VFW Post 4107 makes major moves to better serve veterans: smoke-free canteen, nonprofit status restored

LEBANON, Mo. — Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4107 is taking significant steps to strengthen its mission and better serve local veterans, including a move to a smoke-free and vape-free facility and the restoration of its federal nonprofit status.

The Post will close its canteen on Sunday, August 31, 2025, to deep-clean, sanitize, and perform maintenance ahead of a new policy that takes effect Monday, September 1, 2025. Beginning that day, smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes will no longer be permitted inside the Post or the canteen. Designated smoking areas will be available outside, including the outdoor beer garden, with proper receptacles. Members are asked to assist with cleanup starting at 8 a.m. on August 31, with work continuing through the day. Early reaction among members has been mostly positive, with some dissenters expressing concerns about the change.

Post leadership also announced that VFW Post 4107 has regained its 501(c)(19) tax-exempt status, retroactive to November 15, 2022. The reinstatement follows a year-plus effort in which the Post opened its books, underwent a forensic review, filed outstanding returns, and revamped internal controls. Post Commander Jamie Folsom credited support from U.S. Rep. Mark Alford and Missouri state representatives Jeff Knight and Melissa Schmidt for helping move the process forward. With nonprofit status restored, the Post can once again pursue donations and expanded opportunities to support veterans. “From all of us at VFW Post 4107, thank you for your continued support. Together, we honor the past, serve the present, and build the future,” the Post said in its public announcement.

What is a VFW Post?

The Veterans of Foreign Wars is a congressionally chartered nonprofit organization for eligible U.S. military veterans who served in overseas conflicts. Local posts like 4107 provide camaraderie, peer support, advocacy for veterans’ benefits, community service projects, and Honor Guard funeral services. In Lebanon, Post 4107 reports recent growth in membership and ongoing partnerships with local nonprofits to assist veterans and the broader community.

Members and supporters can learn more about these changes and the Post’s plans on the next episode of Lebanon Vet Talk, when Post Commander Jamie Folsom sits down with Adam Fries.