The Robert Irvine Foundation will bring its mission of support and connection to Erie County on Saturday, August 2, with a free, family-friendly event for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families at the Mellon Heritage Veterans Outreach Center in North East. The event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Organizers aim to provide a welcoming environment filled with resources, community connections, and activities. Attendees will have access to information on VA benefits, mental health services, employment support, and more through local and national veteran service organizations.

“This event is open to all service members, veterans, their families, and caregivers,” said Robert Yarnall, Vice President of Development & Impact at the Robert Irvine Foundation. “Our goal is to create a space where the military community can come together and focus on well-being.” 

Highlights of the day include:

   •10:30 a.m.: Face the Fight Suicide Prevention Training

   •11:30 a.m.: Breaking Bread with Heroes Free Lunch for all attendees

   •12:30 p.m.: Guest Speaker

   •1:00 p.m.: Veteran Service Project

There will also be family-friendly activities throughout the day, including a bounce house, cornhole, and live music from a DJ.

The event is supported in part by the 2025 Bob Woodruff Foundation Community Engagement Award, which also funds the Robert Irvine Foundation’s Face the Fight initiative, aimed at raising awareness around veteran suicide prevention. Additional partners include Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and the PA Veteran Trust Fund.

For more information, visit here.