John Niekrash, president, Work Vessels for Veterans, Inc.

We are writing this letter of thanks in advance of an event which will change the lives of many returning Military Veterans who, having served this nation will be transitioning to civilian life.  With a 26% unemployment rate, Work Vessels for Veterans, Inc. has determined a tremendous need to provide a leg up for these courageous veterans pursueing educational opportunities or entering the business world as entrepreneurs.

Work Vessels began in 2008 when a local Lobsterman donated a boat to a returning marine who wished to make a living off the water.  The marine, from RI, Rich Giguere, started his business and was subsequently recalled and is now serving, again, in Afghanistan.

Other Veterans have been given over 100 Laptop Computers to assist in their search for a career and others were given more than 10 vehicles to form a business on their own.  Recently, Work Vessels purchased 8 acres of land in Jacksonville, FL to assist a disabled Vet, Adam Burke, pursue his blueberry business, which hires other disabled Vets and teaches them how to farm and maintain a business. A thirty-year lease at $1.00 a year removes the pressure of a mortgage and allows Adam to focus on blueberries, not banks.

The WVFV message has been heard around the country and has acquired hundreds of donors and people willing to do all they can to help out.

An great example of this spirit will be found at The Garde Arts Center on June 4th, 2010.  A fundraising concert featuring Rock’n Roll Hall of Famer  -  Dave Mason (Traffic) and Kal David (Fabulous Rhinestones) and the Real Deal. Opening will be Natalie Gelman, a bright new talent with a wonderful voice and a fond attachment to Work Vessels’ entertainment events.

As I opened, we are thanking you in advance for attending the concert which will be the start of more to come given a success this time.  Helping our Veterans succeed is the least we can do given their sacrifices for us. Please contact The Garde Arts Center at 860.444.7373 x1 for tickets and support our effort to help as many Vets as we can. 

This will be a concert you will never forget, with grateful ceremony and recognition of service to our country by current Vets and those from the Greatest Generation. Be prepared to swell with pride and listen to some of America’s great guitar legends in support of Work Vessels for Veterans, Inc.

Sincerely,
John Niekrash
President
Work Vessels for Veterans, Inc.

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