In this month’s Sustainable Business Spotlight, we are featuring Clear Path for Veterans New England, located at 84 Antietam Street, Devens, MA.
“Clear Path for Veterans New England (Clear Path NE) is a 501(c)3 established in 2017 with one mission — to build a safe, supportive and respectful place for Veterans to seek the help and resources they need in order to successfully integrate into their communities. The Family is an integral part of this and the first line of defense in upholding wellness.”
Clear Path provides a variety of services and programs to support Veterans and their families. Every Thursday, they host a free lunch for an average of 190 Veterans in two seatings, along with a free breakfast and coffee gathering on Tuesday mornings. Seasonal events, such as the December breakfast with Santa for 160 Veteran families and meal box distributions for 300 families at Thanksgiving and Christmas, are also organized.
Local Devens businesses play a crucial role in Clear Path’s efforts. BMS, for example, provides a corporate volunteer team on third Thursdays for food service and cleanup, while Jabil fills Christmas wish lists for Veterans' children and families. School groups, like local high school students, assist with decorating for the holidays, and Parker School students in Devens volunteer regularly. Other contributors include MassDevelopment’s recreational department, which partners on events, and the Fire Department, which raises the flag for the 5k race. Clear Path also benefits from donations of food from Little Leaf Farms in Devens, Merrimack Valley Foodbank, and Harvard Orchards, with additional purchases to meet demand. Volunteers also care for raised garden beds on Clear path’s property, teaching gardening skills to others.
In a new initiative, Clear Path has partnered with Soldier On and MassDevelopment to provide housing for Veterans in newly renovated historic bungalow units in Devens. Some units are occupied, while others are still under renovation. The partnership aims to provide both transitional and long-term housing for Veteran families.
Interview with Donna Bulger, Board Member and former Executive Director*
The DEC would like to thank Donna and Clear Path for participating in the following interview.
*To learn about Clear Path’s new leadership team, please read to the end of the blog.
Q: How did Clear Path come to Devens and how did the former military base and existing buildings help you land here?
A: Initially Clear Path focused on trying to establish their organization in the Devens area because of the high population of veterans that cannot access services other locations might have. Also, the rich history of the military base at Devens made it attractive. One of their most significant achievements to date, is the completion of their Journey Home Capital Project in 2020. This project involved the extensive renovation of a historic 22,000 square foot building in Devens that once served as an Army Headquarters and Hospital. Originally, we looked at purchasing property on Lake George Street in Devens which would have required new construction. Gary Clauson of New England Studios was a key advocate. Donna met him at a Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce event, and he helped advise and support purchasing the existing building we now occupy.
Working with DEC through the design and permitting process was great and an education as we learned so much about the requirements to redevelop sustainability. We renovated the entire structure in a relatively short time in compliance with the historical requirements and even received tax credits. The DEC was helpful in connecting us with many resources. The Veterans loved the historic building, but it needed a lot of work. We had a great vision and architect, as well as a wonderful bank which proved a supportive partner (Baystate Savings Bank).
We are so pleased with the welcoming space that has been created which offers a safe space for veterans. It was purchased in 2019 and the renovation finished in 2021. We find we don’t need more property for activities, events, and recreation because we can access everything available on Devens. We are so pleased we could renovate a solid historic building because it has such a great structure and reduces some maintenance needs in the long run.
Q: How do sustainability and resilience factor into your work with Clear Path?
A: At Clear Path, sustainability and resilience are integral to our operations and philosophy. Re-purposing a former military building was a huge sustainability component, taking advantage of the embodied carbon within the existing structure and giving new life to a historic community asset. Being part of a sustainable community like Devens, MA, allows us to operate cost-effectively while prioritizing environmental responsibility. For example, the energy-efficient infrastructure in Devens reduces our operating costs, and the rain gardens on our property beautifully address stormwater management while enhancing our landscaping. Additionally, we use sustainable supplies whenever our budget allows, reflecting our commitment to doing what we can to support environmental sustainability.
Clear Path takes advantage of the opportunity to shop at The Great Exchange in Devens and considers it a huge local resource. They try to make sustainable purchasing decisions and seek to avoid plastic. They use reusable food service items and wash them. They have collaborations with local organizations like Little Leaf Farms, which provides salad greens for weekly meals, which further demonstrates the benefits of sustainable practices, reduce food miles, and creating community partnerships.
Q: How do the social services Clear Path provides help establish a climate-resilient community?
A: Our social services contribute to a climate-resilient community by fostering connection, stability, and support for Veterans and their families. Programs like our shared weekly meals emphasize using local, sustainable food sources, reducing transportation-related emissions and supporting local agriculture. Additionally, our housing and financial assistance programs create stability for individuals, which in turn strengthens the broader community’s ability to adapt and recover during environmental or economic challenges. By prioritizing sustainability in our operations and partnerships, we help model resilience and contribute to a thriving, connected community.
Q: In terms of resilience, what is the importance of establishing a strong local network?
A: A strong local network is crucial to resilience because it connects resources, expertise, and support systems that enable individuals and organizations to thrive. At Clear Path, our partnerships with organizations like Little Leaf Farms, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Jabil, and emerging energy companies not only enhance our programs but also build a community-wide safety net. For example, volunteer efforts and hiring initiatives from these partners create opportunities for Veterans while fostering long-term community relationships. Leveraging local networks ensures that we can adapt to challenges and continue providing vital services to those who rely on us.
Q: What are the benefits of partnering with the DEC on sustainable initiatives like the Farmer's Market, public art, events, or transportation?
A: Partnering with the Devens Enterprise Commission (DEC) on sustainable initiatives enhances both our programming and the community's vibrancy. Collaborations like the Farmer's Market or public events bring people together and showcase Devens as a model of sustainability. Public art and events create welcoming spaces that foster connection, while transportation initiatives improve accessibility for Veterans and their families to engage with our services. These partnerships amplify the impact of Clear Path and the DEC, making the entire community stronger and more resilient.
Q: How can community members help Clear Path?
Community members can support Clear Path by volunteering, attending our events, and contributing to our programs. Whether it’s assisting with meal preparation, participating in holiday drives, or adopting sustainable practices, every effort strengthens our mission. Additionally, businesses and individuals can partner with us on hiring initiatives for Veterans, helping to build career paths that lead to greater stability and success. We’re always open to new ideas and collaborations to deepen our impact and foster a sustainable, resilient community together.
The marquis annual events hosted by Clear Path include an annual 5k Road Race and a Dog and Music Festival. The latter is a great way to highlight their service dog training program.
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Learn more about Clear Path and explore volunteer opportunities on their website.
Sustainable redevelopment of Devens is all about fostering a balance of economic, environmental, and social benefits to the Devens community and the surrounding region. Clear Path is a great example of one of the social service elements that make the redevelopment of Devens a great success.
Thank you for reading! Stay tuned for more Devens Forward blogs every month.
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Welcoming New Leadership at Clear Path for Veterans New England
Clear Path for Veterans New England is proud to announce two important leadership appointments that will guide our mission forward with strength, experience, and heart.
Jason Gilbert joins us as Chief Executive Officer, bringing over 17 years of nonprofit leadership and a deep dedication to serving fellow veterans. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran himself, Jason is focused on expanding housing, wellness, and support services across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, with a bold goal of developing over 100 veteran housing units by 2026.
Gary Soldato, a retired Army officer with a distinguished military and civilian career, steps into the role of Executive Director. With a strong background in veteran support through education and employment services, Gary is committed to growing our programs—especially in housing, food security, canine support, and wellness—while strengthening the Clear Path team.
Together, Jason and Gary bring a shared passion for empowering veterans and their families. We are excited for the road ahead as they lead our efforts to honor and support the journey home for those who have served.