AMES, Iowa -- The Iowa Workforce Development Region 11 Veterans Team was honored to receive a monetary award from the U.S. Department of Labor for its service to Iowa veterans. However, the team had a small problem: what could it do with the $3,880?

“Since we are a state agency and can’t accept money for our service, we decided to give the money away to worthwhile veteran concerns within the state of Iowa,” said Ted Hall, veteran employment representative with Iowa Workforce Development.

Hall said the agency gave some of the money to a local shelter’s veterans unit and some to the Butler County Veterans Affairs for flood assistance repairs. The agency gave the balance, $1,500, to Operation: Military Kids, a program of Iowa State University Extension 4-H Youth Development.

“We appreciate the work that your group does, and hope in a small way, this contribution helps,” Hall said.

Operation: Military Kids supports geographically dispersed children and youth of National Guard and Reserve military personnel. The program began in 2004 in an effort to build communication networks and trusting relationships between ISU Extension, military families, military family program staff, youth leaders, schools, veterans and community organizations. The program provides positive youth development programs and community-based support for children and families impacted by the increased mobilization and deployment of Iowa’s military personnel.

-30-