15th Annual Capital Area Stand Down

Volunteers of America Michigan, partnered with The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, hosted the 15th annual Capital Stand Area Stand Down for Homeless Veterans on May 23rd, 2018. Some of our other partnerships included UAW Local 602, Women Helping Period, and Medilodge of Capital Area.

With the sun shining, and an abundant variety of participating agencies from the surrounding area, we were able to serve all veterans in attendance. Camaraderie filled our tents as homeless and at risk veterans were able to receive health screenings, vision testing, employment help, housing services, free haircuts, and donated clothing.

The color guard and opening ceremony began at 10 am to honor those who have served before us and those who are currently serving. You could hear the pride across the park as a volunteer lead veterans in a roll call. Keynote speaker, Mike Canter, shared his journey with Volunteers of America Michigan and encouraged his fellow veterans to see hope in their futures.

“This is one day out of 365, and our veterans need service every single day. Even though we get the opportunity to advocate and highlight them today, I want each of us to really make a commitment to remember every day, the veterans that need service in our country. They have done all for us, so let us give our all for them.” -Sharon Dade, Vice President of Social Services, Volunteers of America Michigan

Other agencies that joined in on the activities were Michigan Secretary of State, Sparrow Health System, Lansing Housing Commission, Mid-Michigan Recovery Services, Utilities Workers Union of America, IBEW LHC Commission, Cristo Rey Community Center, Talent Investment Agency, Aveda Institute, Footprints of Michigan, Davenport University, The Classics, and many more.

A special thank you to all of our partners, participating sponsors, vendors and volunteers, you made this event possible.