VET REC
VET REC is a fun farm day for veterans and their families, providing a venue for veterans to get together, building friendships and comradery with other veterans. The “buddy” system experienced while on active duty and especially when deployed helped to lessen the stresses of being separated from family and country. Coming back, veterans no longer have that support of their buddies. This event provides an environment of fun, games and sharing a farm meal prepared together to re-build that buddy experience after release from active duty. The combat vet will trust and bond with other combat vets more easily than going to a civilian counselor as they have related experiences that a civilian does not understand.
Boot Camp Gardening Course
A 10 week seasonal course on the second Saturday of the month. Classes are short, easy and hands on. We teach DIY, practical techniques for veterans and the civilian community.
Classes are taught by Anne Miller, OEV board member and owner of Salty Feathers Farm. Classes are also taught by local business owners and experts in the area on growing in our harsh Florida environment. There are free plants, seeds, and materials given out for the students to take home.
Wellness Program
Our Wellness program is headed up by OEV Board Treasurer Nancy Tucker. We have offered yoga, tapping, essential oils and other alternative therapy programs. Thanks to a generous donation from CNY Community Foundation and Philippe Schwimmer, we have a new herb gardening program that will be utilized for horticultural therapy, and teas will be made and distributed to vets and their families and some will be sold to raise funds for our programs.
“All Hands Volunteer” Support and the “Volunteer Brigade”
Our volunteers are the heart of our organization. With their support, we are able to make a difference in the lives of our veteran heroes. We are so grateful for our wonderful volunteers.
Our “All Hands” volunteers aid with strategic planning, fundraising, marketing, and administrative support.
Our “Volunteer Brigade” does the heavy lifting and earns a delicious farm-made luncheon. Both of our groups meet once a month. If you are interested in joining either of our volunteer groups, please contact us at admin@operationecovets.org. Thank you.
