Veterans Support Team hosts summer retreat

The Whitefish Veterans Support Team hosted six injured veterans and their spouses at the annual Summer Retreat Sept. 3-8.

The veterans and spouses spent five days participating in summer adventures including hiking to the Hidden Lake Overlook in Glacier National Park, rafting and fishing on the scenic Middle Fork of the Flathead River and enjoying a pontoon boat ride on Whitefish Lake. Additionally, many of them signed up for the Color Run at the Great Fish Community Challenge celebration at Depot Park.

The WVST partnered with Sandi Solem, a professional nurse who has spent most of her career working with veterans and their families in a multitude of settings. As a military spouse of 29 years herself, she witnessed the needs of active duty men and women, veterans and their families.

She facilitated focus groups and individual counseling sessions addressing issues relating to injuries, separation during deployments, transition to civilian life, community education and outreach. Several of the veterans expressed finding real value in listening and sharing common concerns and issues.

One participant said, “listening to other veterans helps you feel normal and it helps you take a more positive and focused look at your future.”

Each year WVST hosts a summer and winter retreat for injured and transitioning veterans and a Gold Star retreat for young adults that have lost a parent while serving our country. In 2020 WVST is planning to host a retreat for spouses of military personal that have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

The Whitefish Veterans Support Team is a donor-based, charitable organization that is dedicated to providing support and new beginnings for veterans and their families. 92% of donations directly benefit veterans and their families.

The WVST programs engage veterans and their families in physically challenging and fun activities such as snow skiing, wake boarding, river rafting, fly-fishing, zip lines, as well as much needed down time. The activities are tailored to individual needs so each person feels a sense of accomplishment. Each event addresses issues unique to military life and the transition to civilian life.

To learn more and get involved with the Whitefish Veterans Support Team visit wvstmt.org or email Steve Shea at sshea7876@gmail.com.