A Helping Hand, Supporting Partners of Lost Veterans Inc.

A Helping Hand, Supporting Partners of Lost Veterans Inc. (abbreviated as AHH or A Helping Hand) is an Australian nonprofit charitable organization established in 2019. It operates as a “Welfare Patriotic Fund” dedicated to providing welfare and support specifically for the partners and dependants of Australian Defence Force veterans who are considered “lost” — a term referring to those veterans who have passed away or are otherwise no longer present[1][3].

History and Background

A Helping Hand was founded by ex-servicemen and supporters affiliated with the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club Australia Inc., Gippsland Chapter. The organization is 100% volunteer-run and actively supported by the Gippsland Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club, which serves as its primary partner and supporter[1][3][4].

The concept of patriotic funds — which A Helping Hand continues — dates back to after World War I, when such funds were created by Victorian communities to assist soldiers and their families. These funds traditionally provide welfare services and facilities such as clubrooms for returned service personnel and their dependants[3].

Mission and Objectives

The core mission of A Helping Hand is to meet the needs of Australian veterans and their families who require assistance. The organization particularly focuses on supporting the partners and dependants of “lost” veterans by providing for the sick, helpless, wounded, aged, disabled, destitute, and needy among those who have served in the Australian Defence Force[3].

Dependants are defined by A Helping Hand as children, grandchildren, or others who were solely dependent on the veteran for their support[3].

Structure and Operations

• A Helping Hand operates entirely through volunteer efforts without paid staff[3].
• The charity is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and functions under the legal framework of a Welfare Patriotic Fund and incorporated association[2][4].
• Its supporters are described as passionate, and the organization is noted for being proactive in proposing and following through on support initiatives aimed at its target group[3].

Significance

By focusing on the partners and dependants of lost Australian service men and women, A Helping Hand addresses a niche yet critical area within veteran welfare, ensuring ongoing support beyond the veteran themselves to those left behind.

This summary provides an overview of A Helping Hand, Supporting Partners of Lost Veterans Inc., its origins, mission, and role within the community supporting Australian veterans and their families.

[1] https://ahelpinghand.org.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/3e757e5b-7339-ea11-a812-000d3ad1f9f4/profile [3] https://ahelpinghand.org.au/about/ [4] http://vvmcvic.com/a-helping-hand.html [5] https://www.helpinghandsforfreedom.org