How can communities effectively support veterans and ensure they thrive in their civilian lives? According to Sara Johnson, CEO of veteran support organization Mission 22, the following regions provide real-life examples of how to empower veterans and unleash their valuable contributions to society: Alexandria, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Colorado Springs, Colorado; San Antonio, Texas; and San Diego, California.
“These communities not only show that supporting veterans is not only possible, but also practical, as the rest of the community receives benefits as well,” Johnson says.
How supporting veterans benefits communities
“Veterans bring a wealth of skills, experiences, and perspectives that can greatly benefit our communities,” Johnson says. “Many have earned credentials in specialized fields. Some have held leadership roles. Since the stakes are high for military engagements, they are also accustomed to performing in high-pressure environments. Communities that support veterans and facilitate their successful transition into civilian life tap into this wealth of knowledge and experience.”
For example, Johnson points out that veterans are entrepreneurs, business owners, and workers. “They contribute to the local economy, creating jobs and fostering growth,” she says. “Supporting veterans paves the way for broader community prosperity. It’s a way of investing in the future.”
In addition, veterans’ unique experiences enable them to educate others about the world. “This can foster greater understanding and empathy, bridging gaps between different generations and backgrounds within a single community,” she says. Likewise, veterans can teach others about service, duty, and sacrifice. “If society wants to inspire future generations to serve, lead, and make their own contributions to society, honoring veterans is a good way to do it,” she explains.
According to Johnson, what’s good for veterans is frequently good for others. “Addressing the mental health needs of veterans raises awareness more broadly about the importance of mental health for everyone,” she remarks. “This can help reduce stigma, which can also promote early intervention. The result is a healthier community overall.”
“When we take care of our veterans, we send a strong message about the values that define us as a community,” Johnson concludes. “It shows that we honor service and sacrifice. It also shows that we take care of our own. This can foster a sense of unity and cohesion that strengthens the community as a whole.”
How communities can empower veterans best
Johnson recommends communities take a comprehensive, holistic approach to assisting veterans in their post-military lives. “While veteran organizations exist to help facilitate this process, the effort must extend to the whole community,” she says. “This includes not only healthcare and mental health resources, but also career-transition support, housing assistance, and financial counseling.”
Since veterans are at an increased risk of homelessness than the general population, Johnson pays particular attention to housing. Accordingly, she advises communities to expand affordable housing options specifically for veterans. “This can involve advocating for funding affordable housing programs, partnering with developers to create affordable housing units, or repurposing existing buildings for veteran housing,” she explains.
She also urges community leaders to collaborate with landlords and property owners to create rental assistance programs specifically for homeless veterans. “For instance, communities could offer incentives or guarantees to landlords to encourage them to rent to veterans experiencing homelessness,” she explains. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of prevention strategies: “By focusing on early intervention, communities can identify veterans at risk of homelessness and provide targeted support before they become homeless.”
Johnson lists employment and job training as other top priorities. “Local businesses should be encouraged to hire veterans and create partnerships with veteran employment programs,” she says. “Providing opportunities for job training and skill development enhances veterans’ employability and facilitates their transition into stable housing.”
But that’s not all. “A strong veteran support community doesn’t just help with the logistics of life after service — it fosters acceptance and understanding that can be invaluable to a veteran’s transition and ongoing wellbeing,” Johnson says. That’s why she advises setting up peer support networks. “These networks can provide mentorship, guidance, and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for overcoming challenges and maintaining long-term stability,” she notes.
Support veterans for the future of the whole community
“Veterans are an integral part of our communities,” Johnson concludes. “It’s in our collective interest to ensure they are supported in their transition to civilian life and beyond. Providing this support not only honors the sacrifices they’ve made, but also strengthens our communities and our nation as a whole.”
