The up north retreat is located in Mackinac County, near Curtis
MACKINAC CO., MI -- We all know that putting money into the stock market is a gamble.
That’s why one Upper Peninsula man decided to pull his money out and make an investment that he knew he couldn't lose.
Bob Blevins put it this way: he doesn't wake up with sweaty palms anymore because his money is no longer in the market.
Now, it's in a project with a special cause.
He invites injured veterans to an up-north retreat for free.
Out in the woods of Mackinac County, somewhere near Curtis, Bob Blevins opened the gate to his life savings. It's not a million-dollar mansion, or a lake-side cabin, just simplicity, deer nearby in the woods, and a silhouette of an American Hero on the front porch.
“You can talk about it, or you can do it, and I get more out of this than I'll ever be able to get, it has a purpose, it makes me feel good, I'd rather have a place like this than a big bank account," said Blevins.
Welcome to the "Old Warrior Camp.” Blevins, a retired Marine, said it was built on inspiration. When the stock market headed south, he sold and built an Up-North retreat.
“When you can offer a place like this where they can come up and spend a weekend, recharge their batteries a little bit, I think it can make all the difference in the world, with attitudes, and determination," said Blevins.
This is an escape for rehabilitating Veterans who have been injured or disabled while serving our country. There's room for four or five in the camp, and Blevins says those who have paid the price, stay for absolutely free.
“We feed them we transport them, they can stay here, we don't charge anything. And the number one inspiration is to give back," said Blevins.
There's a quote on Blevins' wall that reads, "If you're lucky enough to be here, then you're lucky enough." He says being disabled himself, he couldn't think of a better way to put it, and that's why he has made the "Old Warrior Camp" a reality.
Blevins said he has received a lot of support from the community.
In fact, the Newberry Pilot’s Association said they will go and pick up veterans who are rehabilitating in hospitals or at their homes for absolutely free and bring them to the up-north retreat.
To visit the Old Warrior Camp website, CLICK HERE.
If you'd like to learn more, or make a donation, email Andrew Keller at akeller@upnorthlive.com for more information. He'll get you in contact with Bob Blevins.
