Hogs for Heroes Gifts Harleys to Deserving Veterans
Nonprofit Aims to Help Vets Heal Through Harley-Davidson Therapy, Seeks Deserving Wisconsin Military Veteran for Next Award
Ask Harley-Davidson owners why they ride, and you’re sure to get a variety of answers. But one common benefit of getting in the wind is that it can be very therapeutic and calming. So, it makes perfect sense that the heroes of our great nation tend to also own and ride Harleys. But for those who may not have the financial means to do so, there’s a fantastic non-profit organization, Hogs For Heroes, that gives the gift of Harley to Wisconsin-based veterans.
Hogs For Heroes was started by four Wisconsinites, two of them dedicated riders. One of the founders, Hogs for Heroes President Kevin Thompson, was inspired to start the non-profit after reading about the positive effects motorcycle riding has on veterans suffering from PTSD. The company raises money through donations and third-party events such as golf outings and sponsored rides. Last year, two deserving veterans received new bikes from those fundraising efforts.
“Hogs for Heroes is truly a grassroots organization,” says Thompson. “Through fundraisers, bike nights and everyday Wisconsinites donating their time and money, we are now able to accept applications and award our third Harley-Davidson to a Wisconsin Veteran Hero. All along, it’s been our goal to award one bike at a time and recognize one hero at a time. We have been able to make the rough road a little smoother for two returning Wisconsin Heroes already, while conveying a collective message of gratitude for their service contributions.
‘[The] idea of being able to get back on a bike and get some of that road therapy has a value without words.’
“We encourage people to share this information with family and friends and help us find our third deserving Wisconsin Military Veteran to receive a Harley-Davidson motorcycle,” adds Thompson.
Once Hogs for Heroes raises enough money to purchase a bike, they open up the application process. Veterans can apply themselves, or others can nominate them. An advisory board selects one person from the pool of applicants. To be eligible, applicants must be Wisconsin residents. They must also have a current motorcycle license, an honorable discharge with injury, and an established hardship.
Last May, Hogs for Heroes gifted a new Harley to military veteran and Purple Heart recipient Scott Kruchten. “Getting back on a bike for the first time in 13 years is just an amazing feeling,” he told Wisconsin’s 27 News, “and I’m looking forward to many miles behind the handle bars. …[The] idea of being able to get back on a bike and get some of that road therapy has a value without words.”
Hogs for Heroes’ application process for 2017 is open through April 1. If you know a deserving veteran who happens to meet the criteria, you can nominate them here. Even if you don’t, tax deductible donations are always welcome. It’s surely a deserving cause that everyone can get behind. We hope to see something like it in all 50 states one day.
