Congresswoman Renee Ellmers: Welcoming Home Our Veterans


Photo of the Week:
 

I started the week at a Welcome Home Dedication for Sgt. Jonathan Rivenbark. This event was hosted by Helping a Hero, a nonprofit organization that identified and selected Sgt. Rivenbark for a newly-built, specially-adapted home in Legacy Lakes. It was wonderful to be at the event where we officially welcomed Sgt. Rivenbark and his wife, Yulia, into their 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home which was fully accessible with wider doors, and a roll in shower.
Weekly Update:
This week flew by, but it was a great week at home in the district. I started my week at a Welcome Home Dedication for a soldier previously stationed at Fort Bragg. During SGT. (ret.) Rivenbark’s second deployment to Afghanistan, he received gunshot wounds to both of his legs, fracturing his knee joint, and causing severe nerve and tissue damage. Rivenbark has undergone extensive rehabilitation over the course of the last few years. SGT. Rivenbark was selected as a recipient of a specially adapted home to be built in Legacy Lakes by McKee Homes. It was an honor to be in attendance when Sgt. Rivenbark and his wife received the keys, and a tour, of their new home.

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to speak to a group of bright, young girls who were attending a Girls Initiative Leadership Conference at the Executive Mansion. First Lady Ann McCrory worked with the N.C. Council for Women to launch this one-of-a-kind event for approximately 100 girls ages 10 to 18 years. It was a great opportunity for young girls to hear from local North Carolina women in leadership positions.

During my time there, I gave advice on being fearless – I encouraged the girls that they were qualified to pursue any opportunity and not to second guess themselves along the way. I also spoke about my passion for working with women and encouraging more women to run for higher office. Although those young ladies may not be able to run for office just yet, I asked they consider running for a leadership position at school – whether it’s student council or captain of a sports team. I hope you will scroll down to view photos.

 

 

Helping a Local Hero
 

 It was such an honor to present the key to the Rivenbark’s new home in Aberdeen, North Carolina. Lt. Governor Dan Forest was in attendance as well.

 Sgt. (ret.) Rivenbark and his wife were so excited to tour their new home. The home is fully wheelchair accessible with special modifications like wider doors and roll-in showers.

 

Meeting with Young Women
 


I’m grateful to the North Carolina Council for Women for hosting an incredible event at the Governor’s Executive Mansion. It was wonderful meeting these young ladies from all over North Carolina and speaking to them about serving the Second District.
 
The room was jam packed! I took some time telling the girls about why I chose to run for office and some of the obstacles I faced along the way. One of my underlying messages from my speech: don’t let fear stop you from pursuing an awesome opportunity.
 

There certainly was a lot of pink at the Girls Initiative Leadership Conference!

 

Number 1 Place to Live: Apex, North Carolina
 

 I had the opportunity to spend some time in beautiful downtown Apex for a Small Business Roundtable this week! Stay tuned for the updates on this event in next week’s newsletter! Apex was named by Money Magazine as the #1 place to live in America!