[Colorado Springs, CO] Sept 18, 2025 -- Helping a Hero, a national nonprofit that builds specially adapted homes for severely wounded veterans, will host a Welcome Home Ceremony for SGT Travis Blackman, USA (Ret) and his family on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the new Percheron Community in Colorado Springs, CO.

LENNAR worked in partnership with Helping a Hero to design a wheelchair accessible home that will restore SGT Blackman's independence. Norwood Development Group donated an oversized lot for the home. Many vendors have donated and discount material and labor to build this incredible home.

Sergeant Blackman proudly served in the U.S. Army from August 2008 to March 2016 as a Cannon Crewmember (13 Bravo) in the 82nd Airborne Division, deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. His distinguished service earned him numerous awards, including the Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal.

Following his service, Sergeant Blackman faced life-changing injuries that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Despite these challenges, he remains a symbol of resilience, determination, and hope for his family and community.

Last Christmas, Sergeant Blackman and his family were surprised with the news that he had been selected to receive a specially adapted Helping a Hero home as part of our 100 Homes Challenge. What began as a holiday blessing has now become a reality, bringing hope, stability, and independence to his family. For Sergeant Blackman, the home represents more than walls and a roof—it is the promise of freedom within his own home, the ability to fully participate in family life, and the chance to be the father he strives to be every day.

“This home will give Travis the freedom and independence he deserves, and it stands as a testament to the gratitude of the Colorado community and our nation. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this home a reality." Vicki Brentin, Colorado Chair, Helping a Hero.

“Helping a Hero is honored to provide adapted homes for heroes like Sergeant Blackman. This home represents true accessibility and will restore his independence, dignity, and hope,” stated Meredith Iler, founder of the Helping a Hero Home Program. “Travis courage and perseverance inspire us all, and thanks to partners like Lennar, Bass Pro Shops and Norwood Development Group, we are able to give this American hero a home where he can thrive and not just survive.”

The public is invited to attend and is encouraged to bring a gift card to give to the family as a housewarming gift.

WHO
SGT Travis Blackman, USA (Ret) and family-- Home Recipient
SSgt Daniel Gilyeat, USMC (Ret)- Previous HAH Home Recipient
Frank Walker, Regional President, LENNAR
Meredith Iler, President, Helping a Hero
Vicki Brentin, Colorado Chair, Helping a Hero
Chris Jenkins, CEO, Norwood Development Group
Tate Stevens, National Ambassador Helping a Hero and X Factor Winner
John "Tig" Tiegen-- Marine, Benghazi Hero, Author and Speaker

WHEN

Thursday, September 25, 2025 – 11:00 a.m.

WHERE

Percheron Community, 7753 Desert Wrangler Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80908

(Follow signs to the home site)

ABOUT HELPING A HERO:

Helping A Hero is one of the top national charities building specially adapted homes for qualifying service members through partnerships with builders, vendors, patriots, and veterans. To date, HAH has awarded over 200 homes in 27 states. Helping A Hero also provides support programs including marriage retreats, caregiver retreats, recreational activities, emergency needs grants and Helping a Hero Outdoors.

JOIN THE 100 HOMES CHALLENGE:

Johnny Morris, founder and Lead Outfitter of Bass Pro Shops, has pledged 25% of the cost of the next 100 Helping a Hero Homes and invites the American people and companies alike to join him in the 100 Homes Challenge. The public is invited to “Nominate a Hero,” and wounded heroes needing adaptive housing from the post 9-11 Global War on Terror are invited to complete our “Home Application.” Forms are available on our website to be completed online at helpingahero.org.

CONTACT

Dan Rene
202-329-8357 or [email protected]