Delaware North’s travel division last week announced a $17,056 donation to the Wounded Warrior Project, the largest provider of free programs and services for post-9/11 military veterans. The donation comes after a fundraising campaign in which Delaware North sold 9/11 commemorative pins at all its U.S. airport locations in September to mark the anniversary of 9/11, with proceeds benefiting Wounded Warrior Project.
The donation was presented to the Wounded Warrior Project during a short ceremony at The Summit, held last week in Buffalo.
“We are tremendously proud to support Wounded Warrior Project and the work they do for our country’s military service members and their families,” said Kevin Kelly, president of Delaware North’s travel division. “These pins are a meaningful way to acknowledge the lasting impact 9/11 has on our country and the people who protect it. Our hope is that this donation will enhance the services offered by Wounded Warrior Project and their mission to continue serving our country’s veterans.”
The Wounded Warrior Project last year contributed more than $199 million for a variety of impactful initiatives, including mental health and wellness, and physical health and wellness programs. Delaware North’s contribution will help fund the organization’s Project Odyssey – a program geared at helping warriors suffering from post-traumatic stress overcome obstacles in their post-war lives.
“If it weren’t for Project Odyssey, I would not be here today,” said Jason Foster, a Wounded Warrior. “Those five days I got to spend with my brothers were the first five days I saw hope in years. It was the first time I felt like maybe it was okay not to be okay. It changed my life.”
PHOTO CAPTION: Delaware North’s travel division presented a check to Charlene and Brace Feldbusch (second and third from left, respectively), who are founding members of the Wounded Warrior Project. Also pictured: Kevin Kelly (far right), president of Delaware North’s travel division; Steve Bass (second
from right), chief operating officer of Delaware North’s travel division; and Jeff Friedman (far left),
regional vice president of operations.