The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA), in partnership with Brookings County Veterans Service Officer Matt Pillar, invites all veterans to attend a special “Coffee and Conversation” event in Brookings. This gathering is part of the Department’s “What’s Brewing” program—an outreach effort to connect directly with veterans, hear their stories, and provide updates on services and benefits available to them.

Date: Wednesday, May 21
Location: Kool Beans Coffee and Roasterie (225 Main Avenue – Brookings, SD)
Time: “What’s Brewing” conversation begins at 11:00 am (CT).

“The ‘What’s Brewing’ series serves as an important platform for meaningful conversations with our veterans,” said SDDVA Secretary Jeremiah Schneider. “These gatherings not only allow us to better understand the concerns and challenges veterans are facing, but also provide a forum to share updates on benefits, services, and resources available to them. It’s our duty as advocates to stay connected to their experiences and honor the sacrifices they’ve made in service to our country.”

Secretary Schneider, members of the SDDVA team, and CVSO Pillar will be available to answer questions and provide information on a wide range of veterans’ benefits and services, including compensation, education, pensions, healthcare, burial benefits, the State Veterans Cemetery, and the State Veterans Home.

All veterans are encouraged to attend. For those unable to make it, the SDDVA remains just a call or click away. Reach the Department at 605.333.6869 or locate your county or tribal Veterans Service Officer at: https://vetaffairs.sd.gov/veteransserviceofficers/locatevso.aspx

Let’s grab a cup and connect—because every veteran’s story matters.