NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — A Norfolk veterans nonprofit may just have the help they need to stay open for a little while longer.  American Legion Post 37 recently put out a plea for help to keep their doors open and so far, the surrounding community is responding.  Commander Alonzo Scott recently explained that membership is down to 20%, which means they’re not bringing in enough money for dues. He also added that the cost of rent is increasing in the building they are located in.  “It’s so concerning because I do not want to see the services that we offer the community and the veterans in this large military area to go away,” Scott said.  Whether it's organizing donations for a food pantry or informing other veterans about their benefits, Post 37 aims to lend a helping hand in Norfolk.  "We like to look at our post as a community resource center,” Scott said.   According to board member Caroline Tetschner, the role has recently reversed for the century-old nonprofit, and they are now the ones seeking support.  "We'd love to just focus on helping veterans and helping our community and the mission without having to every day decide, do we have enough for the electric bill," Tetschner said.   Tetschner explained they shared their story in hopes they'd get the help they need to stay open. Once they made that plea, she shared that they've gotten some support.    "We've gotten about $1,500 in donations, which is wonderful and actually covers most of one month's rent. So, it does buy us some time, and we did have another individual whom we're working with who is interested in perhaps donating one of his businesses as free rent," Tetschner said.   She said they'll now be able to make it to January or February, but they still need additional help.  They're hoping to have a new location that's on ground level so it's more accessible to veterans, as well as a prosperous future so they can continue helping others for years to come.  “We're here and we are a pillar and we're trying to help service, our active duty and our veterans. And you know, for us, and I know for me personally, we can't give up, you know. Not existing or leaving, that's not a word that I want to address,” Scott said.   If you would like to learn more about donating to Post 37, you can visit their website here.