Don’t act impulsively. Wait until your mind and heart speak together.

In 1941, the United States was on the verge of war. With tensions mounting, and the military growing, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was concerned about the welfare and spirits of those headed for battle, and he appealed to the country to provide morale and recreational services to the troops. In response, the United Service Organizations Inc. (USO) was created. Locally, USO San Diego goes above and beyond to provide help when, where, and however it’s needed.

As a longtime supporter of USO San Diego, Reena Horowitz is once again co-chairing their annual gala to help strengthen America’s military by keeping them connected to family, home, and country throughout their service to our nation.

10 Things About Reena Horowitz & USO San Diego

#1 I was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and came to San Diego as a child. I am lucky to live in La Jolla.

#2 A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines is my favorite restaurant; I also like The Market at Rancho Santa Fe.

#3 The best dog in my life was a runt of a Sheltie named “Dancer”, for her joyous trotting. A loyal, brave, and lovable dog.

#4 If I could have lunch with any one person, it would be the Dalai Lama.

#5 I think I was born with a love for philanthropy. I’ve always wanted to help people in need – also my mother was an activist.

#6 When the next of kin arrive locally to meet the body of a service member who has given the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom, USO San Diego provides comfort and assistance to the loved ones by helping to arrange and expedite the process.

#7 Through the Bob Hope Legacy Reading Program, while service members are away, they are able to read a book to their children through virtual, on-demand story time offerings.

#8 Children of military families serve too, and USO San Diego is proud to always be by their side by honoring and celebrating the sacrifice and service of our military children. These courageous boys and girls stand in steadfast support of their military family member throughout moves and deployments.

#9 Every Tuesday, USO San Diego offers a hosted dinner at their Downtown Center for service members and their families. Different volunteer groups from local businesses, corporations and civic groups serve up a home-cooked meal each week.

#10 In 2018, USO San Diego assisted over 250,000 active duty service members and their families by serving over 32,000 free meals, providing a food pantry, and arranging services for families in crisis – all done with funds we raised as the USO does not receive any government funding.