DVDs for Vets (a grassroots service organization for our wonderful veterans)
I've been hearing this commercial for DVDs for Vets on KBCO recently and I have been kicking this idea around for a while. I have a few DVDs lying around that I ended up getting as duplicates and I was going to take them down to the VA. But then I got to thinking that I can't be the only person who has this problem, or that would like to contribute to something as wonderful as this. We all know veterans and we all benefit from their service and this is such a great way to show them just a little of our appreciation by helping those wounded in the service of this country to pass the hours while they recover. Colorado has one of the largest VA Hospital systems in the region, and I'm sure their need is great.
So, I am going to collect DVDs for the next 2 months in my local area and make a big drop off at the VA at the end of September. New & Used, all are welcome. They are also asking for portable DVD players if you have a spare lying around. If you're local, please drop them off with me, or you can give your DVDs directly to the DVDs for Vets offices (via their website, or your local VA).
Here's a little background info on the organization:
The idea to start DVDs4Vets came about on Veteran’s Day, 2006. With increasing reports of severely wounded soldiers returning home from Iraq, many of them, due to physical hardships were unable to easily obtain some of the basic entertainment most civilians take for granted.
When it became known many of our returning Vets had suffered Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and other serious wounds which required long term rehabilitation, Dr. Richard Landis of Westport, CT wanted to help any way he could. Having returned from a two week visit to Afghanistan where along with a group of surgeons, Dr. Landis helped organize a remote hospital and rehabilitation center for wounded civilians.
Once having Dr. Landis interested, Frank then turned to friends and those he served with during the Korean conflict and in a matter of days, brought together a group of dedicated people interested in participating. One of those contacted was Laurance Baschkin of Rye, NY. Having known Larry during fundraising for Greenwich Hospital, Frank learned of his recent assistance in sending DVDs to active duty personnel serving in Iraq. Larry not only offered to help, but provided office space at his family’s business as well. As a result, Larry agreed to become Executive Director of DVDs4Vets and his tremendous efforts have been graciously appreciated.
Other long time friends contacted included Robert Bruder, who donated the use of one of his warehouses located in Stamford, CT as a collection point. Before long, more than 20 individuals began pledging time and financial help to launch DVDs4Vets.
As the project has grown substantially, we have added two volunteer positions, including Scott Bowers of Mamaroneck, NY who provides Media Relations and Emily Meyer who coordinates donation deliveries.