Anita Loando-Acohido
2019-2020 National Historian & Media Relations Ambassador
In this challenging time of COVID-19, many of our own VFW Auxiliary members are continuing to work as doctors, nurses, police officers, postal and delivery workers, grocery store workers and in other essential positions. It has been a tough time for many, yet Auxiliaries and our members are still helping those in need. Consider highlighting these members and how your Auxiliary is supporting your community during this time on your Auxiliary Facebook page and in the next newsletter or e-newsletter. Be sure to send this information to National Headquarters at info@vfwauxiliary.org. They want to know how Auxiliaries are helping at the local level.
PHOTO TIPS
This information is something to keep in mind when taking photos at your next event.
- If you are going to publish a photo or take a video that features members, community members or youth, please get permission before doing so. Sample adult and youth permission forms can be found at vfwauxiliary.org/resources.
- When capturing group shots, take multiple photos (3-5 is good). Pay attention to the lighting and what’s in the background. You don’t want a tree or plant sticking out of someone’s head!
- When outdoors have the group face the sun or you may need to use a flash. It is better to take the time to move objects or move the person in order to take a great picture.
- Share your pictures with your Department in a newsletter or on social media.
MEMORIES FROM A GREAT YEAR
Have you written down the Programs and projects your Auxiliary participated in this year? Have you noted how COVID-19 affected your Auxiliary and your members? Have you made a scrapbook, photobook or video for your Auxiliary President? Have you shared photos from this Program Year with your Department Historian? Pictures are a record of a moment in time. Make sure the memories from this year last a lifetime.
MOVING FORWARD
The Program Year is winding down, yet we do not end serving our veterans, service members or their families. Continue to inform your Department of upcoming events and think of ways to celebrate while social distancing. For example, sending cards, making phone calls, video chatting, and lining driveways and walkways with American Flags can still be done during this time.
- Loyalty Day (May 1)
- Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 8)
- Mother’s Day (May 10)
- Armed Forces Day (May 16)
- Memorial Day (May 25)
This is my final blog post of the year. It’s been an honor to serve National President Peggy and the entire Auxiliary membership. Mahalo (Thank You) for all you do for our veterans and please continue SERVING OUR VETERANS WITH ALOHA!
