The University of Oregon and the Veterans’ Housing Project are supporting those who defend the nation with an event for UO leadership, UO veterans’ groups and the community in hopes of fostering a new partnership among the organizations.

The event will be in the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art lounge Friday, May 30, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Refreshments will be provided.

Speakers include Chris Pryor, a Eugene city councilor and the event’s master of ceremonies; Rebecca Larson, public relations and development director for St. Vincent de Paul; Crystal, a current resident of veterans housing; and Barb Ruiz, co-creator of the housing project.

The event is meant to honor veterans and raise awareness about veteran-friendly programs from the University of Oregon, such as the Alumni Association and the Veterans and Family Student Association, to help reach more Ducks interested in supporting veterans in the UO and Eugene communities.

The Veterans Housing Project is an effort by St. Vincent de Paul, Lane County Homebuilders Association, Eugene Water and Electric Board and the city of Eugene to provide affordable, temporary housing to veterans and their families who are transitioning back to civilian life. The project has acquired and renovated five houses since 2011 with a goal of renovating 25 houses, which would make the program self-sustaining. 

To RSVP, visit the event website.

―By Katherine Cook, UO Public Affairs Communications intern