August 24, 2009 – Santa Rosa Beach, Florida – John Kazek and the folks at Children’s Volunteer Health Network aren’t taking any time to lazily sip lemonade in the shade of any palm tree this September! Instead Kazek, the chairman for the “Cottages for Canines” event, to be held in Baytowne Wharf in conjunction with the Ultimate Airdog Southern Championship, September 18-27, is busy with his all-volunteer team of contractors building “doggie dreamhouses” that will be sold and auctioned at the week-long festival. “I’ve been involved with CVHN for some time now, and helping the kids is very fulfilling. I build homes for a living, so when we started the ‘Cottages’ fundraisers, it just seemed like a natural fit for me.” Kazek, like many of the individuals working with CVHN, joined the organization as a volunteer during the 2007 and 2008 “Cottages for Kids” fundraisers in Rosemary Beach. After building children’s playhouses for this annual event, he found joining the Board of Directors was the next step.
For the 2009 year, CVHN, a facilitator of free immediate healthcare for children in need, decided to add a doggie spin to its very successful “Cottages for Kids.” The “Canines” version of the event features doghouses built to the highest quality standards, all with themes and names like “Bow-Wow Bungalow” and “Paw Watch.” Here you’ll see cedar-shake mutt mansions and stuccoed pooch palaces. If you love your dog, then don’t miss out! Beginning on September 18 at 10 a.m., the doghouses will be on display in Baytowne Wharf, and can be purchased on-site. Raffle tickets will also be available for purchase, and one lucky dog will win a fabulous custom home for their favorite Fido! All proceeds from the event go to fund CVHN’s programs that provide children with the medical, dental, and mental healthcare they need. But this and other CVHN events could not be possible without community support. “We need lots of dedicated volunteers to pull off this type of event,” says Kazek. “We couldn’t do it without the help of those who care about healthy kids in Walton and Okaloosa Counties.” Like CVHN found a fit for Kazek, its experienced staff and friendly volunteers are committed to building on the talents of those interested in supporting the organization’s mission. “Cottages for Canines” is no exception, and interested members of the community are encouraged to contact CVHN to find out about volunteer opportunities, events, and fundraisers. Visit www.cvhnkids.org to find out how you can get involved!
“Paw Watch” by Dixon Kazek Construction “Beat The Heat” Jeff Burns Trim Carpentry
