Continuing a 10-year tradition of support, the Boots on the Ground organization gave a generous donation to the Minnesota Veterans Homes - Fergus Falls in December 2023. Boots on the Ground (BOTG) is a locally-based organization that was founded in 2014 to honor Veteran Residents at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home.

On Dec. 15, BOTG Board members presented the Home with a donation of $35,000. The donation included $18,300 that is specially earmarked for Resident haircuts, a bingo sponsorship, shadow boxes, a new bingo machine, and overall recreational activities. BOTG will use the remaining $16,700 to purchase a variety of products and equipment, including an electric sunshade canopy for the Veterans Home’s pontoon, electric razors, hair trimmers, and raised flower beds and supplies for Veterans’ summer courtyard projects.

“We are so grateful for the continued dedication of ‘Boots on the Ground’ to our Veteran Residents and Veteran spouses. They have been so generous over the years,” said Jonathan Stone, Fergus Falls Veterans Home Administrator. “Our Veterans can take part in many activities and go on outings, thanks to the hard work and giving hearts of all their members. We are so thankful for Boots on the Ground and look forward to our continued partnership.”

Jamie Lanoue, who comes from a big military family, is a member of the Veterans Home’s Business Office team and has been part of BOTG for 10 years. She joined the organization because she deeply supported its mission. “I grew up inside the motorcycle community and my parents instilled in me a strong commitment to helping others, especially Veterans. The fundraising BOTG does brings joy to our Residents by helping to provide not only what they may need but what they may want. I see and hear it every day from our Residents; it allows me to talk to them differently. It’s a wonderful way to say, “Thank You” to our Veterans.”

Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Brad Lindsay, expressed his gratitude for BOTG’s generosity. “Receiving this level of support at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home truly makes a significant impact on our Residents’ quality of life. Expanded activities deliver more diverse daily experiences and increased outings that connect our Veterans with community members provide additional chances for socialization – a key component for aging well in place.”

Photo caption: Boots on the Ground Board Members, Fergus Falls Veterans Home Residents and staff.