There is no mistaking the Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) with its prominent location on the hill or mistaking that the region is fortunate to have it. But lesser known may be its breadth and depth of services, such as those offered by Maurice Clarke (40 Under 40 Class of 2025), Minority Veterans Program coordinator and licensed professional mental health counselor.
On the day of my interview with Clarke, temperatures outside were in the negatives but it’s as though his positivity, passion, and warmth could be felt through the phone. This is no doubt the welcome attendees of the upcoming Black History Month Celebration will feel on Feb. 27.
Proudly brought to the area by the Minority Veterans Program, this event and others each month center on appreciation, recognition, and community connection. At the heart of it, “is ensuring that minority veterans feel seen, feel valued, and feel connected in the Erie community,” said Clarke…