VFW and Ladies Auxiliary
Programs
The VFW and Ladies Auxiliary have a rich tradition in enhancing the lives of millions through their community service programs and special projects. From providing free phone cards to our nation's active-duty military personnel to raising money for the World War II memorial, the VFW is there. The following are just some of the ways the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary "Honor the Dead by Helping the Living."
Americanism
Promotes Patriotism! Fosters love for America by teaching young people and new citizens about our heritage. Each year members present more than 600,000 American Flags nationwide to schools and other community groups. Other activities include POW/MIA programs, "Get-Out-the-Vote" activities, and citizenship classes.
Buddy Poppy
"Honor the Dead by Helping the Living." Funds help needy veterans and their families and help provide care for the children at the VFW National Home for Children. Hospitalized veterans receive minimal compensation for assembling the poppies.
Cancer Aid and Research
More than $3,000,000 is raised nationally each year to help cancer-stricken members and invest in research throughout the country. Education is another aspect of this program, and $15,000 is given to the American Cancer Society each year for informational materials.
Community Service
Helping others by conducting fund-raising activities for a person in need of a transplant or for the Center Against Spouse Abuse; volunteering for the Special Olympics, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or the March of Dimes; helping fire and flood victims; participating in Make a Difference Day; and serving dinners to needy individuals on holidays.
Hospitals and VAVS
Adult and student volunteers cheer patients in VA Medical Centers as well as other hospitals and nursing homes. Members conduct holiday and birthday parties, serve treats, read to the patients, write letters, and make lap robes, tray favors and other items.
Legislative
On request, members send letters and e-mails to members of Congress outlining the VFW and Auxiliary's views on bills dealing with veterans and national security. The organization speaks out on legislation that affects the VA budget and future health care for veterans, veterans' entitlements, resolution of the POW/MIA questions, investigation into the Persian Gulf illnesses, and enhancing the Active Duty GI Bill.
Veterans and Family Support
Homeless Veterans and other non-hospitalized veterans and their families who are in need of special assistance receive numerous services from Auxiliary members. Providing food, childcare, transportation, clothing, utility payments, and information on veterans' entitlements are ways that the organization helps. Operation Uplink, connecting active duty military with families, is another important service.
VFW National Home for Children
Located in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, the Home was founded in 1925 and is a living memorial to all veterans. Children and families of VFW and Auxiliary members are given opportunities for growth and development in a nurturing community. Visit their Web site at http://www.vfwnationalhome.org.
Youth Activities
Sponsorship of Girl Scouts, 4-H, soccer or softball teams, and other youth groups are a few of the ways the organization provides opportunities for students, in addition to the scholarships listed below.
Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest
The Ladies Auxiliary VFW honors students in grades 9-12 who express their patriotism through art. Three National scholarships range from $2,500 to $10,000. First-place winning student receives an all expenses-paid trip to the Ladies Auxiliary VFW National Convention. Top three winning entries are published in the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Magazine and on the Ladies Auxiliary Web site.
Outstanding Young Volunteer of the Year Award
A student aged 12-15 who has provided exceptional volunteer service in the community is eligible for a $5,000 U.S. Savings Bond and an all expense-paid trip to the Ladies Auxiliary VFW National Convention.
Voice of Democracy
This Audio/Essay Contest offers National Scholarships totaling more than $143,500. The top National Scholarship is $25,000 and each Department winner receives a minimum of $1,000 plus an all expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. and the Freedom's Foundation in Valley Forge, PA.
Patriot's Pen
This contest is for students in grades 6-8 who write their opinions on a patriotic theme. State winners compete for $67,000 in U.S. Savings Bonds in the National Contest. Top prize is a $10,000 Savings Bond and a trip to Washington, D.C. Both the Patriot's Pen and the Voice of Democracy contests are sponsored jointly with the VFW.
VFW Post 9171 is an Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(19) charitable organization
and donations are deductible for federal income tax purposes.
Check with your tax advisor for details.
