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Encyclopedia Dubuque

www.encyclopediadubuque.org

"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.




DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER

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1897 Washington. Photo in 2011.
2245 Kerper Blvd. Photo courtesy: Bob Bucko
Lunchroom

DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER. Located originally at 1897 Washington St., the Center was opened in 2011 as a place for veterans of all affiliations to relax among others with military experience. In 2012 the Center was located at 2245 Kerper Blvd. Suite 1.

In addition to relaxation at the Center, the operation has sponsored fishing trips for veterans. The center has also repaired wheel chairs and walkers which are then free for veterans to take from the Center for use. A complete shop offers veterans with skills in woodworking the opportunity to teach others and/or to produce all varieties of wooden utensils.

Begun as an idea of Jim Wagner and Al Rowell, the Center was an offshoot of Operation We Care, an organization addressing the needs of veterans and families of veterans in the tri-state region. The Center was entirely funded through donations and support by volunteers. One of the sources of income was the collection of soft drink bottles and cans which were then redeemed for cash. One of the greatest benefactors to the Center has been SHENANIGANS BENEFIT & RIDE.

One of many displays in the Center.
Wheelchairs are refurbished at the Center and given free to veterans.
Woodworking room
Donated boat to take veterans fishing.
One of many displays in the Center.
Donated vehicle used to distribute and maintain birdhouses.
Game room and military uniform display
Pop bottle collection center with proceeds used for the veterans.


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