Our Evolution from Marine Corps League to SAVCO

In 2021, Sedona Marine Corps League evolved from one organization into two new active organizations. The first, Sedona Area Veterans and Community Outreach (SAVCO) has continued the patriotic and philanthropic duties of the former league. The second, Marine Corps League Detachment Sedona AZ 1237 focuses on strengthening the bonds between former and present Marines and perpetuating the history and traditions of the United States Marine Corps.

Although the change was driven by a national Marine Corps League mandate to shift from a 501c3 to a 501c4, SAVCO president Jack Ross viewed the transition as a new opportunity, as well. “Since many of our current and target donors were looking to support and promote 501c3s exclusively we needed to evolve. But we also looked at the evolution as an opportunity to broaden our appeal to the community at large and expand on the good we do,” he says. 

Today, SAVCO invites all citizens of Sedona to join them in acts of gratitude and service that lift up all veterans, express pride in country and community, and support future generations.

Ross and the founding board members of SAVCO also hope more women and men will feel welcome to join the new organization — whether or not they are veterans. “While we prioritize projects for veterans and youth, we also support many worthwhile community needs. We welcome and value everyone’s input, ideas, donations, and most of all, their time,” he says. 

All members of SAVCO have the privilege of voting, holding elected or appointed office, and serving on committees. Committees work on on SAVOC’s primary projects and fundraising efforts. 

Since the original Sedona Marine Corps League’s inception, volunteers have donated more than 4,000 toys each year, awarded 11 high school scholarships and raised more than $100,000 for veteran assistance, Ross said, “ And, we’ve had a lot of fun and fellowship along the way. Our hope is that whether folks have an hour to spare every now and then, or are looking for an outlet for their time and talents, they’ll feel drawn to our mission and will feel welcome to contribute any way they can.”