Phelps for the Fort

Phelps for the Fort (PFTF) is a joint effort of the Rolla and St. James Chambers, who have partnered with the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) to direct Phelps County’s response to the opportunities presented by the anticipated growth of the military community at Ft. Leonard Wood.
    
Specifically, the draft bylaws state the “Organization is established to promote the expansion, development and effectiveness of Fort Leonard Wood.” They further state that the Committee “will work with and provide support for the military citizens of the region and…work cooperatively with all other communities with a vested interest in the success of the military missions at Ft. Leonard Wood.”

At the end of 2005, there were 53 corporate members and 35 associate members of the organization. Associate members - those who are retired or who are affiliated with governmental organizations, which can’t officially become members of a lobbying organization – are asked to join as individual members of AUSA at the rate of $33 per year. Corporations and businesses pay annual dues of $250 and are encouraged to join AUSA as either corporate ($150) or individual ($33) members. In 2005 PFTF invited the local chapters of the VFW and the American Legion to join as non-dues paying members.

PFTF also maintains a close relationship with representatives of the FLW command group, the other two military support groups in Pulaski and Laclede Counties and the FLW Regional Commerce and Growth Association (RCGA).

PFTF supports five (5) standing committees, which include:  Planning/Finance, Government Relations, Golf/Events, AUSA BBQ/Summerfest and Speakers Bureau.

PFTF accomplishments include:
·    Participation with FLW International Student Detachment
·    Conducted PFTF focus group meeting with FLW families living in Phelps County
·    Co-Hosted 2005 Golf Links Tournament
·    Donated $1900 to Injured Soldiers Fund
·    Co-Hosted AUSA BBQ
·    Arranged meetings between FLW and Phelps County Public Schools
·    Directed project for Phelps County School Districts to join Military Child Education Coalition
·    Adopted logo design
·    Sponsored FLW Spouse’s Tour of Rolla
·    Contributed to St. Nick’s Benefit

PFTF meetings are held monthly in the Assembly Room of the Rolla Technical Center and hosted by the Rolla Public School System.