Founder of Dryhootch honored by White House
MILWAUKEE -- The founder of Dryhootch in Milwaukee was honored as a champion of change.
Last week, Bob Curry was recognized by the White House for his service to returning vets.
Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) Secretary Scocos made the following statement regarding Curry, receiving a special recognition from the White House:
“I’d like to congratulate Bob Curry for being honored by the White House. For some, like Bob, serving one’s country doesn’t end when they leave the military. With Dryhootch, Bob has given veterans a place to gather, be heard, ask questions and get answers, or to simply enjoy a cup of coffee in the company of those with similar life experiences. In Wisconsin, we are lucky to have people like Bob who work hard every day to help their fellow veterans.”
Wednesday, May 30th, a local leader showed up at Dryhootch to thank Curry for his work.
Curry opened the drug and alcohol free coffee house for veterans and their families as a way to provide support services to returning vets.
Dryhootch was started in 2008 by Curry and a group of Vietnam veterans who wanted to help the Iraq/Afghanistan generation of vets with reintegration issues, in addition to helping vets from all eras.
They started by selling coffee out of a tent at “Reclaiming Our Heritage” on the Zablocki VA grounds.
After receiving a grant in 2009, they purchased an outreach truck to take to events throughout Wisconsin.
In 2010, Dryhootch found a permanent location for a coffee house and support group center on Brady St. in Milwaukee.