Time is running out if you want to lend your support to organizers of The Wall That Heals as they try to secure funding for upcoming veteran-related community events.
The appearance of The Wall That Heals, a mobile replica of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, DC, earned organizers a $500 grant as part of a Pay it Forward campaign through DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers and TV-13. Organizers are now among over 20 groups in the running for a $2,500 grant through the program, and Wall That Heals organizer Clay Childs has an idea for an activity in 2027.
Another option connects to the city’s 75th anniversary of founding Veterans Day. Regardless, Childs says committee members will steward their resources with the goal of community events always in mind.
Organizer Richelle Birk says The Wall’s presence was just as impactful as organizers had hoped, especially for veterans who served in Vietnam.
Organizer Ed Rathke, a Vietnam veteran, says there has been a positive impact on membership at the American Legion.
Residents can vote on their favorite Pay it Forward entity online. Voters need to submit name, email address and other information to cast their ballot. Online voting ends Sunday. An announcement date is pending.
