As part of the Governor’s Challenge Team, the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, the Veterans Benefits Administration, VA Maine Healthcare System, and other partner organizations and state agencies plan to co-hosting a Veterans and Family Outdoor Expo.

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Cabela’s parking lot in Scarborough. This is a rain or shine event, and community resources will also be on site to assist, according to a news release from the Augusta-based bureau.

“This is great opportunity for veterans to connect to the Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits they earned while serving in the U.S. Military,” Director David Richmond noted. “We’ve brought a variety of services providers and multiple outdoor programs together who specialize in programing for veterans and their families, including adaptive sports. For those veterans experiencing PTSD symptoms, connecting to the Maine outdoors often provides tremendous therapeutic benefits and connection to the community.”

This free, family-friendly event includes door prizes (gun safes and other prizes); veterans’ park passes, and hunting and fishing licenses; kids’ activities; veterans’ outdoor organizations, and a free lunch. The Scarborough Fire and Police Departments and Maine National Guard will meet and greet the public and provide vehicle tours.

To register, visit maine.gov and click on Veteran Outdoor Expo Registration to enter information.

Veterans who didn’t register in advance should bring proof of service to obtain certain items, such as hunting and fishing licenses. However, someone may be able to assist with obtaining information on the spot the day of the event.

Those who need assistance retrieving DD Form-214 discharge papers or for any questions about the event can contact the bureau at 207-287-7020 or mainebvs@maine.gov.

Check out other upcoming area events!