
REGISTRATION PROCESS
We are excited to announce that we have received a competitive SOT grant from the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs to support our Operation Welcome Home Program this year, specifically for veterans. Thanks to this generous funding, we are able to continue providing essential resources and support to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through a variety of NO COST day and overnight family retreats and programs. If you are a veteran or active-duty service member, we encourage you to register for our program today!
Veteran Eligibility:
To qualify for the Operation Welcome Home Program, registrations must meet the following criteria:
- A veteran who has met the minimum active duty requirement.
- Family Members of Current Service Members, Former Service Members, or Veterans:
- Spouse
- Domestic Partner
- Children: Children are defined using the definition of "dependent" found in Minn. R. Chapter 9050.0040, Subp 31. A "dependent" must be an unmarried person who is:
a. Either living with or receiving support contributions from the applicant or resident;
b. A child by birth, a stepchild, an adopted child, or a child for whom the applicant or resident has been appointed legal guardian; and
c. Under 18 years of age or over 18 years of age and incapable of self-support due to physical or mental disability. - Special Note for Dependent Children: A child who reaches the age of 18 while still enrolled in high school or its equivalent is considered a dependent child until they are no longer enrolled in school.
3. Documentation Requirements:
- Veterans: Please upload a copy of your DD214 (Discharge Papers) and proof of Minnesota residency within 7 days of registration to verify your status at the following link: Operation Welcome Home: DD214 Form
- Minnesota Resident: Only veterans are required to be residents of Minnesota. Active-duty service members from any state are eligible to apply.
4. Identification Number (ID): Each participant will be assigned an Identification Number (ID) by the grantee, which will be used to communicate with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA).
Special Note for Active-Duty Service Members:
As part of our commitment to serving both veterans and their families, we aim to ensure that 20% of approved registrations are active-duty service members. If you are an active-duty service member, we encourage you to register and take advantage of the benefits offered by our program.
How to Apply:
Follow the steps below to complete your registration for the Operation Welcome Home Program:
- Complete the online registration form with your personal details and military background information.
- Submit Documentation:
- Active-duty service members from any state are eligible to apply.
- Active-duty service members: Bring your CAC ID with you to the retreat.
- Review and Submit: Double-check your registration for accuracy and submit it for review.
Choose Your Experience:
Please select the experience you and your family would like to attend from the options below and complete the registration process as outlined. We look forward to serving your family soon and providing a transformative experience through the Operation Welcome Home Program. Thank you for your service and for allowing us the privilege of serving you and your family!
THANK YOU MDVA!
We are deeply grateful to the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs for their generous grant, which will have a profound impact on Ironwood's Operation Welcome Home Programs. This funding will allow us to expand and enhance our veteran support services, providing more veterans with the opportunity to experience life-changing programs that foster healing, growth, and community. With the grant’s support, we will be able to develop new pathways, including equine therapy and assisted learning, helping veterans connect with nature, build resilience, and find peace. We are excited about the positive change this partnership will bring to our programs, and we look forward to the continued opportunity to serve and support those who have served our country.
- Animal farm
- Zipline
- Wagon rides
- Campfires
- Swimming
- Minigolf
- And more
- Zipline
- Wagon rides
- Campfires
- Archery/BB guns/Slingshots
- Minigolf
- Fall family games
- And more