…And Violence

BY DAVE SIMMONS, CHAIR

We routinely refer to VVA’s Veterans Against Drugs program without stating its full name, which is Veterans Against Drugs and Violence. The unfathomable events in Newtown, Connecticut, reminded me that the anti-violence program provided by VAD is a source of information and help for bullying and violence in schools.

Illegal drugs and violence are issues that our children and grandchildren will struggle with for a long time to come. We need to lend our support and efforts to a solution. I urge VVA chapters and state councils to become more involved in local community-service programs.

February will be a very busy month for the Veterans Against Drugs program. We will be actively participating in the National Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America Convention in Harbor View, Maryland. VAD will host a booth and be talking with other organizations about our program—and listening to them about other tools and learning opportunities to help us with our mission.

On Valentine’s Day, VAD will host the second annual VAD Ice Skating Party in Silver Spring, Maryland. This event is supported by the VVA national staff and officers. This drug-free skate-a-thon is an opportunity for the national headquarters to become involved with the local community in a positive way and also to help Veterans Against Drugs provide a worthwhile activity that is safe and drug free.

Last year the program was very successful. We are looking forward to being at Veterans Park in Silver Spring again this year “In Service to America.”