The Veterans Advocacy Group of America held its fifth annual Veterans Thanksgiving Turkey Drive Thru on Nov. 23.
Optimum, the major sponsor for the event, performs innovative real estate development and construction management services for public and private companies, government agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations. The organization’s team has planned, designed and built bridges, industrial buildings, high-rises, colleges, hospitals, notable mixed-use developments and award-winning green communities.
VETERANS GROUP DISTRIBUTES TURKEYS – Local leaders supported the Veterans Advocacy Group of American (VAGA) holiday food program. Pictured are (l to r): Compton City Councilman Jonathan Bowers (District 3); Ali Sahabi, President of Optimum Group, Inc.; Congresswoman Nanette Barragán, (CA-44); Tova Barbour, President of VAGA; and Veteran of the Year Sterling Barbour, VAGA.
Congresswoman Nanette Barragán praised the “veterans who are on the front lines day in and day out to ensure we have a democracy and can enjoy the holidays’. She thanked Tova Barbour, President of VAGA, for “leading the Veterans Advocacy Group of America with you and Sterling at the forefront of making sure this happens to take care of our families so there is a meal on the table to enjoy this Thanksgiving. We have a lot to be thankful for and we have to keep fighting for our veterans.”
Congresswoman Barragán also recognized Sterling Barbour for the “amazing work you’ve done to be named the Veteran of the Year.”
Sahabi thanked Congresswoman Narragán for attending the VAGA event and her support for the community every day in Washington, D.C. “You have been a champion, especially for those that haven’t had voices,” said Sahabi.
“This is an honor to be here today to support our veterans that are in need,” Sahabi continued. This is a time that our businesses need to fulfill their responsibility to support our people in need. This is not something I should get recognized for, this is just part of my responsibility.”
“This food for these families is so important, and you just don’t know the impact you’re having on a lot of people’s lives,” Councilman Bowers told event participants. He also expressed appreciation to Congresswoman Narragán for her efforts on behalf of the community, congratulated Sterling Barbour for his selection as Veteran of the Year, and thanked all veterans for their service.
“It’s so important to support our community’s veterans,” said Sterling Barbour. “We have a lot of sponsors here today and more partners to really help make this event great, not just today, but everyday. It’s just a passion we have in our hearts to give back to our community.”
Founded in 2010, Veterans Advocacy Group of America is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization based in Southern California. The founders, who are veterans, understand the needs of returning military personnel. The organization works with community leaders and local businesses to create new opportunities for veterans and their families.
The turkey distribution event was held at Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 5394, 303 E. Palmer Street in Compton.
