🦅 Breaking: 'Flight of Valor' Raise $3,600 for Operation Fresh Start - Local Art + Local Heart 🏠

KCStark
Oct 21
2 min read

🇺🇸 The Art of Giving: ‘Flight of Valor’ Auction Soars to $3,600 for Local Veteran Family

The brush met the moment — and our valley showed up in a big way.

We’re thrilled to announce that the Flight of Valor art auction featuring Melody DeBenedictis’ original painting has officially raised $3,600 in support of Operation Fresh Start, the local volunteer-led effort to build a safe, warm, and fully accessible home for an elderly veteran couple right here in Custer County.

But the story doesn’t end there — in fact, it soars higher.

🦅 The winning bid came from an 82-year-old landowner in Cuerno Verde, a woman whose heart is as big as the mountains that surround her. Quietly generous and deeply moved by Melody’s story, she placed her bid not for the spotlight — but for the cause. She’s also a fan and follower of Melody DeBenedictis’ artwork, calling her story “a testament to the power of perseverance, art, and giving back.”

A Custer County Moment of Full Circle

The winning bidder is about the same age as the veteran couple who will receive the new home, making the gesture all the more powerful. In a world where generations often feel divided, this act of neighborly love reminds us that compassion knows no age — and neither does courage.

Melody herself — cancer-free and creating with renewed purpose — continues to shine a spotlight on the wild horses of the West, the spirit of resilience, and the soul of a valley that doesn’t just talk about community — it builds it.

What’s Next for Operation Fresh Start?

With this new boost of funds, the volunteer team led by Valor Development is gaining ground. Construction materials, skilled labor, and more hands are lining up every week to bring this project across the finish line — and every dollar is stretching further thanks to the support of neighbors, local businesses, and kind hearts like this one.

🔗 Want to help? You still can. Visit Operation Fresh Start or reach out to learn how to donate tools, time, or treasure.

From the Sangres With Gratitude

To everyone who shared, donated, commented, or simply believed — thank you. This is what happens when art meets action, and when small towns make big moves. 🇺🇸🦅🏠