Las Vegas, NV, April 26, 2003

The Minuteman Foundation Honors Wayne Newton

Singer Wayne Newton has won the Minuteman Foundation's "Lifetime Achievement" Award for his many trips to entertain U.S. Troops. He has completed a dozen USO campaigns, most recently in Afghanistan, as well as appearing at many bases inside the United States.

Newton was originally scheduled to be presented with the award during the Minuteman Ball at the Anthem Center, but he was out of the state entertaining on March 15th and could not attend.

A special presentation was arranged at the Stardust Hotel with a reception afterwards. A unanimous vote of the Foundation's Board of Trustees included the following citation:

Wayne Newton richly deserves the Minuteman "Lifetime Achievement" Award, not only because of his worldwide trips to entertain our fighting men and women, but for his constant praise for veterans and other service groups that serve our nation. By his actions, he has proved his unwavering support of the United States, and his deep compassion for its citizens.

The Minuteman Foundation is a tax-exempt charity dedicated to improving the lifestyle of physically challenged seniors. It is responsible for raising benefit funds for the Community Service Club that helps seniors maintain their independence. Transportation to a doctor's appointment, a short term loan of non-medical equipment, finding a support group, are just a few of its activities.

Las Vegas, NV, January 18, 2003

The Las Vegas Review-Journal and Las Vegas Sun published an article showing the efforts of the Community Service Club's president, Jerry Gardberg, as he helps Sun City Anthem residents Patricia and Del Ashley replace furnace filters.
Read the whole story...

Henderson, NV, December 3, 2002

While most Sun City Anthem residents are financially secure, a growing number have been hit hard by the slow economy and losses in the stock market. Services they used to have the money to pay are now out of reach. Others are not as physically able as they used to be, or have lost a spouse or companion.

To meet this need, the Minuteman Foundation, a non-profit public benefit corporation, was created by a group of friends and neighbors. The Board of Trustees and volunteers are giving their time and services free, so virtually every penny contributed goes directly to those who need help.

The services include the temporary loan of wheelchairs, canes, walkers and similar medical equipment. Several wheelchairs have already arrived. Sometimes the need is for companionship during illness. One client, who was taking care of his wife with Alzheimer's disease, needed a break. A caregiver took over for two days to give him a rest. The Foundation will also support programs for the physically challenged. It may be something as simple as a phone call to cheer the client's spirits, and make sure everything is all right.

As we grow older, some will need assistance with home maintenance, but can't afford to hire outside help, so volunteers will help program thermostats and sprinkler controls. Some clients can't, or shouldn't, climb ladders to lubricate garage doors, replace batteries in smoke alarms, replace light bulbs, replace and/or clean air conditioning filters. Others don't have the strength to add salt to water softeners.

In addition, clients who no longer drive may need a ride to a doctor or dentist's appointment or for laboratory tests. Additional services will include help in organizing and sponsoring community awareness programs and meals on wheels. "The basic aim", says Minuteman Foundation president Favil West, "is to allow those in temporary need to stay in their own homes and enjoy as much of the regular lifestyle as possible.

The Minuteman Foundation is responsible for raising the funds to support these activities, and another new organization, called the Community Service Club, has been started to do the physical work when necessary. Already, it has almost a hundred volunteer members. 

The Minuteman Foundation depends entirely on gifts, grants and donations. The more that is donated, the more services that can be provided. There is no paid staff, only volunteers on the Board and in the Club. The Minuteman Foundation plans two fundraising events in 2003. A black tie (optional) Ball with dancing, a gourmet dinner and celebrity guests on March 15, 2003 is in the planning stages. A golf tournament for August 2003 is also being implemented.