KEENE VALLEY — Homeward Bound Adirondacks, in conjunction with The Dwyer Coalition for Military Veterans & Families Inc., invited veterans and a guest to lunch at the Noonmark Diner last Thursday as part of their program to honor and support those who have served.
HBA Peer Specialist James Howard greeted guests at the Noonmark and provided information concerning the organization’s programs. From 2007 to 2010, Howard was a member of the U.S. Army, serving as a 19D Cavalry Scout. During this time, he completed a tour in Iraq.
“Veterans don’t always get a welcome home. I am honored to give back to my brothers and sisters that have served our country,” Howard said.
According to its website, HBA’s core objectives are “to guarantee that our community’s veterans access multifaceted support and resources requisite for their well-being and secondly, to make a substantive, positive impact in the lives of veterans throughout Northern New York.
“HBA is staffed predominantly by veterans whose shared experiences forge a connection with those it serves. The approach is crafted around the peer-to-peer model, ensuring that services resonate personally and effectively with fellow veterans.”
DCMVF is a statewide initiative committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of veterans and their families through advocacy. The focus of its work is shaped and directed by the collaboration of local and state stakeholders of the Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program.
DCMVF was founded in memory of Pvt. First Class Joseph P. Dwyer, a combat medic in Iraq who struggled with PTSD. Its mission according to its website is “to advocate for safe, non-clinical environments where veterans can connect, share their experiences and find healing through the support of their peers. The peer-driven approach is to help veterans and their families navigate the challenges of civilian life, from mental health struggles to reintegration into their communities.”
Since it first launched in four counties — Jefferson, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Suffolk — the program has evolved. During its first year, the Dwyer initiative expanded beyond its original focus on PTSD and traumatic brain injuries to address a broader range of issues affecting veterans’ overall well-being and reintegration into the community.
In addition to retreats, one of which is scheduled from March 13-15, HBA provides crisis outreach, case management, suicide prevention, veterans benefit advisement, peer-to-peer advocacy and transportation to appointments. Additional lunches at several locations, such as The Hot Biscuit in Ticonderoga, are also being planned.
For more information, visit homewardboundadiondacks.org, call 518-354-5144 or stop in at 24 Depot St., Saranac Lake.