According to UVM President John DeVeau, the session will be held as a way to inform anyone interested in joining the organization about the group’s goals and current projects.
DeVeau wrote in a press release that the UVM will discuss the “reason for the organization, the benefits of joining a smaller local group,” and what UVM strives to do as an organized group in Aroostook County.
Currently, the UVM’s main project is repurposing the former greenhouse complex, which is also the location of the February meeting, into a shelter/workshop for homeless veterans that will allow them to work and earn money while providing a home.
During an early January interview, DeVeau said the UVM is currently looking for volunteers to help with this project, adding that applicants are not required to have ties with the military.
If the next few months do not see any heavy storms, DeVeau said the UVM plans on holding a grand opening for the main office building on April 15 and that the opening ceremony for the residential cabins could occur between mid May and early June.
Named after United States veterans and Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, 2nd Lt. Edward C. Dahlgren of Perham and Sgt. Donald S. Skidgel of Caribou, the Dahlgren-Skidgel Farm of Hope will welcome any homeless veterans in the area and work with those struggling with any psychological or substance abuse issues.
Once finished, the farm will include on-site five residential cabins where vets can live while working from the greenhouse.
Those interested in joining the United Veterans of Maine or in helping with the Farm of Hope project can contact DeVeau at 358-4647 or via email at mail@unitedveteransofmaine.org.
“We look forward to uniting as veterans to work together in Aroostook County to help fellow veterans in their time of need,” DeVeau wrote.
