This Saturday, the YMCA in Warren will provide an opportunity for veterans and their support networks to make connections with organizations from across the area in an effort to foster both to help each other.

The “warrior resource event,” organized by the organization’s Be Well Warrior program, will feature more than a dozen organizations seeking to engage attendees, a lounge area and private spaces to fill out any necessary forms.

The event is different from other events connecting veterans with services, according to YMCA Whole Health Wellness Coordinator Erin Wallace.

“So many of these events are just grab a pen and provide information,” Wallace said. “This is more about engagement, about connecting.”

She noted the event aims not just to connect veterans with services, but to provide organizations to connect with potential volunteers and employees and to provide help for veterans’ extended support networks.

“A lot of really great opportunities will be available,” Wallace said. “We’re trying to create opportunities for people to make connections and get the resources they need. We asked all of our vendors, ‘How will you engage people at the event?'”

She noted all agencies will have the ability to complete applications and input information on-site, not just answer questions and provide forms.

The event will also provide support service options to those beyond veterans and their immediate family. She said the Be Well Warrior programs supports those in a veterans more extended support network.

“It includes friends, families, boyfriends, girlfriends,” she said. “Anyone with experience in the military has a support network beyond just family and they need support too.”

Wallace noted Warren County has the highest number of veterans per capita of any Pennsylvania county.

“It makes sense that we should have services for them and foster natural, organic connections,” she said.

Beyond vendors, the event will feature a lounge space including furniture, coffee and water which have all been donated, to provide a space for attendees to “sit and engage” or just take a break. Private spaces will also be available for those who need a space away from the crowd.

There will also be service animals on-site for veterans to interact with to evaluate whether they would like to utilize one or even volunteer to help with programs that provide them.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the YMCA in Warren.

Organizations participating include, Allegheny Valley Veterans Center, Calvert Pearson/CP Benefits, Blue Star Mothers, AMVETS Department of PA, Senior Helpers, YMCA, The Schorman Center at Hospice of Warren County, Erie VA Medical Center, Critter Clipper, PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, New Hope Assistance Dogs, PA CareerLink, Kelly Education, Cambridge Senior Living, Warren General Hospital and the Women’s Care Center.

Information on the Be Well Warrior program can be found on Facebook @Be Well Warrior or at warrenymca.org/warrior.