June 11, 2026 · Fundraiser
Give Big CHQ
Online, across Chautauqua County
One day of giving, a lifetime of healing. Donations from friends near and far went toward the lumber, windows, and furnishings to finish another cabin for veterans.
Up next
The next gathering is taking shape.
Nothing is on the calendar at this moment, but the woods are never quiet for long. New events are announced on our Facebook page first, and you are always welcome to call and ask what is coming.
The past year
Recent gatherings
The flyers below came straight off the lodge corkboard. They are a fair picture of what a year looks like out here.
Thursday mornings, spring 2026 · Good company
Coffee & Donut Thursdays
Paradise Lodge
Free coffee and donuts for veterans every Thursday morning. No agenda and no sign up sheet, just a warm cup and a full table.
May 8 to 10, 2026 · In the field
Spring Turkey Hunt
The retreat, Bemus Point
A guided three day spring hunt for veterans, with lodging and meals included and camaraderie in the outdoors.
April 25, 2026 · Good company
Veterans Luncheon
Fenton History Center, Jamestown
Lunch with our friends at Vets Finding Vets, free for veterans, with a helping of local history at the Fenton mansion.
March 28, 2026 · In the field
Outdoor Survival Skills Day
The retreat, Bemus Point
Fire starting with flint, terrain reading, movement drills, and a guided wilderness walk with survivalist Tim Lucas. Lunch provided.
February 28, 2026 · Wellness
Winter Wellness Day
Paradise Lodge
A slow day against the cold. Hot tub, dry sauna, games, lunch, and a fire going all afternoon.
December 7, 2025 · Good company
Veteran Christmas Party
The retreat, Bemus Point
Food, drink, and desserts to share. Guests brought wrapped gift cards to sponsor a local veteran and their family for Christmas.
December 2, 2025 · Good company
Burgers & Bowling
Jamestown Bowling Company
Burgers and lanes on a Tuesday night, free for veterans, sponsored by Jamestown Bowling Company.
Late November 2025 · In the field
Father & Son Deer Hunt
The retreat, Bemus Point
Two weeks of deer season set aside for fathers and sons, with priority given to service connected and disabled veterans.
Charity Bowling Tournament
Jamestown Bowling Company
November 15, 2025 · Fundraiser
Charity Bowling Tournament
Jamestown Bowling Company
An afternoon of friendly competition that helped keep stays, meals, and days in the woods free for veterans.
October 16, 2025 · Good company
Wine on the Trail
The retreat, Bemus Point
An evening walk through the woods with Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy's conservationists, and a glass of whatever you brought along.
From the camera roll
How it actually looks
The flyers say what was planned. This is the part in between: the archery range waiting in the leaves for the next group to walk down and pick up a bow.
Want to help make the next one happen?
Events like these stay free for veterans because neighbors sponsor, volunteer, and give.
Get Involved