The event is an offshoot of the YMCA’s Be Well programs, established to support the community beyond physical activity. Started in 2022, Be Well evolved from Whole Health Wellness Group. It supports mental health and aims to connect people to form a thriving community.

Be Well Warrior was created to focus wellness efforts on military personnel, veterans and their families. According to the most recent data from the US Census and PA DMVA, Warren County has the largest population of veterans per capita in Pennsylvania.

“This is not your typical”pen and pamphlet“resource fair” said Erin Wallace, program coordinator at the YMCA.

Attendees can look forward to learning about services, signing up for resources, and enjoying food and activities. This year’s event will feature briefings that will include a cooking demonstration with tasting by Mr. D’s Spices, an update on Warren County Veterans Affairs services, and drug and alcohol recovery support for warriors, all led or led by veterans.

“We want to establish a network of people with military connections so they can engage and build connections and support within the community.” Wallace said.

Be Well Warrior also focuses on educational opportunities essential to military culture, suicide risk, prevention and intervention, firearms safety, military sexual trauma, moral injury, traumatic stress and brain injury.

Be Well Warrior has partnered with organizations such as Allegheny Valley Veterans Center, AMVETS, Family Services of Warren County, National Guard Family Program, New Hope Assistance Dogs, Pitt PERU, Senior Helpers, Mountain Laurel Recovery Center, Soldier On, Veterans Leadership Program, Warren County Veterans Affairs, Vet Center, VA, Women’s Care Center of Warren and more.

To learn more about this and other activities, visit warrenymca.org/warrior. Be Well Warrior is still accepting vendors to showcase their warrior offerings during the November 9th event. To sign up, email [email protected] or call 814-726-0110.