In thanking veterans on Thanksgiving, President John F. Kennedy once said “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
We can all agree that veterans should have the greatest accessibility and opportunity to live the ‘American Dream’ both during and after their service to the United States. However, for many veterans who were severely injured while serving, it’s not that simple. Transitioning from military service back into a civilian lifestyle can be a struggle. That struggle can become more difficult at the place we should all feel most comfortable: home. With the help of non-profit organizations and generous donors of time and labor, communities across the nation are both raising money and building custom homes for wounded warriors.
NFL Athlete Jared Allen’s Idea of the American Dream
After growing up in a military family and a NFL-USO tour overseas in 2009, Jared Allen (Minnesota Vikings’ five-time Pro Bowl defensive end) decided that he wanted to help veterans upon returning home. Jared was moved by the commitment, dedication, and sacrifices that our soldiers make everyday to protect our freedom. “My American Dream starts with a functional home,” said Allen. “When our men and women come home, I think if anybody deserves a little slice of the American dream, it’s them.” So in October of 2009, Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors (JAH4WW) non-profit foundation was formed.
Since its creation, JAH4WW has raised the money for and built or remodeled handicap accessible homes to suit the individual needs of more than a dozen injured military veterans. The work of this foundation has helped to make a positive life-changing difference in the lives of many who have selflessly served our country. Jared Allen was quite impressive on the football field (and his retirement announcement video was pretty epic), but his commitment and support for veterans surpasses any sack total or cowboy hat.
With JAH4WWW, Jared is truly taking President Kennedy’s words to heart by living out the gratitude we should all have for those who fought for our freedoms.
Custom Homes for Wounded Warriors in the Chicago Area
A new custom home being built in Long Grove, IL will soon be added to the list of homes built to benefit veterans in the greater Chicago area. As a custom builder and remodeler, we have organized all proceeds from the sale of this home in Long Meadow Farms to go to JAH4WW. It’s an honor to donate our time, skills, and effort for this great cause.
In addition to donating our time in management of this project, many subcontractors and suppliers will donate labor and materials. The home will have all the luxurious features one would expect to find in a high-end community such as Long Grove.
“It’s truly an honor to help support men and women who have given so much to our country,” said Charlie Murphy, CEO of Icon Building Group. “Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors provides an essential service to those who have served. We’re very proud to support them.”
Thank a Veteran on Veterans’ Day, November 11th, 2017
Join us in showing support for service members by thanking a veteran on Veterans’ Day, November 11th!
For more information on the sale of the million dollar home that Icon will be donating, check out the press release here.
