The Heritage Palms Veterans Association (HPVA) proudly announces a new and significant project in collaboration with Heritage Palms leadership and the Lodge Tiki Construction Committee. After months of planning, the HPVA will establish a Veterans Memorial Flagpole at the Oasis Tiki location. With approval secured from both the HPVA and Heritage Palms, the project will move forward, with completion and dedication coinciding with the opening of the new facility.
HPVA Commander Mike Brake shared, “Heritage Palms is a special place where veterans are deeply respected and supported. We are driven to create this permanent memorial as a tribute to the sacrifices so many have made for our freedom.”
The memorial will feature a 25-foot stainless steel flagpole with appropriate lighting, allowing the flag to be flown day and night. Positioned between the two entrances of the new Oasis Tiki, the flag will also be visible from Hole #9 on the Sabal Golf Course. At the base of the flagpole, a brass plaque will honor all veterans, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
FUNDRAISING AND MATCHING GIFT PROGRAM To fund this $8,000 project, a small group of HPVA Board members and Heritage Palms residents have already committed $4,000 toward a matching gift program. Contributions from the community will be matched dollar for dollar by this fund. This initiative allows HPVA to preserve existing funds for direct support of veterans in need.
HPVA Quartermaster/Treasurer Bill Brophy stated, “Heritage Palms residents have consistently supported HPVA’s efforts, and we are incredibly grateful. This fundraiser enables us to complete this meaningful project while maintaining our ability to assist veterans in need.”
Donations eligible for the matching program should be made payable to HPVA and delivered to an HPVA board member or mailed to:
HPVA 10420 Washingtonia Palm Way, Fort Myers, FL 33966
HPVA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (Tax ID: 47-4269790), and contributions may be tax-deductible.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND PROJECT LEADERSHIP HPVA Project Leader Roger Moyer expressed gratitude to Traci Irons-Izzo, Kevin Ammon, and the Lodge Tiki Construction Committee for their efforts in making this project possible. He added, “We hope to complete fundraising quickly, and look forward to making this memorial a reality.”
For more information, contact Roger Moyer at 717-314-8267 or at [email protected].
ABOUT THE HERITAGE PALMS VETERANS ASSOCIATION (HPVA) Founded in 2017, HPVA is a FL-incorporated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its mission is to raise funds to assist U.S. military veterans in need. For more information go to http://www.hpvets.org.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
- Can you tell us more about the flagpole installation?
The flagpole is a 25-foot, hurricane-rated stainless-steel structure with an internal halyard system and an anodized finish. It is topped by a gold ball and will display a 4’ x 6’ flag. The foundation will extend 3’6” below ground for stability. The flagpole and flag will be illuminated, ensuring proper display around the clock.
- Can you comment on the cost of the installation?
The total cost of approximately $8,000 includes the flagpole, foundation, flag, installation, and a 12” x 14” brass memorial plaque. Permitting costs are also included. Modern flagpole installations are more regulated and costly than in the past, particularly in hurricane-prone areas like ours. We obtained three proposals for the project and selected Lee Design, LLC, a locally owned Fort Myers company.
- Can you tell us more about the memorial brass plaque?
The plaque will be a cast brass design, produced by a national company based in Fort Myers. Measuring 12” x 14”, it will be mounted on the custom-painted aluminum base of the flagpole. The inscription will read:
“Dedicated to the men and women who served in the armed forces of the United States of America and in memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
- I like this project. Can I contribute using my IRA or Donor Advised Fund?
Yes, HPVA is an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in Florida (Tax ID: 47-4269790).
○ Donor Advised Fund: You may request a grant from your Donor Advised Fund if one is established. Consult your fund administrator or tax advisor for guidance.
○ IRA Contribution: If you are 701⁄2 or older, you may qualify for a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your IRA. This can be a tax-efficient way to contribute. Be sure to consult your IRA custodian or tax advisor for details.
- Can I just write a check for my contribution?
Yes! Please make your check payable to HPVA and either hand it to an HPVA board member or mail it to: HPVA 10420 Washingtonia Palm Way Fort Myers, FL 33966
