Volleyball tournament raising money for Building Homes

From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors will host the third annual volleyball tournament to benefit Building Homes for Heroes at the Boardwalk/Wayside Park on Okaloosa Island.

Since 2006, Building Homes for Heroes has been at the forefront of making a significant difference in the lives of wounded American service members and their families. The organization gifts mortgage-free homes that meet the needs of the men and women who have selflessly served our country. These homes not only help to remove the family's financial burden, they help to restore the individual's freedom, and enable the veteran to lead a more independent and productive civilian life.

All proceeds from this event go to Building Homes for Heroes.

To register a team or for more information, visit eventbrite.com.

Meet a Hero

United States Air Force Capt. Nathan Nelson suffered a spinal cord injury from a rocket blast in Afghanistan. He now has no movement below his waist and limited use of his hands. Nelson was part of a special operations team that took heavy fire in September of 2013 during his third tour in Afghanistan.

For his service to our country, Nelson has received recognition for his bravery, including the Purple Heart, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal and the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award.

Nelson, his wife Jennifer, and their daughter Eva would like to reside in the Florida Panhandle.