efforts.”
Like Evans, many other ranchers in Wyoming have felt the call to help Ukraine, among them Adam Kathrein, whose journey began on a dairy farm in central Minnesota.
“Growing up on a farm, you learn to work hard and appreciate the little things. It was a tough environment, but it also shaped my dreams of exploring the world and making a difference.”
This shared altruism eventually steered each of the men to Colorado-based Project C.U.R.E., which has led the charge on humanitarian relief in Ukraine and across the world. Since 1994, the nonprofit has sent over 151 shipments totaling more than $150 million in medical supplies. The organization’s efforts allowed both Evans and Kathrein to realize their full potential as philanthropists.
Why Evans Partnered with Project C.U.R.E.?
Project C.U.R.E.’s unique approach to delivering medical aid drew Evans to its cause. He first learned about the organization through a presentation at a Rotary Club meeting. He said Project C.U.R.E. offers a transparent and well-organized way to contribute to global health.
“Their model impressed me,” Evans said. “They focus on getting medical supplies to where they are needed most, and their efficiency in using resources is remarkable. Their impressive balance sheet and dedication to directing funds where they are most needed make them a model for effective philanthropy.”
Project C.U.R.E. is known for its systematic resource allocation, directing approximately 97% of donations toward the actual delivery of medical supplies. This efficacy is made possible by a dedicated volunteer workforce, which minimizes operational costs and maximizes impact.
“Seeing their operations firsthand in Denver, I was inspired by their ability to mobilize volunteers and make every dollar count,” Evans said.
Evans’ involvement in Project C.U.R.E. is relatively new, but his commitment to the organization and its overall goals is strong. So strong that Evans was inspired to donate over $2 million to the organization after visiting the organization’s central warehouse in Centennial earlier this year. His initial contribution of $1 million helped send 30 C.U.R.E. Cargo containers of medical supplies to Ukraine. This support not only provided immediate relief but also served as a matching fund to encourage additional donations. According to Evans, Project C.U.R.E. has received an additional $700,000 to match his first contribution, which will go toward more supplies for Ukraine.
“My goal was to inspire others to contribute, a significant matching contribution can attract more donors and expand the reach of C.U.R.E.’s efforts,” Evans said.
After seeing how productive Project C.U.R.E. was with his initial donation, Evans was inspired to do more. He doubled his original donation, giving the organization another $1 million to enhance warehouse capabilities in the U.S. Evans’ explained that he is so passionate about Project C.U.R.E. because he has seen firsthand how its contributions have had a direct impact on communities in need.
“We sent supplies to hospitals in Kharkiv, a town under severe pressure from the conflict,” he said. “This support allowed them to continue treating patients and remain operational.”
His future vision for Project C.U.R.E. involves continued growth and support.
“I hope to see [Project] C.U.R.E. expand further and increase its impact globally,” Evans said. “My goal is to support them as they grow and inspire others to join the cause.”
On the other side of Project C.U.R.E. is Adam Kathrein, who, according to Evans, is risking far more than his bank account. “Adam is actually taking time out to go there and risk his life to do what he’s doing. His contribution, you might say, is not in dollars; it’s in his own well-being,” states Evans.
Taking Action to Directly Support Ukraine
Powered by his faith, Kathrein always knew he wanted to help others, but he felt that he lacked a sense of direction. But a critical moment came when he attended a seminar by Dr. Kent Kleppinger at the University of Wyoming.
“Hearing Dr. Kleppinger speak about the situation in Ukraine was a turning point for me,” Kathrein said. “His stories about volunteering and the challenges faced inspired me to get involved, even though I didn’t have specialized skills.”
Kathrein was quick to look into different organizations that were helping those in the war-torn country, but kept running to dead ends, leaving him frustrated and confused.
“I called the Red Cross and it turns out I’m not qualified to volunteer with them, to pack a box or something like that, which is a shame. All they said was, ‘We’ll take your $20 a month,’ you know. And it’s like, no,”
Frustrated by the bureaucratic obstacles, Kathrein decided to take matters into his own hands. He packed two suitcases full of medical supplies and headed to the airport.
“I booked a one-way ticket to Warsaw and just went for it,” he said. “I realized that if I wanted to make a difference, I needed to act independently. It was a leap of faith, but it felt like the right move.”
Kathrein’s initial trip involved delivering essential supplies and supporting medical teams. “It was incredible to see how the supplies I brought were used immediately,” he says. “Helping local villagers and medical teams on the ground gave me a profound sense of purpose.”
When he returned from his trip, he was injected with a new sense of purpose, wanting to help in any way he could. But in the back of his mind, he knew the same struggles he faced before were still waiting for him at home. This was until he found Project C.U.R.E.
Why Kathrein selected Project C.U.R.E. to Donate Medical Supplies
Fast-forward to today, Kathrein has sent a 40-foot container of medical supplies and started a donation campaign with Project C.U.R.E., stating that his relationship with the organization has been the cornerstone of his humanitarian work. He said working with the organization has allowed him to leverage its resources and network, ensuring medical supplies reach those in the most need.
“[Project C.U.R.E.’s] ability to bypass red tape and deliver essential medical supplies directly to those in need aligns perfectly with my goals,” he said. “The fact that I could sponsor a 40-foot cargo container of medical supplies through Project C.U.R.E. was a major milestone.”
Kathrein’s farm experience has been helpful as a volunteer for the organization, and his approach to humanitarian work is deeply personal.
“I don’t have a checkbook for large donations, but I have the willingness to put in physical labor and take action,” he said. “My experiences in conflict zones and the connections I’ve made have enriched my perspective and driven my commitment.”
Working in these conflict zones comes with inherent dangers ranging from logistical challenges to direct threats. Kathrein said it’s important to stay vigilant, keeping one’s head on a swivel. Despite this, he finds the work incredibly rewarding.
“There were moments when the danger was very real, but the impact of the work kept me going,” he said. “Seeing the supplies making a difference in people’s lives makes the risks feel worthwhile.”
As Evans and Kathrein continue their journey, their stories offer a compelling invitation: If two cowboys from Wyoming can harness their experiences and resources to support Project C.U.R.E., so can others. Their dedication is a powerful reminder that every effort counts, and together, we can all contribute to a more compassionate and connected world.
“The journey is far from over, and I’m committed to making a lasting impact,” Kathrein said.
Learn how you can get involved and support Ukraine. Donate to our existing fundraising campaign that will be matched by Evan’s donation.
Or become a volunteer to sort and pack medical supplies and equipment near you.
