DRIPPING SPRINGS — It was standing room only as a huge crowd gathered to celebrate the opening of the first building on the Patriots’ Hall of Dripping Springs property.
Thanks to Austin philanthropists John Paul and Eloise DeJoria who gave $1 million from their JP’s Peace, Love & Happiness Foundation, the 1200-square-foot Meeting House for the local VFW and American Legion Posts on the PHDS property is now a reality.
The event took place Saturday — Armed Forces Day — at its 10-acre permanent retreat where veterans and their families can find support. Along with the Meeting House plans include a 7,100-square-foot main gathering hall for therapeutic workshops, employment and educational seminars, vet-to-vet mentoring, and social activities; a wellness center with VA claims assistance; and, a fishing pond, playscape, vegetable garden, obstacle course, ADA walking trails and more.
