Oprah's Big Give!

Was I surprised to receive an e-mail from Scott Taylor informing us that he and Katie had won a chance to participate in Oprah's Big Give? Not in the least! Katie a.k.a. "Bo" is a friend and former fellow comrade of Nick's. In fact, she was one of his instructors in the I-Course at SJAFB. When I first met Katie I was immediately impressed that she had this extra-ordinary ability to bring out the good in those around her...even those with the brashest of exteriors. The rough, tough and sometimes down-right rude atmosphere of a fighter squadron didn't seem to rub off on her. She maintained her level of integrity and standard of respect while serving with some of the world's most courageous and fearless fighters. At first glance, one might think she was soft but it was well-known amongst the community that Katie was one of the Air Force's finest fighter pilots. Much to Nick's and other's dismay, but not surprise, Katie separated from the Air Force to pursue her interest in Philanthropic Studies.

So, no, it wasn't at all surprising to hear that she would compete in Oprah's Big Give. And I would not be the least bit surprised if she and Scott won. But I know they aren't doing it for their own personal glory. I know from knowing them, even just a brief time, that they will work tirelessly because of a genuine desire to help others. Katie doesn't just want to make the world a better place, she actively strives to do so.

Here is the e-mail I received. Please pray for Scott, Katie and their team and for all of those homeless veterans who served to preserve our liberty and who now need our help.

Welcome to Oprah’s Big Give -- Indiana and Operation Heartland!!

www.hvaf.org
HVAF of Indiana, Inc (Helping Homeless Veterans and Families)
www.theindychannel.com
RTV6 coverage of our progress.

Dear Friends and Family,
This is a quick note to share some fun and exciting news. Katie and I “won” the Oprah’s Big Give -- Indiana. From over 550 entries, Katie’s was one of two selected to receive $5,000.00 and three weeks of television coverage to implement her proposal. I am on her committee, but she is the “CEO.” We are a week into it and our heads are spinning, but our hearts are growing!! Indiana is such a wonderful state, and we are overwhelmed by the response of support we have received.
I am in Anchorage on my way to Seoul and Shanghai for a FedEx trip, but Katie is feverishly trying to: 1. Raise at least $120,000.00 to furnish a 40 unit apartment building that will provide housing for 40 homeless, honorably discharged veterans, 2. Raise awareness that nearly 30% of our homeless across the country are veterans, and 3. plan a large Grand Finale on 10 April with Corporate Executives, politicians, and nearly 150 people. We are just thankful we won the opportunity to help those that have served us and fought for freedom.
Here’s how you can help. Pray for us and for those serving and those that have served. Click on the links above to learn more about what we are doing and lend a hand if you can. Pray a little more. And, spread the word. Again, we have only two weeks left to achieve our goal.

Thanks for your time, and sorry for the mass email!!

Faithfully,
Scott and Katie Taylor

Email: BigGive@hvaf.org