Greetings Brothers and Sisters,

The new year began with renewed energy and commitment. Throughout January and February, auxiliaries across Oregon continued outreach efforts supporting veterans and their families. Your dedication ensures that our veterans and their loved ones know they are not forgotten.

Oregon VFW Veterans Service Office

VFW Auxiliary members are encouraged to actively promote the services of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Veterans Service Office to veterans and their families who may need assistance filing VA disability claims or navigating earned benefits. VFW-accredited Service Officers provide free, professional assistance with filing new claims, requesting increases, submitting appeals, and accessing federal and state veterans’ benefits. These trained advocates collaborate directly with veterans to ensure claims are properly prepared and supported, helping them receive the benefits they have earned through their service. Connecting veterans with accredited VFW claim support can make a life-changing difference in securing the compensation, healthcare, and benefits they deserve.

VFW Veterans Service Office – Portland, Oregon
100 SW Main Street, Suite 1700, Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (503) 412-4777

Help a Hero Scholarship – Deadline Approaching

A reminder that the deadline for the SportsClips Help a Hero Scholarshipis quickly approaching on April 30^th. This scholarship provides up to $5000.00 financial assistance per semester to veterans and active-duty service members pursuing higher education and career advancement opportunities. Please:

• Promote the scholarship within your communities and at local colleges
• Share application information with eligible veterans, military, and families
• Encourage timely submission before the deadline

Oregon recently had 5 scholarships awarded. Your outreach can help change a veteran’s future.

Suicide Awareness & Prevention – A Call to Action

Veteran suicide remains a serious and urgent concern nationwide. I strongly encourage auxiliaries to consider hosting a Suicide Awareness and Prevention eventin your community this spring. Even small efforts can make a life-saving difference. By raising awareness, reducing stigma, and sharing resources, we help protect our veterans and their families.

Ideas include:

• Partnering with local mental health professionals
• Hosting educational workshops
• Distributing crisis resource information
• Inviting speakers from veteran support organizations

Support the Oregon National Guard Run2Remember – May 2026

We are preparing for the Oregon Army National Guard's annual Run2Rememberevent taking place in May 2026. This event honors the fallen and raises funds for assisting Oregon National Guard members and their families. (Oregon's VFW version of the Financial Assistance for Service Members Program) We encourage all auxiliaries to consider sponsoring the event, forming a run/walk team, or volunteering at the event.

Event Details:

• Date: May 16th, 2026
• Event: Community 5K run/walk in Salem, Oregon
• Purpose: Participation: Open to veterans, families, and community members

ORANG Youth Military Ball Participation

Thank you to the Posts, Auxiliaries, and Businesses who generously donated to support this event. This meaningful event honors the children and youth of our National Guard families and celebrates their resilience, leadership, and commitment to service. Over 200 people participated in this year's event. Your contributions helped make the evening memorable and demonstrated the strong partnership between our organization and Oregon’s military families.

Thank You to Our Auxiliaries

I want to extend a heartfelt Thank You to every Oregon auxiliary who contributed their time and donations during January and February. Whether through financial gifts, volunteer hours, or in-kind support, your generosity directly impacts veterans and their families across the state. Your compassion and commitment embody the true spirit of service.

Year-End Reports – Due April 5

Please remember that Year-End Reports are due no later than April 5. If you have questions regarding report submissions, please reach out promptly to ensure your auxiliary remains in good standing.

Timely submission is essential for Accurate Department reporting, documenting the incredible work your auxiliaries are doing, and maintaining our Non-Profit Status

Moving Forward Together

The first months of 2026 have demonstrated the strength, dedication, and heart of the Department of Oregon auxiliaries. Your continued commitment to veterans and their families makes a measurable difference across our state. Let’s keep the momentum going as we prepare for upcoming deadlines, spring events, and continued service opportunities. Thank you for all that you do. Together, we honor, support, and serve.