New Program at Ross Park Zoo Helps Women Vets Adjust

A new program at Binghamton’s Ross Park Zoo is helping female veterans find their way back into the main-stream community.

Project VOICE, which is a collaboration between the zoo, Jablon Studios, Clear Path for Veterans and Southern Tier Veterans Support Group, seeks to improve self-esteem and strengthen the social support system for the women.

Officials say often the women find challenges from being able to take full control of their lives and make healthy decisions as a result of things like sexual trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder related to their service.

Participants have been working on a mosaic project and will be able to connect with other volunteer opportunities at the zoo off Morgan Road.

Those completing the program will be eligible for a free family membership.

This Saturday and Sunday, all active-duty, reserve, veteran and retired members of the United States Armed Forces with valid military ID, along with their accompanying immediate family member will also get into Ross Park Zoo free.

Female veterans can also sign up for Project VOICE at the Zooveniers Gift Shop this weekend.