Foundation not a scam

I am writing in response to a June 15 letter entitled “Solicitors just scammers?” that questioned the identity and legitimacy of an organization conducting fundraising in Spokane.

As the founder of The Guardians Foundation Inc., I would like to take this opportunity to introduce our organization and update our friends and supporters. We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) that assists military veterans and their families with food, shelter, clothing, household items, counseling referrals, educational/job opportunities and unexpected expenses.

The Guardians Foundation was granted a permit to conduct these fundraisers by the city of Spokane. We are licensed in several states, including Idaho and Washington. We are a member of the Eastern Washington Veterans Task Force, Idaho Nonprofit Center and GuideStar.

We currently operate four local facilities housing homeless or at-risk veterans and are working with the mayor’s office to expand our capacity. We also operate a thrift store in Post Falls. Proceeds from sales benefit veterans by funding our other programs and services.

One program that we are particularly proud of is our partnership with the Spokane County Veterans Services office. We have collaborated with them to assist veterans who do not qualify for their services.

Michael Shaw

Post Falls