Closely Monitoring Revenue, Expenses

BY Dottie Barickman, TREASURER

Vietnam War Veterans Day weekend was a time of deep honor and reflection as we recognized those who served our nation. March 6 was a day of profound sadness with the dignified transfer to Dover AFB of Master Sgt. Noah Tietjens, a Nebraska resident, one of six servicemembers who lost their lives in a drone attack in the Iran War. Funeral services were held on March 28.

Over the past several months, much of my focus has been dedicated to the FY2027 budget, which the Board of Directors approved in January. As we enter this new fiscal year, we continue to emphasize the importance of closely monitoring revenue and expenses.

I encourage all departments—staff and volunteers alike—to reassess their cost centers and operate with heightened awareness of the economic environment we are navigating. Maintaining a disciplined approach to our finances is essential for VVA.

Our financial portfolio remains in solid condition; however, “solid” can take many forms. Sustaining our financial health requires the commitment of dedicated individuals to protect our legacy for generations to come.

I continue to work closely with our accounting manager and our reserve investment fund agent to ensure our reserves remain sufficient to address unforeseen circumstances. Once a budget is approved, it becomes the responsibility of each cost center manager to operate within its parameters unless an unexpected or unavoidable situation warrants an exception.

The Membership Revenue Sharing program, funded through the reserve investment fund, will be distributed for the final time later this year. We applaud the strong stewardship that has guided the Life Membership Fund and the Membership Revenue Sharing Fund over the years, and that these resources have supported meaningful programs, services, and initiatives.

I also want to acknowledge several department managers who have taken proactive steps to align expenses with revenue. Notable efforts have come from The VVA Veteran, IT, Government Affairs, and HR.

I was involved in the VVA Benefits Department’s renewal for April, which included health and ancillary benefits. The team approached the process with a clear understanding of the need to manage costs responsibly while preserving the quality and integrity of our benefits package. Our staff is the backbone of our organization, and we remain committed to offering a strong and competitive employment package for current employees and future hires.

We are, and will forever remain, one of the greatest generations of American veterans—men and women who stepped forward in turbulent times, put service above self, and carried the weight of duty with honor. We served so that future generations could stand on our shoulders, inherit the freedoms we defended, and continue the proud tradition of protecting and serving this nation we love.

Mission Statement: My highest priority and commitment is to ensure that the veterans who served for us will be served by us.

Thank you for your support, and if you have any comments, questions, or concerns, feel free to contact me at dbarickman@vva.org or 712-314-1808 (cell/text).

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