What: "Cadets for Vets" a community service outreach program for Victory Forge Military Academy and the Veterans Council of Martin County are partnering together to coordinate much needed assistance for a very special WWII veteran living in Hobe Sound.

Rena Tulli a 94 year young WWII veteran originally from Rome, Italy is trying to make the best of whats ahead. Between code violations from the county as a result of being unable to clear her yard after 3 seasons of hurricanes, a persistent case of shingles and living on a very small fixed income, Rena is unable to do the things she needs to do to avoid the fines and get ready for, what experts are calling, an active hurricane season.

On the heels of Tropical Storm Barry and the insistence of Tony Reese from the Veterans Council, Col. Weierman from Victory Forge Military Academy and Col. Michael Roberts from Special Forces Restoration and Construction went to Rena's home to evaluate the situation. And the situation is serious and will require almost immediate attention.

To start the yard will have to be cleared of debris from past storms and a path cleared for a walkway so that Rena can safely walk between her car and house. And following that there are a number of small to medium construction projects planned, not only make her living situation more comfortable for the summer months but also to make it safe for her to live. Some of the projects planned are: replacing steps and hand rails, replacing windows and kitchen cabinets, rebuilding and roofing her summer porch, screening the porch, replacing rotted fascia, painting windows, replacing wood, completing an ongoing siding project and installing an air conditioning unit.

These projects are scheduled for two separate work days, the first being this weekend focusing on clean up and installing some of the goods already donated. The second in early July to allow time for the team to collect donations of building materials, supplies and/or cash to off set the costs.

When: Work day for clean up and starting the ground work for some of the construction projects

Saturday June 9 starting at 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Work day to complete remaining construction projects

Saturday July 14 8 a.m. until completion

Donations: Donations of materials and skilled services are much needed and would be greatly appreciated. To make a donation of goods, services or help please contact Inez Frid at 772-370-4571 or Tony Reese at 772-288-5448. Some of the materials in need are: at least 6 sheets of plywood, treated lumber for the porch, fascia trim, stairs and rails, screen room framing, screening, windows, concrete, screws, nails, primer, paint, paint brushes, roller as well as a variety of other materials and supplies.

Who: " Cadets for Vets" is a community service outreach program of Victory Forge Military Academy, a not for profit organization based in Port St. Lucie Fl. 'Cadets for Vets' works closely with local veteran associations, service organizations and councils to help area Veterans who may have a challenge getting something done. From clearing debris after a storm to mowing the lawn or handing out aid, the Cadets at Victory Forge are dedicated to giving back to the men and women who have served our nation.

The Veterans Council of Martin County is a not for profit organization dedicated to the betterment of and to help homeless veterans and those veterans in need of assistance.

Public Info: Regarding 'Cadets for Vets' contact Col. Weierman at 772-879-7181

Regarding donations for this project contact Inez Frid at 772-370-4571

Regarding the Veterans Council of Martin County contact Tony Reese at 772-288-5448