Staff Writer
The Maine Veterans’ Home in Caribou, in conjunction with Robert’s Jewelers of Madawaska and the Aroostook Republican and News, has kicked off an exciting community service project to assist an area veteran. Employees plan to expand their mission of “caring for those who served” by volunteering to assist a veteran who may need projects completed around his/her home this spring.
Contributed photo
Robert’s Jewelers of Madawaska recently donated a one-carat “Journey” diamond ring to the Maine Veterans’ Home in Caribou, to be the feature of the MVH’s Valentine Day Diamond Ring Raffle. Proceeds from the raffle drawing will benefit an area veteran. The Aroostook Republican, Star-Herald and the Pioneer Times are also assisting with this community project. Pictured are, from left: MVH staff Mark McKenna, Trish Thibodeau, Phyllis Baker, Karen Page, Kathie Smith and Robert’s Jewelers owners, Sylvie and Robert Corey. Robert’s Jewelers joined hands with the MVH to help fund this project by donating a one-carat diamond ring, valued at $3,500 for a Valentine’s Day raffle. The ring is on display at the MVH in Caribou and tickets are available from MVH and newspaper employees for a $20 donation. Only 350 tickets will be available and the lucky winner will be drawn on Friday, Feb. 12. All proceeds from the raffle will be used to assist the recipient with vital home repairs, appliance purchases or other needs that will help improve their quality of life and independence.
The Aroostook Republican has also partnered with MVH and Robert’s Jewelers to promote this project. Employees from both Maine Veterans’ Home and the newspaper will combine to provide hands-on assistance to a veteran. Articles and promotional information will appear regularly in the Aroostook Republican and News. the Star-Herald and in the Houlton Pioneer Times.
The Maine Veteran’s Home will work with area agencies to identify a veteran with specific needs that could be met through this project. A work day at the recipient’s home will be scheduled early this spring when employees from both MVH and the newspapers will volunteer their time and talents to make a difference in their community.
According to Mark McKenna, Maine Veterans’ Home administrator, “Our employees are looking forward to this opportunity to give back to the communities that have been so supportive of our organization over the years. Caring for those who served extends beyond the walls of our facility and we are pleased to have Robert’s Jewelers and Northeast Publishing as partners in improving the quality of life for an area veteran.”
For more information on this project, contact Kathy Smith at Maine Veterans’ Home at 498-6074, extension 3612.
