The Center for Service and Learning will partner with the WVU Office of Veterans Affairs to give back to veterans through an initiative entitled Buy a Vet a Meal, November 9-13.

“This initiative is a wonderful way to engage both campus and community members in supporting local veterans and their families,” said Alexis McMillen, program coordinator at the Center for Service and Learning.

During the week of Veterans Day, people are encouraged to purchase a gift card from a participating downtown restaurant. The gift cards will be donated to local veterans throughout the rest of the year so they can enjoy a free meal from a local eatery.

Participating restaurants include The Grind, Blue Moose Caf�, Iron Horse Tavern, Tailpipes and Morgantown Brewing Company.

“The initiative is a small way for the community to show gratitude towards our veterans and their families,” said Jerry McCarthy, director of the WVU Office of Veterans Affairs. “I encourage everyone to join us in this initiative. It’s a great way to give back to our veterans during the Holiday season who have sacrificed so much for our community, state and country.”

The initiative was developed by Brian Ricketts, an AmeriCorps VISTA working as part of the VISTA Collaborative with the WVU Center for Service and Learning. His VISTA placement focuses on increasing awareness of poverty issues and promoting higher education among veterans.

“Brian’s effort to develop this project is important because it helps build connection between local businesses, the university community, and local veterans and their families,” said McMillen.

For more information, visit the WVU Veterans website or contact Brian Ricketts at brian.ricketts@mail.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

ta/11/4/15

CONTACT: Brian Ricketts, AmeriCorps VISTA
804.241.8116 Brian.Ricketts@mail.wvu.edu

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