VFW Post 11019 Seeks Charter Members for New Auxiliary

The effort follows a unanimous vote by Post members on Aug. 18 authorizing the formation of an Auxiliary. Since that vote, Post leaders have been working with VFW Auxiliary leadership, submitting supporting documentation and preparing to recruit the eligible applicants needed to receive a charter.

The next step will be an organization meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, at VFW Post 11019 in South Beloit.

VFW Illinois District 6 Auxiliary President Tinia Kulavic and other special guests will attend to explain the organization’s mission, answer eligibility questions, assist prospective members with applications and begin developing a plan for the new Auxiliary.

“This is an opportunity to build something that can serve our veterans, military families and community for years to come,” said Rob McLain, senior vice commander of VFW Post 11019. “We are looking for people who want to volunteer, become charter members and help shape the direction of the organization from the beginning.”

The proposed Auxiliary has not yet been chartered. At least 15 eligible new applicants are required before a charter application can be submitted. Those who join during the organization process will have the opportunity to become charter members and help establish the Auxiliary’s leadership, priorities and community-service efforts.

Eligibility may be based on a spouse, parent, grandparent, child, grandchild or sibling who is or was eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Certain step, adopted and half-family relationships may also qualify. The qualifying veteran may be living or deceased. Applicants must be at least 16 years old, and proof of the veteran’s qualifying service will be required.

The organizing effort represents another step in Post 11019’s continued growth and community involvement. Post members have supported veterans, participated in patriotic observances, conducted membership outreach, organized community events and worked with other VFW Posts throughout Illinois District 6.

Post 11019 also recently hosted a District 6 meeting for the first time in its history, bringing VFW leaders and members from across the district to South Beloit. Establishing an Auxiliary would expand the Post’s volunteer base and strengthen its ability to serve veterans, military families, youth and the wider Stateline community.

VFW Auxiliaries support local Posts while also conducting their own programs involving veteran assistance, patriotic education, scholarships, youth activities, community outreach and support for military families. Members do not need to be veterans themselves, but they must qualify through the service of an eligible veteran.

The Sept. 30 meeting will include an overview of the VFW Auxiliary, a review of membership qualifications, assistance with applications and a discussion of the steps needed to secure a charter. Attendees will also begin considering recruitment, potential leadership and future service projects.

There is no obligation to join simply by attending. Anyone who believes they may qualify—or who wants help determining eligibility—is encouraged to participate and ask questions.

“We have reached this point because our Post believes an Auxiliary can make a real difference,” McLain said. “Now we need eligible family members and community volunteers who are ready to help us turn that vision into a strong, active organization.”

Those interested in attending or learning more may contact VFW Post 11019 through its Facebook page. Community members are also encouraged to share information about the meeting with eligible relatives and friends throughout the Stateline area.

The VFW Post 11019 Auxiliary Organization Meeting will begin at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, at VFW Post 11019 in South Beloit.