In Lake County, the spirit of service is alive and well. I’m proud to introduce a new nonprofit ef-fort rooted in that very spirit: Operation Volunteers For Veterans (Operation V4V). This local organization was officially incorporated this month and is laying groundwork to support Veterans in meaningful and personal ways.
Over the past five years as CVSO, a few community members have asked, “Is there a way I can volunteer with your office?” Early on, I wasn’t prepared to answer “yes.” I knew it would be a future project – one I quietly named Operation V4V.
Then in September 2024, Tanya Bruzek reignited that vision. She came to me with an idea: “Adopt a Veteran.” Tanya explained,
“I’ve been trying to find a way to give back. I realized the best way to give back was to support those who gave of themselves for our freedoms – our local Veterans.”
Her values aligned with our mission:
“To honor and serve those who have served our nation by providing comprehensive support, advocacy, and assistance to Veterans, their families, survivors, and caregivers…”
So, I offered her the codename and my full support. Operation V4V was born.
MISSION AND PURPOSE
As outlined in its Articles of Incorporation, Operation V4V will:
- Recognize and honor Veterans through events and community recognition.
- Build partnerships with local, state, and national organizations.
- Create volunteer opportunities for those wanting to support Veterans.
- Provide social, wellness, and educational opportunities for Veterans.
- Connect Veterans to trusted resources for benefits and support.
This organization is about supporting each other. And it’s just getting started.
COMMUNITY ROOTS
Operation V4V was inspired in part by Doris Larkin, a remarkable local Veteran whose quiet strength and kindness helped shape the idea I had on my whiteboard for years. Her example— and Tanya Bruzek’s dedication to lifting that vision into action—reminds us that one person’s compassion can ripple into meaningful change.
To learn more or get involved, contact operationv4v@gmail.com. Donations can be made at North Shore Federal Credit Union, designated for Operation Volunteers For Veterans.
LOOKING AHEAD
As the organization’s founder, Tanya is working through the details like background checks for volunteers and plans for future events. That said, Operation V4V is now ready to begin engaging with the public.
More details will be shared in the weeks ahead. To Tanya: thank you for lifting this off the whiteboard. To our community: stay tuned – and thank you for supporting those who have served.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
