“In my opinion no task is too big or too small in the Military,” explains Dawn Ross, Community Relations Representative at Anthology Senior Living and our Gratitude “Friend of Freedom” award winner for August 2022.
While Dawn joyfully and enthusiastically champions her senior community at Anthology, she also actively champions our local Military community by gathering Veterans each month for coffee sessions at The Center Charlottesville. “Veterans Coffee is an opportunity for all Veterans, young and old, to get together share stories as well as provide assistance to those in need.”
Dawn saw a gap in the local Veteran community and wanted to find a small but meaningful way to fill it. “The reason I started Veterans Coffee is because I often hear that there are no groups, or common places where veterans, especially those who have been to war, can come together and share stories, talk about their experiences, or just be in the company of those who understand what they have been through.”
Dawn herself understands firsthand the experience of the Military Family as her husband served in the Air Force, stationed in Germany. Dawn feels it is equally important that these coffee sessions are seen as a safe space for all members as, “a place for the spouse and family of a Veteran to receive support and share their stories,” as well.
As if this doesn’t keep her busy enough, Dawn also owns her own business, Ross’ Kitchen, LLC, where she coaches clients on nutrition for their bodies and soul.
Veterans Coffee is every 1st Wednesday of the month at The Center from 9:30 – 10:30. Starting August 17th, Veterans “Wine and Beer” will also meet on the 3rd Wednesday of every month from 6:00pm – 7:00pm at The Center. The addition of a second monthly session is to provide a time for veterans who are working professionals to be able to come out and enjoy a beer and time with their fellow countrymen.
The ultimate hope of hosting these coffee and beer sessions is to pull together older and younger Veterans to share stories and experiences across Military generations. “Each of these men and women have fought and continue to fight for our freedoms. This is my way of saying thank you too all of those who have served and continue to serve to keep our country safe.”
Each month, “The Freedom Fund” Board of Directors will choose a FOF award winner to be featured on Gratitudecville.com. Winners will get a trophy and sometimes a monetary award. To nominate person or organization that promotes and protects freedom in our community, email us at gratitudecville@gmail.com.
