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Originally published at 9:22 a.m. on August 10th, 2023

Updated August 25th, 2023 5:35 a.m.

(KNSI) – The Veteran Resource and Enrichment Center in St. Cloud will celebrate its two-year anniversary on Saturday, August 26th.

Known as the VREC Shindig, Executive Director Kerri Schwegel says it is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. A live and silent auction will feature items made by the group’s store, Rosie’s Boutique. Schwegel says proceeds from the craft sales keep the center’s numerous activities affordable for veterans and their families.

“We sell our products out to be able to get the money back for the materials, and that’s how we’re really trying to keep things free. So, we will showcase our Rosie’s boutique and have items for sale that are handmade by our military families,” she says.

Kids will have an opportunity to take a photo with a service dog, plus there will be a raffle, carnival games, and more. VREC is located at 501 17th Avenue North in St. Cloud.

The event will help the group continue to make a meaningful difference for veterans and their families. Schwegel says it can be life-changing. She tells a story of a person ready to give up. “Individual comes in from day one and…suicidal, to the point of just not knowing where to turn. They volunteered to do a bunch of things here to a point now where they just got married and came in the other day and said, ‘You know what? I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.'”

Schwegel says the group works closely with the VA and other organizations. She describes VREC as a gentle hand-up that fills the void many veterans feel as they transition from military life.

VREC needs volunteers to help bring programming to older individuals who can’t attend craft sessions, gatherings over a cup of coffee, equine therapy, attending concerts like Summertime by George, and other offerings it provides at its headquarters.

Schwegel says instructors for its classes would also be appreciated. The center is located at 501 17th Avenue North.

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