Strength in Numbers: Supporting Maine Veterans with Operation Crosscheck
This November, every draft pour of Baxter Pale Ale does a little more than hit the spot. All month long, we’re donating $1 from every Pale Ale pint poured at The Pub at Baxter to Operation Crosscheck, our philanthropic partner for the month.
November is a time to thank those who served, and Operation Crosscheck does that every day of the year, right here in Maine.
Operation Crosscheck is a veteran-run organization with a simple motto: “Strength in Numbers.” Its mission is to empower veterans and prevent suicide in our community. It does this by helping veterans get connected, stay active, and become part of something bigger than themselves. As the organization puts it, “Together, we conquer battles within.”
That hits home for us. Baxter was built on community and resilience, and Operation Crosscheck lives those values for the people who need them most.
A lot of that work happens on the ice. Operation Crosscheck brings veterans together through hockey, with games, scrimmages, and tournaments that help them find their team again. Off the ice, they host social gatherings where veterans can connect with people who understand their experiences and offer direct counseling support for the battles you can’t see.
Their programs are inclusive, so there’s a place for every veteran, whether you’ve played hockey your whole life or have never laced up a pair of skates.
Want to see them in action? Their Annual Chris Daley Hockey Tournament takes place on Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Norway Savings Bank Arena in Auburn. Stop by and cheer them on!
A pint is a great start, but you can do even more. Visit operationcrosscheck.org to learn about their programs, sign up for their newsletter, or join their Facebook group. And if you’re a veteran looking for your people, reach out. There’s a team waiting for you.
To every veteran in our community: thank you. We see you, and we’ve got your back.
Cheers to Strength in Numbers.
