NORWOOD, N.J.—At its annual Nonprofit Recognition Luncheon held on Nov. 16, Norwood American Legion Post 272 donated about $42,000 to 34 organizations that graciously accepted the much-needed support offered by the local veterans.
The extraordinary effort is primarily funded by a unique set of circumstances that saw a cell phone tower installed at the Post—built before a borough ordinance prohibiting the building of cell phone towers on private land—that funnels funds into the Post’s coffers.
In turn, the Legionnaires are committed to using that money to fund worthy causes.
“We have a barrage of requests every year and most are worthwhile. And we really look into it,” said Barry Scott, a Post 272 member and borough councilman. “We try to do what’s equitable and fair, but I think we have a responsibility to give money to organizations whose missions benefit the public.”
The Post ensures that at least 90% of money it donates goes to the mission, not organizational administrative costs, said Scott.
Post 272 Commander Fred Reiman addressed the crowd, commenting on the cell tower.
“We are very fortunate in the Norwood Post to be in the Borough of Norwood, which is very friendly to veterans,” said Reiman. “When you pulled in to the Post, I don’t know if you noticed in the back that there is a cell tower? We were very fortunate that the Borough of Norwood blessed us with that tower.”
In six years of holding the Non-Profit Recognition Luncheon, the post has donated about $400,000 to worthy organizations and causes, said Reiman.
Post 272 is also enjoying a growth in membership.
“There’s nothing like working with the gentlemen in this post,” said Reiman. “The elderly and the young get along so good; it’s like father and son companionship.”
Scott, who is 84, said younger members are invigorating the Post.
“Our membership is growing, which is really a good sign,” Scott said. “We’re getting younger people into the post, which is the life blood.”
Scott said that Post 272 is also benefitting from an active Sons of the American Legion group that is working to further the organization’s efforts and on behalf of the community.
In addition to the $42,000 the Post donated at the luncheon, the post has also donated an additional $15,720 this year to various worthwhile initiatives.
Next, Post 272 is sponsoring a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 1, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Post headquarters. All are invited.
