Disclaimer: The links below are for informational purposes only. We make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information obtained through these links, and do not warrant or endorse any services provided at any of these links. Some providers listed below will charge a fee for their services. You are advised to fully investigate important issues such as insurance, licensing, and safety issues before accepting services. We hope that you find this information useful and helpful.
RVP In The News:
Veteran charged with homeless murders: Hint of a larger lroblem for the U.S. military?, interview with RVP Executive Director Belle Landau, Christian Science Monitor, January 12, 2012
A long way from home: Soldiers return from the battlefields, interview with RVP Executive Director Belle Landau, Street Roots, January 19, 2012
Returning Veterans Project WWeek Give!Guide video. This short film features RVP client Iraq veteran Blayden Hall and RVP Executive Director Belle Landau.
Caregiver Emotions and Programs for Veterans, Host Pamela Wilson with RVP Executive Director Belle Landau, 630 KHOW Talk Station in Denver, CO, November 6, 2011
HOMEFRONT 911 Monologes...Offer Connection for Military Families, an article on an event presented by the Sanctuary for Veterans and Family and co-sponsored by RVP, Oregonian, August 7, 2011
HOMEFRONT 911 Monologes, Host Marvin Simmons of Northwest Veterans for Peace spoke with Stacy Bannerman, creator and producer of "Homefront 911: Military Family Monologues," and Belle Landau of the Returning Veterans Project, KBOO Radio, August 5, 2011
Local Nonprofit Helping Veterans Transition Back into Civilian Life, interview with Mandee Juza and Belle Landau, KPTV Fox News, November 20, 2010
Veteran's Voice, interview with Belle Landau on the contribution RVP makes in the community, KBOO Radio, November 19, 2010
Veterans Day: a time for healing, by Carol Levine (RVP Founder and Board Chair), Guest Columnist, Oregonian, November 11, 2010
Veteran Suicides: The Toll of Service and Search for Answers, by Melissa Hahn, www.thewip.net: March 2010
Providers Offer Free Counseling to Veterans and Families, by Tom Mann, ODVA Vet News: January/February 2009
Veterans' Affairs, OPB Think Out Loud: November 11, 2008
Deeper Wounds, KOIN, November 11, 2009
RVP in the Oregon Association for Marriage and Family Therapy newsletter, Spring 2010
RVP on "Community Hotline" cable access program, April 2010
RVP's new Brochure!
Resources
Government Agencies
National
State
Community Resources (Oregon and Washington)
Emergency/Support Services
Recreation
Personal/Well-Being
Resources Nationwide
Emergency/Support Services-National
Recreation-National
Personal/Well-Being-National
Resources for Providers
Government Agencies
National
- This comprehensive site provides information and resources for troops and their families, addressing all areas of military life, including deployment and post-deployment concerns.
Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center
- This organization is a collaboration between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The website is a good source of information for providers as well as military members and families. There is an interactive map showing the locations of DVBIC centers. The site also has a Spanish language section.
Deployment Health Clinical Center of the Dept. of Defense
- Health information for clinicians, veterans, family members and friends.
- A health promotion and wellness site specifically designed by the U.S.Army to address deployment issues and the needs of soldiers, particularly in reserve units.
- This guide (available online only) was developed by members of the National Center for PTSD and the Department of Defense. It was developed specifically for clinicians and addresses the unique needs of veterans of the Iraq war.
Marine Forces Reserve Psychologial Health Outreach Program (MFR PHOP)
- The PHOP Mission is to ensure that Marine Forces Reserve service members have full access to appropraite psychological health care services, to increase resilience, and to facilitate recovery, which is essential to maintaining a ready military force. The PHOP location for the northwest is Ft. Lewis. The PHOP maintains a phone and email referral service. Call 757-842-2513, 757-842-2507, 757-842-2502 or 757-842-2510.
Navy Reserve Psychologial Health Outreach Program (USNR PHOP)
- Also helps to ensure that Reservists have full access to appropriate psychological health care serices. For the Northwest Region call 425-304-3871 or 425-304-3870.
Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA)
- This program provides financial assistance for military spouses who are pursuing Associate's degrees, certifications and licensure programs. Not all branches of the military are included. Click on the link for more information.
National Guard Bureau Joint Services Support
- This website lists National Guard events by state and has information about their programs, incluidng the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, the Family Support Program and the Sexaul Assault Prevention and Response Program.
- The NRD is an online tool for wounded, ill and injured Service Members, Veterans and their families, and those who support them. The NRD provides access to more than 11,000 services and resources at the national, state, and local levels (including a Veterans job bank) that support recovery, rehabilitation and community reintegration. Maintained by the Department of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs, the NRD links to federal and state government agencies, Veterans service and benefit organizations, non-profit and community-based organizations, academic institutions and professional associations who provide assistance to wounded warriors and their families.
National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Contains detailed information about PTSD, including treatment modalities, general resource information, publications, research and contact information. The website is divided into sections for veterans and the general public and providers and researchers. "Returning from the War Zone: A Guide for Families of Military Members" is free and downloadable from this site.
- The military health plan
- Provides a thorough review of benefits information and assistance for returning veterans and their families, including health, education, compensation, publications and more.
Veterans Affairs Department Suicide Hot Line: 1-800-273-8255
- This online resource is a web portal for tools and benefits-related information for Wounded Warriors, Veterans, Service Members, their families, and their caregivers. There are links to other military and veteran benefits websites as well as quick access to online tools that enable you to apply for benefits, download your DD-214, see your benefits status online, and more.
- VA program for disabled veterans looking for a job.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- A dedicated toll-free Military Help Line which provides direct access to immigraion information for military and their families. Call 1-877-247-4645.
State
Oregon
Army Strong Community Center - Oregon City, Oregon
- The Army Strong Community Center (ASCC) is dedicated to supporting Service Members, Retirees, Veterans, and their Family Members from all branches of the military—Active and Reserve. ASCC facilities are designed to assist geographically-dispersed Service Members and their Families who may not have ready access to the services typically available on a military installation. There is a Community Center in Oregon City at Clackamas Community College.
Family Assistance Coordinators in Oregon
- Family Assistance Specialists, serving all brances of the military, are located throughout Oregon to serve the needs of Service Members and their Families by providing essential services such as legal or financial resources, Tricare resources and crisis intervention referral. Click on the link above for a PDF listing names and contact information for FAS in Oregon.
- The Network of Care for Service Members, Veterans and their families is a " 'one-stop-shop' for virtually all services, information, support, advocacy and much more. This public service is an attempt to bring together critical information for all components of the veterans' community." Go to the website link above and search for services by zip code.
Multnomah County Library (Oregon)
- The library has a resource list from health care to employment assistance.
Oregon National Guard Reintegration Team
- The Reintegration Team provides post-mobilization support to commanders and soldiers by establishing a centralized point of contact on the multitude of agencies that provide support and benefits to soldiers and their dependents. Our mission is to actively assist demobilizing Oregon National Guard members in transitioning back to their families, their job or school, and their community. Call their 24-hour toll-free number, 888-688-2264.
Oregon National Guard Family Program
- This website provides information about special programs for military families and educators such as counseling, help with services and benefits and educational programs for schools and teachers. Please contact Alice Duffy, LCSW, Child/Youth Military Family Life Consultant at 503-853-5248 or alice.r.duffy@healthnet.com for more information about the Child and Youth Behavioral Program, a support program for military families which helps with issues such as deployment anxiety, reunion adjustment and behavioral concerns.
Oregon National Guard Emergency Fund
- This is a fund set up to relieve financial distress of members of the Oregon national Guard and their dependents. A request form must be completed to receive funds.
Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs
- Provides free benefits counseling and claims services to veterans, survivors and dependents. Their Portland claims office is located at 1220 SW 3rd Ave., Suite 1610, 503-412-4777. The Salem office is located at 700 Summer Street NE, Suite 150. 503-373-2085.
- This is the Official website of the Oregon Employment Department.
- This link provides information about the VA facilities in Portland and Vancouver, including driving directions and hours of operation.
Other services at the VA include:
Operation S.A.V.E.
- This is a local arm of the VA which helps veterans who are are showing signs of suicidal thinking and friends and family members who are concerned about a veteran. Call 800-273-8255.
Minority Veterans Program
- This program informs veterans of available resources within the VA and serves as liaison for veterans in accessing benefits and establishes new programs and services to meet the specific needs of minority veterans. Call 503-402-2903 or 800-949-1004 ext. 52903.
Support Group for OEF/OIF Family Members
- This free group meets on Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:30 pm at the Portland VA Medical Center, and is open to all family members of veterans who served in Afghanistan or Iraq. To register, please call 503-220-8262, ext. 53062.
OIF/OEF Program
- This program offers assistance to severly injured combat veterans as well as transition assistance for vets returning home.
Military Sexual Trauma (MST)
- The VA provides free, confidential counseling and treatment to male and female veterans for mental and physical health conditions related to experiences of MST. The Portland VA MST Coordinator is Ashlee Whitehead, 503-220-8262, ext. 57429.
- The women's VA clinic offers comprehensive primary care, gynecological care and mental health services. Call 888-233-8305, ext. 57716 or 888-233-8305, ext. 54838.
Volunteer Opportunites at the Portland VA
- The VA has many opportunites for those who want to help, from office assistance and grounds crew to working directly with patients.
- This webpage lists services such as adult day care and in home care services for those caring for a veteran at home.
Washington
- The primary mission of the State of Washington Veterans Conservation Corps is to assist veterans by providing volunteer opportunities on projects that help protect and restore Washington's rivers, streams, lakes, marine waters and open lands.
Washington State Guide for Families of Veterans
- The WDVA is a full-service state agency that assists veterans, their family members and survivors. WDVA partners with local, state and federal agencies to offer a complete referral service to provide veterans with accurate and current information on the entire range of veterans' benefits and entitlements. Call 800-562-2308.
WDVA PTSD Counseling Program
- This program provides counseling services to military veterans, active duty war veterans and their families as well as programs and support to educators of school age children of trauma-exposed parents. They also offer military/veteran culture trainings and presentations to community colleges and universities. Call Thomas Schumacher, PTSD Program Director at 360-725-2226 or tom@dva.wa.gov. For a counselor, call 800-562-2308.
Clark County, Washington Veteran's Relief Fund
- Provides emergency relief for indigent veterans in the Clark County area. Contact the case manager at vetfund@crmhs.org or 360-397-8478.
Community Resources
Emergency/Support Services
Counseling/Mental Health
Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare
- Their services (generally for extremely low income individuals) include mental health counseling, crisis intervention, addictions treatment, and transitional, residential, and permanent housing for people with psychiatric and substance use challenges.
Catholic Charities El Programa Hispano and Project Unica
- El Programa Hispano offers bilingual, bicultural mental health services to low-income Latinos in partnership with Central City Concern. Services include individual or family counseling, addictions treatment, education and support groups. For more information, call (503) 489-6820.
Clark County (WA) Veterans Assistance Center (CCVAC)
- Located at 1305 Columbia St., Suite 100, in downtown Vancouver, this non-profit's mission is to provide a safe environment, assist vets and their families with accessing beneftis and provide re-intergration support. Open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm., 360-693-7030
Dual Diagnosis Anonymous of Oregon, Inc.
- DDA is a peer support group based on an authorized version of the 12 steps of Alcoholics anonymous plus an additional 5 Steps that focus on Dual Diagnosis (mental illness and substance abuse). The website has a list of meeting groups across the state.
The Men's and Women's Counseling Center
- This nonprofit has offices in Portland and Oregon City. They offer relationship and couples therapy as well as anger management and domestic violence intervention services. The also offer the CADRE program, which combines the Veteran's Adminsitarion's treatment protocol for combat stress-related disorders with a state-approved domestic violence protocol.
Military Partners Support Group
- Share your unique experiences as a military partner in a mutually supportive environment. Issues addressed can be depression, parenting, PTSD and grief. The group is led by three co-facilitators with experience working with families and couples. The group meets the first and third Thursday from 6:00-7:30 15 11630 SE 40th Ave., Suite A, in Milwaukie, Oregon. Please call 503-794-5968 to set up an introductory meeting. The cost is $20 per session and sliding scale can be discussed with the facilitators.
Oregon Military Assistance Helpline
- Call for free, confidential service for crisis intervention, family issues, alcohol and substance abuse and personal and emotional concerns. Staffed by veterans and counselors trained in military culture. 800-511-6944, info@ormah.com.
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Oregon Partnership is a statewide non-profit promoting healthy kids and communities through drug and alcohol awareness, drug prevention programs, and 24 hour crisis lines for treatment referrals and suicide intervention. Their staff is trained in the skills necessary to help veterans and their family members. The Military Help Line is 888-457-4838.
Oregon Women Veterans
- OWV is an organization open to all women veterans from all eras and branches of service. Meetings are held on the 1st Thursday of each month in Eugene (free childcare provided) from 1800 to 1930 hours at 2222 Coburg Road, in the same building as the Heeron Center. Please call 541-852-5635 for more information.
- The Vet Center provides a wide range of counseling, outreach and referral services to veterans and their families. They offer individual, group, marital and sexual trauma counseling. The Portland Vet Center also offers free yoga classes, acupuncture treatments, movie nights and AA meetings. All Vet Centers hold client information in the strictest confidence. Clients must be combat veterans. The Vet Center is located at 1505 NE 122nd Ave., Suite 110, Portland, OR 97220. Their phone number is 503-688-5361. There are also Vet Centers in Eugene, Salem and Grants Pass.
- Support Groups for vets and their families: William Temple House provides professional mental health counseling to individuals, couples and families who are not covered by other health programs or cannot afford fees charged by private agencies. A support group for female spouses of veterans is being held on Tuesdays from 4-5:30.The meetings are free. Please contact Colleen Lewis, LPC at 503-226-3021, ext. 219 or email her at clewis@williamtemple.org for more information. In addition to mental health counseling, William Temple House provides emergency social services including food, children's clothing, and other material assistance to more than 12,000 families each year. We also provide pastoral care upon request. We have served the Portland area for 42 years. We are located at 2023 NW Hoyt in Portland. We have locations in North Portland, East Portland, Hillsboro, and SE Portland.
Women's Therapy Project Northwest
- The Women's Therapy Project Northwest is a group of like-minded mental health professionals offering their services to potential clients in the Portland metropolitan area. Their goal is to help you find the right therapist and other mental health resources. Their website also has a resource page of issues of interest to women.
General Resource Information
Common Ground Community Information Center
- NW Veterans and Families Resource Directory lists resources of interest to veterans such as Benefits help, Child Care, Counseling and Alcohol/Drug Assistance in the Portland Metro Area.
Help with Projects
- Greg Butsch would like to offer him time and skills to returning veterans as a way of honoring their service to our country. He can help with most projects around the house as well as carpentry, painting and yard work. You provide the materials. He can offer two days a week depending on his schedule and prefers the Portland area. Please call 503-260-1745.
- A publication of Street Roots, this resource lists many local services organized by county. Copies are available by going to their website or at the Street Roots office at 211 NW Davis in Portland.
Vancouver/Clark County Resource Guide
- This PDF, provided by the Council for the Homeless, lists resources for people who are homeless or low income with emergency needs.
Domestic Violence
- The mission of the CADRE Program is to provide combat veterans a treatment program that addresses combat post traumatic stress disorder that manifests in domestic violence. Contact CADRE for fee information and schedules.
- Provides support, advocacy, and opportunity for self-empowerment, enabling survivors to exercise free and informed life choices. Project UNICA operates the UNICA Crisis Line, which is the first Crisis Line in Spanish in Multnomah County. 24-Hour Crisis Line: 503-232-4448; 24-Hour Crisis Line TOLL FREE: 1-888-232-4448
Homeless/Reintegration
- This organization partners with the various community and government services in the Portland Metro Area to provide assistance with employment, housing for homeless female and male veterans and reintegration into the community after incarceration.
- Partners in Careers and the Veteran Womens Program offer a federally funded program that serves homeless women veterans and homeless veterans with children. This program will help veterans in Clark County, Cowlitz County, and Wahkiakum County in Washington State. It also provides job training, child care and counseling. There are weekly meetings for women called the VW Connection on Tuesdays from 1:30 - 2:30 pm at 111 W. 39th St., Suite B, Vancouver, WA 98660. For more information call 360-696-8417 or contact Emily Stoutsenberger at emily@swwpic.org or Roxeanne Boose at roxeanne@swwpic.org.
- Founded in 1974, Swords to Plowshares is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that provides counseling and case management, employment and training, housing and legal assistance to veterans in the San Francisco Bay Area. They promote and protect the rights of veterans through advocacy, public education and partnerships with local, state and national entities.
- TIP has been serving homeless veterans since it opened its doors in 1969. Services to male and female veterans include basic services, information, outreach, assistance in networking and referral, and transitional housing. TIP partners with the Portland VA to provide Outreach and Grant Per Diem housing. TIP also helps with temporary housing.
Health and Dental Care
Brain Injury Support Community
- This organization provides support, outreach advocacy and education in Oregon and southwest Washington by connecting brain injury survivors and their families to services, resources and support systems in the Brain Injury community. They have a help line, resource directory, newsletter, and offers trainings. For more information, contact Pat Murray, Executive Director, at pat@biscommunity.org or call 503-224-9069.
Brain Injury Assocation of Oregon
- The organization works to create a better future through brain injury prevention, research, education, and advocacy. They have a newsletter and a Resource page for veterans.
Coalition of Community Health Clinics
- This organization is a network of thirteen private, non-profit health clinics located throughout Multnomah County. These clinics provide health and dental services to the uninsured and underserved men, women and children in the Portland Metropolitan area. Click here to find a clinic.
National College of Natural Medicine
- This Portland-based college offers low-cost naturopathic and Chinese medicine health care to low income and underserved people in the community. You can see a naturopathic or Chinese medical team at one of more than 14 locations in the metropolitan area or at the main clinic at 3025 Sw Corbett Avenue in Portland. For appointments and inquiries call: 503.552.1515.
Portland Veterans Acupuncture Project
- This organization offers free acupuncture treatments to all military veterans. A drop-in clinic is held every Thursday from 5 pm to 8 pm at Colonial Heights Presbyterian Church, 2828 SE Stephens St., Portland, OR 97214. No appointment necessary. Call 503-757-1372 or 503-484-3513 for more information.
- Located in Eugene, Oregon, TBI Educator offers evidence-based information and resources for people working with students who have a traumatic brain injury. The website lists many helpful resources as well as information on trainings on educating students with TBI.
Walton Chiropractic Returning Service Member Program
- Located in Springfield, Oregon, Dr. Rodney Walton (himself a veteran), offers free care to veterans from Iraq or Afghanistan who are on active duty or who have separated from active duty in the last 6 months. Call 541-747-4555 to make an appointment.
Washington Traumatic Brain Resource Coordination Services
- Part of the Washington Adult Day Services Association, this organization works to improve the quality of life for persons with traumatic brain injurty (TBI) and their families and to assist TBI survivors and their families with "filling in the gaps." Contact Carla-Jo Whitson, MSW, at 360-991-4928, or jarlaco@yahoo.com or 877-824-1766.
Veterans Advocacy
American Legion (Portland office)
- This local office will assist veterans with their VA claims. Please call 503-412-4771 to make an appointment or email Greg Demerais.
Central Oregon Veterans Outreach (COVO)
- The mission of COVO is to serve, assist and create support for the veterans of Central Oregon. Provides services such as clothing, food distribution, shuttles to the Portland VA, mail service and bus passes for homeless vets and assistance filing disability claims.
Northwest Indian Veteran Association
- This organization works to serve the needs of the Indian Veteran community by ensuring access to the VA healthcare system and to seek out all entitlements and benefits that would serve veterans. NIVA also works to identify programs and agencies that can assist Indian veterans in improving their quality of life. For more information, call 503-220-8262 (ext. 33413) or 360-696-4061 (ext. 33413) or 800-949-1004 (ext. 33413, Oregon only).
Oregon Military Support Network
- The Network's mission is to address the needs and welfare of all veterans and their families. The mission is achieved through a combination of umbrella services from partner agencies and the development of delivery of other services that are delivered through OMSN staff and volunteers.
Oregon State Bar Military Assistance Panel (MAP)
- The Military Assistance Panel matches deployed servicemembers and their dependents with lawyers willing to provide up to 2 hours of legal advice at no charge. Our lawyer volunteers have been trained to provide legal assistance relating to the Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act (SCRA), and are also able to help with a wide range of other legal matters. An application is required.
Partnership for Veterans at Risk
- This non-profit organizaton offers advocacy for incarcerated veterans and their family members or vets who are involved with the criminal justice system. For more information, contact Executive Director Elan Lambert at 503-400-8147.
Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of America
- Since 1976, OPVA has been a chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) that works to maximize the quality of life for its members and all people who have a spinal cord injury and disease. OPVA works as a leading advocate for health care, research, accessibility, education and veteran's benefits and rights.
- This southern Oregon based organization will assist veterans who are reintegrating from the justice system to the community, and drug and alcohol recovery. They have weekly support meetings. For more information, call Rod Evans at 541-779-8564.
- In Portland, Oregon, contact Jackie L. Zule, VFW Department Service Officer at 503 412-4757, or jackie.zule@va.gov. The VFW provides numerous services to military servicemembers and their families including the Military Assistance Program (which funds Farewell and Welcome Home gatherings for military units worldwide), Operation Uplink (provides free, pre-paid phone cards to servicemembers) and Unmet Needs (can give a one-time grant up to $2,500 for qualifying servicemembers and their families experiencing financial hardship).
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In Vancouver, contact
Employment and Other Services
- Their Learning a Living program offers free employment services to disabled veterans age 40 and over living in Multnomah, Clackamas and Marion counties. Please contact Maureen Addington at 503.335.6161 Ext. 307 or maddington@or.easterseals.com.
- This new program is available to assist all women veterans with job search assistance, education and training and mentoring and coaching. Services are confidential and free. They hold meetings every Tuesday from 1:30 to 2:30 pm at 111 West 39th Street, Suite B in Vancouver, WA 98660. For more information, please contact Roxeanne at 360-696-8471.
- A Portland-based organization works to promote the success of women in the trades through education, leadership and mentorship. Their website lists job fairs, employment listings, and support groups.
- *Volunteer Opportunity* Ride Connection has partnered with tri-county government offices to provide transportation for disabled vets. They are looking for veterans who live in Multnomah County to become volunteer drivers with a desire to serve their community and fellow veterans. Call Ride Connection at 503-528-1738 to volunteer.
- This organization offers career planning, computer skills training and workshops on job-search skills.
Emergency Financial Assistance
The Salvation Army Home Front War Relief
- This program provides emergency financial assistance to dependents of deployed military personnel as well as returning veterans who have suffered a hardship as a result of deployment. Contact Kim Nebeker for more information at 503-794-3275.
- Through this project, various faith groups and other contributors join to provide small grants for returning OEF/OIF veterans in transition, or in emergency situations. This is to be a one-time assistance that can bridge a gap or help the veteran and family take a step forward that otherwise might not be possible, such as a deposit on improved housing situation, help with transportation to appointments, a past-due utility bill payment, purchase of required clothing or equipment for a new job, etc. Realizing that emergency requests must be met quickly, we strive to get funds to the requesting agency or caseworker within a week of the caseworker's request. For such grant requests, caseworkers should contact the Veterans' Bridge Fund by voice mail at St. Luke Lutheran Church, (503)246-2325 ext. 14, Gerry at peaceleaves@comcast.net or Cyndy at mflock@yahoo.com.
Recreation
- Portland Parks and Recreation has city wide recreation programs for all ages. Opportunities include fintess and special interest classes, recreation, basketball, swimming, weight rooms, family events, tennis and much more. Contact Teresa Koon for more information, 503-823-4328 or Teresa.Koon@portlandoregon.gov.
- TRRPDX is located in Portland and is part of a national program (www.teamriverrunner.org) to bring health and healing through the form of whitewater recreation to military veterans. TRRPDX offers military veterans and their family members an opportunity to find health, healing, and new challenges through whitewater boating and other paddling sports.
- Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc. is dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled active military service personnel and veterans through fly fishing and fly tying education and outings. They host frequent fly fishing trips around the Portland area that include transportation, lunch and all equipment. No experience is necessary. For more information, call 503-402-2896.
Personal/Well-Being
- New Class! I am starting a new class I feel vets will benefit from. It will be held at Soul Culture Cycling, 2406 NE Sandy, 97232 in Portland beginning on May 14 at 8 pm. The fee is $10. The One Breath concept is a tool to systematically eradicate physical, psychological and emotional suffering that resides in the body caused by addiction, situational stress, or past trauma. We do this by way of stretching and breathing into the areas of constricted discomfort in the physical body. These areas often contain an accumulation of darkness that reflect our unhealthy thoughts, behavior and experiences. Most of us routinely disregard and ignore this dark energy rather than give it our attention. It then manifests in the physical body and shows itself in various degrees of dis-ease producing further pain and creating weakness. Coupled with stretching and jump-training, the breath produces more space in our bodies for ease while pushing out the dis-ease. All this is done through one set series of poses that has been carefully designed to be very thorough in accessing as much tissue as possible. Keep in mind that one of the essential requirements for true spiritual growth and deep personal transformation is coming to peace with this pain. 503-515-7211, pvy33@hotmail.com
Free Bach Flower Treatments to Veterans and Their Family
- The World Health Organization-approved Bach Flower Remedies are very helpful to alleviate worry, irrational behavior, reduce stress, improve self confidence and restore wellness and balance. The Bach flower remedies do not interfere with any other medication or treatments. John J. Frieden (also a veteran) , uses the Flower Remedies of Dr. Edward Bach which support and balance our emotional body's deep energies. He has over 28 years of experience managing and supporting the many types of emotional challenges that affects us all in our life's journey. To learn more and schedule with John, call 503-333-1377.
- Jeanine DuBois offers Reiki, Healing Touch and other techniques for health and well-being. For rates and more information, contact her at jd@compassions-doorway.com or 503-697-0586.
- Free class for vets on Tuesdays from 11:00 to 12:15 pm to quiet your mind and relax contracted muscles. The class is held at Harmony Yoga, 2108 NE 41st Ave. in Portland. Call 503-335-8851 for more information. You may start the class at any time.
Heads Up for Heroes
- This organization provides free Neurofeedback treatments to veterans who have TBI injuries or Post Concussive Syndrome. Contact Kayle Sandberg-Lewis at 503-234-2733 or stressless@PDXBetter-Brain.com.
Jean Leavenworth -STOTT Pilates
- Jean is a fully certified instructor in STOTT PILATES and co-founded Pacific Northwest Pilates in 2001. Jean has an M.S. in Kinesiology and specializes in rehabilitative pilates. She has taught in physical therapy clinics and health clubs locally and internationally. Jean offers free private and group classes in pilates for returning veterans from Iraq or Afghanistan and their immediate families. Pilates focuses on strengthening core muscles to increase movement efficiency and motor control. Jean teaches at Pacific Northwest Pilates, which is wheelchair accessible, and she is available Tuesday-Saturday. Pacific NW Pilates - 5201 SW Westgate Drive, Suite 114, Portland, OR 97221. Please call 503-422-3398.
Meditation for Vets
- Dave Edgar (himself a disabled veteran) hosts a free meditation session for vets on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 8:00 pm at Amrita: a Sanctuary for Yoga, at 0110 SW Bancroft St. (just off Barber Blvd. in Portland). Instruction in meditation is offered. More more information, please call 503-544-7773.
- Conscious breathing techniques are a simple yet powerful method of dramatically increasing the body's ability to heal and prevent illness, effectively manage stress, and deal with difficult emotions. The latest science and medical research have shown these techniques to be effective complimentary treatments which is why they are widely used in anger, depression, and grief management. Al Lee is the co-author of "Perfect Breathing: Transform Your Life One Breath at a Time" and is an expert in the use of breathing techniques to improve your health, performance, and emotional well-being. Contact Al at 503.452.0700.
Restorative Yoga
- Free classes. All veterans invited. Renew body, mind and spirit. Deep relaxations, yogic breathing, gentle supported postures. You don't need to be flexible to do yoga. Fridays 10:45-12:15, Balanced and Whole Wellness Center, 4423 NE Tillamook, Portland. Call Belle Mann, 503-227-8635.
- This Portland-based psychologist is a veteran, former business executive, and process-oriented psychologist with a strong interest in collective leadership issues and facilitation of intensely polarized issues. He founded the Veterans for Ethical Warfare to bring cutting edge training to veterans because we need their voices to be more directly represented in the United States. VFEW trainings provide an opportunity for veterans, family members, and others to learn ways to channel their experiences into practical skills, enabling them to facilitate tensions within their own lives, relationships, organizations, and national policy discussions. Call 503-972-8942 for more information.
- TAT is an easy way to dissolve stress, negativity and grief. You, the client are taught to hold certain points of your head with your fingers and hand while you put your attention on a series of statements, allowing you to be totally involved with your own healing. Individual, group and phone sessions are available. Please contact Jane Conboy at 503-703-3703 for more information.
- Runs free writing workshops for various community groups who might otherwise not have access to the power of writing and community, including veterans and military families. They organize readings at which participants can share their writing and publish anthologies of participants' writings. For more information on workshops, call 503-796-9224. Write Around Portland office: 917 SW Oak St., Suite 405, Portland, Oregon.
Resources Nationwide
Emergency/Support Services-National
Counseling/Mental Health
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- AFSP is the leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research and education, and to reaching out to people with mood disorders and those impacted by suicide.
Center for Deployment Psychology (CDP)
- This organization trains military and civilian behavioral health professionals to provide high-quality deployment-related behavioral health services to military personnel and their families. Their website also has discussion and resources pages on topics such as TBI, depression, families and deployment.
- A national network of mental health professionals who provide free mental health services to military personnel and their families affected by the current military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Military Suicide Awareness & Prevention
- Military Suicide Awareness and Prevention is a confidential support group for those who have lost loved ones to suicide before, during or after military service. Our focus is not just on what we've lost, but also on the hope that future losses can be prevented with proper care and intervention. We offer information, support and understanding. Even though they've gone on, our soldiers' service will never be forgotten. No one will be left behind.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
- NAMI is the nation's largest grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness through advocacy and education. They have an Oregon chapter and a Washington chapter as well as a Veterans Resource page.
- The Soldiers Project is a private, non-profit, independent group of volunteer licensed mental health professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, registered nurses and marriage and family therapists who provide free counseling and support to military service members who have served, are serving, or who expect to serve in the Iraq and/or Afghanistan conflicts and their family members.The website lists several locations throughout the United States.
Suicide Prevention Action Network:
- SPAN USA serves as the public policy and advocacy division of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). AFSP is the leading national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, and to reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide.
General Resource Information
- The Veterans for America provides a free down-load of this book, providing an invaluable resource for the 1.7 million servicemembers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, the 24 million veterans of past conflicts, and the families of all our troops and veterans.
- Provides information, connections and services for Marine families and friends.
Health and Dental Care
- This website contains information on traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the impact this has on victims and families. There are personal stories and information on research.
Brain Injury Association of America
- The leading national organization serving and representing individuals, families and professionals who are touched by a life-altering, often devastating, traumatic brain injury (TBI). The website lists support groups and contacts by state.
- Click here for their directory of state affiliates and support groups.
- A resource for those looking for information about brain and spinal cord injuries, including information pertaining to PTSD.
- DrugWatch.com is a comprehensive website containing information about many medications, including common prescriptions and over-the counter drugs available worldwide. The website features an A-Z index of the medications, making it easy for patients to find information about specific drugs, including those used to treat PTSD.
- This a website contains information about veterans and their exposure to asbestos.
Veterans Advocacy
- Established in 1948 by Dr. Hector Perez Garcia, an Army Veteran medical doctor, the American GI Forum is the largest Federally Chartered Hispanic Veterans organization in the U.S. The website contains information on education, employment, human rights and legislation.
- Among this organization's many services is assisting in processing veteran disability claims as well as help for severely injured OIF/OEF veterans (Heroes to Hometowns).
- A division of Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, this organization will train and supply guide dogs for the visually impaired veteran and service dogs for those who have disabiilites other than blindness.
- This organization will function as attorneys-in-fact, assisting veterans and their families in filing claims for VA disability compensation and pension; vocational rehabilitation and employment; education; home loan guaranty; life insurance; death benefits; health care and much more. Their local Portland number is 503-412-4750.
- This non-governmental organization provides accurate, helpful counseling and information on military discharges, AWOL and UA, and GI rights. Services are free and confidential. Call 877-447-4487, overseas 510-535-1104
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America
- IAVA is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the troops and veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the civilian supporters of those troops and veterans. IAVA addresses critical issues facing new veterans and their families, including mental health injuries, a stretched VA system, inadequate health care for female veterans, and GI Bill educational benefits as well as providing valuable resources that empowers veterans to connect with one another, fostering a strong and lasting community.
- The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors. They also work to raise awareness and enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members. They help injured service members aid and assist each other as well as provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members.
Employment Services
- This is an electronic labor exchange that provides job seekers and employers with a marketplace in which to find each other over the Internet at no cost to them.
- Helmets to Hardhats is a national program that connects National Guard, Reserve and transitioning active-duty military members with quality career training and employment opportunities within the construction industry.
Resources for Families
- Supporting America's military in their time of need, they provide "a home away from home" that enables family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time -- during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. Phone: 888-294-8560.
Military Child Education Coalition
- The Military Child Education Coalition is a nonprofit, world-wide organization. A model of positive leadership and advocacy, the MCEC's work is focused on ensuring quality educational opportunities for all military-connected children affected by mobility, family separation, and transition. The MCEC performs research, develops resources, conducts professional institutes and conferences, and publishes resources for all constituencies.
National Military Families Association
- The website has information for families new to the military. This organization also sponsors programs including "Operation Purple," summer camps for children of military families and scholarships for military spouses.
- The Pat Tillman Foundation is a national leader in providing resources and educational support to veterans, active servicemembers and their dependants. The Tillman Military Scholars program aids all veterans and specifically the ever-growing population of veterans and dependents of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts.
- The website for this legendary children's show has videos on deployments, changes, homecomings and grief with pages for both children and adults. There is also a "Family Connections" page where families can post photos and email their deployed family member. There is a touring company called The Sesame Street/USO Experience. Also in Spanish.
Homeless/Reintegration
- A thorough and well-organized site to assist you and the people close to you in managing your after-deployment concerns. The site provides self-care tools that can be accessed 24/7 in the privacy of your own home. Programs focus on adjusting to war memories, dealing with depression, handling stress, improving relationships, succeeding at work, overcoming anger, and living with physical injuries, to mention just a few. Self-assessments provide tailored feedback and recommendations.
- Volunteer Opportunity - This organization provides free homes to injured local veterans. They are looking for donations of Professional Trades to help build these homes. Contact Project Manager Rick Goyette at rgoyette@homesforourtroops.org.
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans
- This nonprofit organization is the resource and technical assistance center for a national network of community-based service providers and local, state and federal agencies that provide emergency and supportive housing, food, health services, job training and placement assistance, legal aid and case management support for hundreds of thousands of homeless veterans each year. Also has a list of Stand Down dates and location throughout the country.
Readjustment Needs of Veterans and Their Families
- In 2009, Congress asked the Institute of Medicine of National Academies to conduct a two-phase study to examine the physical, mental, and other needs of military personnel returning from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and of veterans and their family members. The IOM has published their report, a "Preliminary Assessment of Readjustment Needs of Veterans, Service Members, and Their Families" that can be downloaded free from their website.
- Transition Assistance Online has developed a website for assisting veterans with smoothly transitioning from their military service to a civilian career. The site has a job bank for job seekers and employers as well as an extensive list of continuing education resources. A free newsletter is offered for users.
Recreation-National
- Disabled Sports USA was originally established in 1967 by disabled Vietnam veterans to serve those injured in the war. The organization now offers nationwide sports rehabilitation programs to anyone with a disability.
- This organization is offering free wilderness expeditions for OEF/OIF Veterans. Adventures are physically, mentally and emotionally stimulating and work to build self confidence, trust and communication skills necessary to successfully return to families and communities following war time service. Click here to read an article in Sierra Club magazine about one such adventure.
- This non-profit receives donations of tickets for sporting and entertainment events and in turn gives them to active duty military or veterans, and their family members. Their website sorts events by state. You must provide proof of status to receive tickets, and other rules apply.
- 1800wheelchair.ca is a for-profit Canadian company that sells products for the disabled but also has a weppage on sports that can be done from a wheelchair.
Personal/Well-Being-National
- ONE Freedom is a nonprofit organization offering direct trainings, lectures, skill-building workshops and interactive media to help veterans and their families understand and transform the trauma they may be experiencing.
- Our nonprofit is dedicated to those who suffer post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), those at risk for PTSD, and those who care for traumatized individuals. Our website has essays, articles, poetry, art, retreats, meditations, retreats, a Q&A on PTSD, book reviews and other trauma resources.
- As a volunteer-based nonprofit, Soldiers' Angels has over 30 different teams supporting all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Through special projects, dedicated teams and individuals supporting our troops, we make a visible difference in the lives of our servicemembers and their families.
Resources for Providers
Returning Veterans Project: Suggested Reading
Returning Veterans Project: Volunteer Provider Guidelines
Preliminary Assessment of Readjustment Needs of Veterans, Service Members, and Their Families from the Institute of Medicine, 2010
Safety Plan Treatment Manual to Reduce Suicide Risk: Veteran Version, Barbara Stanley, Ph.D. and Gregory K. Brown, Ph.D. published by the Veterans Administration, August, 2008.
Veterans Administration Quick Guide to Suicide Prevention
Boyts, K. (2010, May). Psychophisology of Post-Tramatic Stress Disorder. Lecture presented at an RVP-sponsored training, "An Integrated Mind-Body Approach to Working with Stress and Trauma Reactions," Portland, OR. Click here for a list of Resources for this presentation.
Stern, N. (2010, May). The Neurophysiology of Pain. Lecture presented at an RVP-sponsored training, "An Integrated Mind-Body Approach to Working with Stress and Trauma Reactions," Portland, OR.
Stern, N. (2010, May). Understanding Pain. Lecture presented at an RVP-sponsored training, "An Integrated Mind-Body Approach to Working with Stress and Trauma Reactions," Portland, OR. Click here for a list of Resources for these presentations.
Bowen, B. (2010, May). Dysregulated Stress Patterns:
What To Do When Stress Activation Patterns Arise In Your Practice. Lecture presented at an RVP-sponsored training, "An Integrated Mind-Body Approach to Working with Stress and Trauma Reactions," Portland, OR.
Pennington, Pam. Massage for the Medically Fragile, Chronically Ill or Wounded Patient.
Best, S. and Eichler, M. (2011, April). Stopping the Wheel of Trauma. Lecture presented at an RVP and Lewis & Clark College sponsored training "Stopping the Wheel of Trauma," Portland, OR.