Action Tank Addresses Philadelphia’s Toughest Challenges with Tillman Scholars at the Helm

While out to lunch in 2016 with several other Philadelphia-based veterans, Tillman Scholars Chris Diaz and Matt Miclette found themselves engrossed in conversation about the many social issues affecting the Philadelphia community. As they shared their experiences, the group realized that they were uniquely equipped to make a difference.

And thus, Action Tank was born. Founded on the principle that veterans can be powerful agents of change, Action Tank harnesses the skills and experiences of its members to develop practical solutions for problems faced by both veterans and Philadelphia residents.

“Our approach embodies the idea that ‘a rising tide lifts all boats,'” explains Diaz. “By using our veteran status to spark conversations and drive change, we’re creating stronger, more resilient communities for everyone.”

Since its inception, Action Tank has evolved into a powerful organization that unites veterans and tackles a wide range of social issues — from tree canopy coverage to gun violence and opioid addiction. One of their key initiatives, combating food insecurity, is highlighted in the documentary Feeding Philly, available here.

After learning about Action Tank at the 2018 Pat Tillman Leadership Summit, Tillman Scholar Emily Balog came on board, bringing additional leadership and vision to the organization.

“At Action Tank, we’re both boots on the ground and academic strategists. We plant trees, we clean up trash, we paint playgrounds, we feed people, but we also leverage community voices, evidence-based knowledge and write policies, briefs, newsletters, and research articles,” Balog says. 

The organization has been further strengthened by the involvement of several other Tillman Scholars, including Daris McInnis, Cat Clason, and Kanaan Goldstein, who each bring their own unique perspectives and expertise to the mission.

Over the years, Action Tank has partnered with countless organizations and nonprofits to maximize its impact, including Dietz & Watson, SHARE Food Program, Prevention Point Philadelphia, Mitzvah Circle, and Moms Demand Action, among others. This year, Action Tank teamed up with BookSmiles, one of the largest children’s book banks in the country, to distribute thousands of books to neighborhoods where there is less than one age-appropriate book available for every 300 children.

“Each year, we’ve expanded our portfolio, addressing issues with apolitical, pragmatic solutions,” Miclette says, noting that partnerships have been key to Action Tank’s success.

The Pat Tillman Foundation has also played a vital role in Action Tank’s growth, connecting its leaders with an extraordinary network of scholars and change-makers. At this year’s Tillman Honors gala, Action Tank was honored with the annual Make Your Mark Award, which recognizes Tillman Scholars who are making a significant difference in their communities.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Pat Tillman Foundation for this honor,” says Miclette. “This award not only acknowledges our efforts but also inspires us to continue our work and strive for even greater change in our community.”

Looking ahead, Action Tank is eager to expand and innovate. “We aim to increase partnerships, scale our model to have even greater reach, and continue to work toward long-term, sustainable improvements,” says Balog. “We believe that this growth will amplify our impact tenfold, building on the foundation of veteran leadership and community service that defines our organization.”