Sometimes a reason to give comes from something as simple as a heartwarming story. Take Alan Sladek for example. He enjoys kayak fishing and the joys that come along with it, particularly the tournaments. In fact, it was participating in a tournament five years ago that introduced Alan to Heroes on the Water (HOW). On that cold, cold day, Alan was warmed by the story told by a HOW warrior, who shared how his experience with the organization had saved his marriage.

At work the following Monday, Alan felt a strong need to help HOW and its heroes. Since that time, he has volunteered his resources and time in the hopes of spreading the word of all the good work HOW is doing for our veterans. Not only that, each year Alan organizes numerous fundraisers that bring together the local communities and the warriors. Why?

 

  "When you see those warriors out on the water, they are all in. Paddling their own kayak seems like managing their own ship. There is such a great spirit out there on the water."

 

Alan went on to say "We know that the money we raise is used for a good cause because we can see it. For example, during our annual fundraising event, 98% of the raffle prizes go to the warriors. The last two years a warrior has won a kayak."  

 

"You can see the pure joy when their name is called."  

You never know when a particular cause will find you and draw you in. For Kelye Stites, it seemed as if it was fate. On a flight to Las Vegas, Kelye overheard two people talking about an organization that helps returning veterans adjust to their life at home. The bits of conversation he overheard were powerful, but once the flight was over he didn't think much of it.  

 

As if the message wasn't strong enough the first time, the same man who was so passionately talking about Heroes on the Water was now on Kelye's same return flight to Dallas. That man was Jim Dolan, Founder of HOW. The passion Jim had while talking about the HOW organization completely resonated with Kelye. From that day forth, Kelye has continued to donate his time, money, and resources for the heroes of HOW.

 

"I was intrigued by the unique services they provided, but mostly I was drawn in by Jim's passion for the organization. He is a trustworthy and honest guy who started this organization from his heart."

 

Kelye went on to say:

 

"After researching the organization further, I also recognized that they are good stewards of their donations, and the vast majority goes to helping the warriors. I think many people who give, regardless of the amount, wonder what the money is actually used for. That is one of the major things I like about HOW. You know they put the money to good use." 

At Heroes on the Water, we dedicate our focus to those we serve - warriors returning home. We strive to keep our organization lean so we can put more resources toward our purpose. Simply put, as a donor you can rest assured that your donations go to helping the warriors through the kayak fishing and HOW events.

 

Donors like Kelye and Alan stand behind HOW because they have experienced first-hand the power of the organization and how effective we can be in helping our warriors adjust to their lives out of the service. We are so appreciative of all our donors who show their trust in us every time they make a donation. Because of you, we can help more warriors and their families build new lives together.

 

This holiday season, look around at all you are thankful for, and take a moment to donate, an exclusive way to say thank you to the brave warriors who have given so much for you! 

DONATE TO HELP A WARRIOR

Your tax-deductible donation will bring the Heroes on the Water program to wounded veterans in new locations across the country at no charge to them or their families. Our goal is to expand by adding 35 new chapters in 2015 to serve 5,000 warriors per year. Thank you to all who join with us in giving many more deserving veterans the freedom they fought to protect.