First CVAC Award Brunch Held Sept. 22

CAPE MAY — The Citizens/Veterans Advisory Committee (CVAC) held its First Award Brunch on Thurs., Sept. 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Sunset Lounge.
The featured Keynote Speaker was Senator Jeff Van Drew opening with a Coast Guard Presentation of Colors Ceremony. Vietnam USAF Veteran Adolfo C. Purugganan Jr. lead the National Anthem and Paul Sutton was The Master of Ceremony with the Reverend Deb Moore doing the Invocation and Benediction. This year’s Award Program Committee Chairperson was Carol Cohen, Director of the Red Cross. The primary sponsor of the event was Cape Regional Medical Center and several companies recognized for their support in helping to found the organization and ongoing services for veterans and their families. A surprise Founders Award was presented to CVAC’s Director and Founder, Johnnie Walker who took the initiative to organize volunteers to serve veterans. Two of the veteran recipients of services through CVAC gave their testimonies and expressed tearful appreciation.
Burke Motors Inc. – award accepted by Francey, Dave and Doug Burke
American Legion Post 331 – award accepted by 1st Vice Commander Thomas McCollough
Elks of Greater North Wildwood – award accepted by Charles Feeney
Charles and Nate Hoerr – Volunteers of the Year – award accepted by themselves
Other guests and speakers included:
Michael Francis, Representing Congressman Frank Lobiondo
Jeff Van Drew, New Jersey Senate
Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton County of Cape May
E. Marie Hayes, Freeholder, County of Cape May
Mike Beck, Mayor of Lower Township
Bob Andrzejczak, New Jersey General Assembly
Vicki Clark, President, Cape May Chamber of Commerce
About CVAC:
CVAC is a team of veteran and citizen volunteers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of veterans and their families in Cape May County. Our veterans re-enter a world very different from what they experienced in combat. As they re-enter civilian life they often need a helping hand in a variety of different arenas. CVAC strives to provide immediate assistance, as well as offer guidance for a variety of short and long-term needs.
We welcome anyone who wants to join our group of 40 volunteers by contributing to the various committees we have set-up to help our returning military and their families. The Committees available for volunteering opportunities include communication, accessing VA benefits, healthcare resources, housing and case management, resiliency and reintegration, fundraising, and transportation. CVAC also assists veterans with basic needs, criminal justice, and connection to other local veteran organizations.
We recognize and appreciate the sacrifices that have been made by our veterans and their families, as well as the challenges they face back on the home front. CVAC members love helping veterans and their families; for more information: FaceBoook: www.facebook.com/Citizens-and-Veterans-Advisory-Committee Website: www.cvaccapemay.com