The Veterans Community Center in Citrus Heights, California, is more than just a building – it’s a lifeline for local veterans. Located at 6921 Sylvan Road, this unassuming structure has a rich history and an even richer purpose.
A Schoolhouse Turned Safe Haven
Once upon a time (1862, to be exact), this building was the Sylvan Schoolhouse. Fast-forward to 2013, and it became the Veterans Community Center, thanks to James and Jeanne Rounsavell. These two visionaries saw potential in the old schoolhouse and turned it into a place where veterans could gather, share stories, and find support.
More Than Just a Hangout Spot
The Veterans Community Center isn’t just a place to swap war stories over coffee (although that’s certainly welcome). It’s a hub of activity and support for local veterans. Here’s what goes down at this bustling center:
Free “Safe Room”: This isn’t your average timeout corner. It’s a judgment-free zone where veterans can relax, socialize, and be themselves.
Meals: The center serves hot meals twice a week. For just $3, veterans can enjoy a hearty lunch and good company.
Resources Galore: Need help navigating the maze of VA benefits? The center has your back. It’s like GPS for veteran services.
Fun and Games: There’s no shortage of entertainment, from pool tables to horseshoe pits. It’s like an adult playground, minus the skinned knees.
Volunteers Wanted: No Cape Required
Here’s the thing – this amazing place runs entirely on volunteer power. That’s right, not a single paid employee in sight. It’s like a superhero team, but instead of fighting aliens, they fight veteran isolation and hardship.
The center is always on the lookout for recruits. Whether you’re a whiz in the kitchen, have a green thumb for gardening, or just love planning a good shindig, there’s a spot for you. Here are some ways you can help:
- Cook up a storm in the kitchen
- Get your hands dirty in the garden
- Plan and staff events (Hawaiian luau, anyone?)
- Lend a hand with general maintenance
The Luau Lowdown
Speaking of events, the center’s annual Hawaiian Luau Fundraiser is the bee’s knees. Picture this: swaying palm trees (okay, maybe just in spirit), the sweet sounds of Native Sun, and hula dancers shaking their stuff. It’s a tropical paradise in the heart of Citrus Heights.
The 2024 luau is set for August 24th, from 5 to 9 p.m. For $50 to $75, you get a night of entertainment, a Hawaiian BBQ buffet, and the warm fuzzy feeling of supporting a great cause. Plus, you might even get roped into a hula lesson. Don’t worry. No one’s judging your hip swivels.
Why It Matters
The Veterans Community Center isn’t just a building – it’s a lifeline for many local veterans. It serves up to 150 veterans monthly, providing meals and a sense of belonging and purpose. This center stands as a beacon of hope and community in a world where veterans often feel forgotten or misunderstood.
How You Can Help
If you’re feeling inspired (and we hope you are), here’s how you can lend a hand:
- Volunteer your time and skills
- Attend fundraising events like the Luau
- Spread the word to veterans who might benefit from the center’s services
- Make a donation (every little bit helps)
The Bottom Line
The Veterans Community Center in Citrus Heights is doing important work, but they can’t do it alone. They need volunteers, donations, and community support to keep their doors open and their services running.
So, whether you’re a veteran looking for a place to belong, a community member with time to spare, or someone who wants to make a difference, the Veterans Community Center welcomes you with open arms. Who knows? You might just find your little slice of paradise right here in Citrus Heights.
Remember, supporting our veterans isn’t just a one-day-a-year deal. It’s an everyday commitment to those who’ve given so much for our country. At the Veterans Community Center, every day is an opportunity to give back.
Sources: veteranscommunitycenterch.com, Veterans Community Center | Citrus Heights CA Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Photo by Brandon Day on Unsplash
