Surface Warfare Officer School Unit (SWOSU) Great Lakes held a fundraiser for the Active Duty Fund Drive in support of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) on March 14.

More than 200 staff members gathered around the grill at SWOSU Headquarters building to feast on hot dogs and burgers for a small donation.

"Today’s event was not only fun for me and the command, the money raised helps our Navy and Marine family members when they are in need," said Hull Maintenance Technician 1st Class Robert Nichter, NMCRS Active Duty Fund Drive representative at SWOSU Great Lakes. "The drive is also a great way to help educate some of our Sailors about the relief society and how to access their services. While we certainly want to be able to raise lots of funds to keep these critical services going, my goal is to also ensure our Sailors know about the relief society,"

NMCRS is a nonprofit organization that offers interest-free loans and grants for emergencies and tuition assistance, financial education, workshops and budgeting classes. The organization's thrift store features discounted uniforms, baby items, household goods, clothes for various ages and other items.

"The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is important organization to our SWOSU Staff and their families and provides assistance to our Sailors, Marines and their families world-wide," said Cmdr. Terrance Patterson, commanding officer of SWOSU Great Lakes. “Donations are the lifeblood that enables NMCRS to assist service members and their families. It's about us taking care of our own when they are in a time of need.  Every little bit helps.  I'm extremely proud of our Staff's commitment to NMCRS."

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