Dr. Joe moved to the Southwest area about 40 years ago to open a dental practice for children. For many years, he was the only pediatric dentist in the region. He felt it was his responsibility to treat all children, often receiving less than standard charges, or sometimes no payment. He worked at the weekend clinics where patients often had not seen a dentist since the last clinic. He welcomed patients from the local Free Clinic as well.
Unfortunately, our friend, Joe, has developed Lewy Body Dementia, a neurological disorder which, in layman’s terms, combines Dementia with Parkinson’s symptoms, impacting both brain and body function. He is at home, thanks to the tireless efforts of family and friends.
The friends wanted to do something locally to honor Joe. When the Hand-in Hand Playground was built in the Municipal Park in Blacksburg, Joe was one of the major fundraisers for the project. He, along with his son, Justin, worked on the building of the playground. He was very proud of the project, feeling strongly that children needed a place to play, but also a place to stimulate imagination, and enjoy a gathering place to meet others.
In talking with Dean Crane, the Director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Blacksburg, an idea began to form: Dr. Joe’s Picnic Pavilion. It will be a 24 foot by 44 foot simple structure, like the newer ones which have been built in that park. But, this pavilion will be adjacent to the Hand in Hand Playground, on the side of the hill overlooking the playground. We will have a patio area outside the covered area with 3 benches. Centered on the patio, there will be a plaque honoring Dr. Joe. The verbiage on the plaque and the setting will be fun, encouraging folks to do what HE would have wanted: to laugh, to eat, to play and to have a big time with family and friends.
For this, we need $35,000.
In order to accomplish this we have to “get by with a little help from our friends”.
Our first “friend” is Habitat for Humanity New River Valley. They have agreed to partner with us and help with receiving funds.
There are TWO ways you can donate:
BY CHECK
Make your check out to Habitat for Humanity New River Valley. It is imperative to write DR. JOE’S PICNIC PAVILION in the memo, so your funds will go toward this project. Mail your much appreciated donation to:
Habitat for Humanity NRV
Dr. Joe’s Picnic Pavilion
1675 N Franklin St
Christiansburg VA 24073
BY CREDIT CARD
On line, go to www.habitatnrv.org and click on the DONATE tab in the upper right hand corner. Fill in the template. When you get to the DEDICATION portion, please use the IN HONOR OF section by keying in DR. JOE’S PICNIC PAVILION. Also, kindly put in your name. We’d like to be able to say “thanks”!