Bend, Oregon – The city is set to honor its military veterans on Wednesday, Nov. 11, with the 25th annual Veterans Day parade. Central Oregon Veterans Outreach (COVO), the nonprofit that helps organize the event, says the planning process spans an entire year and involves close coordination with the city, donors and other community partners.
Year‑long preparation
“It takes an entire year to prepare for everything,” said Michele Primiano, executive director of COVO. “Between permitting with the city and then coordinating with donors and everything, it’s just an all‑around team sport.”
Primiano explained that the parade serves as a public celebration of military service, but also as a reminder that support for veterans should continue long after the marching bands have cleared the streets.
Beyond the parade: ongoing assistance
In addition to the parade, COVO operates a Veterans Village that helps veterans secure housing assistance, health‑care services and basic necessities. With colder weather on the way, the organization is especially focused on gathering winter supplies such as propane, socks, tarps, tents and sleeping bags. Both monetary contributions and in‑kind donations are welcomed.
“Donations are especially important for veterans who need essential supplies as the temperature drops,” Primiano said. “We accept contributions year‑round, not just on Veterans Day.”
Community involvement
The parade is a collaborative effort that brings together local businesses, faith‑based groups and civic organizations. Residents are encouraged to attend the procession, show gratitude to service members and consider ongoing ways to help veterans in need.
City officials have worked with COVO to secure permits and provide logistical support for the event, underscoring the partnership between municipal government and nonprofit groups in serving those who have served.
How to help
Those interested in supporting Bend’s veterans can donate winter necessities or monetary gifts directly to COVO. The organization also accepts volunteer time for its Veterans Village programs, which operate throughout the year.
By highlighting both the parade and the continuous assistance provided by COVO, Bend demonstrates a commitment to honoring its veterans not just on a single day, but every day of the year.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
