April 16-22: National Volunteer Week

April 16-22, 2023, is National Volunteer Week. Every volunteer makes a difference in our Veterans’ lives and enhances the Veteran experience. Thank you for all you do.

Kristine Jordahl is an Army Veteran with 20 years of service. She started volunteering at the Fargo VA in the Whole Health department in February 2020. In three short years, she has put in over 1,200 hours of volunteer time.

The Whole Health Department has hosted two retreats for women Veterans. The retreats included many activities that impact the body, mind and soul. Some included yoga, mindfulness meditation, tai chi, nature walks, creative arts and acupressure.

Jordahl was vital in planning these retreats and is currently working toward hosting a third. While on these retreats, she also assisted the Veterans in making their own journey sticks, which are used to help tell Veterans’ stories.

Volunteers for many programs

Jordahl goes above and beyond in so many ways. One of the biggest is being able to offer additional services that may not happen without her. She has taught “Tai Chi Chia” and a class called “Taking Charge of your Life and Health.” She leads a walking group through the summer months.

Jordahl adds to the success of Whole Health programs

In the Army, she held a few different occupations, including emitter locator/identifier, administrative specialist and light wheel vehicle mechanic. She deployed three times during her 20 years of service, to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Haiti. She was also a drill sergeant and an instructor for the Primary Leadership Development course, took 3rd in a powerlifting competition, and in 1997, she completed air assault school.

Favorite part of volunteering is meeting new Veterans

If you met Jordahl in the hallway, you would never know of her remarkable background. She is humble, generous and selfless. When asked about her time in the military, she said, “The service gave me a purpose. The rules and regulations gave me a path to follow and the focus to become a better person.”

Her favorite part of volunteering at VA is meeting new Veterans. “They are my best friend of the moment and some even become friends outside of here. It’s so much fun. I love helping Veterans and those who serve the Veterans at VA.”

VA is fortunate to have Jordahl add to the value and success of the Whole Health programs.