1/15/2025 8:15:00 AM
Now entering its 12th year of supporting Resident events, recreational activities and other essential needs at Minnesota Veterans Homes - Fergus Falls, the Boots on the Ground organization recently presented the Home’s leadership team with a generous $30,000 check.
This donation will cover the cost of:
"We deeply appreciate the unwavering commitment 'Boots on the Ground' has shown our Veteran Residents and spouses," said Jonathan Stone, Administrator, Fergus Falls Veterans Home. “Thanks to the dedication and kind hearts of our community and their gracious sponsors, our Veterans enjoy numerous programs, services and outings.”
Gary Harris, Jr., Veterans Home Public Affairs Coordinator, concurred with the consistently positive impact Boots on the Ground’s efforts have had on everyone at the Home. “Over the years, they have been a remarkable partner in contributing to the exceptional quality of life our Residents experience every day; we are infinitely grateful for their support.”
According to Jamie Lanoue, a Fergus Falls Veterans Home Business Office employee and Boots on the Ground board member, fellow staff members make it a point to show up for Boots on the Ground events. “Multiple board members have worked for the Home or had loved ones or friends who have lived here,” Lanoue shared. “Co-workers ride motorcycles, drive classic cars and attend the morning program at our annual fun run. It really feels like one big family.”
John Carlson, President, Boots on the Ground, noted that he became involved with Boots on the Ground early on because supporting Veterans is such a worthy cause. “Unlike other skilled nursing facilities where Residents can feel isolated, the Fergus Falls Veterans Home makes sure Residents are engaged. Whether it’s attending dinners and sporting events in the community or participating in bingo and other recreational fun at the Home, knowing our fundraising helps to make those things possible makes us happy.”
Established in 2014, Boots on the Ground was created to honor Residents at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home. They host a motorcycle fun run event each September. The next event is scheduled for Saturday, September 20 (morning program begins at 10 a.m. and kickstands are up at noon).
Donations are always welcome and appreciated. Learn more at MinnesotaVeteran.org/Donate.
Special thanks to the Boots on the Ground members who presented the donation.
The executive board of Boots on the Ground donates $30,000 to the Fergus Falls Veterans Home. L to R: Ryan Lanoue, Jamie Lanoue, Brooke Solheim, Steve Sampson, Nichole Hauge, John Carlson (president), Della Hulter, and Justin Tellinghuisen.
