Next month, The Veterans Yoga Project will hold its ninth annual Veterans Gratitude Week fundraising event to support the veteran community, especially those struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and other trauma-related issues.

“In working with the veteran community, I’ve witnessed firsthand how important yoga and meditation practice is for vets dealing with PTS(D),” said Dr. Daniel Libby, a clinical psychologist and CEO of VYP. “The success I’ve seen is the reason I created the Veterans Yoga Project and it’s the reason why we’re on a mission to bring yoga and mindfulness to vets who need it.”

Locally, Yampa Valley resident Val Brainerd will host two donation-based, all-level, chair-optional yoga classes. The first will be an in-person class from 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. at STARS Ranch, 35465 U.S. Highway 40, Steamboat Springs. The second class will take place online from 1-2 p.m. on Nov. 6.

Veterans Gratitude Week encourages yoga studios, instructors and communities across the country to host donation-based classes or fundraising events. Since 2014, the weeklong event has grown to host 2,542 classes in all 50 states, as well as raise $510,000 for veterans, military families and their communities.

“Less than 1% of Americans have served their country,” Libby said. “Participating in Veterans Gratitude Week is more than just thanking a veteran for their service, it’s a tangible way to give back to those who have sacrificed in service to our country.”

For more, VeteransYogaProject.org/VGW.