NMCRS fund drive kicks off

The fund drive is held each year to generate donations to benefit the local NMCRS - an organization that assists hundreds of Sailors and Marines and their families each month in the Jacksonville area. By donating during the NMCRS Fund Drive, service members are taking care of their own. It's a way to help others and possibly yourself someday during a time of need.

''Last year, we raised $293,799. This year, our goal is to meet or exceed last year's goal. We are striving to make 100 percent contact. This means that we want our keypersons to talk to each service member in their command and give them the opportunity to make a donation,'' remarked Lt. Edith Akoto of Naval Hospital Jax and Navy Region Southeast's NMCRS Fund Drive assistant chairperson for the drive. "I look forward to this being the most successful fund drive ever."

Naval Hospital Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Gillingham, who is this year's Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society Regional Fund Drive Chairman promotes the society and urges base leaders and keypersons to strive for another successful year during the fund drive kick-off.

"The purpose of the annual fund drive is to increase awareness to Sailors and Marines and their families about the availability of assistance through the NMCRS. It's about getting the word out about what the society can do for us. The money is important, but it's not important if it's not utilized. Raising funds is important to the continuation of this organization. Without funds, the society could not help service members," continued Akoto.

Akoto then went on to introduce Naval Hospital Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Gillingham, whose command is heading up Navy Region Southeast's NMCRS Fund Drive this year.

''What a great opportunity this is for the hospital to be out in front of this drive. We're really excited about this. I think all of us may have some personal experiences with Navy Relief. As a command leader, I've been very impressed with how forward thinking Navy Relief is, especially regarding payday loans. To be out there and drive legislation and to improve the payday loan situation really helps our people. And, the new Quick Assist Loans have proven to be a tremendous success. The success of the campaign depends on your enthusiasm and dedication,'' stated Gillingham.

NAS Jax Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) Director Dave Faraldo talks about how the society helps Sailors and Marines and their families with financial needs during the NMCRS Fund Drive Kick-off March 9. Photo by Kaylee LaRocque

Each command on base is assigned a keyperson to ensure 100 percent contact is made during the drive. Armed with allotment forms, these keypersons will attempt to visit with as many Sailors and Marines as possible to ensure everyone has an opportunity to donate to the NMCRS.

"Our challenge this year is that we are in tough economic times," said Commander, Navy Region Southeast Rear Adm. Townsend Alexander, curing the kick-off event. "People continue to tighten their belts and are thriftier with their spending. That means we need to have innovative strategies to raise donations. With everyone's support, we'll meet or exceed our goal." Last year, the NAS Jax NMCRS assisted eligible area residents with more than $1.6 million in interest-free loans, grants and educational assistance.

''We see about 200 people each month providing about $130,000 in assistance. Our most popular program is the new Quick Assist Loan. Last year, we hadan outstanding funddrive, raising almost $300,000.That's $300,000 that came in, but $1.6 million went out to help those in need. So how do you do that - through interest-free loans. We loan out the money, our clients pay it back and the money is thenturned around and used by another person in need,'' explained NAS Jax NMCRS Director Dave Faraldo.

''So it really is service members taking care of service members. NMCRS really has no money. We have your money on deposit in a bank so that when you need it, you can come and get it. Want to know how those outside the military see us? Check out the Web site www.charitynavigator.org.Once again this year, we received a four star rating which is the highest rating available. If you are eligible for our assistance and you need financial support, always - always use NMCRS as your first resource," he added.

Founded in 1904, the NMCRS is a private, non-profit, charitable organization. It is sponsored by the Department of the Navy and operates nearly 241 offices ashore and afloat at Navy and Marine Corps bases throughout the world.

During the 105 years the NMCRS has been operating, they have helped millions of people through loans and grants. NMCRS also offers other forms of assistance such as providing layettes or ''junior seabags'' to new family members, a visiting nurse program to help new mothers, elderly individuals and anyone who needs a little extra help and thrift shops offering low-cost clothing and household items.

This year's fund drive runs through mid-April. Numerous fundraising events such as golf tournaments, car washes, bake sales and special raffles are planned throughout the next six weeks. Volunteers are always needed at the society in a variety of different functions. Whether, it's answering the phone, helping clients or teaching classes, the society welcomes volunteers.

For more information, see your command NMCRS Fund Drive keyperson or contact the local NMCRS Office at 542-3515.