The SOBA America Lend-A-Hand Initiative has enjoyed early success in its mission to make a difference in the lives of SOBANS and SOBANESE in need. The Fote administration rolled out this program on May 15th, 2020 at the peak of the current COVID-19 pandemic. The initial phase of the program has been focused on providing financial assistance to SOBANS and SOBANESE who have been affected significantly by the current pandemic. The program will eventually evolve to include professional help such a legal, accounting and other assistance to SOBANS and SOBANESE in need but who are unable to afford it.
We are still in the COVID relief phase of the Lend-A-Hand Initiative, which puts our focus on providing financial help to SOBANS in need. The National Leadership Team would like to thank all SOBANS and SOBANESE who have donated generously to fund this initiative and help our fellow SOBANS and SOBANESE in need. The program is funded 100% by SOBANS at this point. If you’d like to make a donation, you can CLICK HERE TO DONATE ONLINE, donate via cash app to $sobaamericafinance, or contact any member of the National Leadership Team.
As of December 1st, 2020, SOBA America had raised $17,970 for this program. 26 applications had been received 26 applications. 25 of these have been approved and paid out. 1 applicant withdrew his application as his situation improved. Of the 25 applicants who received aid, 24 are SOBANS and one is a SOBANESE. The oldest SOBAN is from the class of 1956 and the youngest SOBAN is from the class of 2008. As of December 1st, 2020, we have paid out a total of $12,716. The average amount paid out is $508.64. Most of the applicants have been fellow SOBANS who are experiencing financial hardship as a direct result of COVID-19.
Below are some of the testimonials and expressions gratitude shared by some of the recipients of the Lend-A-Hand Initiative.
“This was a genuine way to help needy SOBANS and this first in its time initiative was greatly appreciated.”
-SOBAN class of 95
“SOBA America Brothers, l would like to use this opportunity to sincerely express my appreciation for your generosity to me and my children. The check and extra contributions went towards outstanding electricity bills, a portable indoor AC unit to cool off the heat and also for food. Your assistance could not have come at a better time! Thank you, Thank You, Thank You, SOBA America!!! May your Jars never run dry, IJMN🙏!!
I am overwhelmed with joy to have been part of this initiative and will plead that your relentless efforts in helping people should be a success in our association. United we stand, divided we fall. Once more a million thanks and stay blessed.”
-SOBANESE
“Please kindly convey my utmost gratitude to SOBA hierarchy for the surprising gift. To be a SOBAN is pride and blessing! My 2020/2021 daily bread is guaranteed as well as my communications bills are assured. I pray for SOBANS! I pray for Sasse! The Lord be with you all!!”
-SOBAN class of 56
As evident in the testimonials, it is impossible to quantify the effect that this program has had on some of the recipients especially during this challenging times.
The National Leadership Team, we will like to take this time to extend appreciation and to celebrate all SOBANS for all the various acts of kindness we continue to show one another. Not only does the success of a programs like the Lend-A-Hand initiative give our organization the reputation it rightfully deserves, but it also tells us that the SOBAN spirit is the dedication of every able SOBAN to ensure that no SOBAN is left behind, and that is worth celebrating.