Governor's Advisory Council on Veterans Services

The GAC-VS was established as Pennsylvania's first interagency cooperative approach to veterans services. The council reviews, evaluates and assesses state veterans programs in collaboration with senior staff from state agencies and commissions. It increases information sharing, ensures program fidelity, coordinates complementary programs and facilitates meaningful enhancements in service accessibility to veterans benefits and services within Pennsylvania.

The GAC-VS consists of committees comprised of state, federal, and county personnel who have a vested interest in serving veterans. Each committee is chaired by a subject matter expert who facilitates the committee's initiatives and provides a brief to the Council members and/or designees during the quarterly meetings.

Forest Bathing, a practice created in Japan, involves immersing oneself in nature through mindful and sensory activities. Unlike general outdoor recreation, it emphasizes intentional connection with the natural environment to reduce stress and support overall health.

Through collaboration by the Governor’s Advisory Council on Veterans Services (GAC-VS), the Departments of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) launched a series of forest bathing events to enhance wellness in the veteran community. Nicole Faraguna, DCNR Policy Director, shared that they are “proud to employ hundreds of veterans to carry out the mission of connecting Pennsylvanians and visitors to the outdoors, reinforcing its multiple health benefits and reminding us that some of our community members need additional support simply getting outdoors.”

The GAC-VS addresses a range of issues across its committees, including veteran suicide and behavioral health challenges. Nature-based activities like forest bathing can positively affect mental health. Incorporating relaxation and breathing techniques, mindfulness, and sensory grounding, forest bathing offers a calming experience for those facing stress, burnout, or emotional overwhelm. As one participant shared, “you can’t have a bad day spent outdoors in the fresh air.”

Patti Tanner, Veterans Mental/Behavioral Health Subject Matter Expert for DMVA, explained, “Being in nature improves a person’s well-being through a range of physical, cognitive, and social benefits. Engaging with nature activates all of our senses, promotes mindfulness, and allows our brains to rest and recover. I truly believe that ‘Nature is the best prescription for the overwhelmed soul’."

To support National Suicide Prevention Month, three forest bathing events were held in early September, raising awareness and promoting wellness. Brigadier General (PA, Ret) Maureen Weigl explained, “suicides occur each year, for veterans and non-veterans alike, which is why we are underscoring the importance of normalizing mental health needs, checking in on loved ones, and promoting wellness activities like these events.”

McConnells Mill, Canoe Creek, and Marsh Creek State Parks hosted this year’s events, welcoming about 30 participants who enjoyed their first forest bathing experience.

2026 Meeting Dates

Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026
1-3 p.m.

Wednesday, May 6, 2026
1-3 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026
1-3 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026
1-3 p.m.