March Events & Beyond

3/3, 3/16 Connections 101: Lifelong Learning Center, 310 S. Curtis St., Missoula, 1-5pm

College success and completion just got a little bit easier with Connections 101. Improve your computer, writing, and math skills while gaining critical college study skills and habits. “The classes can satisfy a required intro to computers class at Missoula College and earn up to 7 college credits.” (CMT minutes) Program is tuition free due to a collaboration between the Lifelong Learning Center and Missoula College.

If you’re not a student at Missoula College, please register with Lifelong Learning Center. Space is limited.

ENROLL: (406) 549-8765

3/3 BIGFORK (First Tuesday of Every Month): Veterans Coalition of Northwest Montana (VCNWM) Meeting, Bigfork VFW, 8098 Hwy 35, Bigfork, 1pm

AGENDA: TBA

VCNWM ~ Honoring and serving the needs of military Veterans and their families www.vcnwm.org

Questions: (406) 407-8423, info@vcnwm.com
Or, Nan, (406) 407-2153, nan@vcnwm.com; Jim Higgins (406) 291-0356, higginsjw.1@gmail.com

3/3 HAMILTON (First Tuesday of Every Month): Corvallis Post 91 Legion Riders Monthly Meeting, BJ's Restaurant, 900 N. First St., Hamilton, 6:30pm

This is the monthly member meeting. Always held the 1st Tuesday of every month at 6:30 PM. Anyone can come and join us. Come on down to BJ's and have dinner and a drink with us. We are accepting new members so please come check us out. https://www.facebook.com/events/595172271254786/

Questions: Don Goodnight, Corvallis Legion Riders President, (406) 360-5275,

3/4 Blood Drive (By Appointment), VFW Post 3596, 201 West Lynch St., Plains, 1 - 5:30pm

The American Red Cross is having a Blood Drive in the VFW Hall. Schedule your appointment with Becky Powley at 826-0208 or online. Online Instructions:
Step 1: Got to https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?order=DATE&range=10&zipSponsor=59859
Step 2: Select the date you want to give.
Step 3: Select the time you want to give.
Step 4: Sign In or Create an account with American Red Cross to put in your information.

Questions: Becky Powley, (406) 826-0208 or VFW Post 3596, (406) 826-5960,

3/4 PLAINS (1st & 3rd Wednesday of Every Month): VFW Post 3596, 201 West Lynch St., Plains, 7pm

Post Meeting every 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month for VFW Members only. If you're a veteran who has honorably served overseas in an area of foreign conflict, you're welcome to become a member! Stop in for an application (located in the window sill) - We'd love to have you! https://www.facebook.com/events/681409129040631/

Questions: VFW Post 3596, (406) 826-5960,

3/4 HAMILTON (1st Wednesday of Every Month): Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Bitterroot Chapter 938 Meeting, Eagles Lodge, 125 N. 2nd St., Hamilton, 7pm

VETERANS HELPING VETERANS: vva938.com

Questions: (406) 961-0035

Or, (per FB): (406) 381-7899, vva938@gmail.com

3/9 PLAINS (2nd Monday of Every Month): VFW Auxiliary Member Meeting, VFW Post 3596, 201 West Lynch St., Plains, 3pm
If you are not a member, please consider joining. Eligibility Requirements for VFW Auxiliary Membership:
Members must be citizens of the United States or a United States National, and at least 16 years old. Those eligible are: Husband/Wife, Widower/Widow, Father/Mother, Grandfathers/Grandmothers, Sons/Daughters, Grandsons/Granddaughters, and Brothers/Sisters of persons who were or are eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Those eligible for membership in the VFW are those that have received a campaign medal for overseas service; have served 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days in Korea; or have ever received hostile fire or imminent danger pay. Step- and adopted parents, children, siblings (and half-siblings), grandparents and grandchildren are considered the same as biological parents, children, siblings, grandparents and grandchildren and may join the VFW Auxiliary under their VFW-eligible veteran. Proof of service is required for eligibility and must be obtained by the applicant. https://www.facebook.com/events/2388631301414131/

Questions: VFW Post 3596, (406) 826-5960,

3/9 Caregiver Support Group (2nd Monday of Every Month), Missoula Aging Services, 337 Stephens Ave, Missoula, 4 – 5pm

For family members of an older adult or person with a disability. Group meets 2nd Monday of each month.

Other MAS events: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/missoula-aging-services-7856196095

Questions: MAS (406) 728-7682, help@missoulaagingservices.org

3/10 (2nd Tuesday of Every Month): Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Gatekeeper Training, Missoula Food Bank, 1720 Wyoming St., Missoula, 5:30 - 7pm

QPR -- Question, Persuade, Refer. It's a suicide prevention/intervention training that's meant for all of us. Learn how to recognize signs of suicidal thoughts, and intervene in an effective and empathetic manner. You could save a life. https://www.facebook.com/events/2366116356844453/

Questions: Project Tomorrow Montana, (800) 273-8255

Or, Missoula Food Bank, (406) 549-0543

3/10 (2nd Tuesday of Every Month): VFW Auxiliary Post 209 Meeting, Ole Beck VFW Post 209, 245 W. Main St., Msla, 7pm

Join us Tuesday for the VFW Auxiliary Post 209 meeting. Come early to mingle & eat snacks! We look forward to seeing you!

Auxiliary Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/VFWAuxiliaryPost209/

Questions: VFW (406) 778-7749, info@vfwpost209.org

3/14 PLAINS (2nd Saturday of Every Month): Bisquits & Gravy Breakfast, VFW Post 3596, 201 West Lynch St., Plains, 7:30 - 10am

Homemade sausage gravy, biscuits and eggs at the VFW Hall in Plains. 7:30am-10:00am or until we run out. $6 Per Person. Kids 6 and under eat FREE. https://www.facebook.com/events/963482494023280/

Questions: VFW Auxiliary 3596, (406) 826-0208

Or, VFW Post 3596, (406) 826-5960,

3/14 HELENA: Farmer Veteran Coalition Presents RME Training, Helena Armed Forces Reserve Center (HAFRC) Auditorium, Fort Harrison, 8am – 5pm

ATTENTION: Veterans, Active Duty Military, National Guardsmen, and Reservists ~ Are you interested in agriculture through farming and ranching? This full-day workshop will introduce you to technical services, financial resources, and Veteran benefits you need to get started. Beginners are encouraged to attend! Speakers include: USDA Risk Management Agency, Rural Development, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Farm Service Agency; Nat’l Center of Agriculture Technology and Farmer Veteran Coalition; MT Dept. of Veteran Affairs and MT Dept. of Agriculture; MT Community Agriculture, Vets on the Farm, NW Farm Credit Services. Website: https://farmvetco.org/

Questions: Farmer Veteran Coalition (530) 756-1395

3/16 STEVENSVILLE: 2020 Tournament ~ March Madness, High Country Club, 209 Main St., Stevensville, 7pm

6th annual men’s NCAA basketball tournament Calcutta auction All (68) teams in the NCAA Division / Men’s basketball championship tournament will be auctioned off. 20% of the total bid goes to the American Legion Fort Owen Post 94, and 80% of the total bid goes to the “pot.” 50/50 tickets will be sold during the auction (Auction begins at 7pm sharp!). Food, prizes, and drink specials.

Questions: High Country Club, (406) 777-9910

Or, American Legion Fort Owen Post 94, (406) 777-3834

3/17 (3rd Tuesday of Every Month): Basic Computer & Online Job Search, Council Groves Apartment Complex Computer Lab, 1904 S. 3rd St., Missoula, 10am

"Learn the keys to looking for work" ~ Familiarize yourself with the computer desktop and navigate the Job Service website (Council Groves PARKING: available in designated visitor areas). Please call Job Service 728-7060 to verify your registration BEFORE attending.

*** Veterans receive Priority of Service for all DLI employment & training opportunities!

RESERVE YOUR SEAT / Questions: (406) 728-7060

3/17 STEVENSVILLE (3rd Tuesday of Every Month): Fort Owen Post 94 ~ Member Meeting, 754 Middle Burnt Fork Rd., Stevensville, 7pm

Fort Owen Post 94 is the local Stevensville, Montana, post of the American Legion, a federally chartered organization. Veterans dedicated to support of Veterans and community service. "Or join us for breakfast any Wednesday morning 9AM at CJ's in Stevensville."

Public Group FB page:

(National: )

Questions: AL Post 94, (406) 777-3834

3/17 LOLO (3rd Tuesday of Every Month): American Legion Chief Joseph Post 135 Meeting, Lolo Community Center, 12345 Hwy 93 S., Lolo, 7pm

American Legion Chief Joseph Post 135 stands for Veterans, Youth, Patriotism, and a Strong Defense (chiefjosephpost.org) and meets every 3rd Tuesday at 7pm. All Veterans and active duty military are eligible to join!

Questions: 531-4132,

3/18 BILLINGS: Jobs Jamboree, MetraPark Pavilion, Billings, 11am – 6pm

Let’s help Montana employers and seekers connect! 11 am is early entrance for Active Duty, Veteran’s, Guard, Reserve and their families. 11:30 am to 6 pm doors open to the public – NO cost to seekers; Jobs Jamboree offers HUNDREDS of job types in every industry: Top career-professional or entry level jobs; Jobs for students or retirees; Full-time, part-time, temp and seasonal jobs; First, second or job and a ½; Flexible and set schedule jobs; Jobs with great benefits and amazing pay; Jobs with training and career progression; Federal, state, county, city jobs; Jobs for Veterans, Guard, Reserve and their spouses; Medical, Financial, Energy, Transportation, Education, Manufacturing, Trade, Construction, Retail, IT, Military, Hospitality, and much more! This is HOW to Jobs Jamboree: Bring your bright smile and a firm hand shake; Dress right! – Look your best!; Bring resume or letter of interest; Be ready for on-the-spot interviews and job offers; Enter to win an AppleWatch!! Find the job that fits you at the Jobs Jamboree Billings!

Questions: Job Service Billings, (406) 655-6081

Or, Trisha Glen, Workforce Service Consultant & JSEC Coordinator, Job Service Billings, (406) 655-6081, tglen@mt.gov

3/19 (3rd Thursday of Every Month): Veteran Service Provider (VSP) Meeting, American Legion Post 27, 825 Ronan St., Missoula, 12pm (VSN Events CMTE is meeting at 11am)

FYI: The VSN Events CMTE will be meeting at 11am. If you're interested in assisting w/the planning and coordination of the Heroes at Home BBQ & VSAP, please feel free to join us!

12pm VSP Meeting AGENDA:

*** Introductions & Announcements

*** SPEAKER: TBA

VSP Meeting Questions: Shannon, snoble@mt.gov

3/19 KALISPELL: Flathead Veteran Service Provider (VSP) Meeting, Kalispell Vet Center, 690 N Meridian Rd, Suite #101, Kalispell, 2 – 4pm

Once again Adam and I are excited to have Christina Ryan from the Kalispell Veteran Center. Christina previously discussed how to address a veteran in crisis. This session will help us better understand burnout and do self-care when working in positions like we do with veterans who are in need. Due to the short amount of time available we will not be conducting a roundtable prior to the meeting.

Questions: Nick Moschetti, DVOP/Workforce Consultant, Job Service Kalispell, (406) 758-6279, rmoschetti@mt.gov

Or, Adam, Kalispell Vet Center and Flathead Valley Service Providers, (406) 257-7308, adamsjones1984@gmail.com

3/21 PLAINS: Spring Craft Expo, VFW Post 3596, 201 West Lynch St., Plains, 9am - 4pm
VENDORS NEEDED: $10 per 8ft table; $7 for small table

Contact: Amber Taylor, (406) 741-3233 (leave message), https://www.facebook.com/events/2552348054977997/

Other Questions: VFW Post 3596, (406) 826-5960,

3/21 - 3/28 UTAH ~ Team Rubicon Northwest: Moab 2020 Training Events

Moab 2020, “Operation Slickrock” is fast approaching, come and join your Tribe from March 21st thru March 28th. This year not only will TR be helping with fie mitigation projects there will also be several different training opportunities to build your skills and knowledge.

Sign up for Slickrock here (OR, are you a NEW VOLUNTEER?): https://tinyurl.com/yx7p3xtd [l.facebook.com]
This link will take you to Roll Call where you can submit availability through TR’s new Enterprise Management System.

***The below training links are for Team Rubicon members to sign up, if you are not a Team Rubicon member but interested in becoming one and joining the training you can sign up at https://tinyurl.com/rblryj4 [tinyurl.com] ***
March 21 thru 23 ICS 300 – Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/vv57o57 [tinyurl.com]
Team Rubicon members must sign up in Roll Call and through Utah Department of Emergency Management. In order to register potential students must go to Utrain at the following link: https://www.train.org/utah/course/1011051/live_event [l.facebook.com]
March 21 thru 22 Sawyer 1- Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/wg62bfs [l.facebook.com]
March 21 Safety Officer Training – Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/yx4rga9b [l.facebook.com]
March 22 Mission Planning Team –Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/uzkpnqw [l.facebook.com]
March 22 Strike Team Leader- Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/sd6hnh6 [l.facebook.com]
March 25 thru 27th ICS 400 - Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/u6fbre7 [l.facebook.com]
Team Rubicon members must sign up in Roll Call and through Utah Department of Emergency Management. In order to register potential students must go to Utrain at the following link: https://www.train.org/utah/course/1011057/live_event [train.org]

Uniform: Bring your Greyshirts ~ Additional Info: Please be sure to read all specific information regarding each training in roll call as there are instructions to each individual training. https://www.facebook.com/events/200176767779851/ [facebook.com]

Questions: Gerald “GT” Auch, Team Rubicon, City Administrator for Missoula, Region VIII (CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, WY), (910) 603-6549, gerald.auch@teamrubiconusa.org

3/23 – 4/30 Veterans Upward Bound, Spring Classes at Missoula College, 1205 E. Broadway, Missoula (Times TBA)

FREE refresher classes ~ A great transition for Veterans to prepare for the rigors of college classes. Preparing Veterans for an easier transition into college or another training program. Classes provide a targeted math and writing review, cover appropriate computer skills, and assist in the development of practical skills that promote college success. All materials are provided.

All classes are available ONLINE as well: March 9th-26th, April 6th-24th, May 4th-22nd
INFO / APPLY: http://vubmt.com/locations/missoula.php

Questions: Lori, Veterans Upward Bound, (406) 794-3063 or (877) 356-8387, lborth@vubmt.com

Or, Daryl, VETS Office at Missoula College, Daryl, (406) 243-7844, daryl.lee@mso.umt.edu

3/23 KALISPELL: Vietnam Veterans Commemoration, Kalispell Vet Center, 690 N Meridian Rd, Suite #101, Kalispell, 11am – 1pm

Please join us as we celebrate and show appreciation for Vietnam Veterans and their families. A short ceremony will be followed by music, camaraderie, and refreshments

Christina Ballerina (via FB), “Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War continues through Veterans Day 2025. The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 was signed into law designating March 29 of each year as National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The Vet Center is having a celebration to honor Vietnam Veterans and their families.”

Questions: Adam, Kalispell Vet Center and Flathead Valley Service Providers, (406) 257-7308, adamsjones1984@gmail.com

3/23 – 6/11 Connections 101: Missoula College, 1205 E. Broadway, Missoula, 2 – 5pm

If you’re not a student at Missoula College, please register with Lifelong Learning Center. Space is limited.

ENROLL: (406) 549-8765

3/23 & 3/25 (More dates below ~ 2 day or 2 part workshops): New to Medicare Workshop, School of Extended & Lifelong Learning, 32 Campus Dr, UM Missoula, 6 - 8pm

If you are approaching age 65 or are eligible for Medicare due to a disability, learn how you can make the most of your Medicare options. In this interactive two-part workshop you'll learn about important enrollment dates, saving money on your prescription drugs, and much more. The second part provides a hands-on computer workshop so you can learn about your personal Medicare claims, plans and coverage. Cost is $35 for one person or $60 for two people. Call MAS for no cost or reduced cost ticket options. Follow this link for a helpful form you can print, fill in and bring with you to the workshop: https://missoulaagingservices.org/downloads/Medication_and_provider_list_216.pdf

OTHER DATES: Monday & Wednesday 2-part workshop, 6-8 p.m.: May 18 & 20; July 20 & 22

OR: Saturday 2-part workshop, 10am - 3pm with 1 hour lunch break: February 22; April 18; June 20; August 22
https://www.facebook.com/events/478975286227988/

Or, call Missoula Aging Services (406) 728-7682,

3/26 Community Food and Agriculture Coalition’s Farm Fresh Pitchfest, Burn Street Bistro, 1500 Burns St., Missoula, 6 – 8pm

The event will feature four 8-minute pitches from Montana businesses that have an agricultural focus. I was at the application evaluation session this morning and I think they will have a good group. The Pitchfest is a showcase of businesses selected to be endorsed by CFAC for the Kiva Loan Program for which CFAC is a Kiva Trustee (Kiva Loan Program here: https://www.missoulacfac.org/programs/farmer-support/kiva-loan-program/)

Farm Link Montana: https://www.farmlinkmontana.org/events/

Questions: Dave Renn, Community Food & Agriculture Coalition, dave@farmlinkmontana.org

Or, Jennifer Stephens, Regional Director, Missoula SBDC, University of Montana, (406) 243-4770, C (406) 493-4702, Jennifer.Stephens@mso.umt.edu

3/27 – 3/29 KALISPELL: Gun Show, 3630 US Highway 93 N, Kalispell, Friday & Saturday 12 – 6pm, Sunday 9am – 2pm

The Veterans Coalition of Northwest Montana will have a booth at the Gun Show March 27th, 28th & 29th at the Majestic Valley Arena. Make sure you put it on your calendar and stop by and say hello!

Admission $5.00 (All 3-Days: $10.00); Description: The Original Kalispell Gun Show will be held next on Mar 27th-29th, 2020 with additional shows on Sep 11th-13th, 2020, in Kalispell, MT. This Kalispell gun show is held at Majestic Valley Arena and hosted by Northwest Montana Arms Collectors Association. All federal, state and local firearm ordinances and laws must be obeyed. Buy! Sell! Trade! Door prizes given each day of the show. Vendors eligible to enter drawing each day.

VENDOR / DEALER INFO: https://gunshowtrader.com/gun-shows/original-kalispell-gun-show/

Questions: David Mosby, Northwest Montana Arms Collectors Association, (406) 471-0972, namib50@yahoo.com

Or, VCNWM (406) 407-8423, info@vcnwm.com

3/28 (And 4/18 OR 6/16-6/18 and 7/21-7/23 6-9pm): Homeword’s FREE Financial Fitness Class, 1535 Liberty Lane, Solstice Building (Suite 116A), Missoula, 9am – 6pm

Get into financial shape, set goals for spending and saving, manage debt and learn other money management skills. Learn how to take charge of your financial life including: Getting organized; Creating a budget that works; Understanding student loans and repayment options; Saving for future goals; Learning how to manage credit; Discovering ways to build your credit; Understanding insurance; Managing tax liability. Classes are taught by Homeword’s Financial Educator, Katie Sadowski and other professionals. Classes are FREE and open to the public. Light refreshments provided. Childcare vouchers are available for children ages 12 months to 12 years old upon request.

Other dates and times: April 18, 2020 from 9am-6pm; June 16-17-18, 2020 from 6pm-9pm; July 21-22-23, 2020 from 6pm-9pm

Or call (406) 532-4663 x10

Questions: Katie Sadowski, Financial Education Coordinator, (406) 532-4663 x23, katie@homeword.org

3/29 National Vietnam War Veterans Day

Join the Nation ... thank a Vietnam Veteran! From the Vietnam 50th National Commenorative Committee (12/9/19): "Dear Commemorative Partners, As we depart one season of giving thanks amidst family and friends, and enter another cherished time of celebrations, festive wonder, gift-giving and the warmth of family gatherings, I would like to take a moment to personally thank each and every one of you for your phenomenal dedication to the noble mission of thanking and honoring America’s Vietnam veterans and their families! Communities across the Nation continue to be inspired by your leadership. In fact, your hosting of more than 18,000 commemorative events since 2012 has enabled Americans to publicly and individually recognize more than 2.5 million Vietnam veterans and their families ... an incredible achievement!

This year, I was privileged to attend and provide remarks at 27 events in 11 States and Washington, D.C. Although a small sampling of the 2,800 commemorative events that took place throughout the country in 2019, I was repeatedly struck by the depth of emotion released when our previously unsung patriots were finally given the tribute they so richly earned half a century ago.
Let me encourage you ... 2020 is not the year to relax in our efforts to thank these deserving men and women! You are getting a “sneak peek” at our 2020 March 29 poster (at left); it is my hope you will re-double your efforts on and around that day to bring as many Vietnam veterans as possible into your respective “public squares” to be honored by friends and neighbors. 2.5 million reached is admirable, but another 3.7 million remain who have not yet been publicly and individually thanked on behalf of the Nation! In addition, the Department of Veterans Affairs estimates we will lose 559 Vietnam veterans daily in 2020. Clearly, our time is limited to reach them all, so I urge each of you to continue this most honorable pursuit! As we enter 2020, remember to utilize our Partner Portal or call (877) 387-9951 to update your points of contact and order Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins and other free materials for future events. Please accept my grateful thanks for your efforts and warm wishes for a delightful holiday season!"
Major General James T. Jackson, U.S. Army (Retired) Director, The U.S.A. Vietnam War Commemoration
Aerial view of thousands gathered to thank & honor Vietnam veterans during the May 25, 2019 Grand Opening of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park, The Museum of Flight, Seattle, WA.
/VIETNAMWAR50TH www.vietnamwar50th.com @VIETNAMWAR50TH

https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/about/about/national_vietnam_war_veterans_day/

Questions: Vietnam War Commemoration, (877) 387-9951, , or https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/contact_us/

Or, Tate Jones, Rocky Mountain Museum of Military History (RMMMH), (406) 549-5346,

3/30 Personal Finance, Missoula Food Bank & Community Center, 1720 Wyoming St., Missoula, 5 - 7pm

In this free workshop, participants will begin to prepare for retirement readiness by creating a savings plan and learning about investment vehicles that may allow them to grow their wealth.Register online through The Lifelong Learning Center [facebook.com] at www.missoulaclasses.com. [missoulaclasses.com]
https://www.facebook.com/events/447302272597163/ [facebook.com]

Questions: Jamie Koscondy, (406) 549-0543, ext. 213, jamie@missoulafoodbank.org

3/31 (Every Tuesday until 5/12): Stepping On, Frenchtown Fire Department, 16873 Marion St., Frenchtown, 1:30pm

Stepping On is an evidence based falls prevention program for adults age 60 years and over. In a seven week period, participants will learn exercises, methods and strategies to build self-confidence, change behaviors and improve decision making for safe, independent living. Stepping On meets for 2 hours each Tuesday from March 31 to May 12, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Cost is $25 for one person or $40 for two. Call for the no cost or reduced cost ticket options. Class size limited to 14 participants. https://www.facebook.com/events/1655439544592804/

Other Missoula Aging Services educational opportunities: https://missoulaagingservices.eventbrite.com

Or, call MAS (406) 728-7682

4/18 HELENA: Montana Warrior Run, NEW LOCATION (TBA)

Join us April 18th, 2020 here in Helena for the 11th Annual Montana Warrior Run-Helena and get your 10K, 5K AND (Trifecta) /or 1 Mile Run on. Early registration opens Monday January 27th. We are changing things up a bit this year with our location and race routes. More to follow on location and routes. Current Military, Veterans and Family Members can save $10 by using "Military2020" for the coupon code, and Youth can also save $10 by using "Youth2020". If you will not be in Montana for the race on April 18th you can register for the Virtual Race and still support the cause. https://www.facebook.com/events/2737381696489517/

Questions: Ryan Luchau, Impact Montana and Community Employment Coordinator, Montana VA Health Care System, Homeless Veteran Recovery Program, 3687 Veterans Dr., Fort Harrison, (406) 447-7340,

Or, Brandy Keely, President of Montana JCF & Director of Veteran Services, Carroll College, (406) 447-4550,

4/23 Western Montana’s Largest Career Fair, Hilton Garden Inn, Missoula, 3 - 6pm (Veterans & Service Members admitted at 2:30pm)

EMPLOYER REGISTRATION: https://westernmontanacareerfair2020.eventzilla.net/web/event?eventid=2138783503&fbclid=IwAR04O059jXPT-RagiBlNeLhySF05E6NNyiXBspf2JP2V2L5kXfxJTJXpd0k

Veteran Service Providers (VSP): If you are a Service Provider (You are NOT hiring but provide a service for Veterans, service members and/or their families / caregivers), and may have a FREE table in the VETERAN SECTION of the lobby ("Veteran Services" area right outside of the ballroom / career fair). RSVP to snoble@mt.gov ANYTIME!

VSP that are tabling in the "Veteran Services" area of the lobby (As of 2/24/20):

Dogs on Deployment

Humana / MarketPoint (Veteran Health options outside of the VA)

Military OneSource

Missoula Vet Center (Mobile Vet Center in parking lot)

MonTECH, Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities

Troops to Teachers

U.S. Senator Daines Office, Veterans Casework Liaison

Veteran Directed Care (VDC) at Missoula Aging Services

Volunteers of America Northern Rockies (VOANR)

Facebook event, "The Job Service-Missoula Career Fair is where employers and job seekers meet. Missoula area employers have open jobs for technical, clerical, customer-service, health-care, and other positions. The career fair isn’t just for people who are unemployed. If you are considering a career change, this is a good chance to see what jobs are available and make some contacts. With nearly 100 employers attending, who knows what job you may find? Veterans admitted a half hour early at 2:30. Allegiance Benefit Plan Management, Inc. is our Title Sponsor." https://www.facebook.com/events/555685285037235/

Career Fair Questions: Sarah, Supervisor, SWimmer@mt.gov

Or, Job Service – Missoula, (406) 728-7060, MissoulaJSC@mt.gov

4/30 – 5/1 Missoula Gives

Missoula's largest community-wide fundraiser benefiting more than 150 local nonprofits is around the corner so mark your calendars. Nonprofits who sign up to participate in the day-of-giving will receive access to the giving day website where they will create their own fundraising page that tells their own unique story; invited to fundraising workshops, be eligible for prize funds and more. The giving day is a great way to educate your staff and board on how to tell your nonprofit story while raising money for the organizations they care about in a simple and fun way. Nonprofit registration opens on Monday, February 3.

Questions: Nikki, Missoula Community Foundation, Nikki@MissoulaCommunityFoundation.org

5/2 SAVE the DATE: The VSN's 7th Annual Heroes at Home BBQ & Music Festival in partnership w/the 5th Annual Veteran Suicide Awareness & Prevention (VSAP) RUCK / RUN / WALK, Fort Missoula Regional Park

Montana’s Veteran suicide rate is one of the highest in the nation. This event will help raise awareness about this epidemic. Bring the community together to memorialize those lost and let Veterans, their friends, and families know they are not alone. https://www.facebook.com/events/483415689026245

UPDATES ~ Click on "More" at the top of the page and go to the "H@H & VSAP" page

Questions - VSN Leadership & Events CMTE:

*** BBQ / H@H Event Logistics - contact Anton, Missoula Vet Center, Xsports4Vets & VFW Commander, (406) 721-4918 or (406) 396-8390, Anton.Johnson@va.gov

*** VSAP Coordinator - contact Erick, Missoula Vet Center & American Legion Post 27, (406) 721-4918 or (406) 224-3334, Erick.Kahila@va.gov

*** Veteran Service Providers - RSVP to Shannon, Job Service DVOP snoble@mt.gov

*** Media & Silent Auction Donors - contact Rebecca, VSN Spokesperson, Missoula Housing Authority, (406) 549-4113, ext. 106, rstancil@missoulahousing.org

*** Missoula Aging Services Senior Corps Program - RSVP Volunteers - contact Judy, (406) 728-7682, jdouglas@missoulaagingservices.org

*** DONORS for the BBQ & Silent Auction may utilize the UVC Heroes at Home BBQ Account: EIN# 81-6016498 - questions: John, American Legion Post 27 Commander & United Veterans Council of Missoula & Ravalli Counties - Treasurer, (406) 544-2583,

5/16 – 5/17 Healing Every Living Person “H.E.L.P. FEST” Missoula County Fairgrounds, 10am – 7pm

Our mission is to help heal our community and bring together unity through this two day event. Our hope is to provide free resources and services to address urgent and long term needs such as hunger, homelessness, addiction, abuse, suicide prevention, and joblessness. We will have available representatives from local churches, help groups, organizations, recovery centers, suicide prevention centers, and any organization that wants to participate in giving back to our community. We will also have a food and clothing drive, entertainment, kid’s games and activities, music, and guest speakers. Montana struggles more now than it ever has with poverty, drugs, addiction, and suicide. Let’s do what we can to H.E.L.P. make a change in our community. The key to living is giving!! “A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal.” –Steve Maraboli

Questions: Brandon Brown, (406) 926-9595, h.e.l.p.festmt@gmail.com

5/16 SUPERIOR: Armed Forces Day

“My name is Mary Jo Berry and I work with the DAV as their LAC, scheduling and driving our veterans to their appts. We have a small group of ladies in Superior that does a program, luncheon, with speakers every Armed Forces Day for all the Veterans in Mineral County. We honor at least three Veterans during our ceremony. We’re a small Grp of 9”

Interested in joining or speaking? Contact Mary Jo Berry, Superior Community Outreach, (406) 822-2213, spr4800@blackfoot.net

5/19 - 6/13 PHILIPSBURG: Royal Tine 4 Week Guide & Packer Class, Philipsburg, 9am

Have you ever wanted to learn western big game guiding skills, pack gear into remote camps on horses & mules and get a job with an outfitter as a big game hunting guide? This is what Royal Tine is all about...basic skills to get you started in the outfitting industry. May 19 - June 13, 2020. Email or give a call today...to get signed up and started.

Check out the website for tuition price & dates: www.royaltine.com [royaltine.com]

https://www.facebook.com/events/1029478780757971/ [facebook.com]

Questions: Cody and LeRee Hensen, (406) 859-5138, Cell (406) 370-6737, royal_tine@yahoo.com

5/23 SAINT REGIS: ALR Beginning Season Ride, St. Regis Travel Center, 55 Mullan Gulch Rd., Saint Regis, 8am - 8pm
220 miles, more info to follow
Questions: Don Goodnight, Corvallis Legion Riders President, (406) 360-5275
Or, Doug (406) 546-4244,

6/20 HAMILTON: Trina Petersen Memorial Poker Ride - Meet at NAPA Auto Parts, 1659 N. 1st St., Hamilton, 8am - 8pm

https://www.facebook.com/events/2508305479278287/

Questions: Don Goodnight, Corvallis Legion Riders President, (406) 360-5275

Or, Doug, (406) 546-4244,

9/12 Missoula Out of the Darkness Walk, Silver Park, 700 Cregg Lane, Missoula, 12pm

Join us as we walk to raise hope, awareness, and funds for suicide awareness and prevention. Help us bring suicide out of the darkness. To register today follow the link, sign up your team and start fundraising. https://www.facebook.com/events/469467750619765/

Questions: Nancy Yates (406) 855-5267,

Or, Rachel Thurston, (406) 207-2816,

2020 WINTER in BUTTE: Xsports4vets Georgetown Ice Fishing Tourney (Details TBD)

FREE for Veterans with proof of deployment to an area of imminent danger. All gear, instruction, and even lunch is provided by XSports. Seats/spots are limited.

RSVP: Janna (406) 239-3198 (Text or call)

Missoula / LOCAL Questions: Anton (406) 396-8390 or Steve (406) 493-2264, xsports4vets@gmail.com (xsports4vets.org)

****** END of EVENTS ******

*** IF YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE WITH US, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO EMAIL FLYER and/or INFO TO (Or, snoble@mt.gov)'

Image Credit: Rick Bartow, "Bird Bird Bird Crow Crow" 2013, acrylic, graphite on canvas, 79 3/4 x 101 inches framed, courtesy of the artist and Froelick Gallery, Portland, OR, copyright of the artist.

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