Specifically designed to help veterans having difficulties live as self-sufficiently and independently as possible was the goal of the Antelope Valley Veterans “Stand Down” event held at Grace Chapel in Lancaster on February 2nd.

Student volunteers from Western Beauty Institute gave haircuts to the vets. The event was organized by Steve Baker of the Grace Chapel Resource Center and George Palermo of Point Man Antelope Valley.

The veterans had the opportunity to get physical and psychiatric assessments, employment assistance, counseling, legal aid, and a number of other services, as well as a free meal.

WBI students Norma Torres, Blanca Bernal, Senait Gebredingle, Edelmira Ortiz and Shelby Obbards served under the direction of WBI Event Coordinator Beatriz Alvarez.

Participants were encouraged to interact, play cards, and relax. “Maybe they’ll get to know each other,” Baker said. “Next time they’ll remember each other.”

Western Beauty Institute was proud to be part of this service event benefiting local veterans. The event is expected to be repeated every three months, and all veterans and their families were invited to attend.

For more information on the series of ongoing events, write to George Palermo at Point Man Antelope Valley, PO Box 4874, Lancaster, CA 93539-4874.