In the News
Local nonprofits approach goals through Gannett fundraising program
Columbia Daily Tribune - September 26, 2020
Columbia Daily Tribune - September 26, 2020
A hospital room never feels like home, no matter the quality of care. There’s no welcome mat to wipe your feet across, nothing that’s yours.
As a volunteer at Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Larry Long has read the lines of displacement on faces of family members converting their loved one’s room into a place to lodge for the night. “Time and time again, I ran into the wives and mothers and children of these veterans that were in the hospital. And they were sleeping in the rooms, sleeping on the floor itself, had no place to go,” he said. These encounters led Long to the board of Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House, a group that plans to build a Ronald McDonald House-type residence for military and veteran families on the grounds of Truman Hospital. Fisher House is one of four Mid-Missouri organizations aiming to boost its signal — and its mission — through A Community Thrives, a crowdfunding and grant program sponsored by Gannett, the parent company of 12 Missouri newspapers including the Tribune.
Fundraising began Monday and continues through Oct. 16. Donations can be made through each organization’s A Community Thrives campaign page.
In its fourth year, A Community Thrives encourages community-based nonprofits in their efforts to fulfill a project goal. Nonprofits raise funds through their campaign pages and also qualify for one of 16 national project grants. Local operating grants of $2,500 will be awarded to 100 nonprofits in areas served by Gannett newspapers.
Additionally, top fundraiser grants will be allotted to first- through third-place finishers in each of two tiers. Tier 1 organizations must raise at least $3,000 to qualify for prospective grants; Tier 2 groups must raise $6,000. No matter how well an organization does, it keeps each dollar raised through its campaign page. The program grows in significance as the COVID-19 pandemic tests the hardy resolve of arts groups and nonprofits, which traditionally rely on grants, donations and community events. “The pandemic has hurt families and communities across the state, and that has negatively affected nonprofit fundraising,” Jim Van Nostrand, Gannett’s Missouri state editor and the Columbia Daily Tribune’s executive editor, said in August.
The Fisher House board reached out to prospective donors just before the pandemic hit, receiving a strong response from VFW and American Legion groups. As civic groups and businesses halted activities or tightened their budgets, organizers have largely pressed pause on their own fundraising efforts, Long said. Formed in 2000, Fisher House Foundation served more than 32,000 families nationwide in 2019 and can accommodate up to 1,200 families daily, its website notes. A St. Louis house is in operation, and a Kansas City project recently broke ground, Long said.
Eager to play its part, organizers of Columbia’s Fisher House plan to construct 12 suites and, each year, house around 12,000 people. They aim to save patient families around $350,000 each year in lodging and transportation, their website states.
Truman Hospital employees will “prepare the construction site,” and the work will be completed by the Fisher House Foundation at a preliminary price tag of nearly $7 million. With very little overhead, the group can devote nearly all the money it raises to construction, Long said. Once the house is built, “it will be gifted to Truman VA,” board president Stephen Gaither said in an email, and operations will become the hospital’s responsibility. The local Fisher House chapter will shift focus, supporting the house with food and volunteers and raising money for more immediate needs.
The pandemic has not only affected fundraising, but the changed the shape of veteran care. With visitors limited, many patients are staying at the hospital alone, often dropped off by a loved one and picked up days later, Long said. The uncertainty of finding a hotel room in a strange city in the best times, and the isolation experienced at present, influences a patient’s condition.
“Family members are part of the treatment — we really do believe that,” Long said. A hotel room, if procured, might offer families a bed, a bathroom and a TV, Long said. The environment doesn’t always encourage relaxation or allow the mind to rest. The Fisher House would not only offer a suite for each family, but provide a kitchen and large common area for interacting with others if desired. Organizers see it as a place to relax into. That atmosphere holds potential to be an extension of the environment fostered within the hospital itself, Long added. “We’re very proud of our hospital here in Columbia. It seems like a small-town hospital. People are just friendly,” he said. “You can go to some of the larger VA hospitals in some of the large cities — it’s just a different feel. ... Having a house here, connected with our VA hospital, just adds to that family atmosphere.” Interested donors can learn more about the program at acommunitythrives.mightycause.com.
As a volunteer at Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Larry Long has read the lines of displacement on faces of family members converting their loved one’s room into a place to lodge for the night. “Time and time again, I ran into the wives and mothers and children of these veterans that were in the hospital. And they were sleeping in the rooms, sleeping on the floor itself, had no place to go,” he said. These encounters led Long to the board of Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House, a group that plans to build a Ronald McDonald House-type residence for military and veteran families on the grounds of Truman Hospital. Fisher House is one of four Mid-Missouri organizations aiming to boost its signal — and its mission — through A Community Thrives, a crowdfunding and grant program sponsored by Gannett, the parent company of 12 Missouri newspapers including the Tribune.
Fundraising began Monday and continues through Oct. 16. Donations can be made through each organization’s A Community Thrives campaign page.
In its fourth year, A Community Thrives encourages community-based nonprofits in their efforts to fulfill a project goal. Nonprofits raise funds through their campaign pages and also qualify for one of 16 national project grants. Local operating grants of $2,500 will be awarded to 100 nonprofits in areas served by Gannett newspapers.
Additionally, top fundraiser grants will be allotted to first- through third-place finishers in each of two tiers. Tier 1 organizations must raise at least $3,000 to qualify for prospective grants; Tier 2 groups must raise $6,000. No matter how well an organization does, it keeps each dollar raised through its campaign page. The program grows in significance as the COVID-19 pandemic tests the hardy resolve of arts groups and nonprofits, which traditionally rely on grants, donations and community events. “The pandemic has hurt families and communities across the state, and that has negatively affected nonprofit fundraising,” Jim Van Nostrand, Gannett’s Missouri state editor and the Columbia Daily Tribune’s executive editor, said in August.
The Fisher House board reached out to prospective donors just before the pandemic hit, receiving a strong response from VFW and American Legion groups. As civic groups and businesses halted activities or tightened their budgets, organizers have largely pressed pause on their own fundraising efforts, Long said. Formed in 2000, Fisher House Foundation served more than 32,000 families nationwide in 2019 and can accommodate up to 1,200 families daily, its website notes. A St. Louis house is in operation, and a Kansas City project recently broke ground, Long said.
Eager to play its part, organizers of Columbia’s Fisher House plan to construct 12 suites and, each year, house around 12,000 people. They aim to save patient families around $350,000 each year in lodging and transportation, their website states.
Truman Hospital employees will “prepare the construction site,” and the work will be completed by the Fisher House Foundation at a preliminary price tag of nearly $7 million. With very little overhead, the group can devote nearly all the money it raises to construction, Long said. Once the house is built, “it will be gifted to Truman VA,” board president Stephen Gaither said in an email, and operations will become the hospital’s responsibility. The local Fisher House chapter will shift focus, supporting the house with food and volunteers and raising money for more immediate needs.
The pandemic has not only affected fundraising, but the changed the shape of veteran care. With visitors limited, many patients are staying at the hospital alone, often dropped off by a loved one and picked up days later, Long said. The uncertainty of finding a hotel room in a strange city in the best times, and the isolation experienced at present, influences a patient’s condition.
“Family members are part of the treatment — we really do believe that,” Long said. A hotel room, if procured, might offer families a bed, a bathroom and a TV, Long said. The environment doesn’t always encourage relaxation or allow the mind to rest. The Fisher House would not only offer a suite for each family, but provide a kitchen and large common area for interacting with others if desired. Organizers see it as a place to relax into. That atmosphere holds potential to be an extension of the environment fostered within the hospital itself, Long added. “We’re very proud of our hospital here in Columbia. It seems like a small-town hospital. People are just friendly,” he said. “You can go to some of the larger VA hospitals in some of the large cities — it’s just a different feel. ... Having a house here, connected with our VA hospital, just adds to that family atmosphere.” Interested donors can learn more about the program at acommunitythrives.mightycause.com.
Masked marathon: Heart of America Marathon takes precautions and goes on as scheduled
KOMU Television, Columbia Missouri - September 7, 2020
While many races around the country went to a virtual format this year, the 61st Annual Heart of America Marathon went on as scheduled Labor Day morning.
The race worked with the city of Columbia and the Boone County Health Department to ensure they had a plan that was safe and in accordance with local regulations. Runners were spaced 10 feet apart at the starting line and were asked to wear a mask when passing other runners. Race Director Kathy Lee said to maintain their 10 foot distance, only two people started at one time. "So we had 35 rows of two-by-two," Lee said. There were also no spectators allowed at the finish line and no awards ceremony this year. "We just got rid of age group awards," Lee said. "But the runners are just happy to have an event to do. So no age group awards, and for the overall winners, we'll mail them their prize."
St. Louis native Ron Golan was running his 99th marathon today and is no stranger to the Heart of America Marathon.
"I keep coming back, and my wife keeps asking me 'why do you do it again? You've done it a couple of times,'" Golan said. "But it's just fun! I just like it." Golan said he runs 10 to 12 marathons a year. He was scheduled to run his 100th career marathon back in April, but his 99th and 100th were canceled due to the pandemic. Most marathons you have waves that are like hundreds of people [at the start], and this was two at a time," said Golan. "So it was very strange." Despite all the changes, Golan said he was just happy to have an in-person race. Several races this year, including the Boston Marathon, have been completed virtually. "I am not a big fan of virtual races," he said. "I actually did one, it was more of a fundraiser, so I signed up just to help some charity. But it's not the same. I really enjoy the fact that [the Heart of America Marathon] is an actual race despite all the issues and the precautions."
The Heart of America Marathon also introduced a new partner this year, the Fisher House Foundation. Fisher House, which provides temporary housing to veterans' families while their family members receive medical care, is coming to mid-Missouri soon. Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Board Chair Stephen Gaither said the plan is to build a Fisher House facility on the grounds of the Truman VA Hospital. "Hopefully we break ground in 2022," Gaither said. "[There will be] 10 to 12 suites in that house and that means 20 to 24 people can be served every night of the year."
KOMU Television, Columbia Missouri - September 7, 2020
While many races around the country went to a virtual format this year, the 61st Annual Heart of America Marathon went on as scheduled Labor Day morning.
The race worked with the city of Columbia and the Boone County Health Department to ensure they had a plan that was safe and in accordance with local regulations. Runners were spaced 10 feet apart at the starting line and were asked to wear a mask when passing other runners. Race Director Kathy Lee said to maintain their 10 foot distance, only two people started at one time. "So we had 35 rows of two-by-two," Lee said. There were also no spectators allowed at the finish line and no awards ceremony this year. "We just got rid of age group awards," Lee said. "But the runners are just happy to have an event to do. So no age group awards, and for the overall winners, we'll mail them their prize."
St. Louis native Ron Golan was running his 99th marathon today and is no stranger to the Heart of America Marathon.
"I keep coming back, and my wife keeps asking me 'why do you do it again? You've done it a couple of times,'" Golan said. "But it's just fun! I just like it." Golan said he runs 10 to 12 marathons a year. He was scheduled to run his 100th career marathon back in April, but his 99th and 100th were canceled due to the pandemic. Most marathons you have waves that are like hundreds of people [at the start], and this was two at a time," said Golan. "So it was very strange." Despite all the changes, Golan said he was just happy to have an in-person race. Several races this year, including the Boston Marathon, have been completed virtually. "I am not a big fan of virtual races," he said. "I actually did one, it was more of a fundraiser, so I signed up just to help some charity. But it's not the same. I really enjoy the fact that [the Heart of America Marathon] is an actual race despite all the issues and the precautions."
The Heart of America Marathon also introduced a new partner this year, the Fisher House Foundation. Fisher House, which provides temporary housing to veterans' families while their family members receive medical care, is coming to mid-Missouri soon. Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Board Chair Stephen Gaither said the plan is to build a Fisher House facility on the grounds of the Truman VA Hospital. "Hopefully we break ground in 2022," Gaither said. "[There will be] 10 to 12 suites in that house and that means 20 to 24 people can be served every night of the year."
Honoring Our Nation’s HeroesTruman VA Thanks All Who Have Served
Columbia Missourian – January 19, 2020
Columbia Missourian – January 19, 2020
Truman VA Strategic Partnership Officer Heather Brown presents Volunteer Richard Rice (also a member of the Mid-Missouri Fisher House board) with a “seven percent pin.”
On a hot July day in 1966, Airman First-Class Richard Rice, of St. Louis, Missouri, found himself delivering fuel to an infantry unit’s jungle outpost near Bien Hoa, Vietnam. Far from home, alone and drenched in sweat from the extreme heat and humidity, Rice felt a sense of pride in serving his country during a time of war.
“I volunteered to serve in Vietnam because as an individual I thought I could make a difference,” Rice said. “I felt that I owed my country something and I could do more by serving overseas.” Richard Rice during his U.S. Air Force enlistment.
After his tour in Vietnam, Rice left the U.S. Air Force to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education. However, eventually he re-enlisted — this time in the U.S. Army — and spent a total of 20 years in the military before retiring in 1994 as a Sergeant Major. Still active in Veterans’ affairs, he is a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.
Like Rice, E-4 Specialist Heather Brown also found herself serving in a forward area as a U.S. Army Reserve Civil Affairs soldier. Brown, the daughter of an Army officer stationed at multiple posts throughout the U.S., completed a one-year tour in Iraq from 2003 to 2004.
“We went to Kirkuk during the early part of our deployment,” Brown said. “It was very hot, and I was sweating profusely because of the heat and the 50 pounds of gear I was wearing. As we sat down in an alley for a break, an Iraqi gentleman offered everyone in my squad a cold pop. It was one of the best pops I’ve ever had in my life — mostly because it was so hot, but also because he gave it to us without knowing why we were there. He couldn’t speak but his friend understood him. Eventually, we found out that this man’s tongue had been cut out during Saddam Hussein’s reign. That was the moment I understood why we were there and that we could make a difference.”
Heather Brown, U.S. Army Veteran, in Iraq.
Although separated by two generations and different conflicts, Brown and Rice’s military service is similar in many ways. Both voluntarily served in forward areas during times of war. They also continue to serve Veterans as part of Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital — Rice as a volunteer and Brown as the medical center’s strategic partnership officer.
However, what they and all other Veterans have most in common is that they represent a very small portion of our nation’s society — those who have served in the U.S. military. In fact, according to the U.S. Census, only about seven percent of the current adult population has served in the armed forces. Less than one percent of the U.S. population currently serves.
As a modest way to thank them for their service, Truman VA staff designed a special pin to present to Veterans in recognition of their unique status. The device can be worn on a hat, clothing or on an accessory. Embossed on each one-inch diameter black and gold pin is, “United States Veteran, 7% Who Served.” When presented to a Veteran, each pin is attached to a small card that states, “Hello. We are humbled by and grateful for your service.”
“I volunteered to serve in Vietnam because as an individual I thought I could make a difference,” Rice said. “I felt that I owed my country something and I could do more by serving overseas.” Richard Rice during his U.S. Air Force enlistment.
After his tour in Vietnam, Rice left the U.S. Air Force to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education. However, eventually he re-enlisted — this time in the U.S. Army — and spent a total of 20 years in the military before retiring in 1994 as a Sergeant Major. Still active in Veterans’ affairs, he is a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.
Like Rice, E-4 Specialist Heather Brown also found herself serving in a forward area as a U.S. Army Reserve Civil Affairs soldier. Brown, the daughter of an Army officer stationed at multiple posts throughout the U.S., completed a one-year tour in Iraq from 2003 to 2004.
“We went to Kirkuk during the early part of our deployment,” Brown said. “It was very hot, and I was sweating profusely because of the heat and the 50 pounds of gear I was wearing. As we sat down in an alley for a break, an Iraqi gentleman offered everyone in my squad a cold pop. It was one of the best pops I’ve ever had in my life — mostly because it was so hot, but also because he gave it to us without knowing why we were there. He couldn’t speak but his friend understood him. Eventually, we found out that this man’s tongue had been cut out during Saddam Hussein’s reign. That was the moment I understood why we were there and that we could make a difference.”
Heather Brown, U.S. Army Veteran, in Iraq.
Although separated by two generations and different conflicts, Brown and Rice’s military service is similar in many ways. Both voluntarily served in forward areas during times of war. They also continue to serve Veterans as part of Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital — Rice as a volunteer and Brown as the medical center’s strategic partnership officer.
However, what they and all other Veterans have most in common is that they represent a very small portion of our nation’s society — those who have served in the U.S. military. In fact, according to the U.S. Census, only about seven percent of the current adult population has served in the armed forces. Less than one percent of the U.S. population currently serves.
As a modest way to thank them for their service, Truman VA staff designed a special pin to present to Veterans in recognition of their unique status. The device can be worn on a hat, clothing or on an accessory. Embossed on each one-inch diameter black and gold pin is, “United States Veteran, 7% Who Served.” When presented to a Veteran, each pin is attached to a small card that states, “Hello. We are humbled by and grateful for your service.”
DAR supports charities during Lights of Love Tree Lighting
December 9, 2019 – Boonville Daily News
The Missouri State Society Daughters of the American Revolution announced the donation of $157,000 for area nonprofits before the Lights of Love Tree Lighting on Saturday evening at the Rosyln Heights Mansion during the Miracle on Main Street Christmas Festival in Boonville.
Members of every branch of the military and public service were honored at the event. DAR presented a $150,000 check to the Fisher Houses in Missouri and a $7,000 check for Combat Boots & High Heels.
The Fisher House Foundation builds houses where military and veterans’ families can stay for free while a loved one is in the hospital. It has saved families an estimated $451 million in out of pocket costs for lodging and transportation, according to the foundation.
Combat Boots & High Heels is comprised of U.S. military veterans who give back to their fellow American patriots and support those in need. The group confronts issues in the veteran community, such as suicide, depression, homelessness, unemployment and poverty, according to its website.
December 9, 2019 – Boonville Daily News
The Missouri State Society Daughters of the American Revolution announced the donation of $157,000 for area nonprofits before the Lights of Love Tree Lighting on Saturday evening at the Rosyln Heights Mansion during the Miracle on Main Street Christmas Festival in Boonville.
Members of every branch of the military and public service were honored at the event. DAR presented a $150,000 check to the Fisher Houses in Missouri and a $7,000 check for Combat Boots & High Heels.
The Fisher House Foundation builds houses where military and veterans’ families can stay for free while a loved one is in the hospital. It has saved families an estimated $451 million in out of pocket costs for lodging and transportation, according to the foundation.
Combat Boots & High Heels is comprised of U.S. military veterans who give back to their fellow American patriots and support those in need. The group confronts issues in the veteran community, such as suicide, depression, homelessness, unemployment and poverty, according to its website.
American Legion Post 624 present $6,025 check to Friends of Mid Missouri Fisher House
October 4, 2019 – Lake News Online
American Legion Post 624 Sunrise Beach is proud to present a $6,025 check to Friends of Mid Missouri Fisher House, Columbia MO. Fisher House provides temporary free lodging to family me bers of Veterans who require an extended stay in the VA Hospital. Pictured l to r: Bill Blomberg, Sons of the American Legion; Stephen Gaither, Board Chair for Friends of Mid Missouri Fisher House; Commander Mark Schnoebelen; Deb Sutton, American Legion Auxiliary; and Rick Vondrachek, American Legion Riders.
October 4, 2019 – Lake News Online
American Legion Post 624 Sunrise Beach is proud to present a $6,025 check to Friends of Mid Missouri Fisher House, Columbia MO. Fisher House provides temporary free lodging to family me bers of Veterans who require an extended stay in the VA Hospital. Pictured l to r: Bill Blomberg, Sons of the American Legion; Stephen Gaither, Board Chair for Friends of Mid Missouri Fisher House; Commander Mark Schnoebelen; Deb Sutton, American Legion Auxiliary; and Rick Vondrachek, American Legion Riders.
Healing on the Katy Trail: Hike*Bike for Military Veterans
March 28, 2019 – Douglas County Herald
Missouri Daughters of the American Revolution joins The Fisher House Foundation and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to host “Hike*Bike for Military and Veterans” on Saturday, September 21, 2019. Hike*Bike is a charity walk and ride of various lengths across Missouri on the historic Katy Trail. All monies raised will support three new Fisher Houses in Missouri: Kansas City Fisher House at the Kansas City VA Medical Center; Columbia (Mid-Missouri) Fisher House at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital; and a second St. Louis Fisher House at the St. Louis VA Medical Center.
DAR is committed to helping military families. “From our founding days,” says Cindy Suich, State Regent of the Missouri DAR, “caring for veterans and the military has been a major priority. Today, hospitalized veterans and military deserve our special consideration and support.” Fisher Houses are similar to Ronald McDonald Houses except they provide a home for families of hospitalized veterans and military. “Family members can stay in these houses…AT NO COST TO THEM…,” Suich says, “and for as long as their loved one is hospitalized…whether that is days, weeks, or months.”
The statewide goal for Fisher Houses is to raise $3.1 million through donations and fundraisers across the state. The Missouri DAR plans to raise significant funds toward that goal through their Hike & Bike event. All of the Hike*Bike money raised will stay in Missouri.
Once the $3.1 million goal is met, the Fisher House Foundation will match that donation and build another Fisher House in Missouri.
“The Fisher Houses of Missouri Campaign will help tens of thousands of veterans and military for decades to come,” says Denise Dolan, Chief Advancement Officer, Fisher House Foundation. “Nothing will help them more than having their families at their hospital bedside to provide love, care, and support.”
On event day, Hike*Bike participants can enter and exit at designated trailheads along the Katy Trail—Augusta, North Jefferson, Rocheport, and Sedalia. State operated Support and Gear (SAG) stations will be available along the route. “Participants in Hike*Bike will experience a community vibe while supporting this great cause,” say event co-chairs Constance Hawley and Brenda Christensen. “There will be guest speakers, music, and much cheer as we serve our military, veterans, and their families.”
Anyone interested in participating in Hike*Bike for our nation’s military and veterans, should visit the “Hike Bike for Healing” Facebook page for more information and participant application forms, or email any questions to hikebike2019@gmail.com or call 314-399-9778.
To learn more about the work of today’s DAR, visit www.DAR.org.
Fisher House Foundation is best known for its network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, and in Europe, close to the medical center or hospital it serves. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room and an inviting living room. Fisher House Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee. Since inception, the program has saved military and veterans’ families an estimated $400+ million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation.
March 28, 2019 – Douglas County Herald
Missouri Daughters of the American Revolution joins The Fisher House Foundation and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to host “Hike*Bike for Military and Veterans” on Saturday, September 21, 2019. Hike*Bike is a charity walk and ride of various lengths across Missouri on the historic Katy Trail. All monies raised will support three new Fisher Houses in Missouri: Kansas City Fisher House at the Kansas City VA Medical Center; Columbia (Mid-Missouri) Fisher House at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital; and a second St. Louis Fisher House at the St. Louis VA Medical Center.
DAR is committed to helping military families. “From our founding days,” says Cindy Suich, State Regent of the Missouri DAR, “caring for veterans and the military has been a major priority. Today, hospitalized veterans and military deserve our special consideration and support.” Fisher Houses are similar to Ronald McDonald Houses except they provide a home for families of hospitalized veterans and military. “Family members can stay in these houses…AT NO COST TO THEM…,” Suich says, “and for as long as their loved one is hospitalized…whether that is days, weeks, or months.”
The statewide goal for Fisher Houses is to raise $3.1 million through donations and fundraisers across the state. The Missouri DAR plans to raise significant funds toward that goal through their Hike & Bike event. All of the Hike*Bike money raised will stay in Missouri.
Once the $3.1 million goal is met, the Fisher House Foundation will match that donation and build another Fisher House in Missouri.
“The Fisher Houses of Missouri Campaign will help tens of thousands of veterans and military for decades to come,” says Denise Dolan, Chief Advancement Officer, Fisher House Foundation. “Nothing will help them more than having their families at their hospital bedside to provide love, care, and support.”
On event day, Hike*Bike participants can enter and exit at designated trailheads along the Katy Trail—Augusta, North Jefferson, Rocheport, and Sedalia. State operated Support and Gear (SAG) stations will be available along the route. “Participants in Hike*Bike will experience a community vibe while supporting this great cause,” say event co-chairs Constance Hawley and Brenda Christensen. “There will be guest speakers, music, and much cheer as we serve our military, veterans, and their families.”
Anyone interested in participating in Hike*Bike for our nation’s military and veterans, should visit the “Hike Bike for Healing” Facebook page for more information and participant application forms, or email any questions to hikebike2019@gmail.com or call 314-399-9778.
To learn more about the work of today’s DAR, visit www.DAR.org.
Fisher House Foundation is best known for its network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, and in Europe, close to the medical center or hospital it serves. Fisher Houses have up to 21 suites, with private bedrooms and baths. Families share a common kitchen, laundry facilities, a warm dining room and an inviting living room. Fisher House Foundation ensures that there is never a lodging fee. Since inception, the program has saved military and veterans’ families an estimated $400+ million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation.
Lodging planned at VA for veteran families
December 5, 2018 – Fulton Sun
Families of veterans visiting the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital in Columbia will soon have a home away from home.
Charity Fisher House is building a 16-suite complex to house the families of military members and veterans staying at the hospital. Stephen Gaither, board president of Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House, visited the Fulton Rotary Club on Wednesday to encourage locals to support the project.
“Callaway County veterans absolutely end up at Truman,” he pointed out.
Suites at a Fisher House are first-come, first-serve. Families may stay for a single night or, depending on circumstances, much longer. When rooms aren’t available, Fisher House may pay for a hotel room for the family.
Fisher House has built 78 similar facilities at military hospitals and installations both at home and abroad. Currently, only one exists in Missouri (St. Louis). They’ve provided temporary housing for more than 35,000 families, saving them some $405 million in lodging costs, Gaither said. The Fisher House Foundation has a perfect rating on Charity Navigator.
The foundation hopes to break ground on the new facility in early 2021, with a projected completion date in late 2021. The total cost, including furnishing, is estimated at $6 million.
“Fisher House Foundation doesn’t dedicate to building a new house unless it has the resources in place to do so,” Gaither said. “However, our local group wants to try to offset the cost.”
After completing the facility, the Fisher House Foundation will donate it to the Truman VA hospital. Gaither worked at the hospital in public relations for decades before his recent retirement.
“Strictly speaking, VA health care benefits are for veterans only,” he said. “Sometimes, we’d try to get creative in accommodating a family that came from a long way away. Fisher House lets us do that in a way that’s not legally shady.”
During the next couple years, Gaither’s organization will be working hard to raise funds for the project. Many volunteer opportunities will be available as well. To learn more or get involved, visit facebook.com/midmofisherhouse.
December 5, 2018 – Fulton Sun
Families of veterans visiting the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital in Columbia will soon have a home away from home.
Charity Fisher House is building a 16-suite complex to house the families of military members and veterans staying at the hospital. Stephen Gaither, board president of Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House, visited the Fulton Rotary Club on Wednesday to encourage locals to support the project.
“Callaway County veterans absolutely end up at Truman,” he pointed out.
Suites at a Fisher House are first-come, first-serve. Families may stay for a single night or, depending on circumstances, much longer. When rooms aren’t available, Fisher House may pay for a hotel room for the family.
Fisher House has built 78 similar facilities at military hospitals and installations both at home and abroad. Currently, only one exists in Missouri (St. Louis). They’ve provided temporary housing for more than 35,000 families, saving them some $405 million in lodging costs, Gaither said. The Fisher House Foundation has a perfect rating on Charity Navigator.
The foundation hopes to break ground on the new facility in early 2021, with a projected completion date in late 2021. The total cost, including furnishing, is estimated at $6 million.
“Fisher House Foundation doesn’t dedicate to building a new house unless it has the resources in place to do so,” Gaither said. “However, our local group wants to try to offset the cost.”
After completing the facility, the Fisher House Foundation will donate it to the Truman VA hospital. Gaither worked at the hospital in public relations for decades before his recent retirement.
“Strictly speaking, VA health care benefits are for veterans only,” he said. “Sometimes, we’d try to get creative in accommodating a family that came from a long way away. Fisher House lets us do that in a way that’s not legally shady.”
During the next couple years, Gaither’s organization will be working hard to raise funds for the project. Many volunteer opportunities will be available as well. To learn more or get involved, visit facebook.com/midmofisherhouse.
Free veteran housing to be built for Truman Veterans’ Hospital
June 22, 2018 – Columbia Missourian
Veterans traveling for treatment at Truman Veterans’ Hospital will have a free place to stay after the Fisher House Foundation donates a house to the hospital in 2021.
The foundation has not yet decided the exact location. However, the new facility will be located on the hospital campus for easy access. Ultimately, the foundation will have the final say as to where exactly the house is built. Once the construction begins, the house will take six to nine months to complete.
The Fisher House Foundation is a non-profit that works like a Ronald McDonald house. A veteran’s family can stay in the house while the veteran gets medical treatment. The houses, once built by the foundation, are donated to the U.S. Department of Defense or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, said the hospital’s Chief of Voluntary Service Sylvia Jackson. After the houses are donated, the cost of upkeep and running the houses is shouldered by the department and private donations, she said.
To prepare for running the new house, Truman Veterans’ Hospital has formed an independent nonprofit to be in charge of funding. Last week, the IRS approved Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Incorporated as a nonprofit.
The nonprofit will be in control of the funding for the Fisher House once it has been donated. It will try to keep a fund of about $1 million to solve any major issues that come up in the house, Jackson said. For example, if something happens to the roof, the nonprofit will be able to cover it out of pocket without having to make a request through government channels for the funding, which could take months.
To encourage the foundation to build the house sooner, Jackson is trying to get some fundraising up and running.
“If we get some of the funding ourselves, we can generate excitement over at the foundation and bring them in to build faster,” she said.
She said the nonprofit’s current goal is to donate $3 million to the foundation for it to use toward the Columbia house. The board is planning to launch fundraising efforts in late July.
The chairman of the Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Inc., Stephen Gaither, had been working for the VA for more than 40 years when he was asked to chair the board.
“I think it’s a wonderful way to provide services to veterans and their families who might not be able to take care of themselves because they can’t afford to travel,” Gaither said.
June 22, 2018 – Columbia Missourian
Veterans traveling for treatment at Truman Veterans’ Hospital will have a free place to stay after the Fisher House Foundation donates a house to the hospital in 2021.
The foundation has not yet decided the exact location. However, the new facility will be located on the hospital campus for easy access. Ultimately, the foundation will have the final say as to where exactly the house is built. Once the construction begins, the house will take six to nine months to complete.
The Fisher House Foundation is a non-profit that works like a Ronald McDonald house. A veteran’s family can stay in the house while the veteran gets medical treatment. The houses, once built by the foundation, are donated to the U.S. Department of Defense or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, said the hospital’s Chief of Voluntary Service Sylvia Jackson. After the houses are donated, the cost of upkeep and running the houses is shouldered by the department and private donations, she said.
To prepare for running the new house, Truman Veterans’ Hospital has formed an independent nonprofit to be in charge of funding. Last week, the IRS approved Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Incorporated as a nonprofit.
The nonprofit will be in control of the funding for the Fisher House once it has been donated. It will try to keep a fund of about $1 million to solve any major issues that come up in the house, Jackson said. For example, if something happens to the roof, the nonprofit will be able to cover it out of pocket without having to make a request through government channels for the funding, which could take months.
To encourage the foundation to build the house sooner, Jackson is trying to get some fundraising up and running.
“If we get some of the funding ourselves, we can generate excitement over at the foundation and bring them in to build faster,” she said.
She said the nonprofit’s current goal is to donate $3 million to the foundation for it to use toward the Columbia house. The board is planning to launch fundraising efforts in late July.
The chairman of the Friends of Mid-Missouri Fisher House Inc., Stephen Gaither, had been working for the VA for more than 40 years when he was asked to chair the board.
“I think it’s a wonderful way to provide services to veterans and their families who might not be able to take care of themselves because they can’t afford to travel,” Gaither said.
(573) 723-1092 | P.O.Box 30681, Columbia, MO 65205-3681
© 2020 Friends of Mid-Mo Fisher House. All Rights Reserved.
© 2020 Friends of Mid-Mo Fisher House. All Rights Reserved.