| AUGUST 1, 2025 -- The 14th Connecticut State Grange Lecturers’ Roundup was held on June 29th and brought Grange members from across the state for an inspiring and informative virtual event centered on veterans’ initiatives and inter-organizational collaboration. Held in a spirit of service and community, the theme focused on strengthening partnerships between local Granges and veterans’ organizations. The event’s highlight was a keynote discussion led by Tim Sweeney, a dedicated Riverton Grange #169 member and Commander of the Riverton American Legion Post #159.
Dave Roberts began the discussion by sharing that Riverton Grange conducted a Community Needs Assessment over six years ago and discovered a need for veteran initiatives. At that time, the only initiative was an annual Veterans Appreciation Dinner held at Riverton Grange each November, hosted by Lecturer Raine Pedersen. Riverton Grange contacted the Riverton American Legion Post Commander, Tim Sweeney, and a new partnership began.
Tim shared insights into the Riverton Grange’s nationally recognized programs that honor and support veterans. Their “Veteran of the Month” and American flag retirement ceremonies have received National Grange acclaim for their heartfelt execution and community impact. These events recognize the sacrifice of local servicemembers and serve as educational and unifying moments for the broader community. This partnership brought Tim and his wife Melissa to Riverton Grange as new members and now as newly elected Riverton Grange officers. “If it weren’t for the Grange partnership with veterans,” said Tim, “we never would have known about Grange nor become members. And we are so glad we did!”
Riverton Grange’s “Veteran of the Month” ceremony has been held for four years and has honored over fifty veterans since its inception. Recently, Riverton Grange was gifted a new solar-lit flag pole for its property to enhance its monthly ceremonies. Riverton Grange recently held its 8th American Flag Retirement Ceremony at a new location in Colebrook, where over two thousand flags were retired in a solemn bonfire ceremony. Since this initiative began, over 9,000 American flags have now been retired respectfully per the US Code. In addition to Riverton American Legion Post #159, Riverton Grange partners with over one-half dozen other community groups on veterans initiatives. Partnering with other like-minded groups has helped Riverton Grange grow and impact the region more.
Tim Sweeney emphasized the emotional significance of these ceremonies, noting that for many veterans and their families, being honored this way is deeply meaningful and often healing. “Every veteran deserves to be remembered, and these ceremonies offer a tangible way to say thank you,” he stated. He also shared stories that underscored the profound personal impact these recognitions have had on families, some of whom had never seen their loved one’s service publicly acknowledged before.
Beyond honoring veterans, Tim highlighted the importance of collaboration between Granges and veteran service organizations. Tim offered practical advice for Granges, who was interested in building these partnerships, suggesting outreach to local American Legion posts, VFW chapters, and other community groups. He guided the initiation of these connections, starting with a simple phone call, attending a veterans’ event, or inviting veterans to speak at Grange meetings.
The discussion underscored the shared values between the Grange and veteran organizations: service, community involvement, patriotism, and a commitment to uplifting others. Attendees were encouraged to view these collaborations as mutually beneficial relationships that can strengthen both organizations’ outreach and impact.
The Roundup served as a platform for education, inspiration, and a call to action. Connecticut State Grange Lecturer Dave Roberts praised the work of these Riverton Grange initiatives and urged Granges across the state to consider implementing similar initiatives. “This is a blueprint for what community service can look like at its best,” he noted.
As the session concluded, many attendees expressed a renewed commitment to honoring veterans in their communities and exploring new avenues for partnership. Tim Sweeney’s closing message best summarized the spirit of the Roundup: “We can’t do everything, but we can all do something. And when we work together, the impact is far greater.”
With a renewed focus on veterans and collaboration, the Connecticut State Grange is poised to expand its reach and deepen its role in serving those who have served. The 15th Connecticut State Grange Lecturers’ Roundup will be held on Saturday, October 4th, at 7:30 PM. Roundups are virtual and open to all.
Please don’t hesitate to contact Connecticut State Grange Lecturer Dave Roberts at lecturer@ctstategrange.org or 860-469-5067 with any questions or to schedule a visit. |
