The end of this Auxiliary year is rapidly approaching, and I took some time to review all that we have accomplished. In my view, this has been an extremely positive year with some of the best cooperation, teamwork, and worthwhile participation that I have seen from our members on a statewide basis. Our membership was over 99% by the middle of March and continues to grow every day – so many worked so hard to make this happen. Statewide training and mentorship have improved and increased in
ways that I could never have imagined. The number of training sessions at every level and the quality of the presentations was really gratifying to see. The sharing of both information and experience this year has really been a big benefit for us all. We have all worked the programs this year for the benefit of our veterans, families, and communities, some members taking on 2 or 3 programs to ensure that no one goes under served. Our Auxiliary has a dedicated and hard-working core that always delivers above and beyond.

Two more new Auxiliaries were instituted this year, and there are two more that are in the process of working for institution as well. Well known celebrities have made appearances at each of our COAs this year–that would not have happened if we did not have such a dynamic group! Hospital visits are again on the increase and several more visits are scheduled by the end of this year. Your wholehearted support and action on behalf of my Suicide Awareness and Prevention Programs throughout the
state has been very humbling for me and has made a difference in Colorado. We must continue to identify those in our Veteran and local communities that are at risk and make sure that they get the help that they need.

It has been my incredible honor to serve as your Department President this year and I owe so much to my Line Officers, Staff, Program Chairs and Hospital Volunteers. Beyond these outstanding individuals, I offer a sincere “Thank You” to each of you throughout the state for your tireless work, your creative ideas and efforts, your mentorship, and your contributions of time and finances toward the Veterans, families, and communities where we live. It has made a difference.

I look forward with anticipation to our 100th Department of Colorado Auxiliary Convention in June 2024 and hope for blockbuster attendance and participation – hope to see all of you there!

With appreciation,

Phil Reinpold
Department VFW Auxiliary President