After the Fest: Why Local Resources Matter

Mountain Valor Fest 2025 brought nearly 600 people together on a single Saturday in Floyd—160 veterans, 70 veteran spouses, 170 kids, and more than 190 community members. We were proud to host resource providers who know this region, because that’s what makes the difference. Whether it was the VA, DVS, Plenty!, or other local partners, they weren’t just handing out pamphlets—they were connecting families directly to benefits experts who can walk them through caregiver support, applying for survivor benefits, and navigating the systems that can otherwise feel overwhelming.

We were especially honored to welcome our partners at Mission Roll Call and Chive Charities. During the event, Chive Charities announced they are donating a wheelchair-accessible van to Mountain Valor. That van will transform how we reach veterans across rural Virginia—helping us get folks to benefit appointments, medical facilities, help to expand outreach, and bring resources directly to those who need them.

Sponsors, too, gave more than dollars. They brought time, expertise, and constant encouragement. Their support makes it possible for us to do this work week after week, not just once a year. We were especially grateful to show our friends at BAE Systems around the event, where they met resources we count on, saw the kids having a blast, and checked out the equipment brought out by the National Guard for folks to learn about.

As we look ahead, Mountain Valor Fest 2026 will return to Floyd on September 12. But we’re also asking: where else in rural Virginia should we go? We’d love to bring this same model—resources, connection, community—to other regions. That will mean finding new partners and sponsors who believe in the mission and want to help us expand access where it’s needed most.

Because that’s the heart of it: connecting veterans with resources they can actually reach. MVF is a celebration, yes—but it’s also a reminder that what truly matters is access.