Rotary heard from Soldier's Wish, an Oklahoma-based charity that meets the immediate needs of veterans and their families.The Rotary Club of Chickasha met November 9, 2023. Rotarian Mitch Williams led the club in singing "God Bless the USA".
President Jim Cowan delivered announcements:
- There are still volunteer slots open to help the Festival of Light. Rotary has committed to staffing the front and back gates of the event December 20 and 21. Contact Jim to volunteer.
- The Rotary Christmas Party has been set for Tuesday, December 12, 6:00 pm at the Rock Island Depot. Pricing will be determined soon.
Zach Grayson, the Rotarian of the Day, introduced the speaker, Ana Lindell, representing Soldier's Wish. Ana is a student at Oklahoma State University and a member of the Army National Guard. She has previously volunteered with Soldier's Wish in programs and outreach.
Soldier's Wish is a national organization, but focused primarily on Oklahoma. It was founded in Moore and is currently based in Tulsa. The non-profit provides for the immediate physical needs of veterans and their families—be it as small as a gas card or grocery bill, or as large as a new HVAC system.
According to Lindell, the organization has administered $2 million in aid to veterans in Oklahoma to date. Last year, Soldier's Wish provided $185,000 to various recipients. They partner with other local organizations and service providers, such as Hard Luck Auto or private businesses, to meet these needs.
If you know of a veteran who could benefit, you can nominate them online through the Soldier's Wish website.
Lunch was provided by Interurban.