KICKBALL FUNDRAISER FOR VETE​RANS IN NEED

Columbia, Missouri - Mid-Missouri Kickball has partnered with Welcome Home to host an adult kickball fundraising tournament “Kick It for Veterans.” The event is on Saturday, April 13th from 10am-4pm at S. Providence and Corporate Lake Drive. One hundred percent of proceeds will go towards Welcome Home’s programs and services, including: shelter, rapid-rehousing and employment support for homeless and at-risk Veterans.

Mid-Missouri Kickball League is beginning its second year of business as the only adult kickball league in Columbia, and they have taken on the goal of raising $3,500 for Welcome Home at this event. “We’ve been working very hard to make this event the best it can possibly be,” said Adriana Nieman, owner of Mid-Missouri Kickball League. “We are excited to be working with Welcome Home again and giving back to our Veterans in such a fun way.” The community is invited to attend, to watch and cheer on the teams. There will be beverages and snacks available for donations.

In 2018, Welcome Home served more than 350 Veterans and family members. Of those enrolled in their shelter and housing programs, 83% transitioned into independent housing. "It's not just about providing shelter," said Megan Sievers, development director for Welcome Home. “We do everything we possibly can to restore the lives of Veterans and their families, while honoring their service and sacrifice. We can’t thank the community enough for stepping up and supporting our critical mission.”

Roughly one-third of all homeless Americans are Veterans. While Columbia scores slightly better than the national average, nearly one-fifth of Mid-Missouri’s homeless population are Veterans, and of those, at least 85 percent have been diagnosed with mental illness.

Welcome Home is the only Veteran-exclusive organization of its kind in the state of Missouri. Welcome Home is a nonprofit organization that works to honor Veterans and restore lives. Their vision is to end Veteran homelessness for good. Learn more at www.WelcomeVeterans.org.