Table of Contents. Chief of Staff. 13 Dates to Remember VFW Auxiliary Program Guide

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3 Table of Contents Page No. President s Message.. 5 Sr Vice President 6 Jr. Vice President.. 7 Secretary/Treasurer.. 8 Chaplain 9 Death Notices.. 10 Conductress Cross of Malta. 12 Chief of Staff. 13 Dates to Remember VFW Auxiliary Program Guide Department Programs Veterans & Family Support.. 29 Americanism Buddy Poppy/VFW National Home Chief of Staff/Extension Historian/Media Relations 40 Hospital Program SEW-AT-HOME Volunteer Pin Application.. 44 Legislative Program Membership & Recruitment VFW Auxiliary Member Award Member Recruiter Award. 53 Scholarships..54 Youth Activities.57 Year End Reports Veterans & Family Support..61 Americanism.63 Buddy Poppy/VFW National Home..65 Historian...67 Hospital...69 P a g e 3 95

4 Legislative..71 Membership & Recruitment..73 Scholarships...75 Youth Activities..77 Outstanding District President Year End Report...79 Auxiliary President Year End Report 81 Treasurer and Secretary Forms.83 Request for Roster & General Orders..85 Roster Change Form...87 Treasurer s Distribution Form Audit Form...91 Membership Summary Form..93 Secretary Minute Form...94 P a g e 4 95

5 PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM YOUR DEPARTMENT PRESIDENT CAROLANN OSTERLOH It is time to take my final journey down this amazing path in becoming Department President of the Missouri VFW Auxiliary. I would not be here if it was not for all the help, guidance, and friendships I have made along the way. Thank you to each of you for your faith in me. Congratulations to all who are joining me on this journey. To the elected and appointed VFW Auxiliary officers on all levels, I look forward to working with you as we do our best in taking care of our Veterans. You are the leaders who will make the plans and work the programs. Together, along with each of the members of our Auxiliaries, we will be successful. To the State Commander Jim Thorpe, I pledge to you my support and the support of the Department of Missouri VFW Auxiliary for making this year very successful. I look forward to working with you and the VFW Comrades. My goal this year is to get back to the basics and to take care of our Veterans and their families. I hope the information in this Program book and the correspondence from all the officers and chairmen, will be useful as we work hard to make this a successful year. You have been provided with a thumb drive again this year to keep all the promotional material in one place. (It was a great idea Junior Past Department President Nelda gave you last year to keep all Promotional Material from the Department Chairmen on the thumb drive so it is in one place when you need it.) You can also find the same information on our Department Website movfwaux.org. Please be sure to share this information with all your members. Our Program Chairmen will keep you well informed on their programs. Remember, they are only a phone call away if you have any questions. Don t hesitate to call them or them. I know they will do a great job in keeping us informed on how we can meet the goals for the National Programs. My slogan this year is FLYING HIGH FOR OUR VETERANS in honor of my husband Bob. He designed my logo, I hope you all like it. My colors are RED, BLACK AND WHITE. My theme is the 50 s. As we have in the past for membership, I too challenge each of you to sign up one new member this year. One new or reinstated member can put us over 100%. I know we can do this if we all work together on membership. Each Auxiliary member should try to bring a new member to an Auxiliary meeting this year. I would like to take this time and THANK each of you for traveling with me on my journey through the chairs. I could not have done it without your support. God Bless all of you for all you do for our Veterans. FLYING HIGH FOR OUR VETERANS Carolann Osterloh P a g e 5 95

6 DEPARTMENT of Missouri Sr. Vice President I want to thank you brothers and sisters from the bottom of my heart for electing me as your DEPARTMENT OF MISSOURI Sr. Vice President. I am honored to be a part of this coming year's line officers and I pledge my support to President Carolann and the rest of the line officers. Thank you to my Auxiliary and Post, Champ Clark Memorial VFW post 5553, and District 17. And to my family for not letting me give up as I have went through the chairs. As we begin a new year in working to help our Veterans and their families I pray for the safety of all and may they all return home safe. Hugs and my we all be humble and kind. Rowena Grigsby Pike 282 Bowling Green, MO CELL: rowgrigsbylavfw@yahoo.com P a g e 6 95

7 JR. VICE PRESIDENT I am honored to be elected as your Jr. Vice President for the ensuring year We have our work cut out for us but, together, WE CAN DO IT! Congratulations to the newly elected and appointed officers. I Pledge my support to Department President Carolann Osterloh and the Department of Missouri. Thank you to the Department of Missouri, my Auxiliary 3976 and the fabulous 5 th District for your love and support. I look forward to learning new things along the way. You never stop learning about our great organization and all the great things we do for our veterans and their families. Sincerely, Ella Edwards 302 Burning Tree Circle Independence, MO Ellaedwards51@yahoo.com P a g e 7 95

8 Department Secretary/Treasurer Jackolin M. Davis It is with great humility and honor that I accept the position of Secretary/Treasurer for the Department of Missouri. I would like to thank Department President Carolann Osterloh for her confidence in me, to appoint me as the Department Secretary and to the members of the Department for electing me Treasurer. I will do my best to fulfill the duties of these offices. To the Department Line Officers, congratulations on your new office. I am here to help you in any way that I can. Thank you to District 9 and my Auxiliary 2180 for your support. You are the greatest! To the Auxiliary Treasurers, I am here to help you. Please be patience with me as I am still learning. Jeri Sherwood has been a great mentor and I am sure I can call upon her when there are questions that I can not answer. Please see my address below, all audits, donations and dues are to be sent there. The forms will have the new address Hwy 47 W Troy, MO I look forward to this new and exciting year as we Fly High For Our Veterans. I know our Department President Carolann and the Line Officers will strive to do their very best for the Department of Missouri as we continue to work for our Veterans. Thanks again for your continued support. Love with Hugs, Jackolin M. Davis P a g e 8 95

9 VFW Auxiliary Chaplain Congratulations to our new Department President Carolann Osterloh and the new line officers for the ensuing year. I pledge my support to each of you. I would like to thank everyone for your confidence and support in allowing me to be your Department Chaplain for the ensuing year. I want to especially thank my Auxiliary 4238 and District 2 for their encouragement and support as I go through the Department Chairs. You are the best!! This is an extremely important office. To show our support to those that are ill and honor those who have passed from our organization, I will need your help. I am asking that you notify me as soon as possible, when someone is ill, so I may notify our members and send cards of encouragement. It is always such a wonderful feeling to receive those cards. When you have a member that has passed, please send a death notice to me and your District Chaplain ASAP. This is the only way that National can be notified and that they are remembered and honored at our Department Memorial Service and your District Memorial Service. I do not want anyone excluded because I did not receive this information. Again, thank you for your confidence in me and your support. Janet Barlar Co. Rd Rolla, Mo Cell: jpbarlar@hotmail.com P a g e 9 95

10 Death Notice VFW Auxiliary to Post District Deceased Member Information Name: Date of Death: Deceased Family Member Name and Address: Chaplain s Signature: Please send to: Janet Barlar Co. Rd. 3310, Rolla, Mo Death Notice VFW Auxiliary to Post District Deceased Member Information Name: Date of Death: Deceased Family Member Name and Address: Chaplain s Signature: Please send to: Janet Barlar Co. Rd. 3310, Rolla, Mo P a g e 10 95

11 CONDUCTRESS Thank you for affording me the opportunity to be your conductress for the upcoming year. It will be a privilege to serve you, our Department and our veterans. I would like to thank my Auxiliary and District for their continued support as I go thru the chairs. To President Carolann and the line officers, I pledge my support as we go on this journey together. Thank you for your support and friendship. I am very excited to be back on the floor again, having been a color bearer for many years. I hope I do the Department proud. Thank you for all you do for our Veterans. Judy Northcutt 126 Oakfield Drive O Fallon, MO Judyn43@hotmail.com P a g e 11 95

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13 CHIEF OF STAFF Nelda Clifton As Department Chief of Staff, my responsibility is to assist the District Deputy Chiefs of Staff with their duties and responsibilities, primarily how-to mentor and work with all Auxiliaries, with special emphasis on failing and week Auxiliaries and Districts. By promoting teamwork, we can educate them about how to recognize an Auxiliary that may be experiencing problems. We want to motivate the Auxiliaries that may be experiencing problems. We want to motivate the Districts to give their best all-around effort to mentor, train and recruit new members for those Auxiliaries that are in need of our help and bring them back into good working order. Members should be aware of all our resources to better help them recruit new members. The National Ambassador would like to promote and feature building and strengthening the Auxiliary through membership, training and mentoring. I will be giving you further information throughout the year on how to accomplish these with success. To Department President Carolann, Department Line Officers, and District Presidents, I pledge my support and I am here to assist. We will keep Flying High for our Veterans and Believe We Can Do It for the year. Nelda Clifton, Chief of Staff VFW Auxiliary Department of Missouri 6020 E 58 St Kansas City, MO (816) n.clifton@yahoo.com P a g e 13 95

14 DATES TO REMEMBER June 14-17, 2018 June 23, 2018 Department Convention Ramada Oasis, Springfield, Missouri School of Instructions in Lee s Summit Auxiliary 5789 June 24, 2018 School of Instructions in St. Charles Auxiliary 2866 July 20-25, 2018 July 31, 2018 August 5, 2018 September 5, 2018 September 6-9, 2018 National Convention Kansas City April, May, June Audit due to Department Treasurer September Promotional Material/General Orders ( to Brenda Bryant) October Promotional Material/General Orders ( to Brenda Bryant) Café and National President s Celebration - Maryland September 28-29,2018 Fall Conference and Commander and President s Homecoming Chateau on the Lake October 5, 2018 October 19-21, 2018 October 26-27, 2018 October 31, 2018 November 5, 2018 November Promotional Material/General Orders ( to Brenda Bryant) Big Ten Conference in St. Louis National Home Bus Trip July, August, September Audit due to Department Treasurer December Promotional Material/General Orders ( to Brenda Bryant) P a g e 14 95

15 December 5, 2018 January/February Promotional Material/General Orders - ( to Brenda Bryant) January 31, 2019 February 1, 2019 February 1-3, 2019 March 10-21, 2019 March 14-17, 2019 April 2-4, 2019 April 5, 2019 April 15, 2019 April 30, 2019 May 6, 2019 May 20, 2019 June 6-9, 2019 *Subject to change. October, November, December Audit due to Department Treasurer March/April Promotional Material/General Orders ( to Brenda Bryant) Winter Conference in Jefferson City Voice of Democracy Parade of Winners and VFW Legislative Conference - Washington, DC Mid-Winter Conference Tucson, Arizona National President s Visit May/June Promotional Material/General Orders ( to Brenda Bryant) YEAREND REPORTS DUE TO DEPARTMENT CHARIMEN MUST BE RECEIVED IN THEIR HANDS NO EXCEPTION January, February, March Audit due to Department Treasurer If not received, Auxiliary will not be eligible to vote at Department Convention. NO EXCEPTIONS! Line Officers and Chairmen material due to Department Secretary for the Convention Book. Installation Reports are due to Department Secretary or entered into MALTA. Department Convention Ramada Oasis, Springfield, Missouri P a g e 15 95

16 VFW Auxiliary Department of Missouri Program Guide PLEASE PRINT THESE DATES TO HAVE ON HAND AT EVERY MEETING FOR REFERENCE. July 2018 National Convention: July held in Kansas City, Missouri. If you are going to the Convention, please register early to get a discount. Early Bird registration is $25 which is a $10 savings for onsite registration. Please refer to the National website vfwaux.org for more information. Standing Rules: Review your standing rules by appointing a committee to review for any changes needed. Audits: April, May and June second quarter audit should be conducted during the month of July. The outgoing and incoming Trustees, Presidents, Secretaries, and Treasurers should be present. July 30 is the due date to Department Treasurer, Jackie Davis. Veterans and Family Support: You can adopt or find addresses of a military unit so you can send cards or care packages. Americanism: The Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award is October 31 on the post level, district deadline date is December 15 and department is January 15! Hold a program for Americanism and give certificates to those that fly the flag regularly. VJ Day is August 15. Victory over Japan Day from WWII, Buddy Poppy/National Home: Start planning your Buddy Poppy Drives now. Plan an event to promote the VFW National Home for children through education and/or publicity. Historian: As soon as officers and chairmen are elected and appointed, start your Historian books of the events that members attend or ones your District plans. Hospital and VAVS: This is a great time to discuss sew-at-home projects and make plans on how your Auxiliary can help Veterans who are shut-ins or hospitalized. Legislative: Contact legislators concerning Veteran s benefits. Help those who do not drive to the polls so they can vote. Membership: Presidents, per Sec 810A of the bylaws, you should have appointed a committee of not less than five (5) members, including the Treasurer, to contact all members for payment of dues. Please refer to this section for more information. Due notices should have already been sent for this coming year. If you have former members who did not pay their 2018 dues, as of June 30, 2018, they are no longer members and must reapply for membership and be voted on again. Check the material provided by your Department Chairman. P a g e 16 95

17 Scholarships: PLEASE NOTE THE DUE DATES FOR THE VOICE OF DEMOCRACY AND PATRIOT S PEN IS OCTOBER 31! The Voice of Democracy theme is Why My Vote Matters. The Patriot s Pen theme is Why I Honor the American Flag. We also have the Young American Creative Patriotic Art. This artwork is due to the Auxiliary by March 31, School and youth group leaders need to be contacted now so they have the information for students. The brochures can be printed from the VFW website vfw.org under Community. The Scholarship Program can use your donations. The amount should be voted on and then mailed to Department Treasurer. Youth Activities: Our youth can do many things such as help with Buddy Poppy campaigns or help Auxiliaries with some of their projects. What ideas do you have where you could help a youth group? August 2018 Veterans and Family Support: Veterans and Military Support (formerly National Military Services) donations should be mailed directly to VFW National Headquarters, VFW Programs, 406 W 34 th St, 9 th Floor, Kansas City, MO This program covers Sport Clips Help a Hero Scholarship, Unmet Needs, Operation Uplink and the MAP program. National Veterans Service (NVS) helps Veterans Service Officers aid military families to obtain the benefits they deserve. The donations should be mailed to VFW National Headquarters, ATTN: NVS, 406 W 34 th St, 11 th Floor, Kansas City, MO Americanism: School is starting so be sure and encourage the schools and businesses to fly our Flag. September 11 is Patriot Day, September 21 is POW/MIA Day, and September 28 is Gold Star Mothers and Families Day. Plan appropriate activities for these days. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Plan your Buddy Poppy display for the Fall Conference. Refer to the Department Chairman s promotional material for guidelines. Hospital and VAVS: VA Hospitals, local hospitals and Veteran s homes are always in need of volunteers. Recruit as many members as you can to help. This might be a project for your youth groups. Please check the age requirement to volunteer. Membership: Make sure a committee is in place to help collect dues, recruit new members and contact former members about reapplying for membership. Scholarship: All schools, public, private and home-schooled students should have the Voice of Democracy and Patriot s Pen themes and program material by the end of the month. Remember the DUE DATE! Youth Activities: Youth Activities Chairman should work with the Scholarship Chairman to get the word to youth group leaders out about those Scholarship opportunities due to the Post by October 31, September 2018 Big Ten Conference: Held October 19-21, Advance registrations is $125.00, on site $ Deadline is October 1 for the discounted fee. This meeting will be held in St. Louis, Missouri at the P a g e 17 95

18 Hilton St. Louis Airport Hotel with a room rate of $89.00 per night. For more information, please see the information in the Promotional Material this month. CAFÉ (Celebrating America s Freedom Event) in Gettysburg and National President Sandy Kriebel s Celebration in Hanover, Maryland. Make plans to attend September 6-8. Council of Administration Meeting and Department Commander and President Homecoming: September 28-29, All those attending should check for information in the President s Notes this month for further information. Veterans and Military Support: Americanism: September 11 is Patriot Day. Hold program so everyone REMEMBERS! The third Friday of September (September 16) is POW/MIA Recognitions Day. Have a ceremony at your Post home or a military monument in your city. Don t forget the Gold Star Mothers and Families on September 24. Let them know that we do appreciate the sacrifice of their loved one for your country. Consult your program material for the Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. Applications are due October 31 so plan now what to do when. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Health & Happiness donations of ($.10) per member is requested, but not mandatory. Make a donation of ($.25) or more and your Auxiliary will receive a National Citation. If your Auxiliary wishes to donate, this should be sent directly to VFW Auxiliary National Headquarters, Attn: H & H Donations, 406 W 34 St, 10 th Floor, Kansas City, MO This money goes toward all the support the Auxiliary provides to the children and their families living at the home. Hospital and VAVS: As you continue to sign up volunteers for this program, you can also start discussing what you can do for our veterans for Christmas that are hospitalized or living in a nursing home. Legislative: Keep up to date on the legislation that are the VFW Goals. Contact your elected officials and urge them to vote for our veteran s rights. Membership: Time to review where you stand on collecting those continuous dues. Have the membership committee get with your Treasurer to plan a dues reminder mail out for the end of this month. Scholarship: Reconnect with the schools and home-schooled students to make sure they are working on the program. Deadline date is next month. Youth Activities: Talk to the different youth groups in your community to see if they will help with any programs, or if you can help THEM with one of theirs. October 2018 Big Ten Conference: The Conference will be held in St. Louis, Missouri October 19 21, 2018 at the Hilton St. Louis Airport Hotel. Come have some fun with us. P a g e 18 95

19 Audit: Third quarter audit report for the months of July, August, and September should be completed and mailed to Department Treasurer, Jackie Davis by October 31, Veterans and Family Support: Plan to visit with Veterans in the Veteran s Home. Plan a Veteran s Day Program Americanism: Start plans for Veterans Day Activities. Buddy Poppy/National Home: This month will be the trip to the VFW National Home for Children. Contact Ella Edwards or her for information on registration or see the Department Promotional Material. Hospital and VAVS: A donation to help support the Hospital Program would be greatly appreciated. This donation will be used for the work we do at our VA Hospitals and Veteran s Homes. Donations are to go to Department Treasurer, Jackie Davis and should be earmarked Hospital Dept. Fund. Are you tracking those volunteers and sew at home hours? What are your plans for the holidays for our hospitalized veterans? Legislative: Keep up to date on the legislation that are the VFW Goals. Contact your elected officials and urge them to vote for our veteran s rights. Membership: Are all dues being entered into the MALTA program or sent to Department Treasurer, Jackie Davis in a timely fashion? If there is a balance in the National & Department Dues (per capita) in the Treasurer s report, find out why. Are new members and rejoins of for members being brought in by members? Don t stop! Scholarship: Judges should be contacted for the Voice of Democracy, Patriot s Pen, and the Smart/Maher Citizenship Education Teacher Award contests so that arrangements can be made for judging your entries. Post judging must be done by November 15, You also should be contacting students for the Young American Patriotic Art Contest. Youth Activities: Educate your members about the National Citation for Youth Groups. Get everyone involved in finding groups we can recognize with this citation. November 2018 Veterans and Family Support: The holidays are just about on us and it is time now to get boxes ready to send to the troops so they will be sure and get there in time for Christmas. You could even plan a Christmas party for the families of deployed military. Are you up on what the MAP program at National VFW? Check it out NOW! There s money available to help with some of these events! Work with your Americanism Chairman on Veterans Day events. Americanism: Veteran s Day is the 11 th. There are several ways for you to celebrate and promote patriotism. Have a public ceremony to thank veterans for their dedication to our great nation, have a ceremony at your own Post followed by a luncheon, or arrange for a school to hold a ceremony and invite one or more veterans to participate. Work with your Veterans and Family Support Chairman. There will also be a fillable, printable citation to present to your veterans from your Auxiliary. P a g e 19 95

20 Don t forget that the Smart/Maher Citizenship Education Teacher Award is due to your District Chairman this month. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Have a Buddy Poppy Campaign this month. Hospital and VAVS: If your Hospital donation was not made last month you can do it this month. Finalize the plans for the holidays you have been making for the Hospitals and Veterans Homes. Legislative: Continue to check for alerts from National Headquarters on legislation that is being voted on that will affect our veterans. Membership: Are you recruiting members? Help your District President receive recognition at the Night on the Town in February by signing up new members. YOU can be a National Membership Achievement Award (formerly known as Aide-De-Camp), by recruiting 20 new members. Scholarship: Get your winners for Voice of Democracy and Patriot s Pen to your District Chairman. The district must have their judging completed by December 15. Youth Activities: Think about adopting a family of a deployed military soldier and helping them as they may have a little happier holiday. December 2018 Veterans and Family Support: Hopefully you are assisting a military family during the holidays. This is also a great time to plan what you will be doing in February for veterans around Valentine s Day. Americanism: December 7 th is Pearl Harbor Day. At your Auxiliary meeting have a presentation commemorating this day. Shortly the Smart/Maher Citizenship Education Teacher Award winners will be selected. District judging should be completed by December 15, Buddy Poppy/National Home: Start your Buddy Poppy Display for the Department Winter Conference. See the Department Chairman s promotional material for guidelines. Promote the National Home Military and Family hotline. Hospital and VAVS: Hold a special bingo for the Veterans in the Veteran s Homes or take Christmas cards to them with a dollar or two in them. A few minutes visiting with these veterans is the best gift you can give. Legislative: Keep everyone informed on political issues involving Veterans and those on active duty. Keep track of contacts made by Auxiliary members to legislators. Membership: Keep making personal contacts to members about sending to their dues and letting them know about the ruling of when the cutoff is for membership and having to reapply (after June 30, 2018). If someone is having financial problems maybe the auxiliary would pay dues for them. Make sure that your officers 2018 dues have been paid. If not, effective, January 1, 2018, they will no P a g e 20 95

21 longer be eligible to hold office, as they are no longer a member in good standing. (Sec 807 of the Bylaws.) Scholarship: If your Auxiliary wishes to give a donation to the Department Scholarship Fund, now is a good time to do that. All the Scholarships given at State level takes a great deal of money each year. Shortly the Voice of Democracy and Patriot s Pen Department winners will be selected. It is also time to make sure the Past National President s Scholarship application have reached the children who can apply. Youth Activities: This would be a great time to work with your Hospital Chairman and get those youth groups to do some volunteering at the Nursing Homes by visiting with the veterans and giving them small gifts the auxiliary provides. January 2019 Audit: The fourth quarter audit for October, November and December should be completed and mailed to Department Treasurer Jackie Davis by January 31, Americanism: There is never a bad time to check on flags throughout your community to see if they need to be replaced. Don t forget to present certificates recognizing their displaying of the American Flag on a daily basis. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Educate your community about the history of the Buddy Poppy and the National Home. Hospital and VAVS: Volunteers are always needed, whether it s a VA Hospital, a Veterans Home or your local Hospitals and Nursing Homes. Check those out in your area to see where your volunteering would help veterans the most. Legislative: To check on any bills in the legislator go online to and check out the VFW in DC, Drop down menu for a variety of ways to see what is happening with veteran s legislative issues. Membership: In addition to continuing to sign new members, this is a good time to contact those who didn t pay their 2019 dues. Let s get them back into the fold before they must reapply. We can do this by asking them why they decided to leave us for a variety of reasons. Find out why and encourage them to come back. If your officers had not paid their dues by December 31, 2018, they are no longer in good standing and cannot hold office. Even if they should happen to pay their dues, they are not eligible for that office again, until the next year. You should announce that an election for this office is up for election at your next regular meeting. Scholarship: Students should already be working on the Patriotic Art Contest but you may want to check with the schools to be sure they know all the rules of the contest. Also, be sure the Continuing Education Scholarships applications are made available and that members know what this part of our program is about. Applications must be received at National Headquarters by February 15. P a g e 21 95

22 Youth Activities: Wouldn t this be a great time to get with your Americanism Chairman, identify a classroom of younger students, take red construction paper, black markers, a hole punch, some string, and scissors. Have the students cut out a big valentine, punch a hole in the top, write A Veteran Lives Here and put a string through the hole for hanging. These could be go to nursing homes, veteran s homes or hospitals for Valentine s Day next month. February 2019 Council of Administration/General Membership Meeting: Feb 1 3, 2019, Jefferson City where the State winners of the Voice of Democracy and Patriot s Pen will be announced at the Banquet. Delegates: See Sec 303 of our National Bylaws for when to elect your District delegates; depending on when your district convention is scheduled and when your auxiliary meeting falls, you may need to elect delegates this month. Be sure and get these submitted following the procedures outlined. Nominating Committees: Auxiliary elections are coming up in April. If you are going to have a nominating committee, those members need to be appointed this month, so they can report on their findings at your March meeting. Be sure everyone understands this committee s job is to get one candidate for each elective position; however, nominations will also be accepted from the floor at the April election. Nominating committee is NOT required, it s an option. The report of the Nominating committee is not to nominate at your March meeting, per the Bylaws Sec. 804A Elective Officers shall be nominated and elected at a regular meeting in April. Or Sec. 804C The elective offices for District shall be nominated and elected annually at the District Convention. All Programs: Year-end reports are due April 15. Check that year-end report to see if you have positive answers to all the questions. IF NOT, figure out what to do in the last couple of months to get it done. Veterans and Family Support: Happy Valentine s Day to our Veterans. Participate in a program at your local VA Hospital or simply have a party for your Post Veterans. Americanism: Find a flag in a yard flying high; take a picture; present the owner of the property with a certificate for flying their Flag daily. Take a picture of you and your president presenting the certificate. Now get with your local newspaper and get an article published about the number of American and POW/MIA flags you have given away; the number of certificates you have presented and how proud you are of your community for their constant display of Patriotic Support. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Use Buddy Poppies in your Valentine Displays. Legislative: Local elections are held in many communities in April. A Meet the Candidate forum for any local election would be a good thing now. Membership: As you approach the end of our year and are continuing to try to sign up new members and get those unpaid members for 2018 to pay, this is an excellent time to have our Recruiter Trainer, Betty Arnold, to come present her program on the good ways to accomplish this. P a g e 22 95

23 Scholarship: The Patriotic Art Contest entries are due to Auxiliaries by March 31. Do your schools have any questions on this contest? Do your members and the VFW Post members know they or members of their family can apply for a great scholarship just because they are members in Missouri? Share with your auxiliary AND your Post the information for the Missouri Past National Presidents Scholarship. Applications are due in April. Youth Activities: Spring is here, or almost! It s time for ball teams to start forming. Get with your City s Park Manager and see what you might be able to do to help these groups of young people. March 2019 Delegates: See section 303 of our National Bylaws for when to elect District delegates; See 304 for instructions for Department delegates. Be sure and get these submitted following the procedures outlined as it depends on when your auxiliary meets as compared to when the District and Department meet. Year End Reports: Department Chairmen must have the Year End reports by April 15. All programs need to be completed and it s a good idea to have a chairman s meeting with Auxiliary chairmen, President, Secretary, and Treasurer so that chairmen can ask about dates and amount of monies given as they fill out their forms. Are there any last-minute projects to be done so reports can be completed in a positive manner? LEAVE NO BLANK SPOTS!!! Veterans and Family Support: Start planning a Freedom Festival for the summer. Americanism: Let business members of your community know how much you appreciate them flying the American and POW/MIA flags by giving them a certificate. Start planning your Memorial Day events. Buddy Poppy/National Home: You should be planning a Spring Buddy Poppy Drive. The auxiliary and post could do one together. Be sure that you have enough Poppies and remember to ask the youth to help. Hospital and VAVS: Hopefully you now have enough volunteers helping the hospitals and Veterans Homes. If not, talk to your members and see if additional ones can volunteer. Legislative: A Meet-the-Candidate forum for any local elections would be a good thing now. Membership: Now is where we must dig in our heals and really push for those additional members. Don t forget to check that list of former members. Why did they drop out? Contact them and find out. Ask them to come back. Scholarship: The American Patriotic Art Contest winners are due to Auxiliaries by March 31. Don t forget the Missouri s Past National Presidents Scholarship due next month. Our members families are the only one eligible to enter! P a g e 23 95

24 Youth Activities: Think about buying Girl Scout cookies and mailing them to the troops. This is something they would certainly enjoy. April 2019 Audit: The Audit for the months of January, February, and March should now be done and mailed to Department Treasurer Jackie Davis by April 30. PLEASE be on time with this Audit. If it has not been received on or prior to April 30, your Auxiliary will not be eligible to vote at the Department Convention. NO EXCEPTIONS! Delegates: See section 303 of our National Bylaws for when to elect District Delegates See 304 for instructions for Department delegates; and Sec. 305 for National. Be sure and get these submitted following the procedures outlined as it depends on when your auxiliary meets and compared to when the District and Department meetings are held. YOU ARE TO ELECT YOUR NATIONAL DELEGATES IN APRIL. Year End Reports: April 15 is the deadline for all year end reports. IN THE CHAIRMAN S HANDS, NOT JUST POSTMARKED THAT DATE! NO EXCEPTIONS! Election of Officers: The newly elected President determines who will do the auxiliary installation. Any member of the Auxiliary or Post may do the installation if they have held the office of Auxiliary President/Post Commander or higher office and is a member in good standing. You need to make sure you have the warrant (received from Department Secretary) in the hands of your Secretary. The secretary must have all the information needed for the warrant so she may provide it to that Installing Officer following the installation. Please check Sec. 806A Auxiliary Installation for when you would need to schedule the installation to comply. Districts, refer to Sec. 806C. Veterans and Family Support: Make sure all donations have been made and no matter what time of year it is always help and support Veterans and their families. Americanism: Flag Day is June 14. Are you going to be participating in a Memorial Day ceremony next month? Get the details worked out for both patriotic days. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Have donations been made to the National Home. Remember, they do not receive government funding for the Home. Your donations is what keeps the Home going. Membership: We are running out of town to get those 2017 members to pay their 2018 dues and maintain their continuous membership status. Why not get a list and set up a calling team to divide up and call? Let them know they are important to our organization. Scholarships: Young American Creative Patriotic Art Auxiliary and District judging should be completed by April 10 and sent to Department for judging. Youth Activities: School is almost out. Have you contacted the leaders of any group you are working with to be sure you have current name and contact information for the new youth chairman? P a g e 24 95

25 May 2019 HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO ALL MOTHERS IN OUR ORGANIZATION EVEN TO THE FATHER S THAT ARE DOING DOUBLE DUTY AS MOTHERS. Installation of Officers: Auxiliary officers shall be installed at a regular or special meeting held not more than sixty (60) days prior to the convening of the Department Convention, but shall not assume their duties until the Department President is installed. Get that warrant completed, signed and sent into the Department Secretary quickly! Election of Delegates: Election of delegates should be completed now. Americanism: May 8 is Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), May 19 is Armed Forces Day. Buddy Poppy/National Home: Complete your Buddy Poppy display for the Department Convention. Membership: DO NOT HOLD CONTINUOUS DUES! Even though it s May and July 1 starts a new year for dues, members will be considered as a non-paying member and must reapply and be voted on again after June 30. DO NOT HOLD NEW DUES. The new member might be confused with our dues system and complain about paying again in a month for a whole new year, but tell them that being a continuous member will give them more tenure as a continuous member. Youth Activities: So many youth groups that can use some help during the summer months. Purchase a few baseballs and give to a local team, invite your church s youth group to help put flags on veterans graves on Memorial Day weekend. The possibilities are endless. June 2019 HAPPY FATHERS DAY TO ALL DADS OUT THERE AND MOTHERS THAT ARE PULLING DOUBLE DUTY! Department Convention: will be held June in Springfield, Missouri. All Districts are requested to bring baskets for the Ways and Means table. National Convention: Make plans to attend the National Convention in Orlando, Florida July 20-24, Chairmen: This is an excellent time for the newly elected President to announce who the auxiliary chairmen will be for the following year. A list of these officers and their contact information, along with the Line Officers, both elected and appointed should be sent to your District Secretary Chairmen: Have the outgoing chairmen provide any material left over from this year to the newly appointed chairs. Help get ready to kick off the new auxiliary year. CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE FOR AN EXCITING AND SUCCESSFUL YEAR! LET S DO IT AGAIN NEXT YEAR! P a g e 25 95

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27 Flying High For Our Veterans P a g e 27 95

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29 Veterans & Family Support This year, our National Organization has divided Veterans and Family Support and Buddy Poppy/National Home Programs into two separate programs. PROGRAM GOALS FOR VETERANS AND FAMILY SUPPORT: VFW National Veterans Service VFW Veterans and Military Support Programs Assisting Veterans, Military and Their Families Under Veterans and Family Support we will be supporting National Veterans Service (NVS) and VFW Veterans and Military Support. I would like to take this opportunity to provide you with the necessary information you will need to successfully work this EXTREMELY important program. National Veterans Service (NVS) The VFW s National Veterans Service (NVS) helps veterans, service members and their families obtain the benefits they deserve at no cost. NVS provides a nationwide network of 300 VFW Service Officers who can help veterans navigate the Veterans Affairs System. Those VFW Service Officers recover BILLIONS of dollars annually in VA benefits for veterans and their dependents. NVS works to ensure veterans receive quality, timely and accessible VA Healthcare. Donate to VFW Veterans and Military Support Programs by sending funds to the VFW earmarked for Veterans and Military Support. Donate online: select National Veterans Service Donate by mail: VFW National Headquarters Attn: NVS 406 W. 34th St., 11th Floor Kansas City, MO VFW Veterans and Military Support When I was reading my material about VFW Veterans and Military Support from my National Ambassador, I thought of an umbrella. For an umbrella to work, the individual sections must work together to have a fully functioning umbrella. So, it is with VFW Veterans and Military support VFW Veterans and Military Support Program consists of four programs: 1. VFW s Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship P a g e 29 95

30 2. Unmet Needs 3. Operation Uplink 4. Military Assistance Program (MAP) These programs serve active-duty and recently discharged military VFW s Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship Awards scholarships of up to $5,000 to qualifying veterans and service members to help them complete their educational goals. Learn more: Unmet Needs Provides grants of up to $1,500 to assist with basic life needs. *Note the new amount! Learn more: Operation Uplink A calling program for service members that provides free phone time to deployed active-duty military personnel and hospitalized veterans Learn more: Military Assistance Program (MAP) MAP provides financial assistance for Posts, Districts and Departments to sponsor morale boosting send-offs, homecomings, casual get-togethers, and postage for care packages for deployed Donate to VFW Veterans and Military Support Programs by sending funds to the VFW earmarked for Veterans and Military Support. Donate online: select Veterans and Military Support Donate by mail: VFW National Headquarters Attn: Veterans and Military Support 406 W. 34th St., 9th Floor Kansas City, MO VFW Auxiliary Thank You Coins Let those in the military know we are grateful for their service to our country - give them a VFW Auxiliary "Thank You" coin. Quantity discounts are available from the VFW Store. P a g e 30 95

31 Resource Rack Card Download the VFW Auxiliary's Veterans & Family Support Resource Rack Card. It includes phone numbers and websites for 20 organizations and agencies that offer support to veterans, active duty military and their families. Find it here: under Veterans & Family Support Download and print as many as you d like! Resource Rack Card is updated every June I look forward to working with each of you and remember I am just a phone call or away. Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you might have. Janet Barlar Veterans and Family Support Chairman jpbarlar@hotmail.com Co. Rd 3310 Rolla, Mo Flying High For Veterans Awards for Veterans and Family Support 1. Most Outstanding Fundraising activity for National Veterans Service. 1 st Place $ nd Place $5.00 for each membership group. $60.00 total 2. Most Outstanding Fundraising activity VFW Veterans and Military Support Programs. 1 st Place $ nd Place $5.00 for each membership group. $60.00 total 3. Most Creative event or project for homeless veterans. 1 st Place $ nd Place $5.00 for each membership group. $60.00 total 4. The Auxiliary that handed out the most Thank You coins and Rack Cards combined. 1 st Place $ nd Place $5.00 for each membership group. $60.00 total 5. The Auxiliary with the Most Outstanding project that best supported and/or served a veteran and/or his/her family. 1 st Place $15.00 for each membership group. $60.00 total P a g e 31 95

32 Stephanie Curl, Chairman 721 N Sunset Dr Independence, MO sstcurlgirls@yahoo.com Americanism Americanism is an unfailing love of country; to its institutions and ideals; eagerness to defend it against all enemies; undivided allegiance to the Flag; and a desire to secure the blessing of liberty to ourselves and posterity. The Americanism Program goals are: Safety in America/Disaster Preparedness Flags Across America Flag Education Promote Patriotism POW/MIA Recognition From our National Americanism/Patriotic Instructor Ambassador Patricia Leitner, here are the key parts of the Americanism program this year: Safety in America/Disaster Preparedness: Our world today is uncertain and unpredictable. We need to be prepared for challenges and natural disasters when they come our way. Flag Across America: The Flag of our nation is a powerful symbol of pride and the freedoms we hold dear. It's important for us to educate youth and adults on our Flag's history, proper etiquette and retirement ceremonies. Many of us fly the Flag all year and there are numerous patriotic holidays that provide an opportunity for the Flag to be prominently displayed in communities across America. Auxiliaries are encouraged to partner with their Post, local businesses, corporations, civic Organizations, chambers of commerce, churches, schools, police and fire departments, etc., to place Flags in prominent locations in cities and towns on patriotic holidays. Flag Education: A large part of showing Americanism and demonstrating the patriotic spirit is respecting and properly caring for the U.S. Flag. Flag etiquette covers everything from proper display of our Flag to acceptable conduct around this symbol of our nation. For more information about Flag etiquette, the history of our Flag and to read the U.S. Flag Code, visit Promote Patriotism Celebrating Patriotic Holidays: Patriotic holidays are an opportune time to involve the whole family and bring community attention to your Auxiliary. When fun family events are presented to the community, prospective new members P a g e 32 95

33 will walk through your door. Patriotic holidays can serve as the prefect way to show that your Auxiliary supports patriotism, veterans, and their families as a top priority. For more information about patriotic days and ways to celebrate visit POW/MIA Recognition: Auxiliary members are passionate about bringing attention to former Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action by holding ceremonies to both educate their communities and honor these special veterans. One way to honor these veterans and educate youth and the community on this subject is by having a Missing Man Table Ceremony. This practice provides a visual demonstration of the significance of POW/MIA Recognition Day. You are encouraged to share this ceremony with youth groups partnering with the Auxiliary. Find a sample of the ceremony wording and table setup at Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award: The VFW annually recognizes the nation's top classroom elementary, junior high, and high school teachers who teach citizenship education topics regularly and promote America's history and traditions effectively. Teachers who are prime candidates for this award promote civic responsibility, Flag etiquette and patriotism. As Americanism Chairmen are you ready to begin the above programs? Have a Family Freedom Festival at your post or set up a booth at the local county fairs. Decorate in red, what and blue and hand out flags. Have a natural disaster kit on display so you can explain what it is to people walking by. Make a list of items you should have in your car or basement in case of a natural disaster. I will have more on this in the July/August promotional material. Department Awards: 1. Outstanding special program on patriotic holidays. First place citation and $10, second place citation and $5, in each membership group. 2. Outstanding POW/MIA program. First place citation and $10, second place citation and $5, in each membership group. 3. Outstanding Patriotic Education program in schools, auxiliary or community. First place citation and $10, second place citation and $5, in each membership group. 4. Outstanding Safety in America/Disaster Preparedness Program. First place citation and $10, second place citation and $5, in each membership group. 5. Outstanding overall Americanism Program. First place citation and $10, second place citation and $5 in each membership group. P a g e 33 95

34 Buddy Poppy / VFW National Home Ella Edwards, Chairman 302 Burning Tree Circle Independence, MO ellaedwards51@yahoo.com A new year is upon us and we have a new program. I know you think this isn t new, however, these two great causes have been hidden by other programs. This year is our chance to show they haven t been forgotten. WE CAN DO IT!!! Buddy Poppy Our main goal is to reach out to our communities about the Buddy Poppy and to do some outstanding displays. It has been a part of the VFW since 1922, helping to raise millions of dollars to support the welfare of our Veterans and their families. The Poppies are made by disabled or hospitalized veterans. You can use the Buddy Poppy all year round. Any day can be a Buddy Poppy day. Pamphlets and Buddy Poppy distribution supplies can be purchased from the VFW store at or by calling Donations from Buddy Poppies distributed are added to the Relief Fund. This is used to support veterans, active-duty military and their families. Appoint a committee for planning your Buddy Poppy drive. * Get your Volunteers: Post and Auxiliary members; Youth Groups (Scouts, Athletic teams, Teens doing community service, member s children and grandchildren. Crown a King and Queen for the most donations.) * Decide on dates: You can have more than one. * Choose where to stage your drive: Grocery Stores; Department Stores Make sure to get permission from business owners or managers. * Publicize: Newspapers, City paper; Facebook; Social media. * Have program materials and membership applications available. * Wear your name badge, SMILE! * Be sure to thank the businesses and your volunteers. P a g e 34 95

35 As VFW s official flower the Poppy represents the bloodshed by American Service members. The VFW will not forget their sacrifices. POPPY DISPLAYS Department Fall Conference (October) Being that it s been 100 years since WWI, a display depicting something to do with WWI. Write a short paragraph explaining the display. (Do some research?) Remember more poppies the better, at least one in its original shape. Money awards will be given for first and second place. This is the only category, be creative. First Place: $10; Second Place $5 Department Winter Conference (February) Honor our National Home by doing a display. Research the home, come up with an idea. Money awards will be given for first and second place. Remember more poppies the better, at least one in its original form. This is the only category, be creative. First Place: $10; Second Place: $5 Department of Missouri Convention (June) There will be three categories for the Buddy Poppy displays: Public Promotion of the Buddy Poppy campaign Memorial or Inspirational Artistic or Decorative You may use a display you have made before. First place in each category will receive a citation and cash award. Second place will receive a citation and cash reward. Third place will receive a citation. Including all categories, one will be selected to go to National. National rules can be found on the VFW website. First Place: $10; Second Place: $5 in each category. REMEMBER: NEVER REFUSE SOMEONE A POPPY BECAUSE THEY ARE UNABLE TO CONTRIBUTE. A POPPY ON ANYONE S LAPEL HONORS ALL VETERANS. It is important for us to continue to educate the public about the history of the Buddy Poppy and Why we continue to distribute it today. Resources: Buddy Poppy Chairman s Guide VFW National Convention Contest Rules Story Cards Veterans Behind the Buddy Poppy Video Veterans Behind Article Buddy Poppy information (VFW website) P a g e 35 95

36 VFW National Home The idea for the National Home was first planted in 1923, when the Military Order of the Cootie presented the concept to the VFW at its convention. Members of the VFW embraced the idea of a home for the children and families of veterans, and the VFW National Home for Children was born. A 23 year old Amy Ross walked into the office of Dr. Chandler, the VFW Department of Michigan Commander with the idea to find jobs for veterans who were walking the streets. He turned over the facilities of the VFW to Miss Ross. By 1924 she had found 9000 veterans employment. Through Amy Ross efforts, millionaire cattleman Corey Spencer came to meet Dr. Chandler. He had 472 acres of land near Eaton Rapids, Michigan. Known as the: Grand River Stock Farm. He made it a gift to the VFW. Tragically, Amy Ross died in She was given a military funeral by the VFW. It was quoted she's not dead, she has just commenced to live. On Dec. 6, 1924, National Council of Administration approved the idea, VFW National Home. To pledge to Honor the Dead by Helping the Living. It became reality in It serves as a living memorial to America s Veterans. When you support the VFW National Home, you are providing hope to children and their families of veterans and active duty military at a time when they need it most. Contributions are critical to the wellbeing of the home. National Home Helpline: or www. vfw.nationalhome.org is available for military veterans and their families. A dedicated staff of caring professionals ready to work with callers to help them with issues and concerns. This helpline is answered Monday through Friday 8am to4:30pm, Eastern time. VFW Auxiliary promotes support through the Health and Happiness Fund with a donation of 10 cents per member based on June 30 th membership. National is offering a citation to all Auxiliaries that donate 25 cents or more per member. Make Yours! Send it to: VFW Auxiliary National Headquarters Attn: H & H Donations 406 W. 34 th Street, 10 th Floor Kansas City, MO Your Health & Happiness donations help by providing for birthdays, Christmas and Graduation cheer for the children. P a g e 36 95

37 The Auxiliary has agreed to support and maintain five buildings: Chapel; Community Center; Guest Lodge; Health and Education building and Nursery. Send your donations to help support these buildings. Be sure to earmark your check if you want the donation to go to a certain cause. The National Home has 42 single-family homes which only 35 is being used. If you know of a family with issues contact them. They have 8 residents who are going to college. Promote National Home Life Memberships. They are $35 now. As of January 1, 2019 they will be $50 which includes a membership pin. National Home Donations: Health & Happiness Safety & Security Fund Life Memberships Tribute Brick/Tribute Park/Other Tribute Giving Monthly Home Front Hero Planning your Legacy Gifts in Kind/Amazon Smiles Every child deserves a happy family Please visit the National Home website: Mark your calendars: National Home Trip October 26 & 27, More information to follow. DEPARTMENT AWARDS: 1. Department Fall Conference WW1 Display: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. 2. Department Winter Conference National Home Display: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. 3. Department Convention: a. Public Promotion of Buddy Poppy: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. b. Memorial or Inspirational: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. c. Artistic or Decorative: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. 4. Best education and publicity of Buddy Poppy Program: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. 5. Best education and publicity of fund raising for National Home: 1 st place citation and $10; 2 nd place citation and $5. REMEMBER: NATIONAL HOME DOES NOT RECEIVE ANY GOVERNMENT FUNDING! WE CAN DO IT! P a g e 37 95

38 CHIEF OF STAFF/EXTENSION Chiefs of Staff are the main point of contact for the Extension Program, which includes the establishment of new Auxiliaries and the maintenance of current Auxiliaries. They serve as Auxiliary advocates and assistants. SUCCESS IS THE RESULT OF PERFECTION, HARD WORK, LEARNING FROM FAILURE, LOYALTY, AND PERSISTANCE. Colin Powell The Extension program is here to advocate and assist an Auxiliary through some of the most difficult situations. We are here to advise you as Auxiliary President, Secretary, Treasurer, or just a member on how to handle situations that may require assistance from someone outside of the situation. As always, please follow your chain of command. You have available to you, your District President and the District Deputy Chief of Staff who will inform our Department President and the Department Chief of Staff as to what is going on. We are all here as an extended part to help your Auxiliary succeed. Extension Program Goals: Maintain Current Auxiliaries Establish New Auxiliaries Each Auxiliary must complete 5 Essentials of an Auxiliary from the RU Healthy Auxiliary Checklist. These are standard business items the Auxiliary must achieve every year. Each Auxiliary must have ten (10) business meetings per year (Sec. 210). Five members in good standing shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. (Sec. 212) Dues are to be paid on at least ten (10) members on or before February 1 of the current year. (Sec. 207) Quarterly audits by Trustees must be submitted (Sec. 814) Officers elected and installed and reported to National Headquarters no later than June 30. This generates the bond application via . (Sec. 804A & 806A) The offices of President and Treasurer MUST be bonded by August 31. Non-compliance with the 5 Essentials of an Auxiliary could cause the Auxiliary to lose their charter. As Chief of Staff, I am here to assist and insure that your Auxiliary is Healthy and can continue to serve our Veterans and their families. I will be in contact with the Department Treasurer to insure each item is done for each of the Auxiliaries. Items on the National website, vfwauxiliary.org, are available to help your Auxiliary. RU Healthy Auxiliary Checklist Healthy Auxiliary Member Questionnaire (An anonymous survey that can bring to light issues within the Auxiliary). Auxiliary Meeting Clinic (A program/solution format that helps you quickly find ideas to solve issues at meetings). Healthy Communication Phone/Text Tree (A way to communicate to members). Good Job Certificate Card (A way to say Thank You to members who participate, support or volunteer for an event or program). P a g e 38 95

39 Mentoring Resources (A guide to help you think about how your Auxiliary can mentor your new or current members). Typically, Auxiliaries do not have a chairman for Extension, so as president, I encourage you to go to the National website and look at each of these throughout the year to assist your Auxiliary and members. As Department Chief of Staff, I will be working with bachelor VFW Posts in each District to possibly form a new Auxiliary. Any District President or Deputy Chief of Staff who knows of any possibilities, please contact me. We want to get a great start on these as soon as possible to attain new members to assist Veterans. We need to remember that we are all volunteers, so stay calm - take a deep breath before responding - think about what is about you are about to say - and be kind. Harsh words will drive away a hardworking member or discourage a new member from ever volunteering again. Nelda Clifton, Chief of Staff VFW Auxiliary Department of Missouri 6020 E 58 St Kansas City, MO (816) n.clifton@yahoo.com NATIONAL EXTENSION AWARDS AWARDS FOR MEMBERS: $50, a citation and We Believed You Could coin to the best mentor in each Program Division. (Any member on any level of the organization can be nominated by the mentee. Nomination forms go to the Department Chief of Staff, who will send three nominations to the National Chief of Staff to chose one per Program Division.) Nomination form available at vfwauxiliary.org/resources AWARDS FOR AUXILIARIES: Citation to one Auxiliary in each Department that best utilizes media in the vitalization of its Auxiliary. DEPARTMENT AWARDS FOR AUXILIARIES: $10 to an Auxiliary in each of the four categories for the most Welcome Bags given to new/rejoin members. $10 to first Mentee to submit a nomination for the best mentor. P a g e 39 95

40 Brenda Bryant PO Box 177, Hawk Point, MO Phone: Home: Cell: HISTORIAN/MEDIA RELATIONS YOUR COMMUNITY NEEDS TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE DOING! If you are going to get your community involved with your Auxiliary, then you need to get your message out in the public. HOW CAN WE DO THAT? Publicize your events in the newspaper and invite the community to come. Post your events on Facebook or your website. Let your friends see what events are coming up at your Post/Auxiliary. Some cities have their own website or Facebook page, ask if you can put your event on their page. Post pictures after the event on Facebook or your website as well as in the newspaper. As an Auxiliary Historian Chairman, it is your job to help publish what your Auxiliary is doing. What a fantastic way of enticing new members to join your Auxiliary than showing them what important things your Auxiliary is doing. WHAT SHOULD GO INTO A NEWS ARTICLE? Who are we? What do we do? When we did it? Where we did it? Why we are doing it? TAKING PICTURES FOR YOUR HISTORIAN BOOK. Keeping the history of your Auxiliary is a very important part of your job. Do you have your camera with you always? Being prepared is how you get those great shots of your members as they do projects. Watch for more information in the general orders on how to take those great shots. WHAT IS SWAP? S = Share W = Wonderful A = Auxiliary P = Projects We want to share your great projects on our Department website and Facebook page. All Auxiliaries would learn more about projects they may want to try in their area. This year we are giving away a queen size quilt and other items to be drawn at the Department Convention, for every time you submit a project or event to the Department Historian. Each time your Auxiliary will be entered in the drawing. Watch the general orders for more information on this. P a g e 40 95

41 NATIONAL VFW AUXILIARY WEBSITE IS THERE FOR YOU. You will find on the National VFW Auxiliary website loads of material that will help you with media relationship. Go to or find them on the Department of Missouri website, to download information on: Publicity Guide This gives you lots of information on how to promote your Auxiliary to the public. Elevator Speech Great information on who we are and what to say to others to encourage them to join our Auxiliary. Website and Social Media information This gives you all the information to help you start your own website or Facebook page. Everything is at your fingertips, it is up to you to reach out and help promote the VFW Auxiliary. Letting the community know about us is a major source in helping to get new members. Always remember, no one wants to join an organization they know nothing about. I am here for you and will be glad to help you start a website or Facebook page. HISTORIAN AWARDS 1. Best newsletter by mail or . A copy of the newsletter must be submitted. $10 Award for 1 st place in each membership category. 2. Outstanding District Historian $ SWAP Share your projects or ideas and earn chances into a drawing for a queen size quilt and other items. TOGETHER WE CAN RETAIN THE HISTORY OF OUR AUXILIARIES! P a g e 41 95

42 Kathleen Ditch 406 Spencer Place St. Peters, Mo Phone: HOSPITAL PROGRAM I BELIEVE WE CAN DO IT! Program Goals Spotlight Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Issues Volunteer Recruitment & Recognition Veterans Voices Writing Project. Hello! It is an honor for me to be asked by Department President Carolann Osterloh to be your Missouri Department Hospital Chairman! The main focus of our program is to remember our veterans in the VA medical facilities, local medical clinics, nursing homes, and to be their voice. I BELIEVE WE CAN DO IT, as we work together to educate members on and engage them in the hospital programs. Volunteer opportunities are available in the VA Medical facilities and nursing homes; this is one of the main goals of our Hospital Program. Many facilities will have varying types of opportunities to suit different ages and abilities. Be sure to follow all the guidelines given by that facility and ask how you can assist them. Sponsor an event such as bingo or a BBQ at a nursing home. Invite veterans to a luncheon at your post and include their families. Remember Community Volunteer Recruitment Weeks are November 5-11, 2018 and April 7-13, Let s market the benefits of volunteering and make a positive difference in the lives of our veterans in Missouri and across the nation. Spotlight Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Issues, these are crucial component in our programs. Objective Zero is the first mobile app to instantly and anonymously connect veterans, their families and caregivers to suicide prevention resources and a support network of their peers, mental health professionals and trained volunteers via voice, video and text. The Veterans Crisis Line is and press 1, or chat online at The VFW Auxiliary s symbol for Suicide Prevention is the Blue Teardrop Sticker. Download the Veteran & Military Suicide Awareness Blue Sticker template at Veterans Voices Writing Project: The mission of this Writing Project is to enable military veterans to experience solace and satisfaction through their own stories. Veterans Voices now accepts online submissions. Recruitment is the key to Volunteering! Hospital Programs are beneficial to our Veterans, let s work together P a g e 42 95

43 Department of Missouri Hospital Program HOSPITAL AWARDS Kathleen Ditch Spencer Place, St. Peters Mo Department Awards to be given out at the Department Convention: 1. A monitory award for the best promoted and participated in Veterans Voices in each membership group. First Place $9.00 Second Place $ A monitory award to the best Volunteer Recognition Program in each membership group. First Place $9.00 Second Place $ A monitory award to the best use of publicity and /or media to recruit volunteers in each membership group. First Place $9.00 Second Place $ A monitory award to the best overall Hospital program of volunteering, recruiting, and holding special projects within your Medical Centers, Mo. Veterans Homes or Nursing Home in each membership group. First Place $9.00 Second Place $ A monitory award to the best overall Suicide Awareness program that you did in the community. First Place $9.00 Second Place $ A $10 monitory award to the overall best hospital program in each membership group. 7. The Sew at Home pins will be given to each VFW Auxiliary Member that has participated in the Sew at Home Pin program from May 1, 2018 to April 1, 2019 that has accumulated 100 hours. NATIONAL RECRUITER AWARDS FOR VFW AUXILIARY MEMBERS AND STUDENT VOLUNTEERS. A charm from the VFW Auxiliary National Headquarters will be awarded to each member recruiting one or more volunteers between June 1 and May 15. Forms are available on vfwauxiliary.org. Community Volunteer Recruitment Weeks DEPARTMENT OF MISSOURI P a g e 43 95

44 SEW-AT-HOME VOLUNTEER PIN APPLICATION To be submitted to the Department Hospital Chairman by April 15, 2019 Department Chairman: Kathleen Ditch 406 Spencer Place St. Peters, MO Auxiliary Name: Aux. No.: District No.: Auxiliary Hospital Chairman: Mailing Address: Phone: ( ) List auxiliary members entitled to Sew-at-Home Volunteer Pin/Charms based on accumulated sewing hours for items sewed for VA Medical Centers, Nursing Homes, Out-patient Clinics, Community or other Hospitals. NAME AUX# TOTAL HOURS 50 HOURS 100 HOURS 150 HOURS 200 HOURS 300 HOURS 400 HOURS 500 HOURS 750 HOURS 1000 HOURS 2000 HOURS 3000 HOURS 4000 HOURS NUMBER OF FIRST TIME SEWERS SCISSOR PIN: NOTE: PLEASE APPLY FOR CHARMS WHEN ACUMULATED HOURS ARE EARNED BY VOLUNTEER. SIGNED: Date: Auxiliary Hospital Chairman SIGNED: Date: Auxiliary President November 5-11, 2018 and April 7-13, 2019 Volunteering makes a difference in the lives of veterans. P a g e 44 95

45 Legislative Program Let s Rock & Roll While Flying High for Our Veterans The Guardian ANGELS of life fly so high as to be beyond our sight, but they are always looking down upon us Jean Paul Richter Let s fight for our Veterans as they fought for us. I would like to Congratulate you on being chosen to be the Legislative Program Chairman for your auxiliary and/or district. We need to work together on Educating, Preparing and Involving ourselves and others so we can act on the issues and VFW Priority Goals. How do we do that? Just simply follow the steps listed below: 1. We need to inform others about issues related to Veterans, their families and the active military. 2. VFW Priority Goals, (listed below). You may also find them on the National Auxiliary website at under What We Do, Legislative, and on Dept. website under Legislative. Budget Employment and Transition Work Force Development Accountability Assistance Health Care Defense/Homeland Security Compensation and Benefits Military Quality of Life Education POW/MIA 3. VFW Action Corps, Checkpoint, and VFW Auxiliary E-Newsletter. All of these are free and full of information about what s going on. Go to VFW Action Corps (WHAT WE DO THEN click LEGISLATIVE). Checkpoint select NEWS & PUBLICATIONS, AND CHECKPOINT, you may also print. VFW Auxiliary E-Newsletter select MEDIA. 4. Need to be in contact with your legislative leaders: find out who s who. Visit VFW website at Resources to assist you are below: Contact information for: Senators Find your state legislators: Representative Step by Step: you may follow the progress of bills through the stages of the legislative process at Enter a specific bill by number or a key word or phrase. 6. We also need to educate students of the Importance and Processes of Legislative Action. Let s educate, educate, educate Students, they are our future. Get the P a g e 45 95

46 Community Engaged on the Legislative Process: Use the VFW auxiliary Guide to the Legislative Process and other material available at This will help with students and adults. When school s open is the time to see if the auxiliary will be allowed to visit to speak about how important legislative issues. For students you could do basic information that s informative, and educational, and age appropriate: Create educational coloring pages or coloring book Creative educational activity book. 7. A program which includes the VFW Priority Goals to support our veterans on issues. Publicize specific issues Writing letters to put into your local paper which outlines your position and asking for the public to help by contacting their legislators. Sponsor a candidate forum at your post or a community center, inviting all candidates to speak and answer questions relating to veterans issues while serving refreshments. Set a booth up at a local or state fair or any event with information on veterans issues along with the VFW Priority Goals. Ask if they will sign a petition (or two) to encourage legislators to take action on particular issues or concerns. Let s remember the VFW does not endorse specific candidates or political parties and cannot be partisan. However, as members of the VFW Auxiliary, we can be prepared and involved. Department Awards Best promotion of the VFW Priority Goals: 1 st place $7 and Citation 2 nd place $3 and Citation Best promotion of Vote in Honor of a Veteran: 1 st place $7 and Citation 2 nd place $3 and Citation Best promotion of tools outlined in the Guide to Contacting your Legislators 1 st place $7 and Citation 2 nd place $3 and Citation Best promotion of Educating Youth on the Legislative Process: 1 st place $7 and Citation 2 nd place $3 and Citation Kim Armenta 1025 Benjamin Blvd, St. James, MO Cell: kimarmentavfw@yahoo.com P a g e 46 95

47 MEMBERSHIP & RECRUITMENT Congratulations on your appointment as your Auxiliary or District Membership Chairman. Let s work together, VFW and Auxiliary, to meet our goals of 100% plus in membership. Membership eligibility can be simple. Your Podium Edition Bylaws and Ritual Book will become your best friend. Bylaws Page 5 Article 1 Membership. Refer to this any time a prospective member is filling out an application. This eligibility guide will answer most questions. If you can t answer a question, snag a VFW member from your post or the District recruiter and ask them. If they can t tell you, they should be able to direct you to the person that can. Ask for help when needed. DO NOT think that you are in this alone. You may be the membership Chairman, but EVERY auxiliary member needs to be involved in recruiting and retaining members. Ask your Auxiliary President to make a committee. Many hands make little work. Offer an incentive or have a drawing for a prize for your members that sign up new/rejoin members or that bring in dues. Find venues in your area where you can set up a recruiting booth and ask the post to join you. Also ask the post members if they have members of their families that might be interested in joining the Auxiliary. You know, children, brothers, sisters, mothers, father, grandmothers and grandfathers of post members are eligible for the Auxiliary. Don t limit your membership. Try to get everyone involved. When you are talking to a prospective member, promote our wonderful programs. Many do not know what wonderful work we do for Veterans in the Veterans and Family Support Program, and the community in Americanism all the way to Scholarships, Youth and Hospital. Legislation concerning veterans issues are another reason someone might be interested in joining. Don t leave anyone out. So, let s get started Flying high for our Veterans. Get those dues notices out early and often. Don t hold dues once they are sent in. MALTA is open and ready for use. Watch the General Orders for more information and awards that may be available through the year. I am only a phone call away. (417) If I don t answer leave a message and I WILL return your call. Judith Hutchison RR 72 Box 293 Norwood, MO judihutchvfwaux@yahoo.com NEW ADDRESS Flying High for our Veterans P a g e 47 95

48 DEPARTMENT OF MISSOURI Missouri is: Flying high for our Veterans in Membership So, you say, what s in it for my Auxiliary and District? AUXILIARY AWARD POSSIBILITIES Each Auxiliary that is 100% in membership before September 20, 2018 will be placed in a drawing for an award of (2) $ or (2) $75.00 to be drawn at the C of A in October Each additional Auxiliary that is 100% in membership before December 31, 2018 will be placed in a drawing for an award of (2) $100.00, (2) $75.00 or (2) $50.00 to be drawn at the C of A in February For every percent OVER 100% the Auxiliary will receive 1 entry into a separate drawing for an award of (2) $50.00 or (2) $25.00 to be drawn at the Department Convention. The deadline to have the dues to Department Treasurer for this drawing is May 15, If your auxiliary is drawn at the C of A in October it will be put BACK into the drawing for another chance to win at the C of A in February The Auxiliary whose Chairman submits to the Department Chairman the Best/ Most Successful Recruitment and Training Program - Power Point, Training materials, handouts, etc.- by December 31, 2018 will receive $ All other entries will be placed in a second chance drawing for (2) $10.00 The 1 st winner will be forwarded to National for a chance at a National Award announced at the National Mid-Winter Conference. Create a brochure to pass out to potential or new members. It can be a brochure or fact sheet that is created by an Auxiliary member or the Auxiliary as a whole. Deadline is December 31, The Auxiliary that submits the best brochure or fact sheet will be awarded $ All other entries will be placed in a second chance drawing for (2) $ The 1 st place winner will be forwarded to National for a chance at a National Award announced at the National Mid-Winter Conference. P a g e 48 95

49 Any member that achieves the National Membership Achievement Award will be place in a drawing for (2) $25.00 awards to be drawn at the Department Convention. DISTRICT AWARD POSSIBILITIES District President s Night on the Town will be at the C of A in February, Each District that reaches 92% or above by December 20, 2018 will be entitled to have their District President go on a night on the town with President Carolann. Dues must be put into Malta by Midnight December 20 or submitted to the Department Treasurer to be received before December 20 so they can be entered. The District that has the highest percentage over 100% by March 31, 2019 will receive $ Now let me tell you about a few of the National Individual Awards for Membership and Recruitment that will be available: NATOINAL AWARD POSSIBILITIES 1 One Uncle Sam Hat Pin to each VFW or VFW Auxiliary member who recruits five (5) new and/or rejoined members to the VFW Auxiliary from July 1, 2018 through April 30, Due on official form to National Headquarters by May 31, Mailed directly to the member. 2. One Patriotic Vest Pin each VFW and VFW Auxiliary members who recruits ten (10) new and/or rejoined members to the VFW Auxiliary from July 1, 2018 through April 30, Due on official form to National Headquarters by May 31, Mailed directly to the member. 3. National Membership Achievement Award Each VFW or VFW Auxiliary member who secures twenty (20) new and/or rejoined members to the VFW Auxiliary from July 1, 2018 through April 30, 2019 with the official form received at National Headquarters by May 31, 2019 will be awarded with the National Membership Achievement Award. Keep an eye on the General Orders throughout the year for information of additional monetary ($$$$$) awards to be offered Judith Hutchison, Membership Chairman RR72 Box 293, Norwood, MO (417) , judihutchvfwaux@yahoo.com P a g e 49 95

50 Recruitment Booth Pointers Recruitmen Your Auxiliary has a booth, so the public will come, right? Not necessarily! Your booth needs to be enticing and engaging. Here are a few pointers to have a successful fundraising and/or recruitment booth: What to Say Practice what you d say if someone came up to you and asked you what the VFW Auxiliary was about. An example is listed below. You: Hi, how are you today? Potential Member: Good, thanks. What is the VFW Auxiliary/What does your organization do? You: Have you heard of the Veterans of Foreign Wars also known as the VFW? Potential Member: Yes. You: We are the Auxiliary to the VFW; we support them in their efforts to assist veterans, active-duty military and their families. Potential Member: Wow. That s great! You: We re active locally and nationally with more than 4,000 Auxiliaries helping America s heroes in communities just like ours. (Hand them a flier at this point and say, Some of the ways we offer support are ): By being a voice for veterans, locally and on Capitol Hill; we are instrumental in assisting the VFW pass or block legislation that impacts veterans and their families. Assembling and mailing care packages to active-duty troops. Holding send-off and welcome-home events for troops. Spreading the word about PTSD and military/veteran suicide awareness. Participating in Stand-Downs and assisting homeless veterans. Visiting veterans in VA Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Veterans Homes. Offering youth scholarships and educating youth about the American Flag. Spreading patriotism and educating our communities about America s patriotic holidays. Highlight other ways your Auxiliary offers support (i.e. holiday parties for children, sponsoring a local baseball team, delivering meals to shut-ins, etc.) P a g e 50 95

51 RECRUITMENT BOOTH POINTERS The Booth Have a tablecloth to cover the table even if it s a plain tablecloth from the Dollar Tree, Walmart or Target. Have a patriotic banner and/or display board of Auxiliary information. Don t put out all of your materials at once; Less = More Impact! It s suggested to have the following out: member applications facts leaflets member benefit sheets Join Us Online cards You can always restock throughout the event if you need to! Give people a reason to visit your booth! Candy Giveaways (patriotic stickers, patriotic coloring sheets, flags, pinwheels, bookmarks, pens, paper fans, etc. are all great items. Check the VFW Store at for more ideas.) Get their information! A few ideas: Have an sign-up sheet so you can contact them about membership or volunteer opportunities. Host a drawing or raffle. Invite them to Enter to Win a $25 or $50 grocery store, Walmart or Target gift card. If your Auxiliary can afford it, host a drawing for a tablet. There are quite a few under $ Make sure you get their full contact information: Name Address Address Phone Number Relationship to Veteran Follow-up with them if they give you their contact information AND Invite them to an upcoming Auxiliary/VFW event. DO S Wear an Auxiliary shirt and/or identifying name badge. Smile and say hello to people when they walk by your booth even if they don t stop! Stand to the side of the booth, or in front of the booth, and interact with people as they walk by. Look people in the eye when you speak with them. Shake hands if appropriate. Acknowledge and speak with others who are with them (spouse, parents, children, etc.). Give them a packet of information to take with them and Have at least two people working the booth. Ask them to join and hand them an application. DON TS Use profanity. Smoke while at the booth. Eat while at the booth. Talk or text on your cell phone while at the booth. Sit behind the booth with your arms folded in front of your chest. Be overbearing or overly aggressive. Have more than two people talk to a potential member at once; it can overwhelm them. ask them to share the information with others. REMEMBER IF YOU DON T ASK, THEY WON T JOIN! P a g e 51 95

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54 SCHOLARSHIPS Department of Missouri Chairman Debbie Griffin Chairman, you are so important to the success of this program! Your dedication will help students reach their goals, teach patriotism in our communities, and be possibly life changing to a student, their family or an Auxiliary member. Our Scholarship Ambassador Chrissy Harlan puts it best in stating you will be Helping their dreams come true. As we begin planning this year keep in mind if we Believe We Can Do It and then we will be Flying High for Veterans, their families and the youth in our communities. Planning Get started immediately!! Do not put off for tomorrow what can be done today, we have all heard that saying growing up, or the early bird catches the worm. These catch phrases should be your motto this year. Take the applications to the schools, take out an ad in your local paper, promote on social media, take to your churches, give to JROTC students, ask your neighbors, and don t forget your own VFW and Auxiliary members. Remember, failure to plan is planning to fail. Be a part of making a positive change in a person s life. Continuing Education Scholarship I am sure we all know someone who could use an extra $1000 to help pay for continuing education expenses. Perhaps, helping a single mom or dad who has lost their job and are changing careers. Helping our own Auxiliary members or their family members would be so rewarding. Deadline to National Headquarters is February 15, Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest This is our organizations premier program. I am pleased to see they are putting forth an effort to increase the awards and have an award for each entry on the National level. What can you and your Auxiliary do to help this Dream Come True? Be creative in your ideas to raise funds for the Patriotic Art Escrow Fund. Great artwork does not happen overnight, get the information to the students NOW. Teachers will be planning their curriculum over the summer, be sure your program is on their schedule. Remember, P a g e 54 95

55 there is no District judging for art contest. Deadline for entries to the Auxiliary is March 31, 2019 Missouri Past National President Scholarship This is our Departments premier program started in honor of two ladies, Mabel Tanner and Glenneta Vogelsang, who served our organization proudly and are placed in high esteem by our Auxiliary members. There are two awards given to a high school senior, first place is $1800 and second place is $1200. The applicant must be a child, grandchild, or great grandchild of a current or deceased Department of Missouri Auxiliary or VFW member. The applicant does not have to reside in the state of Missouri. Voice of Democracy Please give this program the respect it deserves by not referring to it as VOD. The program is a VFW program that historically the Auxiliary assists with. The Theme for the year is Why My Vote Matters. Contest is open to all students, including home school, in grades Student must be a resident of the state where they enter. Please check with your Post Chairman and assist them in getting the information to the students NOW!! Start coordinating with the Post for the recognition ceremony for the students. The top prize for National Award is $30,000. Deadline for entries to Post is October 31, 2018 Patriots Pen Essay Contest This VFW sponsored program is open to students in grades 6-8 to include home school students, Please, help promote this essay contest in your community. The theme for the essay is Why I Honor the American Flag. Let our youth voice their pride in honoring our flag and realize the importance of giving them the platform to show their patriotism. Be prepared to assist the Post in recognition ceremonies for the students. Top prize for National Award winner is $5000. Deadline for entries to Post is October 31, 2018 Check the National and Department websites, Facebook, and Promotional Material often for upcoming announcements, reminders, and sharing of ideas and suggestions to make this a great year of Flying High for Veterans by Believing We Can Do It P a g e 55 95

56 Scholarship Program Awards Auxiliary and Chairman Awards: 1. Award in each membership group for Best Overall Promotion of the Scholarship Program- 1 st Place $15 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman, 2 nd Place $10 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman. Must have verifiable proof of the promotion. 2. Award in each membership group for Most Creative Fundraiser for the Patriotic Art Escrow Fund. 1 st Place $15 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman, 2 nd Place $10 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman. 3. Award in each membership group for Outstanding Overall Chairman. Award is $15 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman. 4. Award for Auxiliary with best promotion of the Young American Patriotic Art Contest. Award is $15 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman. 5. Award to Auxiliary with best promotion for the Continuing Education Scholarship. Award is $10 to the Auxiliary and citation to the Chairman. 6. Special award to the Auxiliary with most entries in the Missouri Past National Presidents Scholarship. District Auxiliary Award: Award to the District Chairman with the Best Overall Promotion of the Scholarship Program. Award is $15 to the District Auxiliary and a citation to the Chairman. P a g e 56 95

57 YOUTH ACTIVITIES Vera Harrison Department Chair Program Goals: West Priairie Grove Rd. 1. Creating, Sponsoring and La Monte, MO Working with Youth Groups Youth Groups Supporting Our Veterans National Citations The youth of today are the future leaders of our 3. Random Acts of Patriotism (RAP) Country. Our orgainization can teach them history, 4. Creating a Contest for Students patriotism, and respect for our Military. in Grades K 5 Congratulations on being selected as the Youth Activity Chairman for you Auxiliary or District. It is an honor for me to be chosen for YOUR Department Chair. Thank you, President Carolann!! Study your Program Goals, they are set up to show you the key points in this program. Study your yearend report, it will tell you that you need to keep track of your Auxiliary events and keep a list of the numbers involved in each function. Thank you for all you do! Our youth are our future!! Creating, Sponsoring and Working with Youth Groups: An Auxiliary can sponsor a youth group and engage youth in any one of our programs. From Americanism to Veterans and Family Support, keep youth involved in every function. When youth and the whole family are included, members, (or potental members) feel more invested in your Auxiliary. Let your community know that your Auxiliary is out there for the whole community. We are not a stand alone Auxiliary. SHOW THEM who we are and what we stand for. Youth Groups Supporting Our Veterans National Citations: Through this national citation, youth groups can be recognized for their efforts and service projects honoring our Veterans and assisting active-duty military and their families. Recongnize the JROTC, Scouts, or any youth groups for: Marching in a patriotic holiday parade, sending cards or gifts to the National Home, sending cards or letters to our troops overseas or our veterans in VA facilities, the list is endless. Citation applications are available at under Youth Activities. Fill out the citation application and submit it to Department Activities Chairman, (Me) and I will then submit it to National Headquarters. Our youth groups are already doing some of this, LET S give them the recognition they deserve!! Please note that this citation is for youth groups. If you would like to honor an individual youth for their patriotism and/or supporting our veterans, download the Patriotic Youth Award at the same website. Random Acts of Patriotism (R.A.P.): See a child thanking a veteran or active military? Correctly placing their hand on their heart? Give them a R.A.P. card and/or coin. The cards can be downloaded from the national or our department website and printed at home. The coins can be purchased from the VFW Store. Youth like to be recognized when they do something special, and this program is an excellent way to do just that. Try this fun and unique way to engage today s youth and encourage their patriotism!! Creating a Contest for Students in Grades K 5: P a g e 57 95

58 Guess What??? We are going to have a contest! As we all know, the scholorship program sponsors grades 6 8 and grades There is nothing for grades K 5. With that said, here is my idea for a contest that will promote artistic ability and patriotism. We are going to have a contest with the students making Veterans Day Cards! After the contest, these cards will be given to Veterans in the hospital, VA facilities, etc. These cards need to be brought or sent to the fall C of A in order to get credit for this program. You can apply for a citation for Youth Groups Supporting Our Veterans with this contest. If you can get a youth group to help deliver the cards, all the better. I will be going in depth on this project at both Department School of Instuction next month. Looking forward to a great time!!! National Awards Citation to one Auxiliary in each Department for the best promotion of ways to use and/or reuse R.A.P. cards and or coins. Citation to each Auxiliary that creates, supports and/or sponsors a youth group. Form required: available at Special Award from National An award to one youth group in each Program Division with an outstanding project submitted to the Youth Groups Supporting Out Veterans citations. Will be mailed to the sponsoring Auxiliary for presentation. Department Awards Citation and $6.00 to first place winners in each membership group Citation and $3.00 to second place winners in each membership group 1. Best Participation in Creating, Sponsoring and Working with Youth Groups 2. Best Participation in Youth Groups Supporting Our Veterans National Citation (must apply for citations). 3. Most unique ways of awarding R.A.P. cards/coins for Random Acts of Patriotism 4. Best Participation in creating a contest for students in grades K-5, and/or participation in the Department contest. Citation and $6.00 to ONE chairman for best all round reporting. Membership groups are based on your June 30, 2018 membership. Group Group Group Group Again, I want to thank each of you for all the work you have already done, and what you are going to do. Looking forward to hearing your ideas and a wonderful year for our leaders of tomorrow!! WE, in Missouri, are Flying High for our Veterans because WE Believe.We Can Do It!!! Thank you again, Vera P a g e 58 95

59 Flying High For Our Veterans Due to the Program Chairman April 15, 2019 P a g e 59 95

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61 Veterans & Family Support YEAR-END REPORT Auxiliary # Membership Group Auxiliary Chairman: Submit to your Department Chairman by April 15, Did your Auxiliary host/co-host with the VFW Post fundraising activities for National Veterans Service (NVS)? Yes No If yes, please explain: 2. Did your auxiliary host/co-host with the VFW Post fundraising activities for VFW Veterans and Military Support Programs? (For example, Unmet Needs, Operation Uplink, Military Assistance Program, and Sports Clips Helps A Hero Scholarship ) Yes No If yes, please explain: 3. Did you provide direct aid to veterans, active-duty military and/or their families? (For example, meals, transportation, cards, packages, donations, etc.) Yes No A. Total monetary value of donations and goods/services provided: B. Total monetary donations provided: C. Approximate number of veterans/military personnel assisted: 4. Did your auxiliary participate in and/or sponsor events or projects for homeless veterans? (For example, Stand Downs, clothing drives, etc.) Yes No P a g e 61 95

62 If so, please explain: 5. Number of veterans served/assisted through ALL VFW and Auxiliary programs: 6. Number of Thank You Coins distributed: 7. Number of Resource Rack Cards distributed: 8. Did your auxiliary participate in an activity recognizing Military Family Month? Yes No If yes, please explain: Please include any newspaper articles, social media used, or pictures of any activities that your auxiliary participated in. You may snail mail or me your report. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me. Thank you for supporting our veterans! Janet Barlar Veterans and Family Support Chairman Co. Rd. 3310, Rolla, Mo P a g e 62 95

63 Americanism Year End Report Due by April 15, 2019 Mail to Stephanie Curl, 721 N Sunset Dr, Independence MO District Number Auxiliary Number 1. What Patriotic holidays did your Auxiliary conduct special programs for? (Memorial Day, Veteran s Day, POW/MIA Remembrance Day, etc.) Please list all programs. 2. Did your Auxiliary participate in a POW/MIA program? Yes No Please explain how you participated. 3.Number of POW/MIA flags presented (at least 2 x 3 or larger) 4.Number of American Flags presented (at least 2 x 3 or larger) 5.Did your Auxiliary participate in the Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award Program and HOW? Yes No 6.Number of certificates presented to businesses or citizens in recognition of their displaying the U.S., POW/MIA flags or other displays of American pride. 7.Did you promote Americanism through any media and HOW? Yes No 8.Did your Auxiliary conduct patriotic education in your Auxiliary and/or community and HOW? Yes No How many? P a g e 63 95

64 9. Did your Auxiliary conduct a Family Freedom Festival? Please give details on what you did and how it was received by the public. Yes No 10.Did your Auxiliary promote/participate in Safety in America/Disaster Preparedness and HOW? Yes No 11. How did you promote/participate in Flags Across America? Yes No Auxiliary Chairman Auxiliary President Membership group # Mail to: Stephanie Curl, 721 N Sunset Dr., Independence MO Questions Call or sstcurlgirls@yahoo.com P a g e 64 95

65 Department of Missouri Year End Report BUDDY POPPY / NATIONAL HOME Submit to your Department Chairman by April 15, 2019 Send your report to: Ella Edwards Auxiliary # 302 Burning Tree Circle Auxiliary Name Independence, MO District Membership Quota ellaedwards51@yahoo.com 1.Did your Auxiliary promote the Buddy Poppy throughout the year through, distribution, education and/or publicity? With the Post/Auxiliary Yes No In the community (Community Outreach) Yes No Explain what you did to educate and publicize the Buddy Poppy program. 2.How many Buddy Poppy drives did you host? With the Post Without the Post P a g e 65 95

66 3. Did your Auxiliary participate (submitted an entry) in the Department Buddy Poppy display contest? Yes No 4.Did your Auxiliary use the Buddy Poppy manual? Yes No 5.Did your Auxiliary promote the VFW National Home for Children through education and/or publicity? Yes No 6.Did your Auxiliary make a donation to the National Home (NOT INCLUDING Health & Happiness)? Yes No Amount Donated 7. Did your Auxiliary promote the VFW National Homes military and veterans family hot line? Yes No 8. What did your Auxiliary do to educate and publicize funding for the National Home? P a g e 66 95

67 HISTORIAN Year-end Report Please mail this to: Brenda Bryant, PO Box 177, Hawk Point, MO no later than April 15, Auxiliary Number: District Number: 1. Did your Auxiliary send out a monthly or quarterly newsletter or bulletin to your members? Yes No (Send a copy of your best newsletter.) a. If you answered yes above, did you send the newsletter by: Mail 2. Does your Auxiliary have a Facebook page? Yes No a. If you answered yes above, is it: Joint Facebook page with Post? Yes No 3. Does your Auxiliary have a website? Yes No a. If you answered yes above, is it: Joint website with Post? Yes No 4. Did your Auxiliary use the VFW Auxiliary Publicity Guide? Yes No 5. Did your Auxiliary use the fillable press/media release available from the National website for any publicity on the programs? Yes No 6. Did your Auxiliary give out a Communications Award to local media? Yes No 7. How many of your members attend any of the media relations training by the Dept. Historian at the Dept. School of Instructions or any Dept. meeting? Number of people attending: P a g e 67 95

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69 Hospital Year End Report Submit to Kathleen Ditch, Department Chairman by April 15, 2019 By Or by mail, 406 Spencer Place, St. Peters, Mo Auxiliary Name: Auxiliary # District # Membership amount: 1. Number of auxiliary members volunteering in all VA facilities and Non-VA facilities. Total Hours: 2. Number of new volunteers recruited. Adults: How did you recruit them? Youth How did you recruit them? 3. Number of times your auxiliary sponsored/conducted an event or activity in a medical facility both VA and non VA. Explain what you did during these events at a Medical Facility. 4. Total amount spent on all Hospital Projects $ Amount you spent in to the Department Hospital Fund? $ 5. How did your auxiliary promote Military Suicide Awareness? Explain: 6. Did your auxiliary recognize Hospital volunteers throughout the year? Describe: P a g e 69 95

70 7. How did your auxiliary use publicity and /or media to recruit volunteers and involve the community? Explain: 8. Did your auxiliary conduct/participate in Volunteer recognition events? 9. Did your auxiliary volunteer for the Veterans Voices Writing Project? Explain? 10. Did your auxiliary participate in the Community Volunteer Recruitment Weeks? November : April 7-13, 2019: 11. Did your auxiliary use the Hospital Program Guide? Signed VFW Auxiliary Chairman Address: Print VFW Auxiliary Chairman City State Zip Phone Number ( ) P a g e 70 95

71 LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM YEAR END REPRT Submit to Department Chairman by April 15 th,2019 MAIL TO: Kim Armenta, 1025 Benjamin BLVD, St. James, MO Phone: Complete the following to Auxiliary # District # Membership Quota as of June 30, 2018 Address City State Zip Auxiliary Chairman Phone # Auxiliary President Phone # 1. How did your Auxiliary promote the VFW Priority Goals? Please describe in detail. (include pictures, social media, newspaper articles, etc) 2. How did your Auxiliary encourage members to communicate with legislators on Veterans issues? 3. How many Auxiliary members sign up for VFW Action Corps? 4. Number of contacts made by members personally to legislators on veterans issues: Personal Contacts Social Media Letters/Postcards s Phone Calls Action Corp Alert s 5. Number of members who attended events where they could interact with legislators: (Examples: town halls, meet and greets, legislative conferences) 6. Did your Auxiliary promote the Vote in Honor of a Veteran Initiative: Please describe in detail. (include pictures, social media, newspaper articles, etc) P a g e 71 95

72 7. How did your Auxiliary use the tools outlined in the Guide to Contacting Your Legislators : Please describe in detail. 8. How did your Auxiliary educate youth on the legislative process: Please describe in detail. (include pictures, social media, newspaper articles, etc) Number of youth educated: P a g e 72 95

73 Membership & Recruitment YEAR-END REPORT SUBMIT TO: Judith Hutchison, RR 72 Box 293, Norwood, MO OR BY APRIL 15, 2019 Auxiliary Name: Auxiliary #: District #: Membership Group: 1. Total number of recruiting events hosted by Auxiliary: 2. Check all methods used to collect annual dues: Phone Calls: s: Letters/postcards: Face-to-face conversations: Social Media: 3. Did your Auxiliary offer an incentive to your members for renewing by October 31, 2018: What was the incentive? 4. Did your Auxiliary send dues notices by Mail? By ? 5. Did your Auxiliary use media to promote Auxiliary membership? (Examples: TV, radio, newspaper, flyers, Facebook) 6. Did your Auxiliary create a fact sheet or brochure to be used as a recruiting tool? Submit an example. When an explanation is needed or requested, please be detailed. P a g e 73 95

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75 Mail or Report to Chairman Debbie Griffin 604 Bunker Drive Jackson, MO Year End Report 1. Did your Auxiliary participate in the Continuing Education Scholarship program? Example, publicize/promote, distribute applications, etc. Explain how you participated. 2. Did your Auxiliary promote the Young American Patriotic Art Contest? # of members who helped # of hours volunteered Did you submit an entry to Department? # of entries Auxiliary received Amount of money Auxiliary paid out in awards Did your Auxiliary donate to the Patriotic Art Escrow Fund? Describe your best fundraising event for the Patriotic Art Escrow Fund 3. Did your Auxiliary assist the Post with the Patriots Pen Essay Contest? How did you assist # of members who assisted # of hours volunteered P a g e 75 95

76 How many entries did you receive entries in the Essay contest? 4. Did your Auxiliary assist the Post with the Voice of Democracy Contest? How did you assist # of members who assisted # of hours volunteered How many entries did you receive in the Voice of Democracy contest? 5. Did you publicize the contests in your community? How did you publicize? Ex. Radio, newspaper, Facebook, flyers etc 6. Did your Auxiliary Host/Co-Host an awards ceremony for the Scholarship Contests? Explain Awards Ceremony You may use additional paper to explain answers, be sure to attach report and any supporting documents Ex. Photos, paper clippings, etc. Membership Group # Auxiliary # District # Chairman Name Chairman Address Chairman Chairman Phone # Auxiliary President Name Auxiliary President Address Auxiliary President Auxiliary President Phone # P a g e 76 95

77 YOUTH ACTIVITIES YEAR-END REPORT MUST BE RECEIVED BY APRIL 15, 2019 Mail to: Vera Harrison, Youth Activities Chair, West Prairie Grove Rd., La Monte, MO (If you , please include your District and Aux. # in the subject line). 1. Did your Auxiliary give out and/or publicize Youth Groups Supporting Our Veterans Citations? Yes No. Explain why they received a citation or how you publicized. 2. How many youth groups did your Auxiliary work with? Number of youths involved Describe projects done. 3. Did your Auxiliary promote and/or use the Random Acts of Patriotism Program? Yes No Number of R.A.P. cards distributed: Number of R.A.P. coins distributed: Describe HOW and WHERE you promoted this Program. 4. Did your Auxiliary recognize youths for their academic, athletic, scouting or other accomplishments? Yes No Number of youths recognized. How were they recognized? 5. How many youths were recognized with a Patriotic Youth Award? Describe how and why they were recognized. P a g e 77 95

78 6. Did your Auxiliary create a contest for students in grades K 5 Or participate in the Department contest? Yes No Describe the contest. Please use additional sheets to fully describe everything you did for OUR youth. Thank You!! Auxiliary Chairman Phone Please Print Auxiliary # District # Membership Group P a g e 78 95

79 OUTSTANDING DISTRICT PRESIDENT YEAR END REPORT Report must reach me by April 30, 2019 to qualify, NO EXCEPTIONS. Judging will be based on a points system. Possible points, excluding bonus points is 405. You must have 305 points to qualify for awards. If your District has done something outstanding include that on a separate sheet. This is not required to qualify but will receive honorable mention. 1. How many District meetings did you conduct? 10 points each (40 points max) 2. Did you inspect all Auxiliaries in you District, (excluding your own) 25 points 3. Did you call, , or fax the Department President to find out who the inspecter will be for your Auxiliary? 10 points 4. Did you attend the District President s Training Session? 25 points 5. Did you actually attend the Department School of Instruction? 20 points 6. Did you attend the Fall Department Conference? 20 points 7. Did you attend the Department President s Homecoming? 20 points 8. Did you attend the Winter Department Conference? 20 points 9. Did you attend the Voice of Democracy Banquet? 20 points 10. Did earn your Night on the Town by reaching the required 92 % by the deadline Determined by the Department Membership Chairman? (Dec.31) 25 points 11. Did you reach 100% by December 31, points 12. Did you reach 100% by April 30, points 13. Were ALL of your Auxiliaries 100% in participation in all programs and year end reports due to the Department Chairmen in by deadline? 50 points 14. Did your District supply a basket or designated item(s)for the Department Ways & Means each time it was requested by the Dept. Ways & Means Chrmn. 50 pts BONUS POINTS (only if verified by Department Treasurer 1. Have you acquired any members over your District Quota? 5 points ea. 2. Have you personally signed up a new member this year? 5 points ea. Mail this Year End Report to me at: Sheila Allen Dept of Mo Dist Pres Judge 1119 Co. Rd. 391 Whitewater, MO If you have questions call at: (573) Home or (573) Cell P a g e 79 95

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81 AUXILIARY PRESIDENT YEAR END REPORT DUE INTO THE DEPARTMENT CHAIRMANS HANDS BY APRIL 15, YOU MUST MAIL THIS REPORT VIA US POSTAL SERVICE. NO REPORTS WILL BE ACCEPTED. NO EXCEPTIONS! PLEASE PRINT THIS INFORMATION CLEARLY Name of Auxiliary Auxiliary # District # Membership Division# Membership Quota Membership to Date Auxiliary President s Name Phone # - - Auxiliary President s Address THERE ARE 840 TOTAL POSSIBLE POINTS INCLUDING BONUS POINTS. YOU MUST HAVE A TOTAL OF 450 POINTS TO BE CONSIDERED FOR DEPARTMENT AWARDS. The judging for ALL STATE AUXILIARY PRESIDENT AWARD WILL BE BASED ON POINTS ONLY. NO ESSAY REQUIRED OR REQUSTED. Any tie in accumulative points WILL BE DETERMINED BY THE DATE OF THE POST MARK ON THE ENVELOPE CONTAINING THE REPORT. Please feel free to call me If you have any questions pertaining to this report. 1. Attending the Department School of Instruction in June. (20 Pts.) 2. Attend Fall Council of Administration &/or Department Meeting (10 pts each, max 20pts) 3. Attend Winter Council of Administration &/or Department Meeting (10 pts each, max 20 pts) 4. Each District Meeting YOU Attended (20 pts each, max 80pts) 5. Each Auxiliary Meeting YOU Conducted ( 10 pts each, max 120 pts) 6. Reaching 100% in Membership by December 31, 2018 (20 pts) OR Reaching 100% in Membership by March 31, 2019 (10pts) This will be Determined by National Membership Status Report 7. New / Rejoin members signed up by YOU. (5 Members-5 Pts) and then 1 point for each additional member signed up. (Max-40 pts) Determined by Department Treasurer P a g e 81 95

82 8. Quarterly Audits turned in on time to Department Treasurer (10 pts each max 40 pts) 9. Both Department Hospital Fund Donations (20 pts)!!!!!! BONUS POINTS!!!!!! 1. Having a POW/MIA Ceremony or Participating in one (50 pts) 2. Having a Poppy Drive or Participating in one (50 pts) 3. Participating in at least 1 Department Poppy Contest (50 pts max 150 pts) This will be verified with the Department Poppy Chairman 4. Conducting an Americanism Program in your School (50 pts) 5. Donation of 10 cents per member to National Home Health & Happiness (20 pts) 6. Donation of $2 dollars per member to National Cancer Fund for Cancer Grants (20 pts) 7. Donation to Department Scholarship Program (VOD; PP; PA & PNP) (20 pts) 8. Making a donation to the Department Ways & Means Booth (50 pts) 9. Making a donation to your District Ways & Means (50 pts) TOTAL POINTS Danetta Wakefield All State Presidents Chairman P.O. Box 306 Monett, MO CELL HOME P a g e 82 95

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