Rex Qiu Volunteers at Los Angeles VA Hospital

2014 Dec 4

Rex Qiu of Hacienda Heights is formally recognized by Army and Navy Academy for his support of the "Cadets for Vets" initiative.

The Academy's Interact Club, the youth division of Rotary International, is dedicated to community service. One of their biggest projects this year has been the "Cadets for Vets" project, led by Club Advisor Sarah Ortiz and Los Angeles VA Hospital Liaison, Dr. Barbara Kennedy.

For months, the club has been collecting gently used clothing and shoes that are then delivered to the Los Angeles VA Hospital. Their most recent initiative was the Shoe Drive held in November.

Thanks to the many generous donations, Cadets collected over 100 pairs of shoes, 40 coats, 140 men's shirts, and 40 pairs of pants.

Cadets visited the hospital on November 24, where they distributed the clothing and shoes to veterans during a VA-sponsored Pizza and Bingo party. The Cadets set up a "store" with other hospital volunteers, and clothes and shoes were organized by size. They then helped each veteran individually find items in his size. Their personalized attention was so appreciated by the men in need, and it was a very special experience.

The event was such a hit, that the Cadets are already planning their next trip to the VA Hospital. They'll be collecting blankets, coats, and shoes for their next visit. If you have any that you are able to donate, it would be very appreciated. Please contact Sarah Ortiz for more information.