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Veterans peer‑to‑peer program expands outreach, vehicles and events as demand from older veterans rises
Summary
Washington County’s veterans peer‑to‑peer program reported increased demand from homebound and elderly veterans, use of college‑owned vehicles for transportation to care, plans to recruit vetted volunteers, and a roster of events including a Memorial Day camp, armchair music sessions and breakfast gatherings.
A veterans services representative reported steady expansion in Washington County’s peer‑to‑peer program and asked the committee and community to refer homebound or isolated veterans.
The presenter said demand has risen substantially among elderly and homebound veterans, citing increased needs for transportation to medical appointments and assistance with prescriptions. The program has two college‑owned vehicles now used to transport veterans to local and regional appointments; staff said vehicle maintenance and mileage are tracked through the college and volunteers are being recruited to help expand capacity. The presenter said most driving is currently done by program staff and volunteers are being vetted so they may use program vehicles rather than their personal cars.
The program highlighted recurring in‑person events intended to reach different veteran cohorts: an Armchair Jam Band (music sessions) for socialization, monthly peer‑to‑peer breakfasts hosted at local American Legions and VFWs, a softball team for veterans and spouses, ballroom‑dance lessons and a Chingachgook Memorial Day camping retreat reserved for veterans and families (capped at 100 participants). The presenter described efforts to strengthen ties with the local community‑based outpatient clinic (CBOC) so increasing patient flow there could justify expanded specialty care.
The committee discussed vehicle usage and fleet strategy; the presenter said the two vehicles are 4‑wheel drive, one larger (7‑passenger Subaru) and one smaller Kona, and that staff currently choose vehicles case by case depending on veteran needs (e.g., walkers, height, number of passengers). The program is seeking more stable funding and said current mentor/mentor‑type positions are funded at minimum wage, making recruitment and retention difficult. The presenter encouraged county advocacy for additional Dwyer program funding and said the statewide Dwyer Coalition is working with legislators on modest increases.
Program contact information was provided at the meeting for referrals. The presenter asked committee members and community groups to refer veterans who are homebound or isolated so the program can prioritize visits and services.
