When a fire broke out in the neighboring building to the Schubring- Cruse VFW Post #4264 premises at 924 Lincoln Avenue in downtown Steamboat in December 2019, smoke damage left the space unusable.
Steamboat is home to around 1200 veterans, past and present. The loss of a much used and greatly needed resource proved devastating. Restoring the property was up in the air, until The Veterans Center, a Colorado nonprofit corporation was formed in December 2022, and a fundraising campaign could begin.
The VFW Post #4264 approved the gift donation of the building, and The Veterans Center will take ownership along with the repair and restoration costs. To date, fundraising efforts have secured $435,000 of the estimated $3 million needed to restore the 123-year-old brick building, which has served the VFW post since 1948.
Once completed, the center will offer a point of connection for all members of the armed forces, past and present, and their families. The space is a vital resource for those needing social connection, emergency financial assistance, medical and rehabilitative resources. More than 12 local organizations ranging from Warhorse Ranch to Routt County on Aging will be able to utilize the center for veterans and their families.
Bruce Hanlon, vice-president of the Veterans Center Board of Directors explained the purpose of The Veterans Center is to serve veterans, their generational family members, local community members, and visitors in Northwestern Colorado by maintaining a prominent location in Steamboat Springs where all can celebrate a legacy of service to our country, concern for our veterans and commitment to our community.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO MAKE A DONATION?
Those wishing to donate can make checks payable to The Veterans Center and mail to:
The Veterans Center
P.O. Box 883323
Steamboat Springs, CO 80488
or contact Bruce Hannon directly at 970.846.2440 or by email at bhannon3642@gmail.com.