The Veterans Outreach Center of Boundary County has found a temporary home inside The Coalition building in Bonners Ferry, giving the volunteer-run organization a place to meet with veterans and their families. 

While the center does not yet keep regular office hours, organizers say the move is a step toward their long-term goal of establishing set hours and a permanent location. 

Ben and Kari Apo, who helped launch the outreach effort, are headed to Boise this week to attend a State Veteran Service officer training hosted by the Idaho Division of Veterans Services. The training will provide education on disability claims and other VA-related benefits, allowing them to better assist local veterans. 

The VOC’s weekly coffee gatherings also continue to grow. The group recently moved from the front room to the back room at Chic ‘n’ Chop to make space for the increasing turnout of veterans and their families. 

In recent weeks, Apo has also shared the group’s mission at a Rotary Club meeting and a Chamber of Commerce luncheon, with another presentation scheduled at the upcoming Coalition meeting on Oct. 14. 

The outreach center held its first fundraiser at the Boundary County Fair, raffling off a load of gravel donated by Selkirk Sealcoat. The raffle raised $876, which will help support the center’s work. 

Organizers said they are grateful for the support received so far, from raffle ticket buyers to volunteers and community partners, and expressed thanks to anyone who has supported the VOC in any way.  

The Veterans Outreach Center continues to focus on suicide prevention, connecting veterans and families with resources, and building a community of support in Boundary County.