Post 10225 and our Auxiliary partner on a range of activities to promote the VFW — spreading the word about who we are and the work we do to support veterans and their families. We also advocate on veterans’ behalf in a variety of ways.
Publicity Efforts
We understand the power of good publicity.
- Newsletter: Sent to all members on a regular basis, our newsletter includes important updates and more.
- Local media coverage: We frequently place articles in Garner-area newspapers and occasionally get coverage on local TV news; we also leverage spots on local radio stations for special events.
- Website: Our website provides a comprehensive overview of all our Post activities.
Legislative Activism
When our young people put on the uniform of our nation, they took on an obligation. So should we! The VFW was founded for the purpose of service to veterans, and legislative activism. Supporting the VFW’s legislative goals is one of the most important things we do. For if we don’t protect our veterans rights, and promote a strong military, then who will?
Here a a few of the tools we have to help:
The VFW Action Corps’ mission is to inform and educate members and supporters on initiatives and policies that affect veterans; to communicate and promote the VFW viewpoint before Congress, and to encourage greater grassroots participation in the democratic process through increased communication with congressional officials. The Action Corps conducts on-going letter writing campaigns to maintain its effectiveness as the premier grassroots lobbying network.
The VFW Foundation is separate from the VFW, its commitment is the same: improving the lives of veterans and service personnel, their families and their communities. This 501c(3) not-for-profit organization that relies on public donations to support programs that promote our goals.
The VFW’s National Legislative Service Office in Washington monitors all legislation affecting veterans. It alerts VFW members to key veterans legislation under consideration and actively lobbies Congress and the Administration on veterans issues. It is often called upon to assist congressional staffs in preparing veterans legislation. To keep VFW members current on sensitive issues concerning national security and foreign affairs, this office researches issues and events, then provides timely and accurate information through VFW publication and special reports.
A recent addition to the Washington D.C. office is the Tactical Assessment Center, a 24-hour help line for veterans with questions or concerns about VA entitlements. (1-800-VFW-1899)
View the VFW’s Priority Goals from the VFW Washington Office website.
Sign up to receive the Washington Weekly newsletter.
Local Patriotism
Our Bylaws calls for our members to “…maintain true allegiance to the Government of the United States of America, and fidelity to its Constitution and laws; to foster true patriotism, and to preserve and defend the United States from all her enemies, whomsoever.”
There are a variety of opportunities for teaching patriotism in our local communities. Just a few are:
- Teaching flag etiquette
- Sponsoring Veterans Day competitions in local schools
- Presenting new flags to local schools, nursing homes, police departments, etc.
- Teaching the community about the plight of our Prisoners of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA) and their families
- Participating in local parades and programs to commemorate veterans or historic events
- Holding citizenship programs for immigrants
- Sponsoring a Candidate Forum for local political candidates
- Holding a “Get out the Vote” program in the community
- Sponsoring a Citizenship Education program designed to stimulate interest in America’s history and traditions and to promote citizenship, civic responsibility, and patriotism
