Prizes include autographed, life-size photos of Carolina Hurricanes’ players

RDU Airport, NC – The Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority and the USO of North Carolina are teaming up to raise money for the USO Center at RDU. USO volunteers are selling raffle tickets for autographed, life-size cut-outs of eight Carolina Hurricanes in full uniform. The Stanley Cup champions are also donating two ticket packs to a hockey game at the RBC Center.

The fund drive, which began on Monday, November 27, has already raised over $4,000 for the USO. Proceeds will be used to purchase new computers and furniture for the center at RDU.

“Thanks to the support of the Triangle community, our USO staff and volunteers at RDU have provided a home away from home for over 50,000 troops who have traveled through RDU,” said Judy Pitchford, president and COO, USO of North Carolina, Inc. “The community’s support has been and will continue to be vital to the USO’s success at RDU.”

Raffle tickets are $5 and may be purchased through December 20 at 1:00, when the raffle drawing will be held. Tickets are available from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at tables located near each security checkpoint in Terminals A and C. Raffle tickets can also be purchased online at www.uso-nc.org.

Travelers may also make donations to the USO Center at any RDU store or restaurant. Donations will be received through December 31. With each donation, a signed placard will be placed in care packages being sent to the troops by USO North Carolina.

Each month, the USO at RDU serves over 2,000 military men, women and their families, providing them a place to rest while they wait for their flights. Other amenities at the center include computers with high-speed Internet access, kitchenette, food and beverage service, large screen television, children’s play area, video gaming stations and changing rooms.

The USO Center at RDU opened on August 5, 2004 and is located on the second floor of Terminal A directly above The Corner coffee shop.

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