Lena L. Fowler, United States Navy and Army (NJ National Guard) Retiree, is head of the Bucks County Community College Veterans Club and urges student veterans to reach out and join, or contribute in future events.
Lena L. Fowler served time in the Navy first, and then transferred to the Army National Guard in New Jersey. During her service, she participated in Operation Desert Storm, a part of the Gulf War (1990-1991) against Iraq’s attempted invasion of Kuwait. Additionally, she has responded to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, which have taken place inside of the United States.
Lena recently became president of the Bucks County Community College Veterans Club last semester, just in time for enrollment in Bucks to go up since the lockdowns from COVID-19.
“We are trying to reach the veterans that are going to school here.” Eventually, the club hopes to automatically enroll anyone that is a veteran into the club unless they opt out on their own terms.
This club is designed as a place for veterans to convene and hangout, but it is also meant to be a lifeline for former service members who may need clothes, food, housing, and other living necessities.
“We are connected with Wounded Warriors so anyone who needs help with an electric bill or car bill will be able to receive that help.”
Lena discussed her other connections such as the VFW (Veterans of Foreign War). Many of these VFW’s offer a hang out spot for veterans. They also have staff available in the instance of a Code Blue event, in which those without homes are offered shelter during freezing conditions.
During our discussion Lena said how she is planning on getting other clubs to partner with the Veterans Club. Even if you aren’t directly in the Veterans Club there is still a way to contribute to veterans in need.
“What I want to do is set up a sock drive and a hoodie drive and allow other clubs to pick what non-profit organization that they want to donate it to.”
The Veterans Club is a welcoming and charitable club set up to comfort those in need as well as raising awareness to our veterans. She is able to share insights, deals, and discounts that veterans are able to utilize but often do not know they even exist.
Lena takes great care of her members and hopes to welcome more with open arms.
“It doesn’t matter your race, creed, religion, or background, we are all brothers here.”
If you are a student Veteran in Bucks County Community College you can join via the Bucks+ App. You can also reach Lena via bucks email at [email protected].