Veteran programs receive financial support from donations to annual Flags of Freedom initiative

WICHITA, Kan., April 3, 2024 – United Way of the Plains and IAM District Lodge #70 are hosting their annual two-week display of 600 American flags to honor veterans this Memorial Day. Those who wish to pay tribute to a current or former member of the armed forces or honor the memory of a veteran may purchase a $30 dedication at unitedwayplains.org/freedom. Dedications include the honoree’s name, branch of service, rank and a short personal tribute. All dedication sponsorships will be posted to an online Veteran Dedication Wall located on the website and will remain in place through the 2024 Veterans Day holiday on Nov. 11.

The annual fundraiser supports United Way programs assisting veterans with transportation, shelter, mental health care and other wrap around services. For example, a $30 dedication/donation provides a veteran 17 free rides per year on Wichita transit as part of the Veterans Ride Free program.

This is the fourth year United Way of the Plains has partnered with area unions to honor veterans and service members with a flag display located in the field at IAM District Lodge #70 at 3830 S. Meridian Ave. (I-235 and S. Meridian Ave.). Area volunteers will assemble and place the flags in the field which will be on display from Monday, May 13, through Memorial Day, Monday, May 27. The public is encouraged to visit the site and participate in a public celebration and dedication that will be held on Saturday, May 25, from 1 – 1:30 p.m.

A new feature of this year’s event includes a Unity and Community Pop Up planned by members of IAM District Lodge #70 from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 25, at IAM District Lodge #70. Food and beverages will be available and services for veterans will be showcased. Learn more by checking the Facebook event.

The public may purchase dedications through Monday, May 27. More information and a map showing the location of the field of flags site can be found on the website for United Way of the Plains.

Corporate sponsorships and donations have already been secured from these generous organizations and companies to support those who have served our country:

• Building & Construction Trades Council of Central & Western Kansas
• Dean E. Norris, Inc.
• IAM District Lodge #70
• IAM & AW Local Lodge #774
• IAM Local Lodge #839
• IBEW #271
• International Brotherhood of Teamsters Union Local #795
• Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union #441
• Sheet Metal Workers: Local Union #29
• United Teachers of Wichita: Local #725
• Wichita Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO

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MEDIA CONTACT: Angie Prather, Vice President of Marketing and Chief Community Engagement Officer, (316) 267‑1321, ext. 4105, aprather@unitedwayplains.org

United Way of the Plains is a nonprofit and for-impact organization that focuses on health, education, financial stability and basic needs – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Our mission is to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of our community to advance the common good in south central Kansas. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.