🍂 October 2025 Newsletter

Season of Reflection & Renewal

As we move into the colder months, the Ranch is entering a Season of Reflection & Renewal — a time to pause, rebuild, and prepare for an even stronger future.

Beginning in November, Central Oregon Veterans Ranch will take this intentional step back to:

• Evaluate and strengthen our programs based on veteran feedback

• Complete critical infrastructure and facility improvements

• Build sustainable systems that will allow us to reopen in the spring with expanded offerings and renewed energy

These upcoming months will be focused on laying the groundwork for growth — literally and figuratively. We’ll be moving forward with several infrastructure projects that will make the Ranch safer, more functional, and better equipped to serve our veterans year-round.

💛 Staying Connected During the Season of Renewal (Please take note of new operating hours)

While we’re shifting gears behind the scenes, the Ranch remains open to veterans during our new posted business hours:
🕘 Tuesday–Saturday, 9 AM–3 PM
🚪 Closed Sunday & Monday

We continue to welcome veterans to stop by, visit the animals, lend a hand, or simply connect with our team and each other.

🌾 Thursday Volunteer Days Continue!

Our beloved Thursday Volunteer Day and Community Lunch will continue throughout the winter months. These weekly gatherings are the heartbeat of the Ranch — a time for camaraderie, connection, and shared purpose.

🍲 We need your help! We’re still looking for volunteers to provide or sponsor lunch for our hardworking crew each Thursday. Whether you cook a homemade meal or donate funds for ingredients, your contribution makes a huge impact.
👉 To sign up, visit https://www.covranch.org/thursday-lunch-sign-up or contact Heather at 925-595-4490 heatherm@covranch.org

🎃 Annual Garden Tear Down & Pumpkin Giveaway

Saturday, October 18 | 9:00 AM
📍 Central Oregon Veterans Ranch
RSVP Required – No RSVP, no food, no pumpkin!

Each fall, our community gathers to help close out the growing season. Together, we clean and prepare the Victory Garden and outdoor spaces for the winter months.

Please contact micheleg@covranch.org or call (858) 204-2053

Here’s what to expect:
🌾 Cleaning and winterizing the garden beds
🧄 Planting garlic for next year’s harvest (if time allows!)
🎃 Free pumpkins for veterans and families — generously donated by The Bend Home Depot
🍲 Beef & pumpkin chili prepared by Michelle for the first 10 RSVPs (additional food as RSVPs grow)

We’ll send event updates only to those who RSVP — so don’t miss out! Send us a quick email today to confirm your spot and help us finish the season strong.

🤝 Seeking New Board Members

As the Ranch grows, we’re also seeking community members and veterans to join our Board of Directors. This is a pivotal time in our organization’s evolution, and we’re looking for individuals who bring experience, passion, and a desire to make a difference in the lives of veterans.

If you’ve ever thought about board service — or know someone who would be a great fit — please reach out directly to Heather Martin, Executive Director, at heather@covranch.org to start the conversation.

This season of renewal is about more than planning — it’s about preparing for the next chapter of growth, resilience, and community healing. We can’t do it without you.

🎀 A Memorable Ribbon Cutting & Open House

On Wednesday, September 17th, the Ranch proudly hosted an Open House and Ribbon Cutting with the Bend Chamber of Commerce!

After rejoining the Chamber, we were thrilled to open our gates to veterans, supporters, and new friends from across Central Oregon. Guests enjoyed:
✨ Culinary creations from Chef Bryant Kryck of ROAM using Ranch-grown produce
🥃 Drinks from Oregon Spirit Distillers
🎶 Music from the Singalong Bros
🥧 Homemade pies from our own Connie Shuman
🎟 A raffle filled with prizes donated by generous local sponsors

It was a joyful afternoon filled with community spirit and shared purpose.

Did you miss the event but still want to visit?
👉 Reach out to schedule a personal tour — we’d love to show you what’s growing at the Ranch.

👩‍🌾 Women’s Gatherings at the Ranch

September was a powerful month for women’s programming at the Ranch — filled with connection, confidence, and celebration.

🔫 Women’s Gun Safety & Self-Defense Weekend

In partnership with Reveille and Retreat Project, we hosted the first annual Women’s Gun Safety and Self-Defense Weekend — a women-only retreat designed to empower, educate, and connect.

Fifteen incredible women joined us for two days of instruction, growth, and shared sisterhood. The event was a smashing success, and we’re thrilled to announce it will return in August 2026!

🔥 Bonfire, S’mores & Music After the Central Oregon Women Veterans Conference

On September 27th, we welcomed more than 55 women veterans and supporters to the Ranch for an evening of music, s’mores, and connection following the Central Oregon Women Veterans Conference.

The night was filled with laughter, warmth, and a profound sense of belonging — a perfect reflection of what we hope every woman experiences when she visits the Ranch.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make these gathering

🐾 Support for a Team Member’s Newly Adopted Pup

One of our Ranch team members, Geb, recently adopted a rescue dog, Jördi, who now needs some unexpected medical care. 
If you’d like to help support Jördi’s recovery, you can learn more and donate through their GoFundMe here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-jordi-get-the-critical-care-she-needs?attribution_id=sl:0947bca8-f06f-4866-b9cf-c993f229314a&utm_campaign=natman_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=sms

💛 Thank You for a Season of Growth

From new partnerships to bountiful harvests and joyful community gatherings, this year has been filled with purpose and progress.

As we enter this quieter, more intentional phase, your continued involvement — through volunteering, attending events, or giving — ensures the Ranch remains a place of belonging and hope for veterans across Central Oregon.

🌱 Make a Gift Today
🧡 Volunteer or Partner: info@covranch.org
📲 Follow & Share: @covranch on social media

Together, we’re growing hope — one season at a time.

Central Oregon Veterans Ranch is an official 501(c)(3) non-profit registered in the State of Oregon. Your donations are fully tax-deductible. Tax ID: 37-1755279
© 2024 Central Oregon Veterans Ranch. All Rights Reserved.