ERLANGER, Ky. – DAV (Disabled American Veterans) has named John Raber of Gainesville, Florida, as its 2023 DAV Volunteer of the Year. Raber will be formally recognized Aug. 5 during the 2023 DAV and Auxiliary National Convention in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Each year, DAV recognizes its top volunteer by presenting its Volunteer of the Year award in honor of the late George H. Seal, who helped shape and expand the organization’s volunteer programs. DAV members who donate their time through either the Local Volunteer Assistance Program (LVAP) or the Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) program are eligible for the award.

Over the past 20 years, Raber has logged more than 6,000 volunteer hours working to improve the lives of veterans.

“John has an incredibly positive influence on everyone he meets,” said Andy Marshall, adjutant for the DAV Department of Florida. “As both a department- and chapter-level benefits advocate and as a leader within our organization, he works tirelessly to care for his fellow veterans in his community and to ensure their voices are heard and interests are known at all levels of government. He does not stop until the job is done.”

Marshall said Raber regularly recruits others to join him in volunteering for legislative and fundraising activities, expanding the effectiveness his chapter has on providing support to veterans in the community. Knowing how valuable their time is, he personally thanks everyone for their efforts.

“John’s commitment to veterans in his community defines selfless service,” said DAV National Commander Joe Parsetich. “He goes above and beyond what is asked because he cares so deeply about his fellow veterans. Not only does he help grow his chapter and keep it running smoothly, but he also works with veterans on an individual level to help improve their lives.”

Raber is a member of DAV Chapter 18 in Bradenton, Florida; a member of DAV Auxiliary Unit 18 in Bradenton; and a past Department of Florida commander.

Photos and media may be made available upon request.

 

About DAV
DAV empowers veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. It is dedicated to a single purpose: keeping our promise to America’s veterans. DAV does this by ensuring that veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them, fighting for the interests of America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill, providing employment resources to veterans and their families, and educating the public about the great sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning back to civilian life. DAV, a nonprofit organization with more than 1 million members, was founded in 1920 and chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1932.