A Tampa, Florida-based rehabilitation center will be the recipient of this year’s Metalcon charity donation.

Officials with the sheet metal forming and sheet metal products trade show are working with America’s Fund, a veterans-oriented nonprofit to raise money for Tampa Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center. The center is one of five such places nationwide that provide services to veterans with severe injuries.

In 2006, Metalcon assisted in providing U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Paul Russell “Russ” Marek of Satellite Beach, Florida, a new home after he sustained injuries in Iraq.

Metalcon director Claire Kilcoyne said she was moved by Marek’s story and wanted to help similarly wounded military members this year.

“Going forward we want to ensure Metalcon’s giving back efforts benefit those brave individuals who’ve put their futures on the line to make all of us safer and able to enjoy all of the freedoms we have,” she said. “By affiliating with America’s Fund, we open the door for more recipients and donations on an ongoing basis, not just at our annual event.” 

Metalcon takes place Oct. 14-16 at the Tampa Convention Center.