Membership Recruitment and Retention strategies for the VFW, including challenges, goals, and resources for the upcoming membership year 2025-2026.
Membership Recruitment and Retention Challenge
The VFW is launching a quarterly challenge to boost membership recruitment and retention, particularly focusing on Life Members.
- Posts can earn points for recruiting new members: 1 point for annual members, 5 points for converting annual or lapsed members to Life, and 10 points for new Life Members.
- The leading Post in each division will receive a special award from the Commander-in-Chief at the end of each quarter.
- All participating Posts will be recognized at the National Convention.
Membership Goals for 2025-26
The Commander-in-Chief has set ambitious membership goals for the upcoming year.
- Aim to achieve 101% membership.
- Encourage each member to recruit at least one new member and mentor them.
- Focus on increasing Life Membership and revitalizing existing Posts.
All-American Post Cap Order Information
Members of All-American Posts can now order caps through the VFW Store.
- This provides a streamlined process for obtaining caps for recognized Posts.
Resources for Membership Support
The VFW offers various resources to assist Posts in meeting their membership goals.
- Members can access training videos, recruiting materials, and support tools at vfw.org.
- The 2025-26 Membership Program is available online for reference.
New Post Development Grant Program
A new grant program is available for newly chartered Posts to support their establishment.
- Each new Post will receive a $250 credit for necessary materials from the VFW Store.
- Applications for the grant can be made through the National Membership Department.
Legacy Life Membership Program
The Legacy Life Membership program offers exclusive benefits for Life Members.
- Three levels of membership: Gold ($1,200), Silver ($800), and Bronze ($400) with varying annual payouts.
- Contributions to the program are tax-deductible.
Top Recruiters Recognition
The VFW recognizes its top recruiters for their efforts in membership growth.
- Steven L. Woodward leads with 90 new members, followed by Jack A. Hawley with 64, and Ed Stefanak, Jr. with 37.
VFW Foundation Sponsorship Success
The VFW Foundation achieved record sponsorships for the 2025 National Convention.
- Nearly $900,000 was raised, the highest amount ever, with most events fully sponsored.
Financial Support and Donations
The VFW emphasizes the importance of member donations for sustaining its programs.
- Membership dues cover only 18% of program costs; donations are crucial for funding.
- Members are encouraged to contribute through various means, including IRA donations.
Upcoming Events and Recognition Days
Several important dates and events are highlighted for September.
- Patriot Day on September 11 and National POW/MIA Recognition Day on September 19 should be observed with appropriate ceremonies.
Community Service and Educational Programs
The VFW promotes community service and educational initiatives.
- The National Citizenship Education Teacher Award recognizes outstanding teachers in citizenship education.
- The Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen programs are open for entries with new themes for 2025-26.
Legislative Advocacy Efforts
The VFW is actively engaging in legislative advocacy to support veterans' issues.
- Key priorities include concurrent receipt legislation and reforms to VA community care.
- The ACES Act of 2025 was signed into law, mandating a study on cancer prevalence among military aircrew.
Ceremonial Equipment Requests
Guidelines for requesting ceremonial rifles and military equipment have been updated.
- Posts must submit formal written requests to the Adjutant General at VFW National Headquarters.
Recognition of Service Representatives
Belinda M. Boldoe was awarded the John A. Biedrzycki Accredited Representative of the Year Award for 2024-25.
- This recognition highlights the contributions of accredited representatives in assisting veterans.
Scholarships for Training Programs
Humana Inc. has provided scholarships for training VFW-accredited representatives.
- Scholarships cover all expenses for training sessions aimed at enhancing claims assistance for veterans.
Newly Elected Officers and Members
The 126th National Convention has elected and installed new officers and members for various positions within the organization.
- Senior Vice Commander-in-Chief: Cory L. Geisler, Waukesha, Wisconsin
- Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief: Glenn R. Umberger, Jr., Trappe, Pennsylvania
- Quartermaster General: Marc Garduno, Camden, Delaware
- Chaplain: Timothy "Darren” Atkins, Whitesburg, Kentucky
- Judge Advocate General: Ronald Rusakiewicz, Stratford, Connecticut
- Surgeon General: Douglas E. Welch, Lewiston, Idaho
- National Council of Administration Members from various states including Alabama, Alaska, and more.
Appointments and Organizational Directives
The organization has announced new appointments and emphasized adherence to its bylaws and procedures.
- New appointments include Adjutant General Dan West and Executive Director Ryan M. Gallucci.
- All previous appointments are declared null and void.
- Members are reminded of the importance of compliance with National Bylaws and the Manual of Procedure.
Commitment to Racial Equality
The VFW reaffirms its commitment to ending racism and promoting equality within its ranks.
- The organization aims to be proactive in addressing racial bias and discrimination.
- Focus on education and mentorship to empower members and the veteran community.
- Leadership is united in the pursuit of eliminating racial injustices.
Member Conduct and Disciplinary Actions
Members are reminded of the expected conduct and potential disciplinary actions for violations.
- Acts of sexual harassment and discrimination will not be tolerated.
- Members must conduct themselves with dignity, respect, and professionalism.
- Disciplinary actions may be taken against members who violate these standards.
Programs and Compliance Requirements
All Posts are expected to participate in specific programs and comply with various requirements.
- Required programs include Voice of Democracy, Patriots Pen, and "Buddy”® Poppy.
- Post Commanders must submit quarterly audit reports to the Department Quartermaster.
- Timely filing of Internal Revenue Form 990 is required.
Upcoming Meetings and Events Schedule
A detailed schedule of upcoming meetings and events for the organization is provided.
- Key events include the Fall Legislative Committee in September 2025 and the National Convention in July 2026.
- Various training sessions for officers and representatives are scheduled throughout the year.
- Conferences are planned in multiple locations, including Washington, DC, and Reno, Nevada.
Post Consolidations and New Charters
Recent consolidations of Posts and the authorization of new charters are announced.
- Several Posts have consolidated, including Post Nos. 1747 and 5731 in California.
- New charter was authorized for Post No. 12243 in Union, Missouri.
- Consolidations aim to strengthen the organization and improve operational efficiency.
