News

Actions

Volunteers Contain Scattered Debris in Muskegon Cemeteries to Honor U.S. Veterans

Posted at 4:52 PM, Apr 26, 2014
and last updated 2014-04-27 05:45:07-04

MUSKEGON, Mich. (April 26, 2014) – West Michigan communities continue to clean-up the aftermath of recent storms. In Muskegon, about 50 volunteers contained the scattered debris throughout Evergreen and Oakwood Cemeteries. Their goal is to clean the cemeteries in honor of local Veterans who’ve served our country.

“To provide the help and assistance, there’s not a better feeling in the world than that,” explained Bob Obernier, regional administrator with Team Rubicon.

Raking leaves as they blow past gravestones connecting generations, volunteers from Home Depot teamed with Team Rubicon to restore the cemeteries in time for Memorial Day.

Team Rubicontold Fox 17 News that they focus on disaster relief to try and bridge the gap between a disaster striking and long-term recovery. They also work to reintegrate Veterans into communities after service.

“Those men and women who’ve served our country in times of war, we get them together, to give them that sense of purpose, service, helping others, camaraderie, and teamwork,” said Obernier.

The Home Depot Foundation said they are a community resource that will help gear-up organizations’ volunteer efforts: they’ve pledged $80 million to improving the homes U.S. Veterans over five years.

“A lot of times it’s hard to get out of bed on a 41-degree morning, but once they get here, it makes you feel good,” said Paige Troyer, district manager of human resources with Home Depot.

Team Rubicon is also volunteering in Newayo County to help with flood relief. If you would like to get involved, see their current projects on their website.