PORTLAND — Jim and Nancy Lamson have decided for their 41st wedding anniversary they’re going to celebrate somewhat differently than with typical flowers, jewelry or a second honeymoon trip. They’ve issued a challenge to their friends, family, coworkers and the general public to help them double their donation to support Maine’s military families through Veterans Count Maine.
“It just seemed to be the right time to do it,” said Jim Lamson. “We have always supported veterans even though neither of us have ever served in the military. Our fathers were in World War II along with many uncles. My brother was in Vietnam, I’ve had two other brothers and a sister in the service along with brother in laws, nieces, nephews, and some very good friends.
“We have had a lot of positive response from friends and family,” he said, “and I hope it will draw more people in and help spread the word.”
The Lamsons have issued a challenge – make a donation of any size this September to Veterans Count Maine – and they will match that donation up to $5,000.
The donation challenge couldn’t come at a better time for Veterans Count Maine, which has recently seen the need for funds double. Veterans Count Executive Director for Northern New England Charlie Summers, who serves in the United States Navy Reserve, said that the Lamsons’ generous gift, as well as all matching funds, will remain in Maine to serve Maine service members, veterans, and their families.
“We never want to have to turn a veteran away due to a lack of funding,” said Summers. “Some of our veterans’ needs are seemingly small – groceries to help make ends meet until a new job starts, gas for their car or fuel for the heating tank. Others are more emergent – avoiding homelessness with a rent payment or helping a veteran find good, stable employment.
“We need to be there to give them the hand-up they need and work toward a plan for self-sustainability,” he said. “The help we provide can be life-changing.”
Summers added that 90 percent of every donation goes directly to services, with 10 percent going to those who provide those services; many of them are veterans themselves.
“Jim and Nancy are small businesses owners who believe in and have, indeed, lived the American Dream and their willingness to help others do the same – particularly those who have served our Country – speaks to who they are: great Americans.”
