Discover the Power of Plant Medicine

Discover the Power of Plant Medicine: 1st Annual Veteran Stand Down

Join us at GateWay Community College – Washington Campus for a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to honoring and supporting our veteran community. Hosted in collaboration with The Gateway Community College Vet Center, and presented in partnership with The Aya Mission, WeedWorks Inc., and Valers Veteran Community, this event explores the healing potential of plant medicine for veterans.

What to Expect:

• 🌿 Educational Workshops on plant-based therapies and holistic wellness
• 🎤 Expert Panel Discussions featuring leaders in the field of plant medicine
• 🤝 Networking Opportunities with fellow veterans, advocates, and professionals
• 🌱 Engagement with Select Cannabis Brands supporting veteran health and well-being

Whether you're a veteran, caregiver, healthcare provider, or simply curious about alternative healing, this event offers a welcoming space to learn, connect, and grow.

Info: We’ll begin the event with the National Anthem, honoring our veterans and setting the tone for a day of education, healing, and community. The program features five expert panelists and veterans discussing medicinal cannabis, psychedelic-assisted therapy, legal advocacy, and veteran wellness. Attendees will also have the chance to meet Vernell Varnado, aka Poppa Snoop, a Purple Heart recipient, for a special meet and greet. The event will close with a networking session where guests can connect with Veteran Service Organizations and dispensary brands to explore volunteer opportunities and community initiatives.

Info: Join us for an informative and engaging workshop exploring the therapeutic benefits of medicinal cannabis. Designed for patients, caregivers, and curious minds alike, this session will cover the science behind cannabis as medicine, its potential applications for various health conditions, and how to navigate safe and effective use. Led by experienced professionals in the field, attendees will gain valuable insights into cannabinoids, dosing strategies, delivery methods, and the evolving legal landscape. Whether you're new to cannabis or looking to deepen your understanding, this workshop offers a welcoming space to learn and ask questions.

Info: Explore meaningful ways to get involved in the growing cannabis and veteran support communities. This interactive section of the event offers attendees the opportunity to connect directly with Veteran Service Organizations and leading dispensary brands. Learn about volunteer opportunities, discover impactful initiatives, and engage with brands making a difference in the lives of veterans through advocacy, education, and wellness. Whether you're looking to support, collaborate, or simply learn more, this is your chance to build relationships and be part of a movement.

Info: Hosted by Dr. Joseph Swaba, Division Chair, Arts, Humanities, and Social & Behavioral Sciences
Join us for a dynamic panel featuring five distinguished experts and veterans who are leading voices in the fields of medicinal cannabis, psychedelic-assisted therapy, law, and veteran advocacy. This session will explore the intersection of plant medicine, policy, healing, and community impact. Attendees will gain insights into the evolving legal landscape, therapeutic applications for trauma and chronic conditions, and the role of veterans in shaping the future of holistic care. Following the panel, participants will have the opportunity to connect with Veteran Service Organizations and dispensary brands to learn about volunteer opportunities, community initiatives, and ways to engage with mission-driven cannabis companies. This is a unique chance to network, learn, and get involved in efforts that support both individual healing and collective change.

Info: To close out the event, join us for an interactive session dedicated to building bridges between the cannabis industry and veteran support communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with Veteran Service Organizations and leading dispensary brands to explore volunteer opportunities, learn about impactful initiatives, and engage with companies making a difference in the lives of veterans through advocacy, education, and wellness. Whether you're looking to support, collaborate, or simply learn more, this is your chance to connect, contribute, and be part of a growing movement focused on healing and community empowerment.

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