DCJ staff took time out to connect with veterans in our community for a fourth year in a row by sponsoring a table at the East County Veterans Stand Down at the Chapel in Troutdale. This annual event provides an opportunity for veterans to connect with service providers, get health screenings, counseling, a haircut, hygiene supplies, surplus gear and a hot meal. It is coordinated by the Salvation Army & WorkSource Oregon. The "Stand Down" is based on the historic concept of a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. This event is an opportunity for veterans to connect with service providers and get some basic needs met.
Michelle Aguilar, Mary Sullivan-Reinhardt, Bill Jeffreys, Harold Niblack, Kyle Schwab, and Kelsey Urbina were on hand to answer questions, share information about volunteer and employment opportunities, and hand out pocket planners, name badges, and other materials. A number of veterans had specific questions about warrants, supervision issues, and expungement. Diane McKeel, Multnomah County Commissioner from District 4, was also present and stopped by the DCJ table to check in with the veterans in attendance.
Over 200 veterans attended, and as Mary shared “There were plenty of volunteers and that was awesome. As always the vets loved the items that we handed out.” Events like these provide a great opportunity for DCJ staff to continue to give back to our community and to work together as a department. Staff from all three divisions, Juvenile, Adult and Administration participated and worked alongside each other. Thank you to staff who have volunteered at these events for the past 4 years.