For Immediate Release Thursday, August 18, 2011

Media contact: Al Mercer Telephone: 412.481.8200 Email: mercera@vlpwpa.org

Media Alert

Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania announces STAND DOWN 2011

Who: Veteran Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania Al Mercer, Executive Director Sponsor organizations: Allegheny County Department of Human Services, CareerLink, Disabled American Veterans, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Operation Safety Net, Shepherds Heart Fellowship, VA Healthcare for Homeless Veterans What: More than 50 government agencies and nonprofit organizations will join together to produce Stand Down 2011 western Pennsylvanias largest community outreach event to homeless veterans and all individuals in need of assistance, providing a full day of respite care services including: essential medical exams, housing support, employment assistance, peer mentoring, legal services, food, showers, hair cuts, entertainment, and more. August 20, 2011 8 a.m. 3 p.m.

When: Where:

Shepherd Hearts Fellowship 13 Pride St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Why: Southwestern Pennsylvania houses one of our nations highest concentrations of veterans and active military personnel. In response to the increasing needs of the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed on our behalf, the community will join together to provide a day of respite care for those in greatest need. While Stand Down is designed specifically to serve homeless veterans, all others in need of essential services are invited to attend. Contact: Al Mercer, Executive Director, at 412.481.8200 X 212 (office) or mercera@vlpwpa.org About VLP: The Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania (VLP) provides essential housing, employment, and other vital supportive services to eligible veterans, service members and their families to improve self-sufficiency, sustainability and quality of life.