Foothills American Veterans Service Organization nears reopening after devastating fire
Paul Vozzella
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – After seven long months of rebuilding, the Foothills’ American Veterans Services Organization is in its final stages before reopening its doors to local Veterans. The recovery follows a devastating fire in March that destroyed the building.
The blaze forced the organization to start from scratch, but through dedication and determination, the center is almost ready to serve again. Manager June Condon says the journey has been difficult but worth every step.
“We had a meeting yesterday and one of our veterans asked if I would do it all over again, and I said, ‘Yes, because our veterans deserve it,'” she said.
The soon-to-be-reopened facility will once again provide vital services, helping Veterans access their full military benefits and offering three meals a day, seven days a week at a low cost.
For Condon’s husband, Michael, a Korean War veteran and the organization’s commander, the reopening carries deep emotional significance.
“It’s such a relief,” he said. “When we got the building department approval, I had tears in my eyes. I couldn’t help it.”
The organization plays an essential role in helping Veterans navigate the complex world of post-service benefits with the help of their trained staff.
“We have trained people that can fill it out,” Michael added. “We don’t want a veteran filling out anything. All [they have] to do is come in and drink coffee. We do it all.”
The organization plans to officially reopen to Veterans by next Monday. They are also always on the lookout for volunteers and welcome anyone to go to the organization to help.
The American Veterans Service Organization is located at 8889 S. Frontage Road in The Foothills. Veterans and potential volunteers can also contact Condon at 208-610-4464 if they have questions.