A military veteran, American Dream Development Jeff Burton wanted to give a boost to service members - as well as other "heroes" such as firefighters, police, teachers and nurses - who might have trouble purchasing their first home. So in 2007 he started the "Welcome Homes to Heroes Foundation," which raises money through donations and fundraisers to assist local heroes with a down payment on a family home.

The foundation issued its first award in June 2007 to Army Sgt. Michael Guardiola, an electronic repair technician from Fort Riley who received a $5,000 down-payment on his family's new home in The Village at Freedom Place built by American Dream Homes. For more information on the "Welcome Homes to Heroes Foundation," call 785-223-7985.

Welcome Home to Heroes Foundation
711 Southwind Drive
Junction City, Kansas 66441
785-223-7985