This organization costs $50.00 to join for a 1 year membership. But, while I was their, I learned the paperwork states it is NOT a membership driven organization under the state. That is why the receipt received said, "Donation" and NOT Membership Dues. This organization's Mission statement is misleading and they do not know or want to learn the proper way to run a non-profit organization. I am very sadden by their lack of willingness to learn and grow as an organization that "supposedly" helps veterans. I was very disturbed to know that they used funds to help a merchant marine because they thought a merchant marine was the same as a U.S. Marine Veteran. When the fact was pointed out to the Board the Board became angry and hostile. I strongly urge everyone NOT To SUPPORT this organization.
The stated purpose of this organization is to aid the homeless vet and from my experiences with this group it falls short of making a real impact in the Richmond Area. Though it is true that some homeless veterans have been aided by members of this orginization. It is also true that this orginzations real purpose is more social, and the board would rather spend its time aiding drinking establisments in the Richmond area than growing and improving its ability to reach the growing homless veteran population. There are questionable practices when it comes to how the money is handled and where it is spent. Last year 2011 we collected over 8000-10000 and the money was wasted in an effort to get the bank account under 5000 to make an exemption under Virgina law which keeps this organization and its finances off the consumer affairs radar. I have witnessed members get treated very wrong and run off if they question how the organization is operated. With so many veterans returning and more of them on the street an organization such as this one is misleading donor's and veterans with its ability and intent on helping homeless veterans.
Review from Guidestar