By way of explaining myself, let me say that I’ve been with the chapter for six years. During that time, I’ve served on the Board of Directors for four years, sat on the Executive Committee, and did a year as President. I’d like to think that I’m qualified to do this job, but I learn something new every day I’m here. So, bear with me while I’m learning.
It’s only illness which has kept me away from the office. But, after a long stint in the hospital, I’m back to fighting weight, albeit having to spend the physician-specified hours every day relaxing in bed. I’m able to come to the Chapter offices or go to meetings for the better part of the day.
Steve, the observant
one, has asked me to take over the Community and Government Relations desk which
was left vacant through Mike Sprouse moving up to Executive Director.
Since I’m pretty ‘gung-ho’ about our chapter, I said I’d
try.
I’m new the job, but I’ve read the manuals which lay out what a
Community and Government Relations Director should do, in great detail, I might
add.
I’ll try to break it down for explanation. I will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the program. This is dealing with legislative and advocacy activities not only in my community, but through the auspices of the folks in the House and Senate. Each year our National offices sends out ‘Point Papers’ for us to study and then we go to Washington and speak to our Senators and Representatives on the issues which are closest to the hearts of our veterans. This applies to all veterans, not just our Members with SCI/D.
At other times, we are asked to attend meetings of various military groups here in our area. Primary among these is an organization called SCAVAC, it’s the Seminole County Area Veteran’s Advisory Council. This is comprised of 18 different military clubs situated here in Seminole County. They organize a Memorial Day Parade every year and put together a unique Veteran’s Day Tribute. This is a great group of veterans working to keep alive the memory of all who served.
I will be holding
honorary membership in several related organizations. It keeps me informed of
any veteran’s issues so that I can go to the aid of that vet, either through
calling the correct official or seeing to his or her welfare in another way.
All this comes from one sentence in the National PVA Administrative Guide: Each
chapter must maintain a program to advocate for the civil rights of it members.
I really like that sentence. It describes my job in perfect detail.
Mike Combs
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