Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Bellingham Chapter 19 is seeking volunteer van drivers to take veterans to their health appointments at the Seattle Veterans Administration Hospital.
With nearly a million members, DAV is one of the largest veterans service organizations in the country. The organization advocates for better national policy for veterans, helps veterans and their families navigate benefits, and guides veterans in the transition back into civilian life after service.
DAV operates a fleet of vans around the country to provide free transportation to VA medical facilities for injured and ill veterans. According to DAV’s website, since the program’s inception in 1987, DAV chapters have donated 3,763 vehicles and Ford Motor Co. has donated 264 vehicles.
Gene Goldsmith, Bellingham Chapter 19 commander, said that the local organization is currently in need of drivers.
“Drivers do not have to be a veteran, just someone who want to serve those who served us,” Goldsmith said in an email.
Drivers must have their own vehicle insurance. In exchange for their service, drivers receive a free yearly examination and a free breakfast on the days that they drive to Seattle.
For more information, contact Goldsmith at genegoldsmith@comcast.net or 360-384-2484. DAV Bellingham Chapter 19 meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at VFW Post 1585, 625 North State Street in Bellingham.
Julia Tellman writes about civic issues and anything else that happens to cross her desk; contact her at juliatellman@cascadiadaily.com.
