Driven to Serve: Aberdeen Student Organizes Car Wash to Support Local Veterans

Esten Foss, a junior at Central High School in Aberdeen, South Dakota, has taken the initiative to organize a car wash event to benefit local veterans. Foss, who aspires to gain admission to the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point, sees this project as an opportunity to hone his leadership skills and make a meaningful impact on his community.

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders to Support Those Who Served

Driving Change Through Community Collaboration

Foss's car wash initiative is the result of a collaborative effort involving several local organizations. He worked closely with Jesse Milbrandt of the Brown County Veterans Service Office and Angie Cleberg, the impact coordinator for the United Way of Northeastern South Dakota, to bring this project to life. By leveraging the resources and expertise of these partners, Foss has been able to create a well-organized event that promises to make a tangible difference in the lives of local veterans.The car wash will take place on Saturday, July 20, from noon to 5 p.m. in the CorTrust Bank parking lot at 2016 Sixth Ave. S.E. in Aberdeen. Foss and his friends from Central High School will be on hand to provide the car washing services, while the United Way and the Brown County Veterans Service Office will ensure that the funds raised are directed towards the specific needs of local veterans.

Addressing the Needs of Veteran Mobility

The primary focus of the car wash fundraiser is to support the purchase of costly batteries required for motorized wheelchairs used by veterans. These specialized batteries are essential for maintaining the independence and mobility of those who have served our country. By raising funds for this specific need, Foss and his team aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of local veterans, empowering them to maintain their quality of life and continue to participate actively in their communities.In addition to the wheelchair battery funds, any additional money raised will be directed towards other United Way veteran resources, ensuring that the impact of this event extends beyond the immediate need. This holistic approach to supporting veterans showcases Foss's understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by those who have served, and his commitment to addressing them in a comprehensive manner.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

Foss's initiative has not gone unnoticed by the community. Angie Cleberg, the impact coordinator for the United Way of Northeastern South Dakota, expressed her admiration for Foss's dedication and leadership. "We are incredibly proud of Esten for his decision and initiative," Cleberg said. "His commitment to supporting our veterans and his leadership in this project are what makes this next generation of leaders so inspiring."Foss's drive to make a positive impact on his community, coupled with his aspirations to attend the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point, demonstrate the qualities that make him a promising young leader. By organizing this car wash event, Foss is not only raising funds for a worthy cause but also honing his skills in project management, community engagement, and strategic thinking – all of which will serve him well in his future endeavors, both in the military and beyond.The car wash event has also garnered the support of Centennial Homes, a local business that has pledged to match the total funds raised. This partnership further amplifies the impact of Foss's initiative, showcasing the power of community collaboration in driving meaningful change.As the car wash event approaches, the community of Aberdeen and beyond eagerly anticipates the success of Esten Foss's efforts. This project not only benefits local veterans but also serves as an inspiring example of how the next generation of leaders can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served our country.