Volunteer drivers are needed to transport veterans to their medical appointments at the VA medical centers and outpatient clinics.

Our veterans have served this nation well.

Many citizens often wonder how they can make a difference this holiday season. Giving back is the most powerful and rewarding way to say “thank you” to those who served our great nation.

The Madison VA has vans stationed in Lancaster, Beloit, Poynette, Richland Center, and Madison, Wisconsin, that transport veterans to and from the local outpatient clinics, Milwaukee VAMC, Madison and VA Hospital.

More drivers are needed to meet a growing need in these areas. Many of our veterans are elderly, disabled, and/or do not feel comfortable driving in larger cities, inclement weather or long distances.

You do not have to be a veteran or belong to a veterans’ organization to be a VA volunteer driver. All you need is to be a caring individual who has some time to give and who wants to make a difference by helping others. This is your opportunity to give back to our nation’s veterans. You can help as often as you like and choose the destination you are comfortable with. You may dedicate one day a week, one day a month or be on an “on call” list and not have a set schedule at all. Every little bit helps and the reward in knowing that you have helped our veterans is beyond words.

If you are interested, please call the DAV Transportation Office at the Madison VA Hospital. My telephone number is 608-280-7019 or stop by my office. I am located at 2500 Overlook Drive, Room A-1050. My office hours are from 7:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Sincerely, Brian Schwartzlow, DAV Transportation, Hospital Service Coordinator