Be Well Warrior, an organization dedicated to supporting active duty service members, veterans, and military families, is broadening its popular Coffee Connections events in 2025, offering new locations across Warren County to foster community, connection, and support.

These monthly gatherings aim to create meaningful connections over coffee, bringing together military personnel, veterans, and their families for peer-to-peer interaction and access to valuable community resources. Events are held on the second Wednesday of every month from 8 to 10 a.m., featuring a rotation of venues designed to better serve participants throughout the county.

Upcoming events include:

— February 12 – Russell Methodist Church

— March 12 – Warren American Legion

— April 9 – Sheffield YMCA

— May 14 – Warren County Visitors Bureau, Starbrick

— June 11 – Warren Eagles Club

— July 9 – Russell Methodist Church

— Aug. 6 – Warren County Fair, VIP Tent

— Sept. 10 – Warren American Legion

— Oct. 8 – Allegheny Valley Veterans Center, Clarendon

— Nov. 12 – Warren YMCA, 212 Lexington Ave

— Dec. 10 – New Beginnings, Sugar Grove

“The primary goal of Coffee Connections is to create a space where Warriors and their families can build relationships, find peer support, and access resources,” said Erin Wallace of the Warren YMCA. “We’re excited to expand to larger venues and meet in new communities to accommodate more participants.”

Be Well Warrior focuses on three core pillars:

— Advocacy — Offering community-based training on military culture, suicide prevention, traumatic stress, and more, as well as building networks for resource referrals.

— Engagement — Facilitating opportunities for Warriors and their families to connect through events and peer-to-peer interactions.

— Support — Creating systems for smooth transitions into civilian life and ongoing access to resources.

The organization also meets on the third Thursday of each month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Warren YMCA, 212 Lexington Ave., to discuss initiatives and expand its mission. These meetings are open to all community members interested in supporting Be Well Warrior’s efforts.

Be Well Warrior’s overarching mission is to elevate the well-being of Warriors in mind, body, and spirit by fostering communication and collaboration. Through programs like Coffee Connections, the organization is committed to helping military members and their families navigate life’s challenges, providing opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences.

“We want to ensure that Warriors feel seen, supported, and connected,” Wallace added. “Our events are a safe, welcoming space for building relationships and accessing vital resources that enhance well-being and quality of life.”

For more information on Coffee Connections or to learn about upcoming events, visit Be Well Warrior’s website or contact the Warren YMCA. Together, the community can ensure that those who have served are supported, celebrated, and connected.