August, 9, 2021

The first, Sedona Area Veteran and Community Outreach (SAVCO), seeks to expand community involvement and volunteer opportunities.

Sedona Marine Corps League is proud to announce its evolution into two new organizations. The first, Sedona Area Veterans and Community Outreach (SAVCO) will continue the patriotic and philanthropic duties of the former league. The second, Marine Corps League Detachment Sedona AZ 1237 will focus on strengthening the bonds between former and present Marines and perpetuating the history and traditions of the United States Marine Corps.

Although the change was driven by a national Marine Corps League mandate to shift from a 501c3 to a 501c4, SAVCO president Jack Ross sees this transition as a new opportunity, as well. “Since many of our current and target donors are looking to support and promote 501c3s exclusively we needed to evolve. But we also look at this evolution as an opportunity to broaden our appeal to the community at large and expand on the good we do,” he says.

SAVCO invites all citizens of Sedona to join them in acts of gratitude and service that lift up all veterans, express pride in country and community, and support future generations, Ross says. “SAVCO is committed to supporting Sedona-area activities that are patriotic, non-political, rewarding…and fun. From our holiday-season Toys for Tots campaign, to direct veteran assistance programs, and so much more, volunteer hours and tax-deductible donations help us make a difference in the lives of so many.”

Ross and the founding board members of SAVCO also hope more women and men will feel welcome to join the new organization — whether or not they are veterans. “While we prioritize projects for veterans and youth, we also support many worthwhile community needs. We welcome and value everyone’s input, ideas, donations, and most of all, their time,” he says.

All members of SAVCO will have the privilege of voting, holding elected or appointed office, and serving on committees. Committees work on the organization’s primary projects and fundraising efforts, which include the Sedona Flag Project (a.k.a. 89 Flags On 89A), a Higher Education Scholarship program for graduating Sedona Red Rock High School students, support of Sedona Toys for Tots, direct veteran assistance, the Memorial Day Ceremony, handling half-staff responsibilities at the Sedona Military Service Park, and supporting other community organizations (e.g. our  local Boy Scouts and Civil Air Patrol Cadets).

Since the original Sedona Marine Corps League’s inception, volunteers have donated more than 4,000 toys each year, awarded 11 high school scholarships and raised more than $100,000 for veteran assistance, Ross said, “And, we’ve had a lot of fun and fellowship along the way. Our hope is that whether folks have an hour to spare every now and then, or are looking for an outlet for their time and talents, they’ll feel drawn to our mission and will feel welcome to contribute any way they can.”

The group accepts donations on its website and invites community members to join its largest fundraiser, an annual Labor Day weekend Charity Golf Event at Oakcreek Country Club. To be held from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 4, 2021, this year’s event promises to be the best ever, with more fun activities and golf challenges than previous years, Ross says. Community members interested in l earning more about SAVCO outreach and committee opportunities should visit the organization’s new website at savco.org or attend the SAVCO Social Event, with cash bar and food provided by SAVCO, at Vino di Sedona on Sunday, October 24, 2021. RSVP by October 18 to savco89a@gmail.com.

Website: Savco.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAVCOSedona

Media Contact:

Dawn Hagin
Rare Bird Strategic
dawn@rarebirdstrategic.com
479.981.9550

SAVCO Contact:

Jack Ross
President
ok3photography@gmail.com
860.705.2163

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