Have you served in the U.S. Armed Services? Do you remember the “Buddy System” in boot camp? Do you know a veteran? If you can answer yes to any of these questions, the Vet to Vet Program could be for you. Coordinator Susan Triplett, a U.S. Air Force veteran, will be staffing the Senior Solutions outreach office at 18 Beaver Street, Wilmington (the Old Firehouse) on Thursday, September 8 from 11 am to 1 pm.
As we grow older, we often become less able to get out and participate in all the activities we enjoy. It becomes more difficult to visit with old friends and attend community functions. Walking in the woods, going to coffee hour at the American Legion, enjoying the simple pleasures of a visit with a friend suddenly are so much easier with your buddy. With that in mind you are invited to engage in the Vet to Vet Visitor Program that was initiated by the Brattleboro American Legion in partnership with Senior Solutions.
The Vet to Vet Visitor Program expands on our veterans’ dedication to service. By matching those who have the time and ability to visit, talk, and enjoy activities with other veterans who may be limited in mobility or ability to drive, or just miss the companionship of other veterans, both parties benefit from being matched as buddies. There may be occasions when an older veteran may be a buddy to a younger veteran. Both men and women are encouraged to participate. There is no requirement that any of the veterans belong to a VFW or American Legion Post or any other military affiliation.
To guide the direction of this partnership in implementing goals and activities, a Veterans Advisory Council has been formed which is comprised of area veterans. They will be keeping the focus on veteran perspectives and values to make sure that all veterans are included in the program.
You can join this team by stopping in to see Susan at her Wilmington drop-in hours, by calling her at 802-376-0037, or by emailing Striplett@seniorsolutionsvt.org and expressing your desire to become a Volunteer Veteran Visitor or perhaps be a participant. Our Senior Solutions HelpLine intake operators at 802-885-2669 can also relay your request to our Volunteer Coordinator. There is no federal government oversight. This is a completely grass roots operation with no financial eligibility requirements. The Vet to Vet Program is a simple and pure volunteer effort to work with a special segment of our population who have given so much to us all.
