Construction services donated to help develop equestrian center for local veterans with PTSD
FORT MYERS, Fla. – February 13, 2020 – Dan Dodrill, President of Daniel Wayne Homes, Inc., helped construct a 7,000 square foot covered riding arena and stables at the Miles Ranch for the Miles of Smiles Foundation through a local organization Builders Without Borders, Inc.
FORT MYERS, Fla. – February 13, 2020 – Dan Dodrill, President of Daniel Wayne Homes, Inc., helped construct a 7,000 square foot covered riding arena and stables at the Miles Ranch for the Miles of Smiles Foundation through a local organization Builders Without Borders, Inc.
The Miles of Smiles Foundation was founded in 2007 by Keith and Gail Doxie in memory of their son Miles Doxie, who was tragically killed in a car accident two weeks before he was to leave for training in the U.S. Air Force. The couple created Miles Ranch after his passing and now offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning programs for returning veterans at their 20-acre ranch to help them cope with post-traumatic stress disorder. They also provide support for veterans’ families, all at no cost.
“The new facilities are truly a gamechanger for us, and it’s amazing what Builders Without Borders has done for the veterans and families we serve,” said Gail Doxie. “Previously, we were operating without shelter and had only a small barn that had been damaged by Hurricane Irma. Now, we will have the capability to facilitate many more counseling sessions while keeping the participants and horses safer and more comfortable.”
The newly constructed facilities at the Miles Ranch were presented during a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony late last month, at which many veterans were present.
“We witnessed a veteran, who is a Purple Heart recipient, in tears when he saw the arena,” added Doxie. “He told us he didn’t know that people still cared and that the new facilities gave him hope. They are a testimony of gratitude for those who have served our country, and we are very thankful to Dan and Builders Without Borders.”
Builders Without Borders, Inc., a local organization Dodrill co-founded, helped arrange the build. The volunteer-run non-profit helps provide support and structures such as schools and youth centers for missionaries in Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Haiti, and beyond. They also assist with projects locally, as was the case with the Miles Ranch.
“As soon as Builders Without Borders, Inc. was made aware of the great program Miles Ranch was running for veterans, we knew that we needed to get involved. Upon further investigating the program, we became aware that they had a great need for a permanent covered arena and stable,” remarked Dodrill.
“The Doxies provide first-rate counseling at no cost to our local veterans that need it. This entire project was only made possible because of the multitude of volunteer labor, material donations, and services provided by countless individuals and companies from Lee County. I want to sincerely thank all of them for supporting this project.”
About Daniel Wayne Homes, Inc.
Daniel Wayne Homes has been building homes in the Tri-County area since 1992. As the developer and exclusive builder of Horse Creek, as well as the developer of Coconut Creek, Caloosa Creek, and Hammock Creek, Daniel Wayne Homes has acquired a reputation for building outstanding neighborhoods and communities, as well as fine custom homes. Offering 17 floorplans or completely custom builds, Daniel Wayne Homes is known for its engaging and welcoming Old Florida home designs with modern amenities. For more information, visit http://danielwaynehomes.com/.
