JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
The Charleston Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) completed its annual fundraiser, Friday April 14th.
The fundraising effort began in March and continued through the second week of April, raising more than $244,012.50.
"We are up 148% from last year's fund drive which raised $164,798 in 2016," said Autumn Crouser Director Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Charleston. “Depending on the NEX coupon outcome, this could be the most funds raised in the last 10 years at this base. Currently, the total amount raised is the most over the past six years."
The support given to the fund drive by U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Hudson, Naval Support Activity Charleston commanding officer, Cmdr. William Edenbeck, Naval Support Activity Charleston executive officer, and Command Master Chief Asa Worcester was critical in the success of the effort. Lt. Ryan Goltry, fund drive coordinator, Chief Petty Officer Danalyn Foster, subarea coordinator, and Petty Officer 1st Class Ryan Wilkins, treasurer were the team representing each command. These key people were thoroughly trained on the NMCRS programs and services before presenting that information to their fellow sailors and Marines. They connected with the active duty service members by sharing personal stories about how the NMCRS helped many of their shipmates in need.
“For next year's fund drive, I would like to work closer with the key person from each command,” Crouser said. “It would be advantageous to have a Society representative brief each command on a weekly basis about what the Society offers.”
The NMCRS awards no-interest loans and, in some cases, grants to Sailors and Marines in financial distress. The organization also provides a variety of other services designed to help active, retired and reserve Sailors and Marines through difficult times.
"It is my job to make 100% contact with all NSA Charleston Sailors to explain what the NMCRS is about and how they help families. I also discuss the other programs NMCRS provides and how individual donations keep the NMCRS running, said Petty Officer 1st Class Victor Nyarko. “The most important part is educating Sailors about the NMCRS and how it can help them and their shipmates.”
NMCRS provides financial assistance in the form of interest free loans and grants and education, as well as other programs and services. For more information on how to help support the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, go to www.nmcrs.org. Please contact the NMCRS Charleston, S.C. Director, Autumn Crouser, at 843-794-7662 with additional questions.