Most of the significant work of the DAR is done at grass roots level through the individual chapters. Rufus Fairbanks chapter has its own programs and initiatives based on the DAR’s mission and guidance from the national and state leadership. Our committees are the base of our chapter’s involvement in our community and the DAR. These are only a small list of committees that give our members opportunities to participate in the DAR objectives that they are most interested and passionate about.
American History – Our aim is to promote American history throughout the year by honoring historically significant people, places, dates and events, and recognizing women, past and present, in American history.
American Indians – The DAR has always been a proponent of assisting and educating our Native American population. This committee keeps us abreast of the needs of our Native Americans, especially the youth. We have a “minute” at each meeting to share information about the original indigenous populations across our great nation. We also assist in the support of several American Indian schools.
Children of the American Revolution (C.A.R.) – This chapter, along with the other DAR chapters in our county, supports the Captain John Barry Chapter of the C.A.R.
Conservation – The goal of the Conservation Committee is to preserve and utilize our natural resources in the best way possible. We have a “conservation minute” at each of our meetings, sharing tips on recycling, gardening, and conserving water and other natural resources.
DAR Good Citizens – Each year this chapter sponsors a Good Citizens Essay Contest and awards a monetary scholarship to a deserving high school senior.
DAR School – One of the goals of the DAR is education. The DAR School Committee collects box tops and labels for education and supports schools sponsored by the DAR.
DAR Service for Veterans — DAR honors and celebrates all veterans and their families for their service to our country. We assist and support other veterans outreach organizations and programs.
The Flag of the United States of America – The purpose of this committee is to keep the flag flying, to promote the proper use and care of our country’s flag and to preserve its history. At each meeting, a “U.S. Flag Minute” is presented to further educate chapter members.
Historic Preservation – This committee works to support preserving historic landmarks and monuments not only in our local community, but also in the broader state and national level. We also find ways to honor and recognize those who have go above and beyond to do so in our local community.
Junior Membership – Members from the age of 18 to 35 are Junior Members. They are the future of the DAR. Juniors can page at state and national conferences and they also have state and national projects they participate in. This committee has the goal of gaining new Junior Members while assisting DAR supported schools.
Lineage Research – This committee helps prospective members research their ancestry and obtain the documents necessary to become a member of the DAR.
National Defense – The DAR believes in a strong national defense. At every chapter meeting a “NSDAR National Defense Minute” is presented. This committee also presents ROTC medals at local high schools.
DAR Project Patriot – This chapter supports our active duty military. Coupons are collected for families of military personnel stationed overseas. (They can use them at the Military Post Exchange, but they can’t get them in foreign papers.) Care packages are also sent to the troops serving on the front lines.
Units Overseas – There are DAR chapters located throughout the globe. The Units Overseas Committee keeps us apprised of their activities, and several members are active participants.
Volunteer Information Specialists – This committee is responsible for the maintenance of the chapter website and social media. There are opportunities at the State Society and National Society levels for data entry, digitizing and indexing historical documents, and special projects.
Women’s Issues – The DAR takes pride in educating members about issues that affect women. Topics of great interest are women’s history, careers, family, and women’s health issues. Information is shared at every meeting as well as through the chapter newsletter. The goal is to help DAR become an integral part of the lives of women across the age spectrum.