Local Non-Profit Gives iPads To Recovering Veterans

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Minnesota non-profit is leading a unique effort to help veterans recover from severe injuries.

Tim Bartz and his wife, Kim, started iWarriors in 2010 with a simple $400 gift. Four years later, it's grown into a $100,000 operation, raising money to give iPads to Purple Heart veterans who suffered severe injuries.

"Often they spend a month or more in the hospital, many adjusting to life without an arm, hand or fingers," Bartz said. "We decided on the iPads because they are light and easy to work, with Wi-Fi to keep in touch with family."

The iPad comes personalized with a name rank and unit, personally engraved by Bartz at his Mahtomedi office.

See a video of veterans with their iPads here.

iWarriors partners with the Minnesota Mold Builders Association to raise money. More than 98 percent goes directly to veterans.

NewsRadio 830 WCCO's Colin Smith Reports

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"It's been a phenomenal experience to see how many people are passionate about this," Bartz said. "These (veterans) gave their all, let's give some back."

Check out their website to make a donation, or request an iPad for a veteran.