Thrive February 2024 Volume 3, Issue 2

February 1, 2024

Volume 3, Issue 2

2024 Retreats are Here! The Heart of Project New Hope CELEBRATING

14 YEARS of Service to Veterans

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Sully's Food & Baby Pantries

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Thrive

with Project New Hope

Celebrating 14 Years of Service to Veterans

by Jennifer Cesaitis

Hello, folks! This month, let’s dive into the incredible journey of Project New Hope (PNH), an organization that's been a pillar of support for Veterans and their Families. From its humble beginnings with just a retreat or two to the plethora of programs offered today, PNH's story is one of growth, adaptation, and unwavering dedication.

The Evolution of Retreats PNH started with a simple, yet powerful mission: to offer retreats that heal and support Veterans and their families. Over the years, this mission has blossomed into various retreats catering to diverse needs—from holistic wellness to gender-specific gatherings, embracing innovative methods like Phoenix Tales storytelling and The Cortina Method for trauma resolution. The variety and depth of these retreats reflect PNH's commitment to addressing Veterans' multifaceted challenges.

Navigating Challenges with Innovation When COVID-19 struck, PNH didn't just adapt; they innovated. Recognizing the immediate needs within the Veteran community, PNH launched Sully's Food and Baby Pantries. These pantries have been a lifeline for many, offering essential support during times of uncertainty and struggle. This kind of responsive action showcases PNH's deep commitment to the well-being of Veterans and their Families.

Connecting the Dots Understanding that navigating services and assistance can be daunting for Veterans, PNH introduced the "Connecting the Dots" program. This initiative is a testament to PNH's holistic approach, ensuring Veterans can access the necessary resources and support. Whether it's healthcare, education, or financial assistance, "Connecting the Dots" is a guiding light, simplifying the (continued on page 2) journey towards wellness and stability.

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The Power of Connection What truly sets PNH apart is their emphasis on connection—not just providing services, but creating meaningful Veteran relationships. PNH fosters a sense of community and belonging through various initiatives: Held every Tuesday, Veterans Coffee Socials offer a relaxed and welcoming space for Veterans to connect, share experiences, and support one another. PNH is a familiar and friendly presence at numerous outreach events across New England, ensuring veterans know they have a support network. PNH staff organizes intimate community events in collaboration with local businesses and support partners. These gatherings are social occasions and opportunities for veterans to connect with a network of local resources and support in a friendly, supportive environment.

This focus on connection is the heartbeat of PNH, creating a family of Veterans and supporters who deeply understand, respect, and care for each other.

A Heartfelt Thank You At the core of PNH's success are the people: founders Bill Moore and his wife Donna, the dedicated staff, and the tireless volunteers. Their collective efforts have fueled PNH's growth and enabled it to touch more lives than ever before.

As we celebrate Project New Hope's journey, let's remember the impact of their work and the countless Veterans and Families who've found solace, support, and new beginnings through their programs. PNH's journey is far from over, and the future looks bright with the promise of continued support and expansion.

To learn more about Project New Hope and how you can be a part of their journey, visit www.projectnewhopema.org.

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e e f f Socials o C

Veterans

Have a coffee, share a story, connect with other Veterans.

Tuesdays 9:00 am - 10:15 am

70 James St., #129A Worcester, MA 01603

All branches, all eras welcome!

PNH hosts VA Claims Assistance 2nd and 4th Saturday Will Valliere, VSO with Vietnam Veterans of America is at Project New Hope to help!

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Saturday, February 10 & 24 9:00am - 1:00pm 70 James St., #129A Worcester, MA 01603

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Sully’s Pantry Volunteers This month, we shine a spotlight on the dedicated group of volunteers who work tirelessly every 1st and 3rd Saturday at Sully's Pantry in Worcester, ensuring that our Veterans receive the food and items they need. Their unwavering commitment and enthusiasm are the backbone of this vital service, providing not just nourishment, but also a sense of community and support to those who have served our country. These volunteers embody the spirit of giving and selflessness, making them our Volunteers of the Month. Their efforts make a real difference in the lives of Veterans and their families, demonstrating the profound impact that volunteering can have on our community.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude and admiration to this outstanding group for their dedication and hard work.

Who Can Volunteer?

Apply HERE - it's easy with our online application.

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Proud to serve

335 Veterans & Family members for January!

WORCESTER, MA 70 James St., #129A Worcester, MA 01603 Open 1st & 3rd Saturdays February 3 & 17 9:00am - Noon by appointment

(774) 243-7859 Email Diane Soave: dsoave@projectnewhopema.org February 1, 2024

Volume 3, Issue 2

What to bring: Driver's license noting Veteran, VA healthcare card, DD214, DOD military/dependant ID, CAC Card

Office Hours: Mon - Thurs 9:00am - 1:00pm Friday 9:00am - 2:00pm Page 5

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Proud to serve

406 Veterans & Family members for December!

WESTFIELD, MA !! s r ou H w Ne

Hampton Ponds Plaza 1029 North Road, Suite 9 Westfield, MA 01085

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8:30am-1:30 pm CLOSED WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS Call or Email today to set up your next appointment!

(413) 485-7988 Email Jordan Gaj jgaj@projectnewhopema.org February 1, 2024

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February 1, 2024

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The Heart of Project New Hope Transformative Experiences for Veterans and Families At the heart of Project New Hope's mission lies its diverse and impactful retreats, designed to address the unique needs and challenges Veterans face transitioning back to civilian life. What started as a vision to provide one or two retreats annually has flourished into an array of specialized programs, each tailored to foster healing, understanding, and growth. These retreats have become a cornerstone of PNH, offering a sanctuary where Veterans and their loved ones can find solace, support, and a path to wellness.

PNH's retreats cover many themes, including holistic wellness, family bonding, and genderspecific gatherings. They are carefully crafted to ensure that every participant finds a connection, whether through the healing power of storytelling with Phoenix Tales, the trauma-resolving techniques of The Cortina Method, or simply the shared experiences of those who've walked a similar path. These retreats are about relaxation, real, tangible healing, and community building.

Over the years, PNH has continually adapted and expanded its retreat offerings to meet the evolving needs of the Veteran community. The retreats are a testament to PNH's commitment to Veterans' holistic health, addressing the emotional and psychological scars of service. They offer a blend of therapeutic activities, skill-building workshops, and recreational opportunities, all set in serene environments conducive to healing and reflection. These gatherings serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in camaraderie and the healing potential of shared experiences.

The Power of Community and Connection What truly sets PNH's retreats apart is the emphasis on creating a supportive community that extends beyond the duration of the retreat itself. Participants are encouraged to forge lasting connections, share their stories, and offer mutual support, creating a network of companionship and understanding that lasts a lifetime. PNH understands that healing is an ongoing journey and provides these retreats as milestones along the path, ensuring that no Veteran or Family member walks alone.

As PNH celebrates over a decade of service, the expansion and evolution of its retreat programs stand as a beacon of hope and progress. Through these retreats, PNH continues to offer a safe space for healing, learning, and growing together, solidifying its role as a vital resource for Veterans and their Families seeking to reclaim a sense of peace and purpose.

Project New Hope's retreats offer more than just a temporary escape; they provide a journey towards healing and a lifetime of support.

Retreat Information Click Here or use our QR code

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Phoenix Tales Storytelling Retreat Join us to discover the power of Storytelling and healing with workshops by Meghann Perry Group !

April 12-14th, 2024 Grotonwood Camp & Conference Center

“This retreat and workshops have been incredibly powerful and transformational to participate in and watch. It is such a gift to witness personal transformation, renewal of hope and connection.”

Retreat Information Click Here or use our QR code February 1, 2024

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Couples Retreat A Week of impactful healing & workshops designed for couples to Resolve Traumas, Calm Your Nervous System & Enhance Communication.

Each person attending will receive healing visits in the highly acclaimed The Cortina Method (TCM) delivered by Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina and his team. TCM is designed to heal PTS, Guilt, Anger, Fear, Physical Pain, Limiting Beliefs and more.

May 9-13th, 2024 Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center RetreatInformation InformationClick Click Retreat Hereororuse useour ourQR QRcode code Here February 1, 2024

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Women Veterans Healing Retreat The Cortina Method (TCM) is brain-based healing to resolve trauma without going through the pain of reliving it.

Replace pain with joy, gratitude, relief, and excitement.

June 6-10th, 2024 Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

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Retreat Information Click Here or use our QR code

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Family Retreat Family Quality Time Together Build Family Resilience Reconnect after Deployment “The most beneficial activity was communicating with our children. It was a fantastic week of reconnecting with other service members and their families.”

Make Memories & Have Fun!

August 18-23rd, 2024 Camp Wightman

Retreat Information Click Here or use our QR code February 1, 2024

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Men Veteran’s Healing Retreat The Cortina Method (TCM) is brain-based healing to resolve trauma without going through the pain of reliving it.

Replace pain with joy, gratitude, relief, and excitement.

November 7-11th, 2024 Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center

Retreat Information Click Here or use our QR code February 1, 2024

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