Rebuilding Together event set for convention

On June 16, Jacob Gadd, The American Legion's deputy director for Health Care, and the Wisconsin Department Adjutant David Kurtz participated in a conference call with Rebuilding Together's national headquarters and its Milwaukee affiliate on a joint American Legion/Rebuilding Together project.

During The American Legion's 2010 National Convention, the first national American Legion/Rebuilding Together kickoff will be held at the Dry Hootch project site in downtown Milwaukee. The date of event will be August 27, and American Legion National Commander Clarence Hill will provide formal remarks at the opening ceremony and participate in some of the repairs and renovations. The Department of Wisconsin is organizing and recruiting 20-30 local Wisconsin Legionnaires to volunteer in the hallmark event and assist with some minor interior and exterior projects, as well as coordinating with local media.

The Dry Hootch project concept was to design a special and social space for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to serve coffee, answer questions, and have group therapy and counseling for post-traumatic stress disorder and family support.

Rebuilding Together is the nation's leading non-profit organization dedicated to preserving affordable home ownership by providing free repair services. Since 2005, Rebuilding Together's Veteran Housing Program has completed over 500 veteran home projects, served 3,579 individuals and engaged over 15,000 volunteers in these projects. Rebuilding Together's home repair and renovation services are provided at no cost to qualified veterans and their families. The American Legion partnered with Rebuilding Together through Resolution 109 at the 2009 National Convention.

The American Legion is committed to supporting quality veteran housing in the community. To become a volunteer at a local Rebuilding Together affiliate, click here. To volunteer or learn more about American Legion volunteer programs, click here. .