A February 16, 2002 appeal

February 16, 2002

Dear Fellow Lithuanian-American,

February 16, 2002, the people of Lithuania will celebrate the 84th anniversary of their Declaration of Independence. We, LithuanianAmericans, living in the United States, join in this proud celebration of regained-freedom by expressing hope and confidence in Lithuania's future.

During the year 2001, Lithuania has made great strides in its quest to become a member of two important international structures - NATO and the European Union. The successful meeting of NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Vilnius in May, has advanced Lithuania's chances of being extended an invitation to join NATO during the Summit meeting of NATO member states in Prague this November. On the positive note, has been the improvement of Lithuania's economic situation, specifically in the area of its trade with the West. At last , we have seen Lithuanian goods enter this country. Slowly, but surely, they are capturing public eye! Lithuania's President Adamkus has received U.S. attention and wide acclaim for Lithuania's successful efforts to ally itself with the United States and world democracies. Similarly, our organization's efforts have been highly successful in securing support from members of Congress and the Administration.

Lithuanian American Community, Inc. is continuing its efforts to embrace ,all Americans of Lithuanian descent and newcomers from Lithuania. We have devoted our energy and funds to help Lithuania in various ways (economic, political, charitable) and accomplished much. To reach the non-Lithuanian speaking membership, we publish the monthly magazine "Bridges", a scholarly quarterly "Lituanus", continue to improve our bilingual web site on the internet and issue organizational bulletins in both Lithuanian and English.

Our work is accomplished through a coordinated effort of six (6) councils: Educational, Cultural, Human Services, Economic, Religious and Public Affairs. The LAC Washington Office in Reston, VA maintains contacts with governmental and non-governmental institutions as well as with American and Lithuanian media. We work without compensation to provide programs for us in the United States and to assist Lithuania. However, there are overhead and operating costs to be met. On this occasion each year, we turn to you for financial support. While we value your generous contributions to numerous charitable causes throughout the year, in February we ask you not to forget the need to support your Community in the United States. Please help us continue to provide fine programs for the preservation of our ethnicity, for our own sake and that of Lithuania.

Please give generously through your Chapter on Independence Day. Should you be unable to so contribute, please forward your tax deductible donation directly to us. Let 2002 be the year of our strengthened solidarity with our homeland - Lithuania.

You can give your donation on-line!