Advocacy/Outreach News
Women Veterans Connect at Healing Oasis Retreat
Sunday, March 20, 2016 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
Several women veterans connected this weekend at the first-ever retreat for women veterans held at the Green Gem Holistic Healing Oasis in Bangor. The two-day event included hands-on activities, relaxation techniques like yoga, as well as an opportunity to get to know each other. Candace Green and others who organized and supported the retreat hope to host more events for women veterans in the future.
One Warrior Won Uses Recreational Activities to Help Veterans Reacclimate to Civilian Life
Monday, February 29, 2016 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
After an attempted suicide and dealing with PTSD silently for years, Rich Brewer, a Marine, started the "One Warrior Won" program which is located in Portland, Maine. Rich was serving in Beirut when 299 were killed in a 1983 bombing. His program brings together those with shared experiences and intends to build camaraderie and strength among those who have served.
VA Calling Attention to New Veterans’ Services Network
Thursday, February 25, 2016 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
Along with other community-based and state veteran organizations, the VA is meeting with veterans to answer questions and assist them with filing benefits claims, access healthcare, and other services they may qualify for.
Personal Views vs. Constituents’ Voices
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
In his opinion piece, Chick Ciciotte, the legislative chairperson for the Mid-Coast Veterans Council, makes his case for Maine legislators to pass LD 1280, from which $14 million annually would cascade to Maine veterans from a resort casino in southern Maine. Mr. Ciciotte remarks that state monies in support of Maine veterans has not been forthcoming as promised over the years. He's making a "call for action" to support LD 1280. Call the State House. Senate Republicans (207) 287-1400, Senate Democrats ( 207) 287- 1515, House Republicans (207) 287-1400, House Democrats (207) 287-1400, Governors Office (207) 287- 3531.
Veteran Caregiver Gives Back
Sunday, February 21, 2016 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
Melanie Swoboda, wife of veteran Joseph Swoboda, is Joseph's caregiver and an Elizabeth Dole Foundation Fellow. Melanie advocates on behalf of the thousands of veteran caregivers, raising awareness about their needs, the challenges their families face, and the resources that would help them day to day.
Eddington Woman's Gift for Vets Gives Back
Thursday, January 21, 2016 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
Through the Maine Veterans Project, Linda Smith, donated a vehicle to a woman veteran in need of transportation. As it turned out, the Maine Veterans Project was able to also assist Linda whose husband was a World War II veteran. Black Bear Medical in Bangor provided her with a power recliner chair to help her stand up. For more information about the Maine Veterans Project, visit their website at: www.maineveteransproject.org.
Building a House in the Woods to Help Veterans Heal
Saturday, July 4, 2015 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
The "House in the Woods, A Military and Family Retreat" is growing with construction of an 80-by-90 foot lodge which began in fall 2014. Volunteers crews, donated materials and equipment, and monetary donations help the Emery and House families realize a dream in memory of their sons, both of whom lost their lives during the war in Iraq. Veterans, military, and their families retreat to Maine to heal with others from across the nation.
Maine Must Better Connect Veterans to Existing Services, Panel Says
Tuesday, May 12, 2015 | Category: Advocacy/Outreach - ME
The Volunteers of America hosted a veteran-focused panel forum. There was some consensus that there are many veteran services offered by state, federal, and nonprofit organizations. The challenge seems to be spreading the word on the services. A Bread of Life veteran case manager, shared that veterans often need transportation to job, career, and health appointments and many do not use computers.