September 8, 2025

Upcoming Events for Veterans in Rhode Island

News Summary

A series of upcoming events for veterans in Rhode Island include educational initiatives, health care opportunities, community engagement events, and support resources. Notable highlights include a paid PTSD study, a free humanities course, and various memorial services. These programs aim to enhance the well-being of veterans and provide vital assistance through various channels. The community continues to emphasize the importance of support and services available to veterans.

PROVIDENCE – A series of upcoming events and opportunities for veterans in Rhode Island have been announced, offering support and resources across various areas including education, health care, and community engagement. These initiatives aim to provide veterans with vital services and enhance their well-being.

Paid PTSD Study at Providence VA

The VA Providence is currently conducting an ongoing study targeting veterans aged 25 to 65 who are experiencing PTSD or PTSD-like symptoms. Participants in the study will be required to make two visits to the Providence VA, with dates determined by the individuals. Eligible veterans will receive a total of $150 as compensation, which is split into $75 for each visit. This study is designed to advance understanding of how PTSD affects the brain and seeks to improve treatment options for those affected. Interested veterans can reach out at (401) 273-7100, ext. 16281 for more information.

Clemente Veterans Initiative

Starting September 25, the Clemente Veterans Initiative will offer a free humanities course for veterans from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Classes will take place over Zoom on Mondays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. The program includes free tuition, books, and materials, and graduates can earn up to six transferable college credits from Bard College. For further details, veterans can visit PVDvets.org or contact PVDClementeVets@gmail.com.

9/11 Remembrance Events on September 11

Marking the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, two key remembrance events will take place:

Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery: The 13th Annual Remembrance Ceremony will run from 9 to 11 a.m. on September 11, featuring prayers, vocal performances, and readings of the names of Rhode Islanders who perished during the attacks. The ceremony includes the “Ringing of the Four Fives” to honor fallen firefighters. Inquiries can be directed to Bill Pennoyer at (401) 398-2358 or wpennoyer@outlook.com.
Service in Oakland Beach: A moment of silence will occur at 10:28 a.m. at the 9/11 Memorial Garden in Warwick. The event will feature a presentation from Judy Cobden, a survivor of Ground Zero. This inclusive service is open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs due to limited seating. For more information, contact Camille Vella-Wilkinson at CamilleB2B@outlook.com or (401) 738-1926.

U.S. Rep. Gabe Amo’s Veterans BBQ

A community BBQ for veterans and their families will take place on Saturday, September 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Slater Memorial Park Pavilion in Pawtucket. The event will facilitate connection with constituent services and veteran service groups. Those interested in attending are requested to RSVP via Sara.Terrien@mail.house.gov or amo.house.gov/veteransbbq.

Westerly Veterans Café and VA Benefits Expo

On September 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Westerly Veterans Café will host a free dining event at Veterans Hall, where veterans can connect with representatives from the VA and DHS for assistance with enrollment in VA healthcare and benefits, with no registration required.

Operation Stand Down RI’s 33rd Annual Veteran Assistance Event

Scheduled for September 18 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and September 19 (8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) at the Veteran Service Center in Johnston, this event offers vital health, dental, and substance abuse resources for veterans. There will be shuttle service available from a designated parking area, along with public transport options through RIPTA bus services. Lunch will be provided on both days. Contact (401) 383-4730 or visit OSDRI.org for more details. Organizations interested in participating can email sponsorships@osdri.org.

Veterans Expo and Job Fair

A Veterans Expo and Job Fair held recently at Riverside Middle School in East Providence provided resources to veterans, featuring 35 veteran service organizations and 13 employers, resulting in 10 veterans being hired during the event. This highlights the importance of community support in aiding veterans in their transition.

Future Events and Ongoing Support

Looking ahead, the next significant veterans event will be SenderFest in October. The community continues to emphasize the availability of assistance and resources for veterans, including academic opportunities, health services, and community support.

Elisha Hunt Rhodes Book Release

Additionally, a new book detailing the experiences of Civil War officer Elisha Hunt Rhodes is now available through the Rhode Island Publications Society, offering readers insights into a critical period of history.

Community Engagement Opportunities

Various discussions and resource fairs will be held in coming months, providing veterans with platforms for engagement and support. These efforts collectively illustrate the ongoing commitment to serving Rhode Island’s veteran community.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER

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