Lakeland Community College is hosting a community fair on Armed Forces Day, May 18, to honor military service members and provide resources for veterans and their families. The event is open to the public.

Festivities will kick off at 9:30 a.m. with the Stars & Strides 5k Run/1 Mile Walk on campus. Families can enjoy activities throughout the morning while connecting with local organizations offering emergency housing, funding, Departrment of Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits assistance and help filing disability claims.

"We're proud to bring together community partners to support those who have served our country," said S. Rhonda Osagie-Erese, veterans center manager at Lakeland. "This event celebrates our armed forces while making vital resources easily accessible."

The fair is a collaboration between Lakeland and Lake-Geauga Habitat for Humanity. Registration is open now for the Stars & Strides 5k and 1-mile courses at gcxcracing.com/starsandstrides.

The family-friendly event runs until noon at Lakeland's Kirtland campus, 7700 Clocktower Drive. Admission is free. For details on participating organizations and activities, visit lakelandcc.edu/veterans.

By: Adam Continenza, Marketing & Communications Specialist