More funds and volunteers needed for event on December 6 at West Los Angeles VA.

Members of the community are invited to join with Men’s Divisions International, The Family of Women, and the Veterans Association Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System to support the 17th annual Veterans Holiday Celebration on Sunday, December 6, in Brentwood. The free festivities include dinner, live music performances, dance, and entertainment and kicks-off at 1:30 p.m. at the fairgrounds of the West Los Angeles Veteran’s Administration next to the Jackie Robinson Stadium.

Organizers say participating in this event is a good way to meet other like-minded service oriented singles and to spend a great day celebrating with veterans from all wars.

Barry Gershenson, president of the board of directors for the event, said he thinks volunteering is one of the best ways people can honor veterans for their service. “I keep working the event because I do not think there is enough said by our country to honor and thank our active duty soldiers and our veterans,” said Gershenson. “Every year our wonderful volunteers tell me how touched and filled-up they are knowing that they made a difference in so many lives.”

Gershenson said that with the depressed economy, fundraising has been a challenge and they are not yet near their goal. With the number of returning soldiers and the increasing number of homeless veterans, the need has never been greater. He said donations are tax deductible.

Linda Laurie started volunteering four years ago. She said last year, a teary eyed WWII veteran came up and told her, “Thank you for this day!”

“I looked at him rather confused and asked him why he was thanking me?” Laurie said. “He told me, ‘Because no one ever thanked me for going to war before’.”

For information on how to volunteer or to donate funds visit www.vaevent.org. Or e-mail info@vaevent.orgThis e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 866-955-VETS.