Lakeland Community College receives grant for veterans initiative
Dec. 6—Lakeland Community College has been awarded a grant to launch a veteran wellness initiative dubbed, "Cultivating Veteran Wellness through Agriculture," school officials recently announced.
The grant, totaling $19,995, comes from The Cleveland Foundation.
Program participants will take part in a structured, holistic approach to veteran mental health through targeted agriculture and wellness enterprises.
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Research and Development, the VA promotes the idea that having a healthy body, satisfying work, and supportive family and friends are integral to mental health.
"Veterans who experience a mental health diagnosis can enhance their wellness and well-being through the restorative benefits of nature, agriculture and engaging in personally satisfying activities in the community with others," Lakeland officials added.
Moreover, the new program will allow participants to practice stress management, self-regulation, communication strategies, mindfulness and personal growth as they simultaneously develop agricultural skills.
Lakeland's Veterans Center Manager S. Rhonda Osagie-Erese said the college's wide range of services continues to benefit the veteran community.
"We are eager to launch this program, specifically for our student veterans," she added, noting veteran students can face a variety of challenges as they transition to civilian life. "This resource uses the unique approach of agriculture to demonstrate how the skills and experiences they have had can translate to all aspects of life."
About Lakeland's Veterans Center
Lakeland Community College is committed to helping active-duty personnel, veterans, reservists, and dependents attain their personal and professional goals.
The center assists with questions about educational benefits, advice on how to fill out and complete Veterans Affairs forms and more.
To date, on average, Lakeland's Veteran Center receives over 300 visits per month, providing a space for veterans to connect and receive support, Osagie-Erese said.
For more information, visit lakelandcc.edu/veterans.
