‘Each Member is Ready to Assist’

Valerie Young became just the second African American commander of VFW Post 3480 in East Saint Louis, Missouri, in 2023.

“Under my watch, our Post has been named an All-State Post and an All-American Post for the first time in more than 80 years,” she said. “My goal is to become a two-time All-American Post this upcoming year.”

Young shared many of the ways members of Post 3480 are Still Serving. They collect school supplies for area students, host VFW “Buddy” Poppy® drives, host blood drives, and donate items to a homeless shelter and to veterans in need.

They also commemorate their fellow service members by laying wreaths and flags at local cemeteries and hosting Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs.

“Our main focus,” Young said, “is to support the five pillars of the VFW through youth outreach, community service, legislative advocacy efforts, veteran assistance and supporting Illinois state programs.”

She explained that it “takes a village” to continue Still Serving in these different ways. Her Post enjoys collaborating with one another and other community members to make life better for everyone.

“Whether it’s educational efforts, providing resources, cleaning projects, feeding the less fortunate, beautification projects or other ventures, we all benefit,” she said. “The community is one body, and it takes a team to be successful.”

Young is proud that her Post members trust her to lead them, and she is grateful for their willingness to get involved.

“Our Post has limited resources, but each member is ready to assist,” she said. “With faith, determination and dedication, much can be accomplished.”