Washington County’s annual Stand Down event provides a wide variety of resources to veterans

Washington County’s Veterans Stand Down takes place on Friday, November 15, at Sonrise Church, 6701 NE Campus Way Drive in Hillsboro. The event is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (drop-in), with an opening ceremony at 9:45 a.m. Breakfast and lunch will be available, with lunch provided by NW Natural.

The Stand Down is a one-day resource and connection fair for veterans of all ages, with approximately 60 local organizations and service providers participating. Resources include housing, employment, health care including COVID-19 and flu shots, education, haircuts, clothing, pet food, legal assistance, advocates for state and federal benefits, and more.

The annual event is organized by Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services (DAVS), whose six Veteran Services Officers assist former service members in accessing millions of dollars in federal health care, disability compensation, and pension benefits each year.

“While the primary audience for this event is our community’s houseless veterans, the Stand Down is open and available to anyone who has served,” said Vicki Horn, Washington County Veteran Services supervisor. “It’s an easy way for veterans to find a variety of supports in one day in one location.”

Employment will be a focus of the Stand Down, with recruitment representatives from four employers and six staffing agencies on hand to meet with veterans. WorkSource Oregon will also be there to help veterans with resumes, interview skills and career transition support.

Attendees can save time on the day of the event by filling out an online form in advance. Veterans who can’t make the Stand Down are invited to call DAVS at 503-846-3060 to get connected to assistance.

Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services (DAVS) empowers older adults, veterans and people with disabilities by connecting them with essential services and resources to enhance their quality of life with compassion, dignity and respect. Their office is located at 5240 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 300, Hillsboro.