As another beautiful Minnesota summer winds down, many of us reflect on our memories of going “up north” or spending time at “the lake.” The land of 10,000 lakes certainly provides ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

I was reminded of the peace and healing that can come from time near and on the water during a recent visit to Veterans on the Lake Resort in Ely. I joined State Rep. Rob Ecklund, St. Louis County Commissioner Paul McDonald, and Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board representatives Jason Metsa and Chris Ismil to learn more about this hidden gem.

The mission of Veterans on the Lake Resort, a not-for-profit, focuses on providing Veterans, the disabled and the general public opportunities for inclusion in outdoor recreational activities and mental respite. The organization’s website continues: “Our recreational resort is designed to honor those who have contributed to and sacrificed for our nation, in order to help them heal from the pain and suffering they endure.”

According to an article in the Ely Echo newspaper, several funding sources have allowed the resort to make accessibility upgrades including paving, trail work, cabin renovations and construction of new cabins. In addition, State of Minnesota funds were used for scholarships for Veterans, disabled Veterans and their families to visit the resort.

“Magical” is the description used by one Veteran who makes an annual visit to the resort from his home in Texas.

The Twin Cities area boasts another accessible outdoor experience at Veterans Campground on Big Marine Lake in Marine on St. Croix. This resort’s history dates to 1926 when the Disabled Veterans Rest Camp (DVRC) started from a local farm that was donated to help disabled Veterans recover from World War I. Through the years, the camp’s main focus of providing rest and recreation for military and Veterans has not changed. Today the campground is open to all military Veterans who are currently serving or have been Honorably Discharged, Veteran families, and sponsored guests of the Veteran.

MDVA is grateful to State Rep. Bob Dettmer for working with the campground to host the fourth annual Minnesota Suicide Prevention and Awareness Day event on Saturday, October 1. This event brings together those affected by Veteran suicide and those working to prevent it. Minnesota’s annual loss of more than 100 Veterans to suicide is a tragedy that we are committed to ending.

I encourage you to learn more about Veteran suicide prevention by visiting our website and attending our October 1 event. Together, we can all make a difference.

As always, if you need information or support on any Veteran issue, please visit our website, contact your County Veterans Service Officer, or contact LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet.