Alan (right)

For 27 years, the Pacers have organized their “Come to Our House” dinner at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for non-profits dedicated to ending homelessness in Indianapolis, and this marks the third year in a row that star point guard Tyrese Haliburton has hosted this wonderful event. The entire Pacers organization was represented at the event with Pacer players there to serve out a delicious meal while cheerleaders passed out signed posters! The night included fun activities like face painting, balloon animals, and caricature art!

As the Community Engagement Coordinator, I was blessed to attend along with veterans from our Manchester, Vets Villa, and Warman properties. This year was especially impactful as we were able to take nine of the displaced veterans from the recent fire to the event! It was an honor to share some special moments with a few of these Hoosier Heroes.

Caitlin Clark

During the event, there were plenty of stars out to humbly serve the different non-profits from the Indianapolis community. Pacers basketball players served mounds of turkey, dressing, with mashed potatoes and gravy. Even Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever made a surprise appearance to serve up some pumpkin and pecan pie!

There were other stars present at Gainbridge as well that evening! One star that shone bright was Alan, a Marine veteran who lived in Manchester Apartments, the site of the recent fire. On the night of the fire, Alan knocked on doors and helped other veterans find safety. His nonchalant demeanor and sweet spirit are always evident as Alan volunteers at HVAF, showing up almost every day since the fire helping sort the donations we have received for our displaced veterans.   Despite this, he is never a man who wants credit or attention. I was so thankful he had a chance to enjoy an evening away from the stresses of life.

Al

Another star from the evening was Al. Al, an Army veteran and a resident of Manchester Apartments, saw flames engulfing his roof as the fire grew out of control. Like Alan, he knocked on doors and helped the other veterans to safety. There was an embodiment of courage and resiliency in Al that reminded me of the strength he must have needed during his days in the military. He was so thankful for the opportunity to meet the Pacers and enjoy a delicious meal.

So, while I enjoyed meeting Caitlin Clark and Tyrese Haliburton, among others, it was those moments with the veterans that will remain with me. Heroes come in many forms, whether as athletes dazzling us with their extraordinary talents on the court or as soldiers demonstrating remarkable bravery on the battlefield to defend our freedoms, carrying that courage forward.

It was a beautiful experience to see both come together, with one Hero gladly serving the other to honor their sacrifice.

Your donations to our Fire Assistance Fund will continue to give Alan and Al, as well as all the displaced veterans from the fire, support, hope and opportunity to move into a permanent residence! With your help, they will also gain access to essential case management and therapy services, supporting their journey forward.

Consider making a tax-deductible donation today!

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