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"Your trauma is part of your story, but it is not your final chapter." ~Unknown

🎉Big Congratulations to Gabi Juba! 🎉

We are incredibly proud to share that Veterans Healing Farm board member Gabi Juba, also a USMC veteran was recognized as one of the Top 4 Under 40 at the Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce's 2026 Annual Dinner & Awards last night at Blue Ridge Conference Hall. This special evening brought together community leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across Henderson County to celebrate those making a meaningful impact in our region.

Gabi’s dedication, service, and leadership exemplify the heart of what we do at Veterans Healing Farm — cultivating healing, connection, and purpose for our nation’s Veterans and their families through nature and community. Well done, Gabi!

Beginner Knitting (FULL - Waiting List Only. We will offer this workshop again.)

Learn the FUNdamentals including the knit stitch, purl stitch, casting on at the beginning of a project and casting off at the end of a project. Practice at home is required for this class but the quicker you become comfortable with the 4 basics, the more we can add to this class including increases and decreases. Learn how to read the labels on yarn, the different types of needles, knitting notions and how to pick out a yarn (and what to avoid as a beginner) and more. Needles and yarn will be provided so just bring a can do attitude!

When: Wednesdays, February 4, 18, and 25, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 1pm - 4pm

Acupuncture

The Daoist Traditions Acupuncture Clinic is located in Asheville NC. Their clinical interns are in the final phase of a rigorous four-year academic program and treat patients under the direct supervision of clinical faculty who are NC licensed acupuncturists. Interns complete 900 hours of clinical training to develop their skills as practitioners. The clinic provides 6,000+ affordable patient treatments each year and 500+ free treatments through non-profit partnerships and community events.

Acupuncture has been part of the VA Whole Health System since 2018. It is recognized by the World Health Organization for its benefits for anxiety, depression, musculoskeletal pain, neurological pain, insomnia, stress, and so much more!

When: Thursday, February 5, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 9am - 1pm

When: Friday, March 20, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 9am - 1pm

Herbal Aphrodisiacs -

Valentine’s Special Workshop

In this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop, we’ll explore traditional herbal aphrodisiacs - botanical allies that support circulation, vitality, mood, and the sweet mechanics of desire. Through tasting and scent, we’ll learn when to reach for slow-building tonics versus quick, sparkling catalysts. Together we will craft an aphrodisiac tea, a love potion elixir (with alcohol-free options), and enjoy a surprise treat! All participants will receive a handout with simple recipes and key safety notes.

When: Friday, February 6, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 1pm - 4pm

Quilts of Valor Ceremony

Seven local Veterans will be awarded Quilts of Valor on Saturday, February 7 at the Veterans Healing Farm. Please join us.

I knew a Quilt of Valor had to be a quality-made quilt, not a “charity quilt.” A Quilt of Valor had to be quilted, not tied, which meant hand or machine quilting. It would be “awarded,” not just passed out like magazines or videos, and would say unequivocally, “Thank you for your service, sacrifice and valor in serving our nation.” Catherine Roberts.

Stop by for this wonderful event to show support for our Veterans. No pre-registration required. 

When: Saturday, February 7

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 1030am - noon

Pathway to Recovery - North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist Training Program

(Two seats are still open.)

Pathway to Recovery is a state-approved 50-hour NCCPSS training designed for individuals with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges who want to become Certified Peer Support Specialists in North Carolina. This interactive program builds skills in communication, ethical practice, boundaries, crisis response, and recovery-oriented support while preparing participants for the state certification process. Eligibility requirements include: at least 18 months in sustained recovery, a high school diploma or GED, and a commitment to the values and principles of peer support.

Please complete the registration form as soon as possible so we can begin the required phone interview process and get you all set for the February class.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

When: February 9 - 13, Monday through Friday

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 9am - 4pm (lunch provided)

Galentines Craft Night

Enjoy an evening of crafts and creative freedom. We'll open the workshop room for a variety of Galentines & Valentines crafts. Think scrapbooking, mood boards, guided painting and collaging, and much more. We provide the supplies and the space; you let your creative energy shine.

When: Friday, February 13, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 5pm - 7pm

HeartMath

HeartMath is a scientifically-validated system backed by over 30 years of research that teaches practical, in-the-moment techniques to reduce stress and build resilience. The approach focuses on achieving "heart coherence"—a measurable state where the heart, brain, and nervous system work together in optimal harmony. This isn't abstract theory; it's evidence-based science that has been proven effective across multiple studies and is currently being used in numerous VA Medical Centers nationwide.

Why HeartMath Matters for Veterans

HeartMath has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in helping veterans manage PTSD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and sleep disturbances. The Coherence Advantage program I teach was originally developed for the U.S. Navy's Expeditionary Combat Command and has since been successfully implemented with over 100,000 service members and first responders globally.

Research shows that HeartMath techniques can

• Significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD and combat operational stress
• Improve cognitive functions related to attention and memory
• Decrease anxiety, anger, and depression
• Enhance emotional regulation and resilience
• Provide immediate, practical tools veterans can use anywhere, anytime
• What makes HeartMath particularly powerful is that it delivers real, measurable results quickly—often participants experience relief in their very first session. The techniques are simple, easy to learn, and adaptable to any background or belief system.

When: Saturday, February 21, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 10am - 4pm (lunch provided)

Clay & Camaraderie with Odyssey Clayworks

(FULL - Waiting List Only. We will offer this workshop again.)

Clay & Camaraderie is a six-week pottery workshop designed for active-duty military members, veterans, their families, and VHF volunteers. This program offers structured creative expression, mindfulness-based tactile activity, and community-building. Sessions will be held weekly on Saturdays with additional open lab hours culminating in a participant-led exhibition.

Explore both the fluidity of the pottery wheel with the expressive versatility of hand-building. This class focuses on projects that fuse techniques, challenge your creativity, and build functional, sculptural, and decorative forms. You’ll work on guided projects designed to explore the interaction between thrown and hand-built elements. You’ll learn to see clay as a medium with infinite expression!

When: Saturdays, February 21 - March 28, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: Noon - 2pm

Intro to Homeopathy

In this workshop we will explore homeopathy as a gentle, non-toxic approach to supporting health and using homeopathic remedies as a safe and effective addition or alternative to drugs and chemical treatments. We’ll go over the history and guiding principles, including the difference between healing and suppression, and the role of vitality in wellness and imbalance. You’ll also learn how factors such as stress, environment, diet, and inherited tendencies can influence overall health. Many people find homeopathy to be a valuable addition to their self care toolbox and class will help you understand why. Each participant will go home with samples. 

When: Friday, March 6

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 1pm - 4pm

Painting with Lisa 

Spend some time painting in a relaxed class setting with local artist and instructor, Lisa Underwood.

Practice painting techniques and improve your drawing skills too. Explore color mixing and brush strokes with vibrant acrylics. Paint subjects of your choice to develop your own interpretation. You will be amazed at what you can do when your creativity is unleashed. This class is all about fun and self-expression!

When: Saturday, March 7, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 10am - noon

Operation Stress Shield – Breathing, Movement & Relaxation 

Join us for a transformative 4-hour workshop designed to help first responders, veterans, and military members restore balance, reduce stress, and build lasting resilience through the art of breathing, movement, and relaxation.

Grounded in the Osteopathic principles of creating structural alignment and Systema’s fluid movement, this workshop provides simple, practical tools to calm the nervous system, release tension, and renew energy.

Participants will explore how natural movement and conscious breathing can support recovery, improve posture, and increase overall well-being—both on and off the job.

Through guided exercises and experiential learning, you’ll discover how to:

• Use breath to regulate stress, restore focus, and enhance endurance
• Move with efficiency and ease to prevent injury and reduce chronic tension
• Reconnect the body’s natural reflexes to restore balance and coordination
• Cultivate deep relaxation to support recovery, clarity, and emotional steadiness

This workshop is open to all fitness levels and does not require prior experience.

Participants will leave feeling lighter, more centered, and equipped with tools to immediately apply in daily life—whether in high-stress environments or moments of rest.

When: Thursday, March 19, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 9am - 1pm

Introduction to Biochar

with Steve Santini

Come join us for an introduction to the wonderful world of Biochar. Biochar is an ancient and regenerative agricultural practice that can take your garden to the next level.

In this workshop you will learn:

• What is Biochar
• What are the many benefits of Biochar
• How is Biochar produced

When: Saturday, March 21, 2026

Where: Veterans Healing Farm, 138 Kimzey Road, Mills River, NC

Time: 1pm - 4pm

Admin Updates



First Time Registering? We have started using our new registration system, which among other benefits, creates a waitlist for full classes. You’ll need to create an account before signing up.

Cost: Each workshop is $1 (system processing fee). If you haven't paid this fee, you are not registered.

No-Show Policy: If you do not cancel at least 72 hours before the workshop, a $20 no-show fee will apply. This policy ensures that those on the waitlist have time to adjust their plans. Thank you for helping us make workshops more accessible and efficient for everyone!

ATTENTION VIETNAM VETERANS

Veterans United Home Loans is offering a unique opportunity to any Vietnam Veterans to attend a special event this March in Washington, D.C.  Below is the invitation VU has asked us to share. Please feel free to forward this to any Vietnam Veterans you think might be interested. This is NOT an Honor Flight event, just a special opportunity that we have been asked to pass along to those who might be interested!

We would like to invite you to a special event. Veterans United is sponsoring a visit to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C. at the National Mall on March 29th, National Vietnam Veterans Day. 

This opportunity will feature special events and performances along with a special preview of a documentary filmed in 2025 of 8 Veterans return trip to Vietnam in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. If this is something that interests you, please click here to fill out an interest form.

Once you fill out the form, Veterans United will reach out with additional details. 

Our own Director of Operations, Maddie McCann, and Director of Plant Medicine, Rebecca Vann will be presenting at this years Organic Growers School!

Your code for a 20% discount is “vhf20” Please note, codes are case sensitive.

Please click here for more information and to register for the best learning opportunities on organic practices, anywhere!

For first responders, their families, and leadership

Three days of building awareness, reducing stigma, and providing a safe pathway for first responders to seek support!

This event is FREE and open to all first responders (retired and currently working), their families, support staff, and community members.

Thursday & Friday: AB-Technical Community College - Woodfin Public Safety Training Campus.

Saturday: Heart of Horse Sense, Marshall, NC.

The Veterans Healing Farm is a VA Telehealth Outpost

The Veterans Healing Farm's telehealth station features a private appointment room with high-speed, reliable internet access and technology to facilitate seamless connections between Veterans and their VA providers. This station makes it easier for Veterans to receive the care they need without any barriers by minimizing travel time and alleviating internet connectivity issues. Read the latest article on VA Telehealth.

For more information on how you can use this service, please email veteranshealingfarm@gmail.com or call 828-595-6111.