The 4th Annual VVAS Marine Corps Birthday Ball & Fundraiser returns to the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa on Nov. 14 at 6 p.m., and this year’s proceeds go toward something deeply local: housing for homeless disabled veterans. Valdez Veterans Alliance Services is partnering with Our Next Mission, an organization that builds and renovates homes for veterans in need. The evening includes the traditional Marine Corps birthday ceremony, a color guard, recognition of the oldest and youngest Marines in the room, dinner, auctions, raffles, music and dancing.
The event is open to everyone, not just Marines or military members. Edward G. Valdez, a retired Marine Corps Master Sergeant and founder of VVAS, says the ball is about honoring the Marine Corps’ past and its present members alike. Jade Falu-Valdez serves as president of the organization, which has made veteran support in Manatee County its mission since day one.
One detail worth celebrating: students from The Out-of-Door Academy raised more than $15,000 for the event, proof that support for veterans crosses generations here on the Suncoast. Tickets and additional information are available at vvaservices.org/events. Will we see you at the Palmetto Marriott on Nov. 14?
