3rd Annual Eastern Montana Veterans Stand Down
Posted by ShannonK (+10) 11 years ago
The Region 5 Job Service Workforce Centers (Miles City, Glasgow, Sidney and Glendive) in cooperation with Action for Eastern Montana, will be holding the 3rd Annual Veterans Stand Down in August 11th, 9am-3pm in Miles City, MT at the Fairgrounds.

For those who are not aware of what a Stand Down is please read the following: In times of war, exhausted combat units requiring time to rest and recover were removed from the battlefields to a place of relative security and safety. At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment.

Today, Stand Down refers to a grassroots, community-based intervention program designed to help the nation's veterans "combat" life on the streets. Veterans are brought together in a single location for one to three days and are provided access to the community resources needed to begin addressing their individual problems and rebuilding their lives. In the military, Stand Down afforded battle-weary soldiers the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being. Today's Stand Down affords the same opportunity to Veterans.

Although flawless counts are impossible to come by - the transient nature of homeless populations presents a major difficulty - the Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) estimate that over 67,000 veterans are homeless on any given night. Over the course of a year, approximately twice that many experience homelessness. Only eight percent of the general population can claim veteran status, but nearly one-fifth of the homeless population are veterans.

Veterans are provided with a broad range of necessities including food, clothing, medical, legal and mental health assistance, job counseling and referral, and most importantly, companionship and camaraderie. It is a time for the community to connect with the homeless veteran population and address this crisis that affects each and every town, city and state in this country. The hand up -- not a handout -- philosophy of Stand Down is carried out through the work of hundreds of volunteers and organizations throughout the nation.

For more information contact Cindy Erickson or Ron Nemec at the Miles City Job Service (406)232-8340...or one of the above mentioned Job Service Offices. Thank you for your support of our Countries Vets!!

"All gave some, some gave all
Top
Posted by Wendy Miles (+17) 11 years ago
Well I wish I had know about this yesterday. So my husband could have went. He is a veteran. He just got out of the navy and we are trying to setting back in to the community.
Top
founder
supporter
Posted by Tom Masa (+2208) 11 years ago
I think He still has time ... as it is set for August 11
Top
Posted by ShannonK (+10) 11 years ago
Wendy, the Veterans Stand Down isn't until August. If you're looking for Veteran's Benefit information contact Keith Olson. He's the Montana Dept of Veterans Affairs Veterans Service Officer. His number is 406-232-1203. He's the best resource for benefits. The Miles City Job Service is a good source of information as well. Their number is 406-232-8340. If you have any questions you can contact me at the Glendive Job Service, 406-377-3314 ext 205. Just ask for Shannon. I am the Local Veterans Employment Representative.
Top
Posted by ShannonK (+10) 11 years ago
Just wanted to throw out there that we are looking for volunteers for this event.

Also if you'd like to donate bottled water or make a cash donation that can be used to purchase items for Veterans please contact Cindy Erickson or Ron Nemec at the Miles City Job Service (406)232-8340.

The support for this event has been outstanding. It speaks volumes for the Miles City community! Thank you!
Top
Posted by Jess Bradley (+202) 11 years ago
Just wanted to bring this to the top!
Top
Posted by Olive (+1831) 11 years ago
Bump
Top
Posted by Kim (+34) 11 years ago
Bump
Top
supporter
Posted by Cindy (+386) 11 years ago
Just want to bring this event to the top once more. We are getting close - our event is scheduled for next Saturday, August 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

All Veterans and their families are welcome to attend. Stop by and visit with Veteran's Representatives regarding healthcare, benefits, etc. Or just stop by and visit with other Veterans.

If you would like to volunteer or make a donation to this great event, please contact Ron Nemec or Cindy Erickson at the Miles City Job Service office - either stop by at 12 North 10th Street or give us a call at 232-8340.

Thank you!
Top