Plenty of Compton residents have driven past the building on Palmer Street a hundred times without a second look.

Commander Gregory Johnson wants to change that.

Now serving his second term at the helm of the Compton VFW Post, Johnson brings a lifetime of service to the job as a military veteran, a former schoolteacher and a former principal with the Los Angeles Unified School District.

His message to the community is direct: the VFW post is far more than a place to stop in for a drink.

Johnson sees the post as a resource center and a place of refuge for men and women who return home carrying challenges most civilians never see.

Counseling, referrals, help tracking down veterans resources, or simply a conversation with someone who understands are all part of the mission.

Like many longtime Compton institutions, the building needs some attention and love.

Tuesday night fundraisers are underway to renovate the entrance and restrooms, with the goal of a cleaner, more modern and more welcoming space that still keeps some of its vintage character.

Johnson credits the City of Compton for stepping in to help with the floors and with preparations for a new central heating and air conditioning system he hopes to see installed in the coming months.

In conversation, he comes across as knowledgeable, professional and appreciative, a leader who clearly has a plan.

The post is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 303 Palmer Street, inside the old DMV building next to Faith Inspirational Church.

Veterans who need help can stop by and speak with Johnson directly about available resources and referrals.

Residents do not have to be veterans to show up, socialize, join the fundraising nights and support an institution that has served generations of Compton veterans.

Sometimes the most valuable resources in a community are the ones people drive past every day.

Our veterans served this country, and now Compton has a chance to serve them back.