Join Vet2Vet of Family Services of Westchester and Blue Star Families of the New York Tri-State Area for a fun-filled day of celebrating our military kids, both past and present.

The dandelion is the flower of the military child because it puts roots down almost anywhere and is impossible to destroy.

Come join us as we celebrate these resilient kids with exhibitors, games, giveaways, interact with farm animals, food, our partners, Veteran Service Organizations, Military Service Organizations, and others!

All are welcome!

Why the Dandelion?

Dandelions are made up of three main parts: The flower (seeds), the stem and the roots. They are tough, can survive almost anywhere and are constantly moving and starting over. Dandelion seeds don’t have any say on where the wind will take them when it is time to venture on. And just like military kids who are along for the ride, they go where their parents and the military take them and find a way to be resilient and start all over again. They put down roots, create new friends, find routines and then a strong wind blows and they get to do it all over again.

We at Vet2Vet of Westchester support Blue Star Families mission, which focuses on empowering military families to thrive by connecting them with their civilian neighbors — both people and organizations — to create strong communities of support.

As a guest at any Vet2Vet of Family Services of Westchester event, I understand that I must wear appropriate PPE based on State and local requirements, as applicable for both indoor and outdoor events in my area. As guidance continues to evolve, Vet2Vet of Family Services of Westchester, with the support of health and government officials—will be making more gradual adjustments.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any place where multiple people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and Guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19.

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About us…

Veterans Outreach and Support

FSW’s Veterans Outreach and Support Project was established in January 2012 to meet the needs of returning veterans and their families. Since then, we have expanded our services to veterans and families from all eras without restrictions to service dates, discharge or dependency status.

Family Services of Westchester understands the problems that arise during military service and community reintegration and offers individualized strategies to address the unique issues faced by the military community.

Two programs make up the veterans department at FSW: The case management program and the Vet2Vet program. Our highly trained staff is partially comprised of former active duty and veteran family members.

The Veterans Outreach Program

The Veterans Outreach Program has linked our Veterans to services that promote both independence and re-acclimation to their communities. We have assisted over 150 Veterans with advocacy services related to housing, legal assistance, education and benefit claims. We have also assisted veterans on their paths to employment by providing them with opportunities for continued service, as well as peer-to-peer support.

Vet2Vet Peer Networking for Service Members & Veterans in Westchester

Vet2Vet is led by service members and veterans for service members and veterans in Westchester County and the surrounding area. Vet2Vet has no affiliation with the VA system or the Federal Government. Participation in our veterans support and peer networking programs is free, anonymous and confidential.

Each Vet2Vet gathering provides a place for service members and veterans to network with one another in a safe and nonjudgmental environment.

• Women and men single-gender gatherings available
• Regularly scheduled activities based on interests
• Openings in locations throughout Westchester
• Free and confidential
• Mentoring opportunities available
• Exclusively peer-to-peer for veterans
• Caregiver support
• Virtual gatherings available

A little about Muscoot Farm

Muscoot Farm in Katonah is located on 777 acres of land filled with historic buildings, farm animals and more than six miles of trails.

Dating to the early 1900s, Muscoot Farm has a milk house, ice house, brooder house, and carriage house that guests can explore to learn about the farm’s history. There’s also a farmers market.

There are plenty of farm animals on the property, including cows, pigs, sheep and other animals, but they are there to be admired: there’s no feeding or petting allowed.

A fun place for a picnic, you’re welcome to bring your own food and there is a concession stand. Check the website for classes, art exhibits and events for kids.