Attendees connect with local organizations at a previous Veterans Expo. (Photo courtesy of Gerald Saunders)
Veterans, military families and community members are invited to a free Veterans Expo from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 24 at the Menifee Library, 28798 La Piedra Road.
Gerald Saunders, the Third District representative on Riverside County’s Veterans Advisory Committee, said the expo is designed to bring a range of services together in one place.
“We know there’s veterans out there that don’t always know what’s available to them, so we’re bringing nonprofit organizations, community partners and government agencies together in one location to make it easier for veterans and their families,” Saunders said.Â
This year’s expo places a special emphasis on mental health and wellness, addressing challenges many veterans face as they transition from military service to civilian life.
Saunders, who served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, said that transition can bring anxiety, depression, PTSD, isolation and other challenges, making access to support services especially important.
Attendees will have an opportunity to connect with organizations offering veterans benefits assistance, mental health counseling, employment and education resources, housing information, financial guidance, veteran service organizations and caregiver support.
Food will be provided and no registration is required.
Veterans seeking specific services are encouraged to bring relevant documents. Those looking for employment should bring a résumé, while those seeking benefits assistance should bring identification and discharge paperwork.Â
“The mission is simple: it’s to connect veterans with the resources they’ve earned, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and remind every veteran that they are never alone,” Saunders said.
