Video: 8 Days Of Hope Returns To Tupelo For American Legion Project

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) –  Volunteers from across the country are spending part of their summer helping the American Legion rebuild its post in Tupelo.

As WCBI’s Allie Martin reports, the project is part of a ministry that is no stranger to the area and those who needed help after last year’s tornado.

On most days, Jed Davis is busy on a construction project with his Amory company.

“I could definitely be making money somewhere right now, but the feeling you get by helping somebody else out, doing for others, money can’t buy that,” Davis said.

Jed, and other volunteers, are helping rebuild American Legion Post 49.

The building took a direct hit from the tornado on April 28 2014.   Most of these volunteers were in Tupelo last July as part of a rebuilding effort by a ministry called 8 Days of Hope.

“It’s not about what we’re doing for them, which is awesome, it’s about the blessing you get back when you go out and serve, we’re following the lead of the greatest servant on the face of the earth,” said John Fuqua, who lives in Kentucky, and came to Tupelo last summer for the 8 days of Hope outreach.

Along with the volunteers, there’s some other muscle out here, members of Tupelo Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit are on the scene, they are helping 8 Days of Hope and they say it’s their way of giving back.

“This really proves we are out there to protect and serve , so for us to be able to come back and give back to our community in a situation like this, it’s just a remarkable feeling,” said Lt. Michael Russell, with the Tupelo Police Dept.

For  volunteer Ronald Melone, spending the day flooring the attic is a way to help fellow veterans and also an opportunity to live out his faith.

“I’m a member of the Legion in Kentucky and I knew they needed help down here so I would come down here an help them.  It’s a great blessing to be His hands and feet in this world, help His kingdom,” Melone said.

By the time these volunteers wrap up Saturday night, the 7,000 square foot building will have a finished roof and it will be ready for electric and plumbing crews on the inside.

Volunteers will also be needed next week to continue work on the American Legion Headquarters.

www.eightdaysofhope.com