CVSO Office Updates
Happy September Veterans, family members, community members, and all-around stand-up folks!
September is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a time to remind our Veteran community that seeking support is a sign of strength. Military service can bring unique challenges, both during and after duty, and many Veterans face stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other concerns that can affect daily life. This month, we honor the courage it takes to reach out, encourage open conversations about mental health, and highlight the resources available to ensure no Veteran faces these challenges alone.
Get Started with Mental Health Services
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – ChooseVA
This guide will help you access mental health services, which may include treatment and support for mental health problems such as:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Military sexual trauma (MST)
- Depression
- Grief
- Substance use problems
- Anxiety-related conditions
I Need Help Now
If you are in crisis, call, text, or chat online with the Veterans Crisis Line. Responders are Veterans themselves. The confidential line is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
For emergency mental health care, you can also go directly to your local VA Medical Center (no enrollment or discharge requirement).
I’m Not in Crisis, But I’m Having Trouble Sleeping, Controlling Anger, or Adjusting to Civilian Life
You are not alone. More than 1.7 million Veterans received VA mental health care last year. Services may include peer support, counseling, or medication. You may qualify for services from the VA or through community-based partners.
Am I Eligible for VA Mental Health Care?
Most Veterans can access VA mental health services. Costs may vary.
If you separated recently from uniformed service with an honorable discharge:
- All Veterans can access emergency mental health care.
- You may be eligible for non-emergency VA mental health services.
If you separated from uniformed service many years ago:
- You may still be eligible for Vet Center services at no cost.
- Emergency VA mental health care is available to all.
If you are a current or former member of the National Guard or Reserves:
- You may be eligible for VA mental health services and Vet Center services.
If you have questions, call 877-222-VETS (877-222-8387).
How Do I Schedule My First Appointment?
If you are already enrolled in VA health care:
Appointments may be:
- In-person with a clinician
- By phone or video
- Same-day prescriptions (if needed)
Not yet enrolled? Call VA Medical Facility for help with eligibility and available services.
Need help? Call 877-222-VETS (877-222-8387), Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. ET.
How Much Will It Cost?
Costs depend on:
- Disability rating
- Service history
- Medical needs
- Income level
Do not let concerns about cost prevent you from seeking care. Some services may be free.
VA Mental Health Services – Common Questions
What if I have an Other-than-Honorable (OTH) or “bad paper” discharge?
- You may still receive emergency VA mental health care.
- You may also be eligible for non-emergency VA mental health care.
- Call or visit your local VA medical facility to learn what services may be available.
Do I have to be enrolled in VA health care to access VA mental health services?
Not always. Some VA mental health services are available even if you are not enrolled in VA health care.
Examples include services from VA Vet Centers:
- Individual and group counseling for eligible Veterans, Service members, and their families
- Readjustment counseling
- VA benefits assistance
- Bereavement (grief) counseling
- Employment counseling
- Substance abuse assessment and referral
How to connect:
If you do enroll in VA health care:
- You gain access to the full range of VA health care services.
- You may also be eligible for other VA benefits such as housing, employment, job training, and education — all of which can affect mental health.
Will using mental health services at VA put my career at risk?
- Medical records are protected by privacy laws.
- A mental health diagnosis or seeking care does not automatically jeopardize work-related credentials such as security clearances.
- In fact, employers generally recognize that employees who get help are more productive and effective.
Am I able to see a mental health provider outside of VA?
Yes. VA provides health care for Veterans from local community providers when VA cannot provide the care needed.
- This care is called VA Community Care.
- Community care is based on specific health needs or circumstances and requires VA authorization.
- The care is paid for by VA.
Learn more: https://www.va.gov/communitycare
Other Questions You May Have
It can be difficult for me to visit VA facilities. Are there services online?
Yes. VA Video Connect allows you to talk with a VA mental health provider using a mobile device, computer, or in your home.
- VA provides equipment if you don’t already have it.
- Ask your VA health care provider about connecting with the VA Video Connect Telehealth program.
What other options do I have?
Make the Connection
Military OneSource
- Resources for active-duty Service members, Veterans (up to one year after separation), and their families.
- Call 800-342-9647
- Website: https://www.militaryonesource.mil
What if I lost my housing or am in danger of losing it?
The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans can help.
- Call 877-424-3838 (877-4AID-VET)
- Available 24/7
Are there VA mental health resources for families and caregivers of Veterans?
Yes. VA Caregiver Support Teams include social workers and nurses who know VA benefits and services.
How to connect:
- Call the Caregiver Support Line: 855-260-3274
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST
- Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST
- Website: https://www.caregiver.va.gov
- Find a Caregiver Support Coordinator at your local VA Medical Center
**A quick reminder that our office will be attending our annual Fall Conference September 7th-10th. Please be patient in our response time to emails and voice mails.
I appreciate each and every one of you, readers. I’m so grateful for you!
  Tiffany Canfield
Veteran Services Manager
Veteran Service Office Snapshot
July 2025
Total claims submitted to VA:
- Compensation: 118
- VA Healthcare: 11
- DIC: 0
- Burial: 14
- Survivor’s Pension: 1
- CHAMPVA: 0
- Records Request: 1
- Special Monthly Pension: 2
Points of contact with veterans (office visits, incoming mail, phone calls
returned, emails returned, etc.): 397
Veterans in office: 93
Outreach visits: 0
Total phone calls: 259
Average number of calls per day: 7
Average call length: 3 minutes and 01 seconds
Women Veterans Spotlight
September Mantra:
I am READY! I can handle anything life throws at me.
Happy September Sisters!
Anyone feel like you blinked, and August was over? I swear to you, I blacked
out this month. One moment it’s August 1st and I’m full of excited and motivated energy to make August rock, and the next I feel like life handed me a huge piece of humble pie- reminding me that leading a team and being a mom to four tiny humans is not for the faint of heart.
This week was heavy, with kiddos going back to school and learning of the school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. I had been feeling the pressure to show up for my job, my family, and my friends in big
ways while navigating my feelings of sending my kiddos back to school and celebrating their birthdays. When I learned of the shooting, it was the straw that broke my proverbial mental health “camel’s back”. I ended up working from home yesterday- because the world and the responsibility, and life just felt so heavy. My brain likes to play tricks on me when I start feeling overwhelmed or anxious. I started feeling like a failure yesterday and was battling the thoughts: “Am I a good enough leader?” “Do my kids know how much I love them?” “Did I yell too much?” “Did I care too little?” “Does my team feel supported?” “Am I being a good wife” “I haven’t checked in with my closest friends enough”.
When I get in this mentality, it’s hard to bring me back. I did a CPT program through the VA a few years back, and something I learned was that these thoughts can be interrupted. It takes a lot of practice and it’s not easy. Yesterday I recognized that I was going through it and needed to interrupt the cycle.
Rather than continue to be hard on myself, I took the opportunity to practice what I “preach” and I took a moment for myself. 5 years ago, this thinking pattern would have sent me into a tailspin, and I would have avoided every waking responsibility I had for the foreseeable future, and I would have absolutely relied on alcohol to get me through. Slowly over the past several years, I’ve been doing things different. Reaching out to my best friends and family to share my experiences and thoughts, I shared with my immediate team that I needed some time, and I spent some time being nice to myself. This time I made a cup of tea and took my paddle board to Chester Woods. I spent 1.5 hours on the lake, listening to the birds, the water hit my board, and the crickets chirping. I remembered that it’s “OK” and that there isn’t anything more I need to do except REST (remember my fun acronym?? “Remember everything’s simple today”).
Here’s my gentle reminder, on the cusp of Mental Health Awareness month, that it’s ok to not always feel 100%, on top of your A game, and like you are spiraling. There’s something so empowering about taking time to break cycles and create new patterns for yourself. Nothing is absolute, and you always have the opportunity to try again and try something new.
September is Mental Health Awareness Month- so this month, and every month out of the year, here is some gentle encouragement to be kind to yourself, try new things, and let yourself feel all the feelings. Don’t get hung up on the bad stuff, feel it, experience it, move on with it. You are strong, and brave, and capable!!
Love you all!
-Tiffany
“You can’t raise the bar without raising a little hell”- so let’s raise some hell, shall we ladies??
Karen's Korner
Is there something you want to learn more about? If you have questions, more than likely, other veterans have the same questions.
We are always looking for new articles for this newsletter. If you have something you would like to know, or tell others about, please send me an email karen.applen@olmstedcounty.gov and I will do my best to assist you.
Second Annual VFW Golf Tournament
Whitlock-Sonnenberg VFW Post 1215
along with POW/MIA Recognition Day
presents
2nd Annual VFW Golf Tournament
Date: Friday, September 19, 2025 – Rain or Shine
Location: Soldier’s Field Golf Course, Rochester, MN
Time: Noon Shotgun Start
(Please arrive by 11:00 AM for check-in and announcements)
Format: 4-person Scramble, 1-Putt Greens
Entry Fee: $400 per Team
(Includes 18 holes with cart, hole contests, and prizes)
Proceeds to help area Veterans and their families and the recovery of MIA Soldier Allen Richard Lloyd.
Additional Details:
Sign Up Now!
FLAG SPONSORSHIP
Honor a Veteran, Family Member, or Loved One
Sponsor a flag in their name at the VFW Post 1215 Golf Tournament
and help us proudly line the course with tribute.
For just $20
You can recognize someone who served, someone you love, or someone you admire.
Purchase one today!
Contact the VFW Post 1215
507-289-6818
https://vfw1215.org/contact/
Taco Tuesday's Celebrates One Year Anniversary
Listen up, Warriors of the Chow Line,
It’s finally here: Honor Bound Veterans is celebrating ONE YEAR of Taco Tuesday operations. That’s right, 12 glorious months of tactical taco consumption, salsa slinging, and making fun of the Marines (our sacred duty).
Location: Tap House West End, 2365 Commerce Dr NW, Rochester, MN
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 2nd, 2025
Time: 1130–1300 hours (11:30am - 1pm)
Cost: This time, NONE for veterans. That’s right—Tacos On Us. (Do I have enough money? Absolutely not. Am I doing it anyway? You bet your MRE heater I am!)
Graduation from Taco Bootcamp
After a year of seasoning your palates and your jokes, you’ve officially graduated from Taco Bootcamp. You’ve proven your ability to endure hot sauce raids, survive tortilla shortages, and maintain OPSEC by never revealing the secret guac recipe on social media.
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Army grads: Congrats on finally showing up to formation (the taco line)
on time.
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Marine grads: Please stop trying to eat the diploma. It’s not a crayon.
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Navy grads: Relax—yes, this restaurant is on land, but we’ll guide you in.
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Air Force grads: Don’t worry, it’s not catered by Chick-fil-A, but it’ll do.
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Space Force grads: No, you still can’t call “dibs” on the Moon Taco franchise.
Why We Do This (Besides Free Tacos)
Honor Bound Veterans hosts Taco Tuesday to fight veteran isolation, build camaraderie, and remind each other that laughter (and salsa) is still the best medicine. Each plate of tacos is another reason to stay connected and another reason to stick around.
OPSEC REMINDER
- Do NOT post classified taco intel (like the number of shells you consumed).
- Do NOT reveal the rally point to civilians unless they’re veterans—or bringing queso.
- Do RSVP—otherwise, you’re not on the list, and if your name ain’t there, you’re eating chow hall leftovers while the rest of us graduate to steak tacos.
ACTION REQUIRED
RSVP with “Reporting for Taco Duty, Sarge!” so we can get a headcount. If you don’t, we’ll assume you got lost in the parking lot or got drafted by the Marines. OR to make it easy, follow the link here: (Click For Operation "Taco Overload"). ALSO, forward this email to every veteran you know.
14th Annual DAV & Olmsted County Deer Hunts
It’s that time of the year again. Announcing the 14th Annual Deer Hunts at the Olmsted County Chester Woods and Oxbow Parks.
Chester Woods – Shotgun
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This year was renamed the Tom Eckdahl Memorial DAV Deer Hunt.
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The hunt takes place November 13 – 16, 2025.
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Chester Woods Park is closed to the general public during the hunt.
Oxbow Park – Archery
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The DAV Hunt at Oxbow Park takes place from November 1 – December 1, 2025.
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Oxbow Park will remain open during the hunt.
General Information
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All applicants must be a service-connected disabled veteran.
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You may submit an application to Chester Woods or Oxbow Parks deer hunt, but not both.
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30 successful applicants for Chester Woods and 15 for Oxbow Park will be selected by a random digital lottery. Backup hunters will also be drawn.
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All hunters will be issued a written permission slip.
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Mandatory safety meeting attendance is required before hunting.
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Hunters must provide:
Contact & Registration
For additional information and to register:
Free Veterans Benefit Seminar
Hosted by VFW Post 1215
Get Your VA Benefit Questions Answered!
Presented by:
Free Lite Lunch Included
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Navigating local and state veteran benefits
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Resources for veterans and their families
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Steps to secure care and support
You are welcome to bring a friend or family member!
Location:
VFW Post 1215
Gold Star Room
2775 43rd St NW
Rochester, MN 55001
Date & Time:
Saturday, September 20th
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Growing Through Grief Conference
Growing Through Grief Conference: Nurturing the Broken Heart
(Child Loss at Any Age)
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Featuring Renowned Speakers
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Mitch Carmody – Impact of Faith on Our Grief
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Donna Mathiowetz – The River of Grief
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Randy Stocker – Death by Suicide
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Kelly Rae Fitzpatrick – Gardening, Nature and Grief
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Music by Jane Foote
Continental breakfast and lunch included.
Location:
Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch
7291 County Road 6 SW
Stewartville, MN 55976
Cost: Free, but registration is required.
Register online at: www.tcfrst.org
Presented by:
The Compassionate Friends – Rochester Chapter
Supporting Family After a Child Dies
DD214-1's for Departing Reservists
The military's reserve components now issue departing reservists a new standard service record that summarizes their periods of active and inactive service as well as their "points" earned toward retirement: Form DD214-1, the Certificate of Uniformed Service, Reserve Component Addendum.
Unlike active-duty members who may receive only a single DD Form 214 to verify aspects of a single active-duty commitment, reservists may amass a multitude of DD214's during their careers, up to one for each time they enter
and then leave active service, including full-time National Guard duty or mobilization for an emergency or other contingency operation.
A Defense Department memo, published in 2022, gave the military services a deadline of this year to implement the new form. The services did so one by one, beginning in 2024 and culminating with the Coast Guard's implementation this July.
The implementation of the DD214-1 is in recognition that a veteran's service record "plays a critical role in the allocation of veterans benefits, reemployment rights, and unemployment insurance," according to the DoD memo. The Navy characterized the new form as better for documenting "total service"
in its implementation guidance. The Air Reserve Personnel Center said in its guidance that it expects the "comprehensive record" to "make it easier for members to access the benefits and entitlements they deserve at separation
or retirement."
Related: DD214: What You Need to Know
Reservists will still receive conventional DD214s according to their services' preexisting guidelines, but once they leave their component -- by separating or by changing services or certain reserve statuses -- they'll also receive the DD214-1 as an addendum. In fact, a reservist will only ever receive the new form as an accompanying addendum, along with a conventional DD214 under the current rules.
Here's what to know about the new form:
Who Issues Reserve DD214-1s?
The military services' respective reserve components issue DD214-1s. Here's the guidance each service provided at the time of the form's implementation:
Who Receives a Reserve DD214-1?
The intent behind the DD214-1 is to provide a final summary of a reservist's active and reserve service. The following members will receive a DD214-1:
- Reservists who separate or are released from their reserve component
- Reservists transferred to the Individual Ready Reserve or the inactive National Guard
- Reservists transferred to the Standby Reserve or Retired Reserve
- Recalled retirees reverting to retired status
- Certain service-specific circumstances
Who Doesn't Receive a Reserve DD214-1?
The new form accompanies qualifying separations and changes in status
taking place after the date that the services implemented the DD214-1
program. Services don't issue them retroactively. It is also used if a veteran needs their original DD214 corrected. Just because a member receives a DD214 doesn't mean they'll also receive a DD214-1 at that time. The services don't have to supply a DD214-1 to the following:
- Reservists receiving a DD214 for ending a period of active service, if they're not separating from their component
- Veterans who already received a DD214, unless that form needs a correction
- National Guard members who transfer states
- Reservists whose service terminates by death
How Is the DD214-1 Different?
With the new DD214-1, reserve veterans will possess a single record of all
their active and reserve service. Not only that, their reserve component will provide the information to the Defense Manpower Data Center, which will then distribute it to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Labor and
state or territory of the individual's choice.
The Department of Veterans Affairs, for example, administers the Post-9/11 GI Bill, for which the combined length of reserve veterans' active service determines how much of their college costs the education benefit will cover.
Read Next: Post-9/11 GI Bill for Guard and Reserve
The DD214-1 might also include a reservist's activations for which their service never issued a conventional DD214, such as a short mobilization for an emergency. The services don't technically have to issue DD214s for
contingency operations that are 30 days or shorter.
According to the White House's instructions, the new DD214-1 must "ensure
all periods of active service served, regardless of duration, are reported along with their corresponding character of service and [Separation Program Designator] codes." It must include a "clear, concise summary of each discrete period of active service and Reserve Component service as applicable" and "relevant data regarding the member's service and the circumstances of termination."
Do Members Need to Do Anything Special to Receive a DD214-1?
The military services must provide a separating reservist's DD214 and accompanying DD214-1 "upon separation or the date authorized travel commences," according to DoD instructions. Follow your service's instructions for separation.
What is the COMPACT Act?
We want all Veterans and former service members to know that they can get free, emergency suicide care when they need it, no matter where they are.
Below we break down what this means for you and your loved ones should you need emergent suicidal care.
What it is?
- Any Veteran – whether enrolled in VA or not – can go to a VA or non-VA emergency room for emergent suicidal care.
- We strongly recommend Veterans in suicidal crisis call 911 or visit their nearest emergency room for expedited care. Veterans may go to a Wilmington VA community outpatient clinic; however, our clinics are only open Monday – Friday during normal business hours.
- VA will provide the treatment or cover the costs for treatment including transportation, inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days, and outpatient care for up to 90 days
Who is eligible for COMPACT Act related services?
Regardless of VA enrollment status, COMPACT-eligible individuals are:
- Former members of the armed forces who were discharged or released from active duty after more than 24 months of active service under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Former members of the armed forces, including reserve service members, who served more than 100 days under a combat exclusion or in support of a contingency operation either directly or by operating an unmanned aerial vehicle from another location who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Former members of the armed forces who were the victim of a physical assault of a sexual nature, a battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment while serving in the armed forces.
Q3 Does a Veteran need to be enrolled in the VA system to receive COMPACT-related emergency care when in an acute suicidal crisis?
- No, any Veteran who was discharged from the armed forces with more than 24 months of active duty.
- any former active or reserve service member who served more than 100 days under a combat exclusion or in support of a contingency operation who was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
- or any former member of the armed forces who was the victim of a physical assault of a sexual nature, a battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment while serving in the armed forces is eligible.
What information do Veterans need to provide to emergency department staff to let them know they are eligible for VA to pay for or provide their care?
- If a Veteran is enrolled in VA health care, they should let the emergency department staff know they receive their care from VA.
- If a Veteran is not enrolled in VA healthcare, they should inform the emergency department staff. This allows the VA to provide care regardless of enrollment status and ensures that the Veteran’s eligibility for specific types of care under the COMPACT Act can be properly determined after receiving treatment in a VA emergency department.
Does a community emergency department need an agreement with VA to be paid for COMPACT-related care?
No. COMPACT ACT does not require an existing contract or agreement between VA and a community emergency department for VA to pay for authorized treatment and follow-on care. Veterans are encouraged to immediately seek care at the nearest emergency department during a medical or mental health emergency. During a suicidal crisis, time taken to find an “approved” community emergency department could endanger the Veteran.
Protect Yourself from Door-to-Door Sales Scams
While some door-to-door sales are legitimate, many are scams in which the salespeople use high-pressure sales tactics and false claims to coerce consumers into buying products or services that they do not need or that are never delivered.
Follow these tips to avoid falling for high-pressure sales tactics, paying more than you should, or becoming the victim of a scam.
- You have the right to refuse to open the door to anyone. In fact, it is wise not to allow a salesperson into your home unless you have a prescheduled appointment.
- High-pressure sales tactics often indicate a scam. If you are feeling pressured, you do not have to be polite. You can interrupt, tell the person firmly that you are not interested, and shut the door.
- Don't sign a contract or make a purchase on the spot. Ask the salesperson to leave you with some written materials to review. Take your time to decide whether you're really interested in the product or service, and whether you can afford it.
- Never sign a contract without first reading it thoroughly. Make sure that you understand everything it says. If anything in it is unclear or different that what you were told, don't go forward with the deal.
- Always ask to see the salesperson's ID. It should show the person's name and the name of the company.
- Be wary of salespeople who claim to be from your current utility provider or alarm service. Leave the person on your doorstep while you call the number on your monthly bill to verify whether he or she is indeed a representative from the company and the reason for the visit.
- Never pay in cash. Using a credit card is the safest way to pay because you can challenge the charges if you do not get what you were promised.
- Get all prices, warranties, and cancellation policies in writing. Relying on what the salesperson says is risky because it is hard to prove later.
- Know your cancellation rights. Under the Federal Trade Commissions "Cooling Off Rule", you have the right to cancel a door-to-door purchase of $25 or more within three business days and receive a full refund.
Be the One: A Wellness Mission
A Wellness Mission for Service Members, Veterans and their Families
Tragically, Minnesota loses 100 Veterans a year to suicide. Community support and connection can make a difference and save Veteran lives! Learn how you can help.
Recognizing Minnesota’s 7th Annual Veteran Suicide Prevention & Awareness Day, this event brings communities together to honor Veterans we have lost to suicide, allow their lives help save others, and offer healing and hope to survivors. Our goals are to increase awareness and provide resources to communities as we strive toward zero Veteran suicide deaths in Minnesota.
This annual program always includes both inspiration and education. Participants will benefit from the sharing of impactful stories and experiences from speakers who have family or personal experience with Veteran suicide or mental health struggles, as well as learning about resources for support and messages of encouragement from Veteran organizations, community leaders and elected officials. The connections and camaraderie during the social hour are equally impactful for many.
Event Information:
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Red Baron Arena, Marshall, MN
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9 - 10 a.m. - Vendor Fair, Networking and Refreshments
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10 - 11 a.m. - Program
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11 a.m. - 12 p.m. - Vendor Fair and Networking
For more information, contact SuicidePrevention.MDVA@state.mn.us.
MDVA Health & Disability-Related Programs
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is responsible for administering and highlighting a number of health and disability-related programs for Minnesota Veterans and their families. These include benefits and services in the areas of disability claims, outreach, dental, optical, special needs, homelessness prevention, and health information on issues like depleted uranium and hepatitis c.
Please contact your local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for personal assistance and more information on these programs. Find your CVSO at www.macvso.org or by calling 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838) MDVA's one-stop customer service line for all Minnesota Veterans and their families.
Sexual Assault Survivor Support Group
Dates: September 22 - November 10, 2025
The location will be provided after completion of an intake interview.
Who: This group is for women 16 years old and older who have been sexually abused as a child or sexually assaulted as an adult.
Why: Victimization can lead to silence, isolation, fear, grief, and shame. A space to experience community is needed to promote healing and personal growth.
How: We will create a safe and supportive environment to discuss feelings and experiences as well as shared problem solving and resource recommendations. Information will be provided to help understand the impact of sexual violence.
Contact: If you are interested in participating or learning more about this group, please contact Cindy Cox at (507) 328-7207 or cynthia.cox@olmstedcounty.gov. The required intake interview can then be scheduled.
Organization: Dodge and Olmsted Victim Services
Empowering Women Together
"Tell the story of the mountain you climbed. Your words could become a page in someone else's survival guide." - Morgan Harper Nichols
Camp Bliss Events
2025 Camp Bliss Retreats for Veterans, Law Enforcement and People with Disabilities!
We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! We have been very successful with our legislative pursuits for funding of Veteran Retreats and Getaways at Camp Bliss. Exciting News!
- We will not be charging a registration fee for Veteran getaways for the next two years; we have secured funding from the MDVA. For non-qualifying Veterans there will be a fee of $100 per person to attend a getaway or retreat. If you have questions about the guidelines, please call Lori at (320) 281-2016.
- We will now be allowed to get reimbursement for spouses, children, and active-duty service members!
You may come up to two retreats per year!!!! MDVA Calendar Year September 1, 2025 – August 30, 2026. We have added many exciting retreats due to this!! A complete list of 2025 Retreats and Getaways are listed below! **Because there will not be a registration fee, you will still be required to submit the appropriate documentation, DD214 (Member 4) and Driver’s license or state ID. If a spouse is attending and has a different last name, you will be required to show proof of marriage before you are considered “registered.” Once you are, please commit fully to attending your retreat as there are limited spots for each one and if you do not show up, that is a Veteran’s spot that you have eliminated
If a Retreat/Getaway says FILLED, please email or call Lori O. to be put on a waiting list: Register@campbliss.org or call 320-281-2016
2025 Upcoming Camp Bliss Retreats.
Female Veterans Getaway: October 10 - 12, 2025
Register by September 5, 2025
Warriors & Walleyes Outdoors
Warriors & Walleyes Outdoors is a wonderful organization that offers veterans and their guests guided hunting and fishing trips. With tremendous support from experienced guides, veterans who attend these events create fantastic memories.
Cast & Blast
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Dates: October 17 - 19, 2025
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Nominations: Online from April 28, 2025, to July 20, 2025
Veteran's Supper
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Location: Wood Lake Community Center
88 2nd Avenue West
Wood Lake, MN 56297
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Date: November 8, 2025
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Note: Veterans eat free
New Mexico Elk Hunt
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Dates: November 17 - 21, 2025
Muzzle Loader Deer Hunt
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Location: Appleton, MN
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Dates: December 3 - 7, 2025
Nominations for the Cast & Blast event in October are currently open on our website. Visit www.warriorsandwalleyes.org and look under the sign-up drop-down menu. We will draw names in early August to send out invitations. For more information email us at teamvet@warriorsandwalleyes.org.
We have a few extra spots for those interested in fishing both days, but we can only take 10 veterans hunting each day. The first 20 drawn will be invited for both hunting and fishing. If you are interested in fishing both days, please indicate this at the bottom of your nomination form. We will draw additional names to fill these spots from the remaining nominations.
Rolling Hills Transit
SEMCAC is proud to announce a NEW service, honoring all those who serve. SEMCAC recently added a new bus to their fleet and would like to offer FREE rides to mobility challenged disabled veterans.
The bus will be operating out of Stewartville but will be covering their five county service area.
We asked Bill Spitzer, SEMCAC’s Director of Transportation, a few questions about their program and here are his replies:
- How long will Rolling Hills be offering free transportation? There is no end date planned.
- How do veterans schedule a ride? Call the dispatch center (507) 634-4340
- Where will you transport veterans to (examples: medical appointments, C&P exams, the grocery store, etc…)? Any of those
- What do you need in order to prove veteran status? A VA/government issued ID (such as a Veterans Health Identification Card, military ID card, driver’s license denoting veteran status or DD214)
- When you say ‘disabled’, do you mean physically or mentally as well? This service would be for ‘mobility challenged’ veterans. At this time we do not have the capacity to offer to all veterans.
JOBS
Local Service Organization Meetings
For a full list of local organizations and meetings, please click on the blue button.
"To promote the interests and welfare of veterans, their dependents and survivors and to enhance their quality of life through counseling, claims assistance, education, advocacy and special projects."
2100 Campus Dr. SE, Suite 200
Rochester, MN 55904
507-328-6355
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