Our program was a fascinating presentation from the Western Slope Veterans Coalition (WSVC) about their tiny home project in Silt. John Pettit, treasurer of the WS Veterans Coalition, shared the presentation and microphone with John Beckius, vice president, and Jeremie Oates, current President of the volunteer group.
Pettit encouraged all of us to visit the Veterans Center if we haven't done so already. The center, located on eighth and Cooper in downtown Glenwood Springs, is a great place for vets to connect with each other and receive support and fellowship. Coffee and donuts are served every Thursday morning; a favorite weekly event for all.
The Veterans Resource Center is named in honor of two young vets, Jesse Beckius and Casey Owens, who's deaths by suicide prompted a committed group of volunteers to direct resources and support for those with military experience. The nonprofit organization serves veterans in Eagle, Garfield and Pitkin counties and serves as a hub for information, action, programs and activities that support, honor, and connect veterans
The needs of veterans are many with particular attention to housing and mental health support. So many veterans return to civilian life feeling disconnected from their families and a world that does not understand what it is like in battle far from home. Beckius noted that 22 veterans die per day due to suicide. His son Jesse was one of them. So the WSVC is a personal and special commitment to John.
Oates noted that data shows 18 to 20 vets are unhoused at one time in the three-county area the coalition serves. The WSVC is directing its energies to addressing that issue with action with the construction of a tiny house community. Made up of 22 one-bedroom and studio units, two family units and one for an on-site manager, the tiny house community will be located in Silt on the property owned by the Flat Tops Cowboy church. It will provide short and long-term housing options for veterans and their families as needed.
The WSVC is beginning a soft fundraising campaign to raise $1 million for the site preparation costs. They are also working with the county Housing Authority to access grant funding that may be available. The campaign will focus on securing local funding as much as possible to ensure the tiny house community aligns with local priorities and needs.
A couple of our fellow Rotarians in the evening club generously donated to the project. Greg Rippy offered paving services gratis and PSI will donate its cranes to the project. Pettit remarked that the primary street in the project is now Rippy Way. There are many other naming opportunities for various donations. See the Western Slope Veterans Coalition to learn more about the organization, as well as the tiny home community for renderings and ways to donate.
Thank you to President Jim for bringing us another fascinating program, to our guest presenters, and to all who have proudly served our country through military service.