Band Blitz raises awareness for GreenCare for Troops

DELANO, Minnesota — Music and laughter filled the air throughout a beautiful September evening in Delano, Minnesota, as hundreds of people attended Band Blitz, a fundraiser in support of GreenCare for Troops, a nationwide program that provides free lawn and landscape services to eligible military families.

During the event, three local bands – The Delano Six, Little Chicago and Delano River Band – took the stage to entertain and share the message of GreenCare for Troops. Little Chicago is managed by Delano natives, Den and Dan Gardner. Den was instrumental in the launch of GreenCare for Troops in 2006.

More than $10,000 was raised through ticket sales, food and beverage and raffle ticket sales for a chance to win Toro power equipment. The funds helped to grow the program, which helps military families in need. A portion of the proceeds will also be donated to the Delano American Legion.

Minnesota State Rep. Joe McDonald read a proclamation from Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton during Band Blitz. In addition, Congresman Tom Emmer also greeted the crowd. Local GreenCare for Troops volunteers William Krammer of Lake Elmo, Minnesota, and Spencer Werness of Burnsville, Minnesota, were recognized, as well. Werness’ son currently serves in the Army National Guard.

“Thriving lawns, trees and plants go beyond the aesthetics; they are an integral part of the social fabric of a community and provide a safe yard for kids to play (in) and a serene environment for military families to de-stress,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “Managed yards are also instrumental in helping wounded veterans rehab and reconnect with their families.

The fundraiser was also supported by The Toro Company, State Bank of Delano, GIE Media, Weed Man USA, Bridge House Coffee & Café, Jack Tackaberry, Calbrandt Inc., Lupine Brewing Company, Gardner & Gardner Communications, Bonde Bistro, Delano Herald Journal, Coborn’s, HJ Development, Randy’s Environmental Services and American Family Insurance.

Launched 11 years ago, GreenCare for Troops has helped more than 11,000 military families and disabled veterans, and more than 6,000 green industry professionals have registered to receive or provide these services. Additionally, Project EverGreen’s GreenCare for Troops and sister program SnowCare for Troops volunteers delivered lawn care and landscape services valued at $1 million to hundreds of military families and wounded or disabled veterans across the United States.