Voices Together: Exploring Priority Needs and Solutions for Change in Veterans Reintegration; Perspectives from veterans, families and service providers within the Greater Rochester Community

June 2009

In order to identify the needs of returning veterans from Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), the Veterans Outreach Center, Inc. (VOC) conducted a series of summits in collaboration with the Center for Governmental Research Inc. (CGR). These summits engaged various stakeholders including veterans, family members and service providers in creating a roadmap for improving reintegration policies and services in the Greater Rochester/Finger Lakes region.

The report identified six key areas of need, and provided suggestions for action in order to improve those areas. The number one priority for stakeholders was identified as a coordinated, comprehensive care network for veterans and family members that provided local information in an easily navigated, well-publicized manner. Increased support for the families and children of veterans was also identified as an important priority. The summit suggested exploring innovative programs incorporating alternative therapies and technology to reach kids online and in schools and also suggested these services be available beginning at deployment and continuing post-reintegration. In addition to progress on the local level, participants encouraged both State and Federal policy change to provide increased reintegration support. Other priority areas identified through the summits included raising community awareness, and initiating programs for returning veterans that would provide peer support from other veterans.

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