Danville Area Community Center hosts first Veterans Community Day

Nov. 1—DANVILLE — The Danville Area Community Center hosted its first Veterans Community Day on Friday, welcoming local veterans to learn about available resources.

Since announcing their intentions to host the event, Chief Operating Officer Heather Laubach said the Danville center has received several positive phone calls and emails commending their efforts.

A bit after the event began Friday morning, Laubach said she was already impressed with a good flow of visitors.

Don Koch, founder of the Hyner Lodge Foundation and retired Air Force veteran, shared information on his organization, which provides a place for wounded and disabled veterans to "relax, heal and renew their body, mind and spirit."

The Hyner Lodge Foundation offers a place to stay at no cost 365 days a year, Koch said.

"They can knock on our door and sleep and eat for as long as they want," Koch said. "There is no money involved. We appreciate anyone coming in."

The lodge is located on Hyner Mountain in Lock Haven where visitors are welcome to ride horses, go kayaking and more, Koch said.

Other organizations represented at the event included Home Instead, a Veterans Affairs-approved provider for in-home services, according to Home Care Sales Manager Tricia Dreese.

Home Instead serves Union, Snyder and Northumberland counties. Those interested in the service should contact their local Veterans Affairs office for more information, Dreese said.

CareerLink, Harbor of Hope Counseling, Central Susquehanna Opportunities Inc., Columbia Montour Snyder Union Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, Blooming Meadows Farm, several veterans affairs offices and more were also represented.

Montour County Commissioner Scott Lynn said he was proud to see the event come to life in Montour County.

"The more we have the community engaged in helping out veterans, the more we can take care of them," Lynn said.