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Gen. Wesley Clark Launches Accessibility Program
 Retired Gen. Wesley Clark launched a new International Code Council (ICC) program last month to improve the quality of life for veterans with disabilities.
The Ohio home of Vietnam veteran Shelby Bowling is the pilot site for Project H.E.R.O. — Homes Eliminated of Restrictions and Obstacles, bringing together building officials, architects, engineers, businesses and other volunteers to help make the homes of veterans with disabilities accessible.
The ICC is organizing state coordinators to replicate the pilot program across the country.
“Many injured veterans own homes that are not accessible to someone with a disability,” said Clark, who is chairman of the project. “For a disabled veteran, the key to attaining independence may be an extensive, often expensive, home remodeling project. Unfortunately, some of our nation’s veterans cannot afford to make these necessary modifications. That’s where Project H.E.R.O. and its volunteers can help.”
Bowling, an Air Force veteran, has diabetes and must use a motorized scooter to maneuver through his home. His house does not have an accessible entrance and his bedroom and bathroom are on the second floor — limiting his ability to access 50% of the home.
The Project H.E.R.O. additions for Bowling’s home include an addition with an accessible entrance, a bedroom and a bathroom.
“I’m very thankful for what they are doing for me,” said Bowling. “It has kept me from having to make an immediate decision about how to continue to fight my stairway. I still think it’s kind of unbelievable they have selected me for this. I’m just very, very grateful.”
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