Since its inception in 1930, the Veterans Administration has encouraged and sought citizen volunteer assistance in its medical centers and domiciliaries. By 1946, it was obvious that in order to function effectively and eliminate duplication, a viable organization was needed. Thus, the VAVS was established to provide members of veterans, service and fraternal Organizations an opportunity to assume important roles in determining the quality of life for hospitalized veterans.

The plan included an advisory committee comprising national representatives of participating organizations. The Order is represented on this prestigious committee by the director of the National Veterans Service Commission. Through its involvement with VAVS, the Elks provide effective use of its Lodges, members and state associations.

The VAVS is made up of 60 national organizations and meets annually to conduct business, elect officers and hold workshops for the instruction of its members. Regional organizations also render meaningful support to several activities.

Every organization whose members participate in the VAVS program may certify one representative and up to three deputy representatives to the medical facility's VAVS Advisory Committee. Deputy representatives work closely with the representative to fulfill our obligation of caring for veteran patients at the VA medical center.

When members cross a state line to serve as volunteers, one VAVS associate representative and one Deputy Representative may be certified from that neighboring state.

The certification of representatives to the director of the VA medical center is done by the director of the Elks National Veterans Service Commission. VAVS representatives and associate representatives must be endorsed by the Past Grand Exalted Ruler of jurisdiction. Deputy representatives must be endorsed by a state association official or the representative.

A VAVS Representative must demonstrate a sincere interest in the welfare of hospitalized veterans and have the ability to work with others. He must have the full support of our organization and be able to promote and coordinate the program among the local Lodges.

He must be able to attend the quarterly meetings of the medical center VAVS Advisory Committee. A deputy representative should be on hand if the representative is unable to attend.

The following is taken from the Department of Medicine and Surgery Manual M-1, Part III, Chapter 2:

"Membership of either a national organization or a local group will become invalid if none of the certified representatives or deputies are in attendance at three consecutive meetings of the VAVS Advisory Committee."

Effective October 1, 1994, the VA began strict adherence to this directive. Don't jeopardize the good name of the Elks or the work we do with our veterans. Make sure someone attends the quarterly VAVS Advisory Committee meetings.

The National Veterans Service Commission provides financial assistance to Elk Committees in the form of a monthly allocation. Some VAVS representatives receive a check directly, while in other instances, the funds go to a state association official who in turn distributes them to VAVS representatives within the state.

Each VAVS representative must file a monthly report with the National Veterans Service Commission. If reporting becomes delinquent, the director is required to withhold funding until reporting is brought to a current status.

It should be emphasized that money provided by the Veterans Service Commission is not intended to finance an entire program. Its purpose is to ensure continuity of activity. If meaningful services are to be rendered throughout the year, additional fund-raising is essential. The record shows that state associations, districts, Lodges and individuals are willing supporters when called upon to assist in the fulfillment of our pledge of eternal remembrance.

There should be no doubt that the person in charge of all Elk programs at VA medical centers is the representative certified by the National Veterans Service Commission. He is responsible for coordinating the activities of our members. He must enlist the support of deputy representatives, state, district and Lodge chairmen and make the best use possible of the tools available to him.

Finally, the VAVS Representative must maintain an excellent rapport with representatives of other organizations and always keep in mind that what he does and says reflects directly on the Order.

Suggestions for Selecting a Dedicated Representative

Select someone whose schedule will allow him to spend time at the medical center to attend VAVS meetings, meet with the organization's volunteers and participate in other activities such as regular volunteer assignment, medical center committees (as assigned), holiday events, etc.

Select someone who is able to make contact with Lodges in the service area to recruit volunteers, explain the VAVS program, and report on other medical center news as appropriate.

Select someone who has leadership abilities.

Select someone who has a thorough knowledge of the Order of Elks.

Select someone who has the ability to interpret the VAVS program.

Select someone who can work with others from a variety of backgrounds -- a team player!

Select someone who expresses a sincere interest and enthusiasm in being a representative for the Elks National Veterans Service Commission.

It is strongly recommended that potential VAVS representatives meet with the chief of Voluntary Service at the local VAMC to discuss the responsibilities of the position before accepting appointment.