BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- The Maintenance Outreach Organization (MOO) made its way into the world around five years ago after rebranding the Christmas Card Fund that started out as a way to provide assistance for families in need. The Christmas Card Fund began in the 1980’s as a way for people to donate money and the donations were given to those in need in a card solely for the Christmas season.
Today the MOO helps people in need throughout the Wing and the community all year because the founding members saw a potential to help those in need more than once a year. They host events where people can participate in different tournaments by donating to play, with all of the proceeds going to help those in need.
The MOO we know and love today was founded by Master Sgt. Neal Crotzer, his wife, Master Sgt. Samantha Crotzer and co-worker, Master Sgt. Tatiana Cookingham, who have grown the organization tremendously from its humble beginnings. They currently consist of about 15 total members throughout the unit and have established connections with other agencies within the community.
“The MOO is very dedicated to help those in our Wing and our community,” said Master Sgt. Neal Crotzer, Maintenance Accessory Superintendent and MOO vice president.
“We depend on people around the base to give us the information we need to help [those in need] in the community and members of the unit who have had house fires and lost power or groceries due to tornadoes [among other things],” said Crotzer.
He also explained that names are not necessary when someone is truly in need. They just have to know the extent of the need and how to get help to them.
Anyone who is currently in need may contact a member of the MOO or send them a message through Facebook.