The Flag Store owners honored for philanthropy

Martin and Valorie Smith opened The Flag Store, Sign & Banner 30 years ago. Over that time, they have made philanthropy a big part of their business.

Recently, the Smiths were honored for their efforts when they were presented with the Outstanding Philanthropist award at the 29th Annual Cornerstone Awards.

The awards, which coincided with National Philanthropy Day Luncheon on Nov. 15, were presented by the Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Nevada Sierra Chapter.

“It was kind of a shock,” Martin Smith said. “Honestly I wondered why we were nominated for this thing. But the cool thing is when we were at the luncheon, we were surrounded by a lot of people we had known for a long time.”

The couple was nominated by Noreen Leary of Veteran’s Guest House on Locust Street, a haven for needy families whenever a loved one is receiving treatment at the nearby Veteran’s Hospital.

The Flag Store has been supporting the VGH since its inception 21 years ago. Martin Smith said one of The Flag Store’s early patrons, the late Ben Duncan was helping to establish the VGH, originally called The Spouse House. Duncan asked the Smiths if they could lend a hand, to which the latter readily obliged.

In a letter nominating the Smiths for the award, Lowry acknowledged the Smiths have donated flags, flag poles, auction items and discounts on other merchandise including banners. She estimated The Flag Store owners have given $160,000 in support to the VGH.

Soon after the start of the Gulf War, the Smiths created “We Support Our Troops” yellow ribbons and raised $8,000 to support families with military members overseas.

In addition to its military efforts, The Smiths have given to other local organization, including The CARE Chest, American Cancer Society and The Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows.

“We try to be as diligent as we can,” Martin Smith added.