NQTA hosts community celebration for veterans, first responders

ATHOL – This Saturday, the North Quabbin Trails Association will host a Community Coalition Celebration bringing together veterans, first responders and community organizations for an evening of food and live music.

The free event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the North Quabbin Veterans Center, 72 Freedom St. It is open to veterans, first responders, community organizations, and their partners and families.

NQTA President Bobby Curley said the gathering is meant to give people a chance to connect in person, reflect on recent collaborations, and talk about how those partnerships can continue moving forward.

He said the gathering is also intended to help people make direct connections to resources, particularly veterans and first responders seeking support. Representatives from a range of community and service organizations will be present, giving attendees an opportunity to meet informally, ask questions and learn about available services in a relaxed setting.

The celebration will begin with what Curley described as “Delicious Dishes,” a potluck-style meal where attendees are invited to bring a dish, dessert or drink to share. From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., live music will be provided by Space Bar, which Curley described as a rhythm and blues and rock band with a horn-driven sound. Dancing is encouraged.

“The spirit of the gathering is a collection of good people, good food and good music,” Curley said.

Throughout the evening, a back room will be available as a Sensory Sanctuary Space for individuals needing a quieter environment.

“We have a large back room up there that we’re developing into a serenity area for people with noise aversion, people on the spectrum,” Curley said.

Founded in 2012, the North Quabbin Trails Association is a non-profit that works with public agencies, private landowners and local partners to care for trails and natural areas. Their work includes maintaining and improving trails so they can be used safely by people with a range of physical abilities.

“Our mission statement of sociability and accessibility for all that we started in 2012, it’s run true,” said Curley.

The celebration also reflects NQTA’s broader emphasis on “Healing through Nature,” an approach the organization has incorporated into other community events. Curley said the night will open with a brief drum ceremony led by one of several healers as a way to bring people together.

Those interested in the event are asked to let the NQTA know their ability to attend at (413) 367 4640.