Alive Day - YouTube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWC8rBqZV7A
To highlight one of the beneficiaries of the Malibu Kiwanis Chili Cookoff, I am sharing a recent Alive Day video from a very inspirational young gentleman who provides me with an abundance of hope for all of our wounded and their supportive families/network of friends. Please take a moment to view this video - watermen will especially appreciate the footage beginning at the 4:28 mark - and learn more of the incredible support that the WWP provides to men and women of our military forces. Last year the Malibu Kiwanis presented a $10,000 check to WWP on behalf of the Malibu community and visitors who stepped up to our calls for support. It was so successful and rewarding in many ways that we are proud to once again be a licensed event partnered with the WWP organization. If you can't make it to the Chili Cookoff to come by and give a thumbs up, share personal stories or participate in fundraising - you can still financially assist the efforts with donations made out to Malibu Kiwanis and noting in the comments to apply your donation to the WWP portion.
Brian Kolfage Jr. was severely wounded on Sept 11, 2004 by an insurgent rocket, he lost both legs and his dominate arm yet has never faltered in his drive and determination to personally heal and also to selflessly dedicate much of his free time in support of other injured forces. Brian has been the inspiration to so many who credit his spirit as being a driving force in their own paths to recovery. Often visiting local VA facilities and regularly making the trek to Walter Reed to speak one on one to families and fellow wounded warriors, Brian has impacted thousands of others and credits the WWP for the support that continues to inspire him to help others. I have the honor of sharing this man's story with you today and hope that others see the admirable life and goals which define our country's finest men and women of the US Armed Forces.
Not only a Purple Heart recipient, US Congressional Advisor (Gabby Giffords, AZ), Pat Tillman Scholar, Lt. Michael P. Murphy 2011 Scholarship recipient, Public Speaker, Mentor, and host of other achievements - Brian is enrolled in his 5th year at University of Arizona's School of Architecture (3.8 GPA to boot! Whoot Whoot!) Upon graduation he plans to use his training and experiences to revolutionize military architecture and create a more sustainable environment for future warriors. His positive attitude and indeterminable spirit enabled him to beat all odds stacked against him, I expect that we will be hearing a lot more about this gentleman and patriot in the future! Brian and his lovely wife, Ashley recently welcomed the birth of their first child, Paris, two weeks ago. Life is good and the future is bright, stories like this reaffirm the collective human spirit and I hope that this inspires others to go out of their way to help another, join a cause and personally celebrate your love of Freedom and Liberty.
Malibu Kiwanis
P.O. Box 22
Malibu, CA 90265
See you at the Cookoff! Stop by the Wounded Warrior Booth and check out our auction items. We have a limited number of flags that are "retired" from the Wave of Flags annual event at Pepperdine, available for purchase or a donation to the WWP jar - very popular items! Gift certificates and a raffle to win a 50" TV. Come say "hi" and share a few smiles with us.
