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THE USO OF HAMPTON ROADS

It is the mission of the USO of Hampton Roads to enhance the quality of life of the U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families worldwide and to create a cooperative relationship between U.S. military communities and involved or supporting civilian communities.

The USO of Hampton Roads is a non-governmental, non-profit 501c(3)  organization that depends on corporate and individual support to fund its programs and services. While it is affiliated with World USO, it receives no funding from world headquarters.

In order to maintain our centers and provide our programs, it is imperative that we maintain a strong sponsor relationship with our local business and civic organizations. We also rely heavily on individual contributions and volunteers from our very supportive local communities.

Who founded the USO?

When was the USO of Hampton Roads founded?

What is the mission of the USO of Hampton Roads?

Is the USO part of the U.S. government?

What type of programs does the USO offer to military personnel and their families?

Where can I go to get help from the USO?

What can I do to help the USO?

The United Service Organizations (USO) was formed in 1941 in response to a request from President Franklin D. Roosevelt that private organizations handle the on-leave recreation of the U.S. Armed Forces. Six civilian agencies: the Salvation Army, Young Men’s Christian Association, Young Women’s Christian Association, National Catholic Community Services, National Travelers Aid Association, and the National Jewish Welfare Board coordinated their efforts to provide services that were not duplicated or overlooked. As a result, the USO center was born. Despite the conflicts and uncertainty of the decades that followed, the USO center had endured and continues to be regarded as a “Home Away From Home” for the U.S. Armed forces and their families.

Although the USO operated dozens of centers on the Peninsula and Southside during WWII, anti-military sentiments and budget cuts during the 1970’s diminished the USO presence for more than a decade.

The current USO of Hampton Roads traces it’s history back to 1984 when two off-duty sailors were shot to death in Newport News. It was this incident that motivated the community to create a place where members of the military and their family could go for support and recreation.

It is the mission of the USO of Hampton Roads to enhance the quality of life and public support for armed service members and their families.

Is the USO part of the U.S. government?

The USO of Hampton Roads is a non-governmental, but congressionally chartered organization. (Reference document: Department of Defense Directive 1330.12 of November 01, 2000) The USO of Hampton Roads depends on the generosity of individuals and corporations to fund its programs and services. While it is affiliated with USO World, it receives no funding from world headquarters.

What type of programs does the USO offer to military personnel and their families?

The USO of Hampton Roads has eight centers throughout southeast Virginia. Each center is responsible for developing center activities and programs and works closely with the Administrative office to provide a wide variety of assistance and outreach to fit the needs of military members and their families. Some of these programs include: emergency lodging, mobile outreach, orientation, information and referral, special holiday programs, summer concerts, military appreciation days and Flightline canteens.

Military members and their families who need assistance or who would like to participate in USO activities may contact their nearest USO Center. For a complete listing of USO centers, individuals may call 757.764.5232 or visit our website at www.usohr.org.

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities at the USO of Hampton Roads. People who wish to volunteer should contact the USO Administrative office at 757.788.4984 or fill out a volunteer form.

Individuals wishing to make a financial donation to the USO of Hampton Roads may send a check to: P.O. Box 7250
Hampton, Virginia 23666-0250

Individuals or corporations wishing to become sponsors may contact the USO of Hampton Roads President at 757.764.5232.