Volunteers will gather to honor legacy of Dubuque veteran by "paying it forward" to Veterans' Freedom Center
Waterloo, IA - On Wednesday, November 9th in Dubuque, volunteers will gather to observe the first ever Andrew Connolly Day of Service to honor the legacy of Dubuque native and Iowa National Guard veteran Andrew Connolly, who never stopped urging others to "pay it forward" in every aspect of their lives.
Before he passed away on August 26, 2011, Andrew Connolly could often be found at Dubuque's Veterans' Freedom Center, a place close to his heart. That's why, on November 9th beginning at 8:30am, volunteers will "pay it forward" by donating their time to help clean up and prepare the new home of the Veterans' Freedom Center at 2245 Kerper Blvd. in Dubuque.
"Andrew's life was committed to serving others," Braley said. "Whether he was with his wife, Jenny, or son, Brody, or serving overseas in Iraq, or advocating on Capitol Hill on behalf of other disabled veterans, Andrew led by example. The mantra he often repeated was 'pay it forward.'
"That's why on November 9th we're going to 'pay it forward' to the Dubuque Veterans' Freedom Center to launch the first ever Andrew Connolly Day of Service. I hope this day grows in scope and significance from this point forward - it's a fitting tribute to a man who was so focused on helping others despite a life that dealt him a very challenging hand."
The late Andrew Connolly served multiple overseas tours with the Iowa National Guard, including a combat tour in Iraq. Andrew was diagnosed with spinal cancer after his Iraq tour. As the disease progressed Andrew lost the use of his legs and lost dexterity in his hands. His family utilized a Veterans Administration housing grant to build a new home that helped Andrew maintain his independence until he passed away.
Braley worked with Jenny Connolly, the Freedom Center, and local groups to organize the day of service. Braley will volunteer his time to renovate the Veterans' Freedom Center and share Andrew Connolly's legacy, including the Andrew Connolly Veterans' Housing Act, a bill Braley introduced in May that expands grant programs for permanently disabled veterans to remodel their homes and make them more disability-accessible.
Interested members of the public are welcomed to volunteer their time. If you're interested in volunteering, please contact the Dubuque Veterans' Freedom Center at (563) 845-0034. Volunteers are encouraged to bring any painting materials they own - brushes, paint rollers, etc. Only limited amounts will be available at the Freedom Center, although paint will be provided.
Wednesday November 9th, 2011
8:30am - Andrew Connolly Day of Service
12:00pm New Veterans' Freedom Center
2245 Kerper Blvd.
Dubuque, Iowa
*Interested volunteers should contact the Veterans' Freedom Center at (563) 845-0034 to RSVP their attendance.*
**Volunteers are encouraged to bring any painting materials they own - brushes, paint rollers, etc. Only limited amounts will be available at the Freedom Center, although paint will be provided.**
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