Diamond Posse reaches out to Veterans
Betsy Lister in collaboration with Maverick - Mar 25, 2011

The "Diamond Posse", a veteran's outreach program consisting of three dynamic motorcycling women; Vicki "Spitfire" Sanfelipo, "Cat" Hammes, and Amy "Diva" Skaling, announce their fundraiser for veterans. The Diamond Posse is joined by Betsy *Gypsy* Lister and they have partnered with NEADS whose mission is to train and provide independence to people who are deaf or physically disabled through the use of canine assistance.  

NEADS, a Massachusetts based nonprofit program, trains service dogs for disabled veterans and other Americans in need. Diamond Posse’s goal this year is to raise $20,000 to be able to gift a disabled veteran with a service dog.

The Diamond Posse will officially launch their fundraising efforts on March 31st at Arizona Bike Week; where they will meet and greet fellow riders to share their vision for this project, their passion for riding, and for supporting those who have served the United States of America.   Rally goers and the public are invited to stop by to say hello, check out Diamond Posse bikes, share stories, and learn more about this year's fundraiser, the Diamond Posse and NEADS.

The Diamond Posse web site will track the progress of choosing the dog, naming the dog, the dog's training, what events they will be attending, and our progress towards the fundraising goal.  Visitors can click here to follow the Diamond Posse’s activities and progress.  

Around September 3rd this year, Gypsy will leave Boston on her motorcycle, (with posse in tow), Amy (Diva) will leave CA on hers., Vicki (Spitfire) and Cat will leave WI on theirs with their respective posses – headed for Kansas City.   During the ride they will stop at various VA centers to thank veterans for their service; and to let them know that we care and are trying to make their lives better.   

In Kansas City there'll be a tribute rally held on Saturday September 10th, sponsored by Gail's HD, and a huge ride the next day on 9/11. The Diamond Posse has been invited to be celebrity riders at this event.

Gypsy says; “It would be an honor to be joined by other women (and men) on this journey for either the entire trip, or meet up with each posse along the way and continue on to Kansas City. If you or someone you know is interested in joining any one of us for this worthwhile journey, please let me know!”

She went on to say; “Veterans have always been near and dear to me; and helping them to get the recognition, homage, thanks, benefits and services they deserve is a part of what I've devoted myself to since 1967 when I became engaged to my husband Richard, a 100% disabled Vietnam Veteran! For the past 15 years each weekend I've compiled a POW/MIA Veterans eZine that's delivered to veterans all over the country. As a Patriot Guard Rider and an Associate Member of two Marine Corps League Detachments, and a full member of the MCL's Honorable Few riding detachment I continue to work to benefit veterans and veterans causes on a regular basis.

I will be forever honored, humbled and blessed to work diligently as an advocate for veterans! I want to get the word out to others about the challenges they face, network on their behalf, to make their lives better and play an integral role in their recovery. It is because of their service that we enjoy the freedoms we have today! “

To support the Diamond Posse in this project, send donations by making checks payable to "Diamond Posse", and mail to the following address:

Additional questions regarding this year's Diamond Posse fundraiser can be emailed to Gypsypashn@aol.com or call Gypsy at: 781-718-3543.