Mrs. Yolanda Rayford, Chapter Director Baltimore/Chesapeake Region Blue Star Families invited Gold Star Mothers Maryland Chapter moms to volunteer at their Welcome Home – Stronger Together event. Many volunteers, several elected officials, including Congressman John Sarbanes; Howard County Executive Dr. Calvin Ball and Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman; representatives from veteran and community organizations participated in this very special event to welcome new military families to the community. It was a day to express thanks in tangible ways and demonstrate that together individuals can make a difference in the lives of our Heroes and their families. Our military families need to know that their selfless service and sacrifice is appreciated. It was a day to provide opportunities for fellowship, fun and good food.

The following moms represented the MD Chapter: Janice Chance, Donna Robinson and Elsheba Khan. In addition to volunteering, the MD Chapter donated $1000 to the event. Prior to the start of the event, the moms assisted with assembling swag bags and assisting the American Red Cross Representative Christiana Ilufoye with setting up her display. The moms also joined the Staff and volunteers in welcoming military service members and their families to the event, assisted with distributing lunches and several other duties. They also had the pleasure and honor of thanking and interacting with the families throughout the event. The moms were able to fulfill their mission simply put “HONOR THROUGH SERVICE”. Although it was a cloudy day, the event was well attended with much excitement and laughter.