IndyCar community to kick-start veterans projects to benefit HVAF

The IndyCar community will honor HVAF veterans this month with a service project that includes hosting several area donation drives (canned good and hygiene items) now through November 9. On November 9, IndyCar crew members and staff will take part in a renovation project at the Jackson House. Six veterans reside at the Jackson House.

The IndyCar community including the IndyCar Ministry, Panther Racing, Novo Nordisk Chip Ganassi Racing and fan favorite Charlie Kimball and other IndyCar drivers plan to dedicate their time, talent and support along with a volunteer “Pit Crew” to help renovate the Jackson House. 

“Supporting veterans and their families is one of the pillars of Panther Racing, and we’re thankful that the HVAF invited us to participate in this great event,” Panther Communications Director Mike Kitchel said. “Through our partnership with the National Guard we have witnessed first-hand the amazing sacrifices these soldiers go through to support our country and we won’t hesitate at any opportunity to support those efforts.”

HVAF Collection Dates/Locations:

Dates:  Thursday 10/24/13 - Saturday 11/9/13

HVAF Downtown Office (Please contact HVAF at 317-951-0688 to schedule a drop-off)

964 N. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, IN

Dallara Factory

1201 Main St., Speedway, IN

Williams Comfort Air/Mr. Plumber

1077 3rd Ave SW, Carmel, IN

Brozinni Pizzeria

8810 S. Emerson Ave, Indianapolis

Verizon Wireless/Midwest Wireless

1428 W. 86th St, Indianapolis, IN

Help HVAF welcome veterans like Ken with open arms this fall

When HVAF welcomed Ken N. in August, he had nothing. The U.S. Army veteran let alcohol get the best of him. He went from traveling the world with the Army to working full time at several different jobs to being completely homeless with no food, shelter, or transportation. Luckily, he realized he needed to turn his life around.

Ken receiving a donated hat from HVAF donor

Ken remarked, “It’s what I needed. My life depended on this place.” Ken then explained the acceptance HVAF had of him and how much he needed HVAF. “They welcomed me with open arms. I came in with nothing, but all my needs are met here. The fellowship and staff are great,” Ken explained.

We often take every day amenities for granted. Sweatshirts, jackets, coats, and even toiletry items are crucial to providing veterans with everything they need while they get back on their feet. Ken added, “Peoples’ generosity, both veterans and non-veterans, is appreciated by all of us.”

Help out veterans like Ken get back on their feet as the winter approaches. Any donations are appreciated.

With Veterans Day approaching, it can be difficult to know how you can contribute and give back to our nation's veterans. 

At HVAF, there are so many ways to give and help veterans like Ken.

Contact HVAF today to make a donation at 317-951-0688 or 964 N. Pennsylvania Street Indianapolis, IN 46204.

Volunteer Spotlight

United Way’s Hardest Hit fund, “HoosierCorps,” assists participants in exchange for giving them opportunities to serve nonprofit organizations in the community. Since July we’ve been lucky to have Vivian Shank, 70, assist HVAF as a HoosierCorps volunteer. Vivian spends 20 hours per week here spending time with the veterans and assisting in recovery and outreach with her experience in social work. “The vets have given so much. I wanted to give back,” Vivian said, as she revealed that her grandfather and father had each been part of World Wars I and II, respectively. “I can’t wait to get here on Wednesday. I’m supposed to be here for them, but instead they’re asking me if I want coffee or something to eat. They just lift you up.”