Continuously since 1942, USO of NC’s centers have served our state and the nation. They are on pace this year to touch the lives of over 200,000 of our warriors – active and reserve components -- and their families. However, as strong as one may think the USO brand recognition may be, there are challenges facing this organization, especially in the current economic environment.
While the USO brand is widely recognized, most North Carolinians do not realize there is a difference between USO World and USO of NC. USO of NC receives no federal or state funding. While USO World headquarters provides material support, there are no direct funds given to USO of NC. Bottom line – USO of NC is a self-sustaining non-profit organization that needs the support of individual donors, corporate sponsorships and grant-making activities.
The most visible reminders of USO of NC operations are the service members traveling and visiting the two centers at Charlotte Douglas International and Raleigh Durham Airports, that are open to any military – active reserve or retired and their families. However, the nearly 800 volunteers and 18 employees of USO of NC work in four centers in and surrounding Jacksonville, Charlotte, Fayetteville, and Raleigh-Durham. The airport centers provide a full range of services including Travel Assistance and Refreshments, as well as, Casualty Assistance Teams, at Charlotte Douglas International and Raleigh-Durham Airports.
Jacksonville/Camp LeJeune and Fayetteville/Fort Bragg centers focus on recreation and relaxation services in the centers, including internet and video link access, military library, a “Children’s Corner” and holiday feasts. As part of their community outreach, these centers and the volunteers are there to greet our service members as they deploy overseas and when they return, providing care packages to all. Additional services include birthday cake delivery, newcomer briefings and the “Smiles Over the Miles” program that connects deployed service members with their children.
For more information and how to help, visit the web site at www.USO-NC.org or call the state headquarters at 919-840-3000.
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