Military veterans have a special place in the hearts of Dave and Debbie Metz. A new fund at the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge seeks to honor that commitment.
The Metz-Tiderman Fund for Veterans aims to improve the quality of life of local veterans. “I’ve been wanting to do something to honor my parents,” Debbie said. “The military was so important and pivotal in their lives. I thought this is the perfect way to honor them.”
The Metz-Tiderman Fund for Veterans will provide funding to nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life for veterans. One such nonprofit is Salute of Virginia, an organization in Waynesboro that provides a community center for veterans. “It’s a place for them to call home,” said Leah Hale, founder of Salute of Virginia. “It’s a place for them to meet like-minded people and have that camaraderie. Salute is also a resource hub.
Among its many services, Salute of Virginia offers veterans a weekly brunch on Friday mornings. This is time for them to be together that they can look forward to each week. The Metzes are thrilled about helping to fund organizations like Salute of Virginia and partnering with the Community Foundation. “This has been a dream of ours for a long time to have a family fund,” Debbie said. “I just can’t say enough about how Dan has guided us through all of this. It’s been a really great experience.”
Donations to the Metz-Tiderman Fund for Veterans can be made to the Community Foundation by check (P.O. Box 815, Staunton, VA 24402) or online.