Nancy Stutman

“With homelessness front and center in today’s news, JWV’s funds are needed more than ever to support at-risk veterans,” declares Jewish War Veterans (JWV) Post 619 Commander Bob Brooks.

“JWV thanks the East Valley communities for their tremendous response to our Memorial Day Poppy Drive,” says Campaign Chair Harve Kimmel. Thousands of dollars were recently raised by volunteers at Fry’s Supermarkets and the Mesa Market Place.

Fundraising monies are donated to nonprofit veterans’ organizations that provide one-on-one services to the vets, many of whom are experiencing homelessness or are in poor health. JWV will never ask for financial donations from its members. All funds are obtained from the post’s poppy campaigns. That’s why JWV always needs more members and volunteers to help this group grow.

Elliott Reiss and his Membership Committee, Harve Kimmel, Arthur Uram, and Buddy Goldstein, have been busy recruiting new members. All faiths are welcomed, and the only requirement is that one must have a desire to help those who selflessly served our country.

Meetings are held the third Sunday morning of every month September through May at Oakwood Country Club Poolside, where free bagels, lox, pastries, and coffee and tea are offered. Speakers are invited to meetings to discuss ways to solve veterans’ needs, offering stimulating, informative presentations. Dues are $40 per year—spouses or significant others are welcomed at no charge.

Meetings are suspended through the summer, but Commander Brooks and the new board will be busy planning off-site events and speakers for the coming year. Stay tuned.

For JWV information, contact Elliott Reiss at 480-802-3281 or [email protected]. He can arrange for a member to speak to your congregation or organization about JWV.