Phoenix VA Hosts Freedom 250 Veterans Resource Fair

The event, held before Independence Day honored the service, resilience, and patriotism of the Veteran community as well as celebrated 250 years of Independence.

“Two hundred fifty years ago, America was born from an idea — that freedom was worth the fight,” said Phoenix VA Medical Center Director Elijah Ditter. “Veterans didn’t just protect our democracy. They built it, and that’s why we’re here today — to honor the people who served and sacrificed for this great nation.”

Veterans, their families and caregivers, were able to have 1-on-1 interactions with 21 Phoenix VA service departments and more than 20 Veterans Service Organizations and community partners to learn about available VA programs and resources.

One vendor  noted non-stop interaction with more than 300 Veterans and family members attending the Freedom 250 Veterans Resource Fair celebration, making it one of Phoenix VA’s largest community outreach events of the summer.

The event also included a formal ceremony featuring a presentation of colors by the Civil Air Patrol color guard, the national anthem performed by retired U.S. Air Force service member Lisa Cimino, an invocation delivered by Chaplain Daniel Butler, remarks from Ditter and live music by the Phoenix VA Veterans Whole Health Vocal Ensemble and the Led Veterans Ensemble.

Throughout the celebration, guests enjoyed face painting, community resource booths, wellness information and hands-on activities including a “Canvas of Courage” paint-by-number experience facilitated by the Phoenix Center for the Arts, as well as cornhole and other activities designed to build camaraderie and highlight services available through the Phoenix VA Health Care System. Guests also received complimentary food, drinks and popcorn provided by the Phoenix VA Veteran Canteen Services and Public Affairs.

“Community events like Freedom 250 are powerful because they remove barriers and create welcoming spaces where Veterans can connect with resources, services and one another,” said Angelique Kane, executive director of the Phoenix Center for the Arts. “Through Canvas of Courage, we've learned that the arts can be an accessible entry point to healing, self-expression and community. A simple act like contributing to a collaborative painting can spark conversation, build connection and help someone feel seen. When community partners come together, we create a stronger network of support and more opportunities for Veterans to engage in ways that honor their experiences and strengths.”

Multiple community organizations from across the Valley partnered with Phoenix VA to connect Veterans with health, wellness, education and support resources during the celebration. 

“Having these kind of events helps Veterans to know that there is more than one organization out there,” said Melanie Brandow, U.S. Army Veteran and Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program case manager for AMVETS. “It brings our communities together to collaborate. Some Veterans are looking for friendship; others need assistance at home or resources like dental care or wigs. Events like this help us make connections because Veterans are comfortable talking with one another. That’s why I appreciate what the VA provides — it helps us build relationships and find support.”

U.S. Air Force Veteran Garry Morris, a member of U.S. Vets said the event was invaluable as he navigates the Phoenix VA Health Care System for the first time. “I thought the Freedom 250 event was outstanding,” he said. “I got a lot of information. Everybody was friendly, and I believe in networking, so I was able to meet and connect with a lot of people. This event was instrumental in helping me reach out to other Veterans.” 

For more information about Phoenix VA programs, services and upcoming events, Veterans are encouraged to reach out to their care team, visit the Phoenix VA Health Care System website at va.gov/phoenix-health-care/ or follow the Phoenix VA on social media.