North Vernon Vet 2 Vet hosts events year-round to support their efforts that help local veterans by raising awareness of their post-traumatic stress disorder and other common struggles.

On Wednesday, Oct. 16, veterans that have signed up for the Wounded Warrior Hunt will be headed to Camp Atterbury to hunt with those who have purple hearts or complete military involvement.

Their survival packs for the hunt, which were funded by fundraising efforts and donations, include a shirt, hat and backpack with the hunter’s branch of service, hunting vest, camping stoves, fire started, tumbler, scent killer, wind detecting powder, deer estrus, compass and more.

To continue supporting events like this and others to help veterans socialize and get out of their house, Vet 2 Vet is hosting the Warriors Blessing, a silent auction.

The Warriors Blessing Silent Auction will be from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 12 at VFW Post 1925.

To participate in the silent auction, text Bob Staats at 812-521-4685 to preregister. Items that will be bid on include a snow blower, grill, air compressor, bike, gift certificate worth $100 and a soft top gazebo.

At the silent auction, there will be guest speakers to educate and discuss the effects of PTSD.

Vet 2 Vet’s next big event is for Veterans Day and Thanksgiving. With the money they raise from the silent auction, they provide turkey and ham dinners to veterans and their families to prepare for the holiday.

Last year, Vet 2 Vet supplied 150 families with dinners, which include a turkey or ham along with side dishes and dessert. This year, they are aiming to bless 200 families, which is no easy task alone.

“It’s important for people to take the time to know the vets in their community […],” Staats said. “Identify the vets and let them know they’re not alone.”

For information, visit NorthVernonVet2Vet.org or contact Willie Steele by calling or texting 812-292-0008 or email [email protected].