Ever wonder what the USO (United Service Organization) is really all about, why Kiwanians are asked on a regular basis to volunteer at Hartsfield airport and why our Club supports the USO mission?
The organization was founded in 1941 to support soldiers and their families through a variety of programs in times of war and peace. Although congressionally chartered it is not a government agency and relies heavily on private contributions from corporations, community organizations and private donors. Currently there are over 200 USO centers worldwide.
Locally, our USO volunteers downstairs across from the escalators provide information; the lounge upstairs is a comfortable place for soldiers and their families to relax while waiting for their flights. Additionally, hundreds of young soldiers come through every week on their way to a new assignment. The adults appreciate the food the kitchen provides and the children love the snacks and the playroom. Kiwanians also drive up to Woodstock each week to pick up boxes with sandwiches and cookies a local restaurant donates to our USO at the airport.
Every December the Annual Block Leave is an event during which roughly 10,000 basic trainees come through the airport in just a couple of days on their way home for Christmas. Each one of them receives a care package with goodies donated by local organizations and put together by volunteers. This year our Kiwanis Club Day for Block Leave is Thursday, December 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Currently the USO lounge is also open for National Guard members and volunteers who assist in the clean up after hurricane Helene.
If you have never been our local USO do come upstairs next time you are at the airport or just come out and visit. We’d love to show you around and give you an in-depth briefing.
Your support matters!