"A Day for Heroes" by GLA Fisher house

Here in Los Angeles, we honor our Veterans and their families’ every day at the Greater Los Angeles (GLA) Fisher House located at the Veterans Administration (VA) campus in West Los Angeles. 

The GLA Fisher House is one of many Fisher Houses worldwide aimed at providing “a home away from home” for Veteran’s family members as they receive medical care at the VA hospital.  In February 2005, community activist Tim Byk started the GLA Fisher House Foundation, a 501(c)3.  Along with a team of loyal volunteers, enthusiasm, and persistence, Byk raised over $3.5 Million dollars to build and support the GLA Fisher House, which has served over 2,500 military families, to date.

“I had and have the utmost respect for those who protect our freedom,” Byk said. “I am grateful for their sacrifices every day of my life. Raising funds to build and support a Fisher House has become a way for me to demonstrate my sincere appreciation for the debt our Veterans and active service personnel have paid.”

Everything is complimentary at the GLA Fisher House, a 21-suite facility which allows guests to experience the amenities of a five star hotel without having to pay the price.  The house is equipped with a laundry facility, as well as a state-of-the-art professional kitchen with three subzero refrigerators and private lockers for guests to store dry goods. The king and queen-sized deluxe suites have a computer, a television, a private bathroom, and 450 thread count linens to keep guests comfortable during this time of emotional need.

At approximately 16,800 square feet, the house is 100% handicapped accessible.  Byk’s desire to provide a comfortable “home away from home” for guests is apparent throughout the location, from the manicured landscape and exterior patios outside to the Wii system and extensive DVD collection available in the living room. A rich component of the Fisher Houses involve a special sense of community, as families are able to interact and develop support groups within the house during their loved ones’ treatment period.

As a way to kick off Veterans Day, and raise more funds for the GLA Fisher House, come and support your Veterans on November 10th at the first annual benefit concert entitled “A Day for Heroes,” located at the Wadsworth Theatre on the Greater Los Angeles Veterans Administration (VA) campus.  Byk has secured the band “America” to headline the concert, as well as gained support of other bold-faced names such as Kim Delaney and Penelope Ann Miller. Elliott Gould will serve as emcee.

Although freedom isn’t free, A Day for Heroes benefit concert and barbeque on Saturday, November 10, is free to active service personnel and veterans.