On Thursday, July 10, over 70 prizewinning teachers completed campus improvement projects for Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD) as part of the Let’s Build It summer convening. VVSD supports veterans and their families in overcoming homelessness, addiction, unemployment, barriers to health and mental health care, and related challenges. A handful of teachers were selected to lead the seven service projects held that afternoon:
Replacing Top Cap Railings on Residential Buildings
Railings on the second floor of three residential buildings had suffered years of weathering. Prizewinners helped tear up the old wood and cut and install new pieces for veterans’ comfort and safety.
Enhancing Outdoor Seating Area
The courtyard on the west end of campus lacked seating and activities for veterans’ leisure and the windscreens on the surrounding gates were worn down. Prizewinners installed new windscreens, built several new Adirondack chairs, and brought in a cornhole set to make the space more engaging.
Pouring and Paving a New Walkway
Paving stones of the walkway between two residential buildings made foot travel inaccessible for several veterans who use walkers or wheelchairs. Prizewinners tore up the old stones and poured a new, wide concrete pathway connecting the buildings.
Car Washing and Detailing Service
Automotive teachers offered their skills to residents and staff of VVSD, performing washing, interior detailing and minor service checks to their vehicles on campus.
Cleaning Central Courtyard Fountain
A fountain in the campus’ central courtyard sat dry and inoperative. Prizewinners helped clean out the fountain bed, power washed the surrounding area and ensured the operation of a new pump.
Clothing Donation Warehouse Improvements
VVSD receives numerous clothing donations and operates a warehouse on campus to organize and distribute items to veterans in need. Prizewinners installed new wheels on the clothing racks, built a table to assist with sorting donations, and assembled a new couch in the volunteer area.
Updating Pergola Patio Area
The patio area on the north end of campus needed more shade, seating, and an updated bulletin board to keep veterans informed. Prizewinners added a new lattice top on the area’s pergola, built Adirondack chairs, and installed a new bulletin board that will protect postings from the weather.
The day’s activities attracted media attention from a few local news stations. See coverage of the event:
KGTV (San Diego, CA) – 10 News. ABC
