Things are looking up for a local American Legion post thanks in part to a sizable donation made by the Palm Valley Community Association.
Post 233, located at 560 N. Wilderness Trail in Ponte Vedra Beach, has long been a major resource for both local veterans and for the community at large.
Chartered in March 1971, the post has been involved in programs such as Boys State, whereby select high school students travel to Tallahassee to learn firsthand about how state government works. The American Legion Auxiliary offers a similar program for girls.
Over the years, the post has held numerous special events. And its Taco Tuesday, BINGO Thursday and Friday Steak Night, its regular meals and bar have been popular elements of life in Palm Valley. Veterans seeking help connecting with the right people at the VA could always count on the post’s assistance.
“The American Legion’s an important member of our community,” said Greg Leonard, Palm Valley Community Association president.
But in recent years, the post has had some difficulties. It’s 501(c)19 tax exempt veteran organization status was revoked in November 2022. As a result, it had to suspend operations, and its income was limited to membership renewals.
In addition, the main building, which the post has occupied since 1974, is showing its age to such a degree that it needs to be replaced.
Past Commander Sonny Kirkwood, a 33-year member of the American Legion, was asked to return and resume his former role. He agreed and took over commandership on Sept. 17.
Immediately, he called a membership meeting, which was attended by about 100 people, and asked for help in resolving the situation.
Some of those members also sit on the Palm Valley Community Association board, and they advocated for the group to lend a hand.
So, on Nov. 13, the association agreed to donate $5,000 to the post to cover its operating expenses for a couple of months.
“Because of donations from the Community Center and other American Legion posts, we were able to re-open the doors,” said Kirkwood.
At the same time, the IRS approved reinstatement of the post’s 501(c)19, backdating it so that all donations as of Nov. 22, 2022, could be tax exempt.
These and other actions have allowed the post to restart its revenue stream. Volunteers, too, have been helpful in the effort.
The post now has an 18-month strategic plan. The pavilion is being renovated for use while a new main building is under construction, which is expected to begin in the spring. Gradually, the post’s various activities will be resumed, though it is taking “baby steps” toward that goal.
As a harbinger of things to come, the post plans to be open for Christmas dinner from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 25.
But the post still needs help, especially from volunteers.
Kirkwood can be reached at skirkwood444@comcast.net. Learn more about the post at al233fl.org.
