Quinebaug Valley Community College will host its third annual Veterans’ Stand Down, an event designed to give former service members assistance with benefits information, on Saturday, June 9, at the Danielson campus.
Produced in partnership with the Danielson Veterans Coffeehouse, the Stand Down is an annual event that serves veterans residing in northeast Connecticut.
Andrew Morrison, interim director of community outreach and veterans’ services, says there are many veterans who are unaware of what benefits are available to them, whether it’s food, housing, transportation, or health. “Veterans are used to helping themselves, or relying on each other to figure out those benefits,” he said. “This is a starting point, a place to ask questions and be referred to people or groups that can help.”
Annie Hill, veterans’ services program assistant and school certifying official, adds that the Stand Down will also provide information regarding education benefits that can be used at QVCC. “Nearly all veterans residing in Connecticut are entitled to a tuition waiver, but we find many veterans aren’t aware of this benefit,” she said. “The Stand Down is one way we can raise awareness.”
A variety of community, health, and government groups will have representatives at the Stand Down providing guidance to veterans and their families on the benefits they have earned. In addition to free hearing and eye screenings, the event includes booths hosted by several veterans’ services groups, as well as representatives from the state Department of Labor, the American Legion and others. This year’s event will also feature employers interested in hiring veterans and a fall prevention exposition sponsored by the Northeast District Department of Health.
The Veterans Stand Down runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For additional information, contact Andrew Morrison at 860-932-4360 or amorrison@qvcc.edu
Released May 24, 2018