Volunteer Spotlight
August 31, 2015Veteran spotlight
September 18, 2015Fundraiser update – Crossing Iowa for a cause
Jack Wickes raised $3,700 for HVAF through his fundraising efforts while participating in RAGBRAI – the Des Moines Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride. On July 19, he completed 7 days of cycling more than 462 miles across the state of Iowa. He started training in April and set out to achieve a fitness goal as well as raise awareness and funds for HVAF programs and services. To further the efforts to help homeless veterans, Wickes dedicated 50 cents for every RAGRAI mile to HVAF.
With the support and encouragement of friends new and old, Wickes created awareness of the issue of homelessness among veterans across the state. He says his military service as a sergeant in Vietnam gave him a deeper understanding and appreciation for others who have served.
“We appreciate those who have served our country, but there are those that really need our help,” says Jack. “In addition to their service, they just need to get back on their feet. This is about helping those vets that are down. They served our country and this is our way of giving back to them.”
During his time on the road, Wickes sent in photos about his experiences: the things he saw, the emotions he felt and the challenges he faced.
Additionally, Jack’s story garnered both national and local news coverage on AOL.com, NPR, WQAD in the Quad Cities area of West-Central Illinois and Eastern Iowa, FOX59, CBS4 and RTV6.
With the support and encouragement of friends new and old, Wickes created awareness of the issue of homelessness among veterans across the state. He says his military service as a sergeant in Vietnam gave him a deeper understanding and appreciation for others who have served.
“We appreciate those who have served our country, but there are those that really need our help,” says Jack. “In addition to their service, they just need to get back on their feet. This is about helping those vets that are down. They served our country and this is our way of giving back to them.”
During his time on the road, Wickes sent in photos about his experiences: the things he saw, the emotions he felt and the challenges he faced.
Additionally, Jack’s story garnered both national and local news coverage on AOL.com, NPR, WQAD in the Quad Cities area of West-Central Illinois and Eastern Iowa, FOX59, CBS4 and RTV6.