Return the FAVOR (Find and Assist a Veteran of Record) Program Celebrates Its Four Year Anniversary

Return the FAVOR (Find and Assist a Veteran of Record) Program Celebrates Its Four Year Anniversary

Poughkeepsie, NY… In March of 2011, the Dutchess County Clerk’s Office and the county Division of Veterans Services launched the Return the FAVOR (Find and Assist a Veteran of Record) Program. A joint effort between the business community and county government was established to provide veterans with assistance in obtaining the services and benefits earned by them for their service. Four years later, over 3,500 veterans have enrolled in the program and over 200 participating merchants and businesses.

The FAVOR Card is accepted county-wide and provided year round. Any honorably discharged veteran residing in Dutchess County may obtain their FAVOR card by bringing his or her Military Separation Papers i.e. DD-214, WDO-AGO 53-55, etc., indicating their Full-Time Active Duty service to the Division of Veterans Services Office, located at 85 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 105 in Poughkeepsie. After processing, veterans obtain their official card at the County Clerk’s Office. There is no cost to sign-up for the card.

Participating businesses provide card holders with a discount on purchases, services, or special offer. Each business uniquely decides on the discount they wish to offer. From auto repairs to meals, haircuts to dry cleaning, these are just a few examples of the discounted services provided. A list of participating businesses along with their special offer or discount can be found by visiting the county website. Additionally, businesses are given a decal to display designating them as a participating member in the FAVOR program.
County Clerk Brad Kendall stated, “Currently, 20,000 U.S. Veterans call Dutchess County home. This initiative is two-fold as we work with the Division of Veterans Affairs to connect veterans with the military benefits and services available to them. As County Clerk, I am honored to assist in this initiative that honors our brave men and women of Dutchesss County, who proudly served under the American flag to defend our freedoms and liberties.”

Director of the Dutchess County Division of Veterans Services, Nelson Eddy Rivera, stated, “The FAVOR card program has been an excellent outreach tool, helping to connect veterans with our office where we can help them access the services, benefits, and resources available to them. Our veterans answered the call of duty and served our country when it needed them, now we are here for them and their families.”

Businesses and merchants interested in participating can either download an application on the County Clerk tab located on www.dutchessny.gov/countyclerk, requesting an application by calling 845-486-2132 or sending an email to bkendall@dutchessny.gov.

Author: Harlem Valley News