DAV Missouri Chapter 47 Dexter

07/23/2026

The Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) is incredibly grateful to DAV Chapter #2 Ernestine Schumann-Heink for its remarkable generosity and unwavering support of Veterans. Their donation of $50,000 to be distributed across CDCE GPF accounts, will directly impact Veterans in the John J. Pershing VA catchment area and help further our mission to provide the greatest care possible. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of those who have served our nation!

To make monetary donations, donors may mail a check or money order, or bring cash, to John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, Attn: CDCE, 1500 N. Westwood Blvd., Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.

Donors may also donate online by going to https://www.cdceportal.va.gov or coming by the office at John J. Pershing VA Medical Center. If you would like to know what Veteran needs are, please call CDCE at 573-778-4276.

06/16/2026

Turning a tough situation into a moment of community triumph! 🏍️🇺🇸

When we heard that local veteran James Baldwin had his bicycle stolen, the members of the DAV Missouri Chapter 47 Dexter and Auxiliary Unit 47 knew we couldn’t just stand by. A veteran's mobility and independence are incredibly important, and our community always steps up to take care of its own.

Thanks to the generosity and quick action of our chapter, we were able to donate and present a brand-new bike to James to get him back on the move!

We are so grateful to everyone who helped coordinate this effort and stood together to show James that he has a whole community riding with him.

📸 Pictured from left to right:

Dale Garrett (CDCE Chief at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center)

James Baldwin (Recipient)

Kevin Pobst (Treasurer/Adjutant, DAV Missouri Chapter 47 Dexter)

Austin Kirby (Sr. Vice Commander, DAV Missouri Chapter 47 Dexter)

Rita Hodges Pobst (Commander, DAV Auxiliary Unit 47)

Thank you to our dedicated members and community partners who make moments like this possible. Together, we continue to fulfill our promise to serve those who served!

05/29/2026

🤝 Supporting Our Veterans: A Generous Donation to the Indigent Fund

We are incredibly proud to share a wonderful moment of community support and gratitude for our nation's heroes.

Rita Hodges Pobst, representing the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary (DAVA), recently presented a generous donation to the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center’s Indigent Fund.

Why This Matters
The Indigent Fund plays a critical role in the care of our veterans. It provides emergency relief and essential items to veterans in need who are undergoing treatment, ensuring they have dignity, comfort, and support when they need it most.

The dedication of the DAVA and individuals like Rita Pobst ensures that no veteran is left behind, reminding us all of the power of community and shared gratitude.

A Heartfelt Thank You
Thank you, Rita, the commander of the DAVA organization, for your unwavering commitment to serving those who served. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of local veterans and strengthens the network of care at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.

Pictured from left to right is Lotoya Halliburton, Rita Pobst, and Zach Lafferty.
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05/05/2026

Join us for the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center VA2K Walk & Roll. This event is geared toward donations and mental health for homeless Veterans.

NEEDED ITEMS: Men’s under shirts (M, L, XL ), deodorant, socks, wrapped toilet paper (pack or roll), full size toothpaste, toothbrush, undergarments, small first aid kits, dish soap, standard size shampoo and conditioner, full size bar soap, bath towels, wash cloths, full size lotion, liquid body wash, backpacks, shaving cream, gift card for haircut, comb/brush and lip balm.
All donations can be brought on or before the event on May 20. Donations will be accepted in the canteen and Employee Whole Health.

Whole Health is partnering with CDCE in gathering and distributing the donated items to homeless Veterans. Donations are not mandatory but are appreciated.

05/05/2026