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Veterans Supporting Veterans: Become a Vet-to-Vet Hospice Volunteer

veteran volunteering to help a veteran on hospice

You served your country. Now there is a way to serve your fellow veterans in one of the most meaningful ways possible — by being there when it matters most.

Lighthouse Hospice & Palliative Care is looking for veterans to join their Vet-to-Vet Volunteer Program in the Treasure Valley. As a Vet-to-Vet volunteer, you sit with veterans who are at the end of their lives, share stories, offer companionship, and make sure no veteran faces their final days alone.

Your time, your understanding, and your presence can make a real difference.

What Is the Vet-to-Vet Program?Vet-to-Vet-Volunteer-Flyer

The Vet-to-Vet program pairs veteran volunteers with veteran hospice patients. The idea is simple but powerful — a fellow veteran understands things that others simply cannot. You share a language, a culture, and a set of experiences that create an instant bond. That connection brings comfort to patients and their families during one of the hardest seasons of life.

As a Vet-to-Vet volunteer, you are not there to provide medical or personal care. You are there to provide companionship. That is it. And it is enough.

How You Can Serve

There are many ways to show up for a fellow veteran as a Vet-to-Vet volunteer:

  • Share stories and companionship — sometimes just talking is the greatest gift
  • Offer emotional support — your calm, steady presence means more than you know
  • Enjoy simple hobbies, crafts, and activities together
  • Participate in veteran pinning ceremonies — a deeply moving honor for veterans and their families

Flexible and Meaningful

One of the best things about this program is how flexible it is. You choose the days and times that work for your schedule. If your plans change, your visit can easily be moved to another day. There is no rigid commitment that makes volunteering feel like another obligation.

This is something you do on your terms — and every visit makes a difference.

Where Lighthouse Hospice Serves

Lighthouse Hospice & Palliative Care serves veterans throughout the Treasure Valley, including:

Weiser • Payette • Emmett • Middleton • Meridian • Nampa • Boise • Mountain Home

If you live in or near any of these communities, there is likely a veteran near you who could use your company.

Volunteer Requirements

Lighthouse Hospice covers all required costs. Here is what the process looks like:

  • Volunteer packet, background check, and fingerprints
  • Approximately 8–10 hours of online and in-person training
  • Health screening (TB, flu, and Hepatitis B)
  • Driver’s license, auto insurance, and basic computer skills for simple visit charting

The training prepares you well. By the time you walk into your first visit, you will feel ready.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If this feels like something you are called to do, reach out to Jenny McCullough, Volunteer Coordinator at Lighthouse Hospice & Palliative Care:

A Final Thought

Many veterans spend their lives taking care of others. The Vet-to-Vet program is a chance to extend that service — not on a battlefield or a base, but in a quiet room, with a fellow veteran who needs to know that someone sees them, honors them, and will sit with them until the end.

If you have ever wondered how to keep serving after your time in uniform, this may be your answer.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to share volunteer opportunities that connect Idaho’s veteran community in meaningful ways. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs and services at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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2nd Annual Patriot Run 5K Fun Run – July 18, 2026 | Freedom Park, Star, Idaho

Veteran Runs

Lace up your shoes. On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the 2nd Annual Patriot Run 5K Fun Run comes to Freedom Park in Star, Idaho — and this year it is bigger and better than ever. Hosted by the City of Star and benefiting the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa, this is a morning of running, walking, and community spirit you do not want to miss.

And yes — walkers are absolutely welcome.

What Is the Patriot Run?Flyer for the 2nd Annual Patriot Run 5K Fun Run at Freedom Park in Star Idaho on July 18 2026, starting at 8AM. Early registration is $35 and includes a finisher medal and t-shirt. Register by June 27 to be guaranteed a t-shirt. Hosted by the City of Star and benefiting the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa Idaho.

The Patriot Run is a 5K fun run and walk held at Freedom Park in the town of Star, just west of Boise. It is open to runners and walkers of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you are a competitive runner chasing a personal best or someone who just wants to get outside, do something meaningful, and enjoy a summer morning with great people — this event is for you.

The course winds through the park in a family-friendly setting, and the atmosphere is exactly what you would expect from an event with the word “Patriot” in the name — flags flying, families cheering, and a genuine sense of pride in the community.

Race Day Details

  • Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
  • Start Time: 8:00 AM
  • Location: Freedom Park, Star, Idaho
  • Distance: 5K (3.1 miles) — run or walk
  • Early Registration: Only $35 — includes a finisher medal and t-shirt!

Register here: warhawkairmuseum.org/event/patriot-run

Register by June 27th to Guarantee Your T-Shirt

Here is something important to know: if you want to be guaranteed a t-shirt on race day, you need to register by June 27, 2026. After that date, t-shirts are available while supplies last.

At only $35 for early registration — which includes both a finisher medal and a t-shirt — this is one of the best deals of the summer. Do not wait.

Why Run for the Warhawk Air Museum?

The Warhawk Air Museum is not just a place to look at old airplanes. It is a living memorial to the men and women who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and beyond. It preserves their stories, their equipment, and their legacy for future generations of Idahoans.

The museum also hosts the Kilroy Coffee Klatch — Idaho’s largest monthly veteran gathering — and participates in the Veterans History Project, collecting and preserving oral histories from veterans across the region.

When you register for the Patriot Run, your entry fee goes directly toward keeping the museum’s doors open and its mission alive. That is a pretty good reason to lace up.

Who Should Come?

Everyone. This event is made for:

  • Runners looking for a fun summer 5K with a great cause
  • Walkers who want to participate at their own pace — walkers are welcome and encouraged
  • Veterans and active military who want to enjoy a community event in their honor
  • Families with children — this is a family-friendly morning out
  • Community members who want to show support for veterans and military history

You do not have to be a veteran to participate. You just have to show up.

About the City of Star

Star is one of Idaho’s fastest-growing communities, with deep roots and a strong sense of local pride. Freedom Park is a fitting backdrop for an event like this — a place where families gather, kids play, and neighbors connect. The City of Star is proud to host this event, and the community always shows up in force.

Come Out and Support Veterans

The Patriot Run is more than a race. It is a way for the whole community to say thank you — to veterans, to military families, and to the people who work every day to preserve the stories of those who served.

Whether you run, walk, volunteer, or just come out to cheer, your presence makes a difference.

Register now at: warhawkairmuseum.org/event/patriot-run

The DAV of Idaho encourages the entire Idaho community to support veteran-centered events like the Patriot Run. Learn more about DAV Idaho at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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Vetworking Coeur d’Alene – Every 3rd Friday | Best Life Coffee, Coeur d’Alene

If you are a veteran, service member, military spouse, or military-connected entrepreneur in northern Idaho, there is a monthly gathering made just for you. Vetworking Coeur d’Alene meets on the 3rd Friday of every month from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Best Life Coffee, 524 E Sherman Ave., Suite 105, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

It is free. It is open. And it might be exactly what you have been looking for.

What Is Vetworking?Flyer for Vetworking Coeur d'Alene hosted by the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance, held every third Friday of the month from 8 AM to 10 AM at Best Life Coffee, 524 E Sherman Ave Suite 105 in Coeur d'Alene Idaho. Open to veterans, service members, veteran spouses, and military-connected entrepreneurs for coffee, connection, and networking. Learn more at vealliance.org.

Vetworking is a monthly networking event hosted by the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance (VEA) — a nonprofit organization that supports military-connected business owners and entrepreneurs across Idaho and beyond.

The idea is simple. Veterans and military-connected professionals sit down over coffee, have real conversations, and build real connections. No sales pitches. No pressure. Just people who share a military background coming together to support each other personally and professionally.

The motto says it all: Connect. Collaborate. Grow.

Who Should Come?

Vetworking Coeur d’Alene is open to:

  • Veterans of any branch or era
  • Active duty service members and reservists
  • Military spouses building or running a business
  • Military-connected entrepreneurs — anyone whose business life has been shaped by military service

You do not have to own a business to attend. You just have to want to connect with others who understand the military life.

Why This Matters

Starting or running a business as a veteran or military spouse comes with unique challenges. Frequent moves, deployment cycles, gaps in employment history, and the transition from military to civilian life all create hurdles that most networking groups were not designed to address.

Vetworking exists to fill that gap. When you walk into Best Life Coffee on the third Friday of the month, you are surrounded by people who get it. People who have navigated the same transitions, built businesses while managing military life, and understand what it means to lead with a mission.

The connections you make at Vetworking can lead to referrals, partnerships, mentorships, and friendships that last well beyond the two-hour event.

About the Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance

The Veteran Entrepreneur Alliance (VEA) is a military-connected business community built on the belief that veterans and military families make exceptional entrepreneurs. The VEA provides resources, events, and a supportive network to help military-connected business owners thrive.

Learn more and get connected at vealliance.org.

About Best Life Coffee – Coeur d’Alene

Best Life Coffee is a welcoming, community-focused coffee shop in the heart of Coeur d’Alene. It is the perfect backdrop for the kind of real conversations that Vetworking is built around.

Address: 524 E Sherman Ave., Suite 105, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Upcoming Vetworking Dates

Vetworking meets on the 3rd Friday of every month:

  • July 18, 2026
  • August 21, 2026
  • September 18, 2026
  • October 16, 2026

Come As You Are

There is no registration required. No fee. No dress code. Just show up on the third Friday, grab a coffee, and introduce yourself.

If you are a veteran entrepreneur in northern Idaho — or you are thinking about starting a business and want to connect with others who have done it — Vetworking Coeur d’Alene is a great place to start.

Learn more at vealliance.org

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight programs and events that support veteran entrepreneurs and military-connected business owners across Idaho. Learn more about DAV Idaho at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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Mission43 Leaders Fellowship: July Seminar for Idaho’s Veteran Leaders

Mission 43 Leaders Fellowship

Idaho is home to some of the most talented, driven veterans in the country. The Mission43 Leaders Fellowship exists to find them, develop them, and help them make an even bigger impact in their communities and careers.

On Thursday, July 16, 2026, the Leaders Fellowship Cohort VIII gathers in the Treasure Valley for their monthly two-hour evening seminar — one stop in a year-long journey of leadership development designed exclusively for Idaho’s veteran community.

What Is the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship?

The Mission43 Leaders Fellowship is one of the most prestigious programs available to veterans and military families in Idaho. It is a year-long program that selects a small group of fellows — veterans, military spouses, and currently serving military members — who show exceptional leadership potential and a genuine commitment to making Idaho a better place.

Fellowship members are fully supported throughout the program. Mission43 covers all costs, including travel, so that financial barriers never stand in the way of someone who has what it takes to lead.

In return, fellows commit to attending all scheduled events and pushing themselves beyond their comfort zones. That is the deal — and for the veterans who have been through this program, it has been a life-changing one.

What Happens at the Seminars?

The July seminar is a two-hour evening session held in the Treasure Valley. These monthly sessions are where fellows dig deep into leadership concepts, hear from guest speakers, work through real-world challenges, and build relationships with a cohort of peers who push each other to be better.

Over the course of the year, the fellowship also includes:

  • A multi-day retreat in Ketchum, Idaho
  • A wilderness experience in the Sawtooth, White Cloud, and Frank Church Wilderness areas
  • Half-day sessions at Bogus Basin and throughout the Boise area

It is leadership development that goes well beyond a classroom.

Who Is the Fellows Program For?

The 2026/2027 application cycle has already closed, but this is a program worth knowing about for the future. If you are a veteran, military spouse, or active service member in Idaho who:

  • Has a strong desire to grow as a leader
  • Wants to give back to your community in a meaningful way
  • Is willing to challenge yourself and invest in a year of serious personal development

…then the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship was designed for you. Applications for the 2027/2028 cohort will open in early 2027. Visit mission43.org to learn more and get on their radar.

Why Leadership Development Matters for Veterans

Veterans leave the military with an extraordinary foundation of leadership experience. They have led teams under pressure, made critical decisions with limited information, and taken responsibility for the people around them. But transitioning that experience into civilian and community leadership takes support and intentional development.

Programs like the Mission43 Leaders Fellowship help Idaho’s veteran community do exactly that — and the ripple effects are felt across the state, in businesses, nonprofits, government, and communities.

Get Involved with Mission43

Even if the Leaders Fellowship application cycle has passed, Mission43 offers a wide range of programs and events open to Idaho veterans and military families year-round. From employment workshops to community hikes to career certifications, there is something for everyone.

Visit mission43.org to explore all that Mission43 has to offer.

The DAV of Idaho celebrates programs that develop strong veteran leaders in Idaho. Learn more about DAV Idaho at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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Steak & Bake Summer Nights – July 25 & August 22, 2026 | Post Falls, Idaho

This summer, the American Legion Riders Post 143 in Post Falls is firing up the grill for a great cause. Steak & Bake Summer Nights is a three-event dinner series happening on select Saturdays throughout the summer. Each dinner supports Legion Riders Veteran’s Programs — and you get a great meal out of it too.

Mark these dates on your calendar now:

  • Saturday, July 25, 2026
  • Saturday, August 22, 2026

All three events run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and are open to the entire community.

What Is on the Menu?Flyer for Steak & Bake Nights

For $25 per ticket, you get a full dinner that includes:

  • 8 oz steak cooked to order
  • Salad
  • Baked potato
  • Dessert

That is a great meal at a great price — and every dollar goes directly toward supporting veteran programs run by the American Legion Riders Post 143.

Where to Buy Tickets

Tickets are $25 each and are available in two ways:

  • Online: pfp143.org
  • In person: Pop’s Lounge at the Post

Buy early to secure your spot. These dinners are open to the community, so seats can fill up fast.

Where Is the Event?

All three Steak & Bake Summer Nights dinners take place at American Legion Post 143 in Post Falls, Idaho. Pop’s Lounge at the Post is also where you can pick up tickets in person.

Who Are the American Legion Riders?

The American Legion Riders are a group of motorcycle enthusiasts within the American Legion who share a passion for riding and a commitment to serving veterans. They raise money throughout the year to fund veteran programs, support military families, and give back to their communities.

Post 143 serves the Post Falls area and northern Idaho. Events like Steak & Bake Summer Nights are a key part of how they fund their mission. So when you buy a ticket, you are not just getting a steak dinner. You are helping veterans in your own community.

A Fun Summer Night for a Great Cause

Whether you come in June, July, August, or all three, Steak & Bake Summer Nights is the kind of community event that makes Idaho summers great. Good food, good people, and a purpose that goes beyond the plate.

Bring a friend. Bring your family. Come hungry and leave knowing you did something good.

Get your tickets at pfp143.org or at Pop’s Lounge at the Post.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight events that support veteran programs across Idaho. Learn more about DAV Idaho at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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Free Workshop for Military Spouses: Building a Responsive Core – July 11, 2026

Military spouses carry a weight that most people never see. They manage households, raise children, navigate frequent moves, and hold families together through deployments — often while managing their own physical and emotional health on the side. Too often, their needs come last.

Mission43 wants to change that. On Saturday, July 11, 2026, they are hosting a free workshop specifically for military spouses: Building a Responsive Core, held at the Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse in Boise from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

What Is This Workshop About?

This hands-on workshop focuses on pelvic health, core strength, and practical movement tools to support training, recovery, and everyday life. The instructors understand that strength starts deeper than most people think — and that the physical demands placed on military spouses are real, whether you are lifting children, sitting at a desk for hours, or trying to stay active through yet another major life transition.

You will leave with:

  • A better understanding of how your core and pelvic floor work together
  • Practical tools you can use in your daily routine right away
  • Techniques to support recovery, whether from childbirth, injury, or simply years of carrying too much
  • Connection with other military spouses who understand your life

This workshop is designed to be approachable and welcoming, no matter your current fitness level. You do not need any prior experience.

Who Is This For?

This workshop is open to military spouses — whether your partner is active duty, in the reserves or National Guard, or has already transitioned out of the military. If you have been a military spouse at any point, Mission43 wants to support you.

You are also welcome to bring a friend.

Why Physical Wellness Matters for Military Families

The physical and emotional health of military spouses directly impacts the entire family — including the veteran. When spouses are strong, supported, and connected, families do better. Children do better. Veterans do better.

Too often, military spouses put everyone else first and let their own health slide. Events like this one exist to say clearly: your health matters too. Taking two hours on a Saturday morning to invest in yourself is not selfish. It is smart — and it is something your family will benefit from as much as you will.

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Location: Idaho Outdoor Fieldhouse, Boise, ID
  • Cost: Free
  • Registration: Visit mission43.org to register

Space may be limited, so register early.

About Mission43

Mission43 is a Boise-based nonprofit dedicated to making Idaho a great place for veterans, military spouses, and currently serving military members. From employment workshops to community events, Mission43 provides real, practical support to military families across the Treasure Valley and beyond.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight programs that support the full military family. Learn more about how DAV Idaho serves veterans and their families at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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A Salute to America’s Military – July 4, 2026 | Kimberly City Park

This Fourth of July, the small city of Kimberly, Idaho is doing something truly special. On Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, Kimberly City Park will host A Salute to America’s Military — a free, heartfelt community celebration honoring every branch of the United States Armed Forces on America’s 250th birthday.

Bring a lawn chair, bring your family, and come celebrate in a community that takes its gratitude for military service seriously.

What Is This Event?Flyer for A Salute to America's Military, an America 250 in Idaho event hosted by the City of Kimberly on Saturday July 4 2026 from 12 PM to 2 PM at Kimberly City Park. The free event includes an honor guard presentation, live music by Mr. A performing each military branch theme song, and a free barbecue hosted by Rock Creek Fire District. All branches honored include Coast Guard, Air Force, Navy, Space Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Idaho Army National Guard.

Kimberly is an America 250 Ambassador City — one of a select group of Idaho communities chosen to help mark the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. Their Fourth of July celebration reflects that honor with a program built specifically to recognize the men and women who have defended this country for 250 years.

This is not a generic Fourth of July picnic. This is a genuine, organized tribute to America’s military — every branch, every service member, past and present.

What to Expect

Honor Guard Presentation The event opens with an Honor Guard presentation and an opening prayer led by the Idaho Army National Guard. It sets a tone of respect and gratitude from the very first moment.

Live Band – Mr. A Live band Mr. A will perform the official theme song of every military branch — one by one. As each branch’s song plays, service members and veterans from that branch will be invited onto the stage to be recognized. It is a powerful, personal moment for every veteran in the crowd.

The branches being honored include:

  • Coast Guard
  • Air Force
  • Navy
  • Space Force
  • Army
  • Marine Corps
  • Idaho Army National Guard

After the branch recognition, Mr. A will continue performing patriotic songs that everyone knows and loves throughout the rest of the afternoon.

Free Barbecue The Rock Creek Fire District is hosting a free community barbecue during the event. Good food, great music, and great company — all free of charge.

Recognition and Presentations Community leaders will offer recognition and presentations honoring military service as part of the formal program.

Why This Matters

Most Fourth of July celebrations are about fireworks, food, and fun — and there is nothing wrong with that. But Kimberly is doing something deeper this year. They are stopping in the middle of the holiday to look their veterans in the eye, call them by their branch, play their song, and say: we see you. We are grateful. And we are proud.

On the 250th anniversary of the nation those veterans swore to defend, that kind of recognition means everything.

If you are a veteran — of any branch, any era — you are going to want to be in Kimberly on July 4th.

Event Details at a Glance

  • Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
  • Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
  • Location: Kimberly City Park, Kimberly, ID
  • Cost: Free
  • What to bring: A lawn chair and your patriotic spirit

Questions? Contact Kimberly City Administrator Craig Eckles:

About Kimberly, Idaho

Kimberly is a close-knit community in the Magic Valley, just east of Twin Falls. It may be a small city, but it has a big heart — especially when it comes to honoring those who serve. Being named an America 250 Ambassador City is a well-deserved recognition of that community spirit.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight community events across Idaho that honor our veterans and military families. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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Magic Valley Quilts of Valor Veterans Appreciation Day – July 2, 2026 | Twin Falls

Veteran getting a quilt

On Thursday, July 2, 2026, the Magic Valley Quilts of Valor is hosting a beautiful celebration of Idaho’s veterans. The Veterans Appreciation Day Open House runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Twin Falls County West Building Main Foyer, 630 Addison Ave. W., Twin Falls, Idaho — and the public is warmly invited to attend.

This is a free event filled with community, gratitude, and one of the most meaningful ceremonies in the veteran world — a Quilt of Valor Award Ceremony.

What Is the Quilts of Valor Foundation?

The Quilts of Valor Foundation is a national nonprofit organization with a simple but powerful mission: to cover service members and veterans touched by war with quilts made with love and gratitude. Each quilt is hand-crafted and awarded in a personal ceremony — a tangible, lasting symbol of a grateful nation’s thanks.

Since 2003, the Quilts of Valor Foundation has awarded over 300,000 quilts to veterans and service members across the country. The Magic Valley Quilts of Valor chapter serves veterans right here in southern Idaho, and their work is extraordinary.

A Quilt of Valor is not just a blanket. For many veterans, it is the first time someone has looked them in the eye, handed them something made with care, and said: we see what you did. We are grateful. This is for you.

What to Expect at the Open House

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM — Open House Throughout the day, community partners and resource providers will be on hand to speak with veterans and their families. This is a great opportunity to connect with organizations that serve Magic Valley veterans, ask questions, and learn what resources are available to you.

Community Participants Include:

  • Senator Mike Crapo Staff
  • Senator James Risch Staff
  • Congressman Mike Simpson Staff
  • Idaho State Veterans Service Office
  • Idaho Service Member & Family Support
  • Twin Falls Veterans Service Office
  • Department of Labor
  • College of Southern Idaho
  • St. Lukes Volunteer Services
  • Hospice Visions
  • Idaho Home Health and Hospice
  • Daughters of the American Revolution – Twin Falls Chapter
  • Glander’s Restorations

1:00 PM — Quilt of Valor Award Ceremony with Keynote Speaker The highlight of the day is the formal Quilt of Valor Award Ceremony at 1:00 PM. Selected veterans will be honored and presented with their quilts in front of family, friends, and the community. If you have never witnessed a Quilt of Valor ceremony, it is something you will not forget.

Music by Sticks & Strings Live music provided by Sticks & Strings will fill the foyer throughout the event, adding warmth and celebration to the afternoon.

Quilts of Valor Display Come see the beautiful quilts on display — each one a work of art and a labor of love.

Door Prizes and Thank You Gifts Attendees will have chances to win door prizes and receive thank you gifts throughout the day.

A Community Coming Together

What makes this event special is the number of community partners who are showing up to say thank you. From elected officials’ staff to healthcare providers to educational institutions, the Magic Valley community is rallying around its veterans in a real and meaningful way.

Twin Falls County Commissioners are also being recognized for their support of this event — a reminder that local government and the veteran community are stronger when they work together.

Event Details at a Glance

  • Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Open House)
  • Quilt of Valor Ceremony: 1:00 PM
  • Location: Twin Falls County West Building Main Foyer, 630 Addison Ave. W., Twin Falls, ID
  • Cost: Free — public welcome
  • Music: Sticks & Strings (live throughout the event)
  • Website: magicvalleyquiltsofvalor.com
  • Email: magicvalleyquilts@yahoo.com
  • Facebook: Magic Valley Quilts of Valor

Nominate a Veteran for a Quilt of Valor

Do you know a veteran in the Magic Valley who deserves to be recognized with a Quilt of Valor? Visit magicvalleyquiltsofvalor.com to learn more about the nomination process.

The DAV of Idaho is proud to highlight the work of the Magic Valley Quilts of Valor and all organizations that honor Idaho’s veterans. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs and services at dav-idaho.org or call (208) 429-2140.

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Veterans Stand Down Day – July 2, 2026 | Shoshone VFW Post 1675, Osburn, Idaho

Veteran Stand Down

If you are a veteran in northern Idaho who is struggling to make ends meet — or if you know one — mark Thursday, July 2, 2026 on your calendar. Shoshone VFW Post 1675 is hosting a Veterans Stand Down Day in Osburn, and they are coming ready to help.

The event runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, Idaho. It is free, and no appointment is needed.

What Is a Stand Down?

A Stand Down is a military term for a period of rest and recovery after intense combat operations. In the veteran services world, a Stand Down event is a day set aside to bring essential resources directly to veterans who need them most — especially those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or simply struggling to get by.

The idea is simple: instead of asking vulnerable veterans to navigate a complicated system of agencies and appointments, you bring the help to them. All in one place. All in one day.

What Will Be Available

Shoshone VFW Post 1675 is putting together a solid lineup of resources for veterans who attend:

  • Clothing
  • Blankets
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Fuel cards
  • Grocery cards
  • State and County Veterans Service Officers on site — ready to answer questions and help veterans understand and access their benefits

This is direct, practical help for veterans who need it right now.

How You Can Help — Donations Welcome

The community can play a big role in making this Stand Down a success. VFW Post 1675 is currently accepting donations of:

  • Bedding
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear

Donations can be dropped off directly at VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, Idaho. If you have gently used or new items to contribute, the veterans who attend this event will be grateful.

Veterans Service Officers Will Be On SiteFlyer for Veterans Stand Down Day hosted by Shoshone VFW Post 1675 at 318 E Mullan Ave in Osburn Idaho on July 2 2026 from 10 AM to 3 PM. Free resources available include clothing, blankets, personal hygiene items, fuel cards, and grocery cards. State and county veterans service officers will be present. Donations of bedding, t-shirts, and underwear can be dropped off at VFW Post 1675.

One of the most valuable things about this Stand Down is that state and county Veterans Service Officers will be present throughout the event. These are trained professionals who can help veterans understand what benefits they may be entitled to — including VA disability compensation, healthcare, pension, education benefits, and more.

If you have ever had questions about your VA benefits but did not know where to start, sitting down with a Veterans Service Officer at an event like this is one of the best first steps you can take. It is free, it is confidential, and it could result in benefits you have been leaving on the table for years.

Who Should Attend

This event is open to any veteran in need. You do not have to be homeless to come. You do not have to prove financial hardship at the door. If you are a veteran who could use some extra support — whether that is a few grocery cards to get through a tight month, a conversation with a service officer about your benefits, or simply a reminder that your community has not forgotten you — please come.

The Silver Valley and north Idaho region is home to many veterans who served quietly and asked for little in return. This Stand Down is the community’s way of giving something back.

Event Details at a Glance

  • Date: Thursday, July 2, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Location: Shoshone VFW Post 1675, 318 E. Mullan Ave., Osburn, ID
  • Cost: Free
  • Donations: Bedding, t-shirts, and underwear accepted at VFW Post 1675

About the DAV of Idaho

The DAV of Idaho provides free benefits assistance to disabled veterans across the state. Our National Service Officers can help you file VA claims, appeal denials, and navigate the VA system — at no cost to you. If you are unable to attend the Osburn Stand Down but need help accessing your benefits, contact us anytime.

The DAV of Idaho proudly supports Stand Down events and community efforts that bring direct help to veterans in need. If you know a veteran in the Silver Valley who could use support, please share this post.

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Kilroy Coffee Klatch – July 7, 2026 | Free Monthly Veteran Gathering in Nampa

Veterans sitting around a table.

Every first Tuesday of the month, something special happens at the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa. Veterans from across the Treasure Valley come together over coffee, donuts, and great conversation. It is called the Kilroy Coffee Klatch — and it is the largest monthly gathering of veterans in the entire state of Idaho.

This month, Kilroy Coffee Klatch meets on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. And best of all, it is completely free for veterans.

What Is the Kilroy Coffee Klatch?

The Kilroy Coffee Klatch started as a small gathering — just a handful of veterans looking for a place to sit down, share a cup of coffee, and swap stories with people who understood what they had been through.

Word spread. Veterans kept showing up. And over the years, Kilroy grew into something remarkable: the biggest monthly veteran gathering in Idaho, held inside one of the most impressive military museums in the Pacific Northwest.

Today, Kilroy Coffee Klatch draws veterans of all eras, all branches, and all backgrounds. Whether you served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere in between, you are welcome at Kilroy. Whether you came home fifty years ago or fifty days ago, there is a seat for you.

What to Expect

When you walk into the Kilroy Coffee Klatch, you will find:

  • Coffee and donuts, served free of charge to all veteran attendees
  • Great conversation with fellow veterans who understand your experience
  • A world-class setting — the gathering is held in the Warhawk Air Museum’s Global War on Terror hangar, surrounded by historic aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts
  • No agenda, no pressure — just veterans connecting with veterans

There is no RSVP required. You just show up.

The general public is also welcome to attend, though regular museum admission applies to non-veterans.

Finding the Event

The July Kilroy Coffee Klatch is held in the Global War on Terror (GWOT) hangar at the Warhawk Air Museum. When you arrive, use the lower parking lot — it puts you closest to the hangar entrance.

Warhawk Air Museum 201 Municipal Drive Nampa, ID 83687 (208) 465-6446

Why This Matters

Isolation is one of the biggest challenges facing veterans today. Many veterans come home from service and find it hard to connect with people who truly understand what military life is like. The civilian world moves differently. Conversations feel different. And it can be lonely in ways that are hard to explain.

The Kilroy Coffee Klatch exists to solve that problem — one Tuesday morning at a time. When veterans gather together, something good happens. Old friendships are rekindled. New ones are formed. Stories get told that might never have been shared otherwise. And for a few hours, every veteran in that room is surrounded by people who get it.

If you have never been to a Kilroy Coffee Klatch, July is a great time to start. Just show up, grab a coffee, and introduce yourself. You will be glad you did.

Mark Your Calendar for Every Month

Kilroy Coffee Klatch happens on the first Tuesday of every month, year-round. Once you go, most veterans keep coming back.

Upcoming dates:

  • July 7
  • August 4
  • September 1

The DAV of Idaho encourages all Idaho veterans to take advantage of community events like the Kilroy Coffee Klatch. Connection matters. Learn more about DAV Idaho programs and resources at dav-idaho.org.