Salute, Inc. -- A Story of Caring.
Mary Beth Beiersdorf, representing veteran’s aid organization Salute, Inc., presented an overview of the organization, saying it works to, as its mission statement says, “passionately pursue meeting the financial, physical and emotional needs of military service members, veterans and their families. We strive to raise awareness of their sacrifices and provide a safety net to ensure every military family is treated with honor and dignity.”
Through a video and stories, she shared examples of local veterans in need. She also told of efforts to increase 
awareness and raise funds such as the upcoming 8/12/14 Homestretch for Heroes Run to be held on the track at Arlington Park International Racecourse.
Mary Beth is a board member of the organization and co-founder with Rotarian husband Will. To read more and get the link to their website, click “more” below.
SALUTE, INC. was founded in 2003 by Will and Mary Beth Beiersdorf of Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Shortly after 9/11, Will, a Naval Reservist, was called to active duty and deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba for thirteen months. The severe financial impact his deployment had on his family came as a startling revelation.
While Will was serving in Cuba,
Mary Beth was overwhelmed with the magnitude of what she and their three sons were facing. In addition to the lack of finances, Mary Beth and her children coped with the fear of the unknown and the emotional strain caused by their separation from Will.
With the help, support and outpouring of love from family, friends, their church and their community, they were able to survive. Upon Will's return, both he and Mary Beth felt the need to "give back" by helping others who were experiencing similar hardships.
In 2003, they decided to start an organization whose fundraising efforts would be based around a yearly Memorial Day Family Run/Walk. After sharing their vision with family, friends and pooling their resources, Salute was born!
The website with this and more material about Salute is at www.saluteinc.org