The Auxiliary's View... by Joyce Thornton-Gilbert

Welcome to convention season. The landmark 65th BVA gathering has fast descended upon us. For those of us traveling to Washington, DC, I wish you happy and safe travels. For those who are unable to make it this year, please know that you will most definitely be with us in spirit as we celebrate BVA’s success and longevity.

DC Highlight: Washington, DC’s Corcoran Gallery of Art, open Wednesday through Sunday, is home to 19th and 20th century American and European art, contemporary art, and photography. Photo courtesy of Destination DC.

Our main present concern for the Auxiliary is increasing our membership. Many of us are aging a bit and need a respite from some loyal, hard work over the years. In order for BVAA to continue supporting BVA members and the organization as a whole, it is vital that Auxiliary supporters nationwide join forces in this effort.

The greater the membership, both in ability to serve as well as numbers, the greater the amount of support that is available to both newly blinded veterans and older veterans. Both populations can be assisted. While we must acknowledge the sacrifices of our service members now returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, let us not forget our older veterans whose needs and challenges increase as the months and years pass.

The challenge to each Auxiliary member this year is to get the organization’s message out there. Please try, in particular, to create interest among the friends and families of blinded veterans. Without new members, BVAA cannot sustain the work to which so many of our members have dedicated themselves. Let us keep our Auxiliary strong and a vital network of support to BVA and our beloved blinded veterans.

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