Millie Dunn Veasey Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 100 is turning a $1,000 Piedmont Electric Helping Hand Foundation grant into life-changing rides for local veterans. This support helps transport veterans from rural Orange County communities to vital medical appointments at the Durham VA Medical Center and other providers, ensuring they receive the care they have earned.
“This support will make a meaningful difference in helping us serve our local veterans and their families,” said Rhonda Dandridge, treasurer of Millie Dunn Veasey DAV Chapter 100. “Every dollar goes directly toward programs that honor the service and sacrifices of those who have worn the uniform, and your contribution strengthens our ability to continue this important work.”
Honoring a Powerful Legacy
Based in Chapel Hill and chartered in 2022, Millie Dunn Veasey DAV Chapter 100 is named for World War II veteran and civil rights pioneer Millie Dunn Veasey, who served in the U.S. Army’s historic 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Her story reached a wider audience in 2024 with the release of the Netflix film “The Six Triple Eight,” which highlighted the battalion’s trailblazing service and featured Millie as one of the central figures.
Removing Barriers to Care
The chapter focuses on disabled veterans and their families across Orange County, with an emphasis on those living in rural areas where public transportation is scarce or nonexistent. The grant supports the chapter’s long-term goal of purchasing and operating a dedicated DAV-branded van, driven by volunteers, so no veteran misses critical medical care because of a lack of transportation.
A Community Partnership in Action
Piedmont Electric’s Helping Hand Foundation grant is part of a broader community effort that includes local sponsors, events such as the Veterans Day Golf Tournament and individual donors working together to meet the chapter’s transportation funding goal.
“We are inspired by Piedmont Electric Cooperative’s commitment to uplifting the community, and we are honored to be among the organizations supported by the Helping Hand Foundation,” Dandridge said. “Your generosity is not only an investment in our chapter but also in the veterans whose lives are impacted through our efforts.”
Click here to learn more about Piedmont Electric’s Helping Hand Foundation.