One of the Gary Sinise Foundation’s programs, with help from its partners, builds specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded veterans. On Jan. 21, Parrish Elks Lodge members Clark and LouAnn Christensen, Dawn Watkins, Ken Knight, and Anthony D'Abbraccio attended a ceremony at Parrish's Twin River subdivision for wounded U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal (Ret.) John “JT” Doody. His home, currently under construction, will be a custom, smart-technology home with features that will give him greater autonomy and independence while giving his mother, Christine, who lives with him, peace of mind. A Sinise Foundation senior member shared JT's story and thanked him for his service, and attendees wrote messages of gratitude, love and appreciation on the walls of JT's home. On Feb. 5, the lodge approved a motion to purchase a brick for $250 to be placed at the base of JT's flagpole. Brick donations help offset the house construction costs.

Pictured are JT Doody in a van and a group picture during the event.