Beyond the Call: A community event honoring those who served set for Oct. 10 at MHS

By Charlene Stevenson
Director of Admissions and Community Outreach
Edgewood Manor of Greenfield
 
Beyond the Call is a community event dedicated to honoring the people who show up for all of us – veterans, law enforcement and first responders. It exists to make sure those who serve – and their families – are never left wondering where to turn.

Too often, the moment someone realizes they need support – mental health resources, financial assistance, housing help, or simply someone who understands – is the same moment they're forced to start searching from scratch. We think that's backward. Beyond the Call exists to close that gap before it opens, by connecting veterans, LEOs and first responders with resources long before a crisis makes finding them urgent.
 
That's why we're not limiting ourselves to what's nearby. We're actively bringing together resource partners from across the region and beyond – support organizations, benefits programs, crisis services, and community groups – so that when help is needed, it's already familiar.

Beyond the Call is free and open to the community. It's a chance for neighbors, local businesses, and organizations to come together in one place, on one day, to say thank you – and to make sure the people who answer the call always have somewhere to turn when they need one answered themselves.
 
It will take place Saturday, Oct. 10 starting at 10 a.m. (10-10-10) at Edward Lee McClain High School.
 
There are a few different ways to be part of it. 

Here's a short outline, so you can see where you might fit:
 
Resource Partner

This is for your organization if you provide a resource or service to our veterans, law enforcement officers, or first responders – examples include the Highland County Veterans Resources, Base Camp Alpha, SAW, benefits counseling, veteran service organizations, service dog organizations, and similar. You'll receive a booth in our resources area, where attendees can connect directly with the help available to them, plus the opportunity to give a 10-minute pitch talk of your organization. This is the heart of the event.
 
Sponsor

We're searching for local businesses and organizations who want to stand beside us, support this cause, and be seen doing it. We know these events cannot exist without your support. Sponsorship levels range from $1 and up, each with its own recognition – signage, the printed program, social media, and at the higher levels, a booth at the event itself.
 
Vendor

This whole event is about supporting those who've "Answered the Call" – this is their "Beyond." Business owners who are current/former veterans, law enforcement officers and first responders, or their families are invited to set up a booth and sell directly to attendees, while being recognized as a local hero running your own business. No cost to participate.
 
Honor Wall

We all have someone – a veteran, law enforcement officer, or first responder – in our lives who should be honored, living or gone, still serving or long retired. Fill out a short form on our website to submit their name, how they served, and a few words about why they matter. Every tribute is reviewed before it goes live, then has a place on the wall – both online and at the event.
 
Get Involved (Volunteer)

Who can volunteer? Everyone! Volunteer roles cover everything from setup to cleanup. Whether you have an hour or the whole day, there's a place for you.

You can explore all of this – and find the right sign-up for whichever fits – at www.beyondthecall.us. If you have any questions, email info@beyondthecall.us.