When the Smoke Clears, Community Matters Most

The Veterans Club circular logo centered over a firefighter, military service member, and police officer standing together as a wildfire burns on a forest hillside in the background.

Written/Narrated by:  Ed Bejarana | Published on: August 3, 2026

Wildfires have once again brought uncertainty to our neighbors across Spokane and the surrounding communities. For many families, these fires mean evacuation notices, sleepless nights, concern for loved ones, and the stress of not knowing what tomorrow will bring.

If you are a veteran or first responder living through these difficult days, we want you to know one thing:

You are not alone.

Many who have served our nation or our communities carry experiences that can make times of crisis especially challenging. The sights, sounds, uncertainty, and constant flow of emergency information can stir emotions that are difficult to explain. Even those who have been doing well may find themselves feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or isolated.

That is exactly why The Veterans Club exists.

Our mission is simple: Ending veteran and first responder suicide through connection, purpose, and service. We believe that meaningful conversations, familiar faces, and genuine friendships can make a tremendous difference during life’s most difficult moments.

If the wildfires have disrupted your routine, increased your stress, or simply left you needing someone to talk with, we invite you to join us at one of our weekly Patriot Pour gatherings. There is no pressure, no expectations, and no judgment—just veterans and first responders coming together over a cup of coffee to support one another.

Today, The Veterans Club has five active Patriot Pour chapters meeting every week throughout North Idaho. Together, we also have a couple hundred volunteers who stand ready, willing, and able to lend a helping hand to members of our community affected by these fires.

Whether you need a friendly conversation, help finding local resources, assistance with a practical need, or simply a place where people understand what you’re going through, we encourage you to reach out.

Sometimes the most important step is simply showing up.

If you know a fellow veteran or first responder who has been impacted by the fires, don’t wait for them to ask for help. Pick up the phone. Send a text. Invite them to coffee. Sometimes knowing that someone cares is exactly what a person needs to hear.

The Veterans Club is more than a weekly meeting. It is a community built on the belief that none of us should have to face life’s challenges alone.

To learn more about our Patriot Pour chapters, upcoming events, or ways to get connected, visit www.TheVeteransClub.org.

No Dues. No Demands. Great Conversation.

Because connection saves lives.

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The Veterans Club is a Idaho Registered Nonprofit Corporate with 501(c)(3).  Email info@theveteransclub.org if you are interested in getting involved or learning more about how you can support the effort.

Sponsors

Retirement Nationwide - Jim Lusk

Retirement Nationwide, led by Jim Lusk, provides ongoing support to The Veterans Club. Specializing in retirement and income planning, Retirement Nationwide helps individuals and families prepare for the future with confidence and clarity.

Rex Grace Insurance - Rex Grace

Rex Grace Insurance, led by Rex Grace, provides ongoing support to The Veterans Club. Through personalized insurance solutions, Rex Grace Insurance helps individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most.

Zenith Exhibits, Inc. - Ed Bejarana

Zenith Exhibits, Inc. provides in-kind support to The Veterans Club through technology, website, and communications tools used every day. Zenith Exhibits helps organizations stay connected, organized, and working effectively.

Karen Reade - LifeWave

LifeWave and Karen Reade help underwrite select women’s gatherings at The Veterans Club. LifeWave focuses on wellness technologies that support healthy living. We are grateful for Karen’s generosity and commitment to stronger community connections.