I started volunteering for the FVVC Inc. in 2018 as a Board Member. I was drawn to the Council as it was unique in its structure in that it was made up of Veteran organizations as its members v. just individuals. The multitude of veteran organizations can make be confusing, especially for non-veterans and here was an organization that was simplifying that problem by combining the different organizations into one unified mission. That mission is what keeps me involved with the Council. In its simplest form it is to assist veterans who are in emergency need of basic necessities such as housing, utilities, food, transportation and dental care to name a few. I became president in 2021 and am serving my fourth year now. Over its tenure the council has continually increased its geographical area and scope of assistance moving forward with more veterans helped and more assistance given. To date the Council has provided assistance of approx. $1.6 million to thousands of veterans and their families. The Council also,
has been designated as the Community Veterans Engagement Board by the VA and helps organize community activities for veterans, such as the Veteran Round Table, educational seminars, Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and the Flag Day Parade. The FVVC also is proud to partner with other nonprofits such as Leaven, Pillars, Tri-County Dental, Wisconsin Veterans Village and other organizations in the community.
I initially volunteered with the Fox Valley Veterans Council seven years ago. I assisted with staffing the office for two days a week and meeting with candidates for the Veterans Emergency Fund. I was so impressed with the Council's work that I applied to serve on the Board of Directors. The Board accepted my application and I have served on the BOD for the past five years. The Council has distributed more than a million dollars to needy veterans and their families over the past ten years. The Council was also responsible for the early success of the Wisconsin Veterans Village, functioning as the BOD with a memo of understanding and conducting and participating in fundraising events. The Council organizes community activities for Memorial Day and Veterans Day. It also actively participates in the Flag Day Parade, Honor Pull and Blood Drives. I am proud to be a Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and now work with an organization that does so much for veterans in the community.
Fox Valley Veterans Council proves time and time again that the power of aligned thinking, purpose and positive attitude go a long way in serving our veterans in N.E. Wisconsin. I'll always be appreciative to know Tim, Nancy, Barb and Kim etc...have created a platform for all VSO's to collaborate and help those veterans less fortunate see a better future. Thank you for all you do.