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The Iowa Fireman's Association (IFA) does a phenomenal job of keeping Iowa's 20,000 firefighters, 90% of whom are volunteers informed on issues that impact public safety in our state.
A great example of such an issue is the Volunteer Firefighters Checkoff found on Line 58C of the Iowa 1040 form and Line 15of the Iowa Form 1040A.
The combination of the Veterans Fund and the Volunteer Firefighters fund builds on the natural connections between two heroic groups of dedicated public servants. It also provides an opportunity to promote this resource and all the amazing work you both do to your local community together.
In addition to the great information on the IFA website, consider connecting this week with a representative of your county Veteran's Affairs office, American Legion, VFW or other organization. Write a joint letter to the editor of your local newspaper that briefly summarizes why those funds are important and how they make a local impact. Offer contact information (if the newspaper allows) for anyone who might like more information.
In the letter, you may highlight the number of members you have, the number of calls you responded to in 2009 and the number of hours you dedicated to training. You may also illustrate how your department has gone above and beyond the call of the 24 hour training standard.
Your local Veterans contact may highlight the number of local Veterans who have been given a hand up in appreciation for their service through the Veterans Fund. Be sure to remind readers how contributions to the fund will be equally split between these two critical Iowa needs.
As Iowans are gathering their tax forms and updating their software or making their appointments, the time is right to use this no-cost tool to increase community awareness. The combination of the funds offers an excellent chance to present a unified message of support with your local Veterans' needs.
Questions? Want to chat more? Contact dawnsh@gmail.com today.
