Community Rowing, Inc. (CRI) is pleased to announce that the organization has received a $15,000 Capacity Building grant from the Disabled Veterans National Foundation (DVNF). DVNF Capacity Building grants are awarded to organizations around the country who are addressing the mental and physical recovery of veterans in unique ways. CRI will use the funding to increase the number of veterans participating in the programs and to conduct a qualitative evaluation of the military program’s outcomes.
“We are very thankful to the DVNF for this grant,” stated Ted Benford, Executive Director at CRI, “Funding for our Military and Para programs is essential for us to serve military service members and veterans free of charge and enable us to continue to grow the programs.” CRI’s Military and Para Programs help active duty serve members, disabled veterans, veterans, and their family members achieve a sense of independence, belonging and improved quality of life through rowing. The programs provide a safe and inclusive environment that allows participants to connect with one another by offering free opportunities for recreation, fitness, and fun.
“DVNF is proud to support Community Rowing as they continue to make a positive impact in veterans’ lives by helping disabled veterans, veterans, and their family members achieve a sense of independence, belonging and improved quality of life through rowing,” said DVNF CEO Joseph VanFonda (USMC Sgt. Maj. Ret.). “We would like to congratulate and thank them for their commitment to serving the men and women who served in defense of our country.”
About DVNF:
Disabled Veterans National Foundation exists to provide critically needed support to disabled and at-risk veterans who leave the military wounded—physically or psychologically—after defending our safety and our freedom.
DVNF achieves this mission by:Offering direct financial support to veteran organizations that address the unique needs of veterans, and whose missions align with that of DVNF.Providing supplemental assistance to homeless and low-income veterans through the Health & Comfort program and various empowerment resources.Providing an online resource database that allows veterans to navigate the complex process of seeking benefits that they are entitled to because of their military service, as well as additional resources they need.Serving as a thought leader on critical policy issues within the veteran community and educating the public accordingly.
About Community Rowing, Inc.
Under the banner of “Rowing for All,” Community Rowing makes rowing accessible without regard to individual ability, background or experience. We aim to enrich lives and our local community by providing access to the sport of rowing and its profound emotional, social, and physical benefits. While providing access to the sport for the public is CRI’s overarching goal, our passion remains delivering rowing to groups who traditionally have been denied access, such as urban youth, military veterans, and individuals with disabilities. For more information, please visit CRI’s website at (www.communityrowing.org) or call 617-779-8264.