SS United States Conservancy Chosen for 2018 Navy Federal 'Dollars for Doers' Grant
The global movement to save the SS United States requires all hands on deck. Even one individual can make an extraordinary difference, and the Conservancy is continually inspired by the energy and initiative of the Big U's incredible supporters.
Navy Federal Credit Union's "Dollars for Doers" grant program recognizes, supports, and encourages the contributions of Navy Federal employees' volunteer efforts. The grant program awards a $1000 grant to 100 qualified employee team members, donated to the nonprofit organization of their choice.
We are excited to announce that this year, of the over 200 applications submitted, Conservancy supporter Stanton Daywalt was selected as a grant recipient, and has generously chosen to donate his grant to the SS United States Conservancy. Daywalt's $1000 "Dollars for Doers" grant will directly support the fight to save our nation's greatest and sole remaining ocean liner, the SS United States — we are truly grateful for his incredible advocacy and support
SS United States supporter Stanton Daywalt with the ship in Philadelphia in 2016.
Photograph courtesy of Stanton Daywalt.
Daywalt visits the SS United States in Newport News, VA, in 1989.
Photograph courtesy of Stanton Daywalt.
Constructed to serve as a naval auxiliary and designed to carry up to 15,000 military service members, the SS United States has a rich military history. Navy Federal's contribution will help us to preserve and honor this incredible legacy.
Stanton Daywalt has been a longtime admirer of America's Flagship. As a young boy, he visited the vessel in Newport News, VA in 1989, and again in 1992 just prior to the towing of the ship to Turkey and Ukraine for remediation. Recently, Daywalt shared the incredible story of a rare SS United States pocketknife owned by Newport News woodcarver William W. Geggie.
Stanton Daywalt is an inspiring model of how individuals can play a crucial role in securing the future of the SS United States. Unsure of how you too can get involved? It's easy! Check out a few ideas below:
• Become a member of the Conservancy. Join our efforts by investing in our mission to save the SS United States and preserve her legacy for generations to come
• Join one of the Conservancy's incredible regional chapters working to recruit members, fund-raise, and increase local awareness of the SS United States.
• See if your employer has a matching gifts program. Some companies will match up to 100% of your contribution. This is a great way for you or your loved ones to double or even triple the impact of an already very meaningful gift.
• Become a Corporate Sponsor or Partner, and receive valuable benefits including naming rights, advertising, exclusive ship tours, and networking events.
• Spread the word among your circle of friends, family and colleagues. ‘Like’ us on Facebook and ‘Follow’ us on Twitter. ‘Share’ our posts with your online community.
• Distribute brochures, or make presentations at locations throughout your community. Possible locations include libraries, museums, coffee shops, yacht clubs and festivals. Email the Conservancy at info@ssusc.org to request resources.
• Organize a video screening of the fantastic films Lady in Waiting and Made In America at a local library, club, church, senior center, school or venue.
• Reach out to your local media. Many regional and community newspapers, both print and online, are interested in the ship and our efforts to save her. Add an element of local interest by sharing your connection to the ship and interest in saving her.
• Reach out to celebrities and other high visibility people. Write a letter, make a phone call, tweet, or reach out through other social media. New York and Pennsylvania Residents: Reach out to your Elected Officials!
• Network with local museums and maritime organizations. Ask them if they would consider hosting a temporary exhibition and/or a presentation about the ship.
• Get kids involved. Reach out to your children’s or grandchildren’s schools, Scouts troops or after-school activity groups. Make a presentation to a class, all-school assembly or scout troop meeting. Construct the ship out of Lego or other building materials and send us a photograph!
Feeling inspired? You can find more ideas for how you can help save America's Flagship on our website along with further resources. The SS United States remains a soaring example of our ability to join arm-in-arm to advance common goals. It took many hands to build her, and it will take all of us, working together, to save her.
