First Veteran Expo to be held in Pembroke Oct. 8

The First Veteran Expo will be held on Oct. 8 and bring together veteran-specific organizations in one location, creating a network of support and information about navigating post-military life.

“A lot of veterans feel isolated and that they are not welcome at different organizations,” said coordinator Brenda Northey, who runs Operation Well-Being Limited. “I think there is something special about having an event for them, not for everybody else.”

Holding the free expo was inspired by a veteran who approached Northey with the idea, suggesting veterans would benefit greatly from it.

After connecting with a few other organizations such as Canada House to gauge interest, the expo came to be.

“All the organizations have said that veterans are struggling with the paperwork, they are struggling to know what services are available and as much as VAC is good, people are so overwhelmed,” said Northey. “So we just thought that we could get together and represent the services available to them.”

There will be refreshments, presentations, as well as the chance to connect with other veterans, learn about available services and programs and get help with paperwork and with MY VAC accounts.

“I want veterans to be aware of what is out there,” said Northey, noting she doesn’t want anybody to give up hope when confronted by obstacles. “We hope that the veterans will not feel intimated and will feel comfortable coming to it because it is for them.”

The event will be held on Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 100 Crandall St. Participating organizations include Algonquin College, the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre (PMFRC), Music Healing Veterans Canada, Occupational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS), the Royal Canadian Legions, The Cannapothecary, Vets Coffee Corner, Canada House, Continuing Education - Renfrew County District School Board, Operation Well-Being, Richardsview Farms, Veteran Enterprises and Watch My Six Service Dogs.

“A lot of these organizations are run by veterans and they are all coming together to work with and serve as many veterans as we can,” said Northey.