Nick Orchowski, an injured combat veteran of the Iraq war will receive a new home from the non-profit, Homes for Our Troops organization. Support for this home-building effort has become community-wide through the efforts of local students.

Article by Amy Shanahan with photos by Nick Orchowski

Veterans Day this year took on a very personal meaning for several Rock Canyon feeder schools. Rock Canyon High School (RCHS), Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS), Buffalo Ridge Elementary (BRE), and Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) all participated in a special event called “Hats Off for Our Troops” to show their support of local veterans. This event raised money to support Homes for Our Troops, a nationwide, non-profit organization which builds specially adapted homes for post-9/11 veterans with disabilities.

Homes for Our Troops (HFOT) is in the process of building a home for retired Corporal Nick Orchowski of Parker, CO. On May 1, 2004, Orchowski’s life was changed forever. He refers to it now as his “alive day” because it is a day that almost cost him his life. Orchowski was only 20 years old and was on his first deployment in Baghdad, Iraq, when he was left a quadriplegic after being thrown from the gunner’s hatch of a vehicle that was hit during an insurgent’s attack. Orchowski’s right shoulder was pushed into his cervical spine area, paralyzing him from the neck down. He endured seven surgeries and doctors were able to alleviate pressure on the vertebrae, which helped reconnect the nerve pathways. Orchowski is now diagnosed with Incomplete Quadriplegia. His future health is uncertain, and he currently endures a seizure disorder and moves with the aid of braces on his legs and right wrist.

Orchowski, and his best friend Matt Keil, a quadriplegic who also received a home from HFOT, came to speak in person to the students at these schools. They told their stories and answered many thoughtful and candid questions by students. The reality of the age of these young men provided new insight into the word “veteran” for many of the students. TTE fifth grade teacher Lisa Martinez remarked, “This assembly [with Orchowski and Keil] was so meaningful for my students because the kids were able to have a conversation with these men.  Before this, a veteran was a very abstract concept, but these young men were so genuine and approachable.  They are truly an inspiring example of honor, commitment and dedication.”

On Friday, November 11th, Veteran’s Day, students at the four schools paid one dollar for the ability to wear a hat for the day. In addition, the schools sold “Homes for Our Troops” rubber bracelets for $1. The four schools combined, raised almost $4,000, which was given directly to HFOT to support the building of the home for Nick Orchowski and his family. Andrew A., a student at BRE bought so many bracelets that his Principal mistook the bracelets for a cast. He was so moved by Orchowski and Keil that he even bought extra bracelets for his friends and other students. “Hearing the stories about how much Nick and Matt went through and how there are more troops like them who need homes, really motivated me to help them to have a place to live that suits their needs,” he said.

The Douglas County Rotary Clubs are strong supporters of HFOT, and their dedication to this organization has given it a great deal of publicity. The clubs have encouraged teens to get involved through Kids for Our Troops (KFOT) and members of this organization brought the idea of “Hats Off for Our Troops” to these local schools, and to several schools in Parker as well. Lexi Vanderhill, an 8th grade student at RHMS is a member of KFOT, and initially brought the idea to the administration at RHMS. “Having a chance to meet the vets makes the HFOT project more personal for the individual and community,” she remarked. “Both Nick and Matt could be angry or bitter about what happened to them, but they are two of the kindest guys I have ever met.”

Support for Homes for Our Troops continues at these schools, as donations are still coming in. BRE has solicited company matching, and an 8th grade team at RHMS has chosen this organization to be the recipient of their “penny wars” fundraiser. Several middle school students will also be joining the KFOT Build Brigade which volunteers at the build site, by ensuring that the property remains clean. To learn more about HFOT and Nick Orchowski, go to www.homesforourtroops.org/orchowski.

BRE fifth grader Rachel A. gives a “thumbs up” while wearing her favorite hat and HFOT rubber bracelets.

The eighth grade teams at RHMS were fortunate enough to hear Nick O. and Matt K. speak, and they were inspired by the positive attitude of these combat veterans.