National Sponsorship Program for Transitioning Service Members

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Jan 24, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on helping young Veterans (ages 18 to 34) who are struggling to adjust to civilian life after leaving the military. Many Veterans experience difficulties during their transition, which can lead to feelings of isolation and even thoughts of suicide. The trial aims to test a program called the Sponsorship Initiative, which pairs Veterans with volunteers who can provide support and guidance during this challenging time. By working together with local communities and organizations in six Texas cities, the goal is to reduce these struggles, improve mental health, and ultimately decrease the risk of suicide among Veterans.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be 18 years or older, be about six months away from their military discharge, and plan to move to one of the targeted Texas cities. Those who join will have the opportunity to share their experiences and complete surveys that help researchers understand how well the program is working. This trial is significant because it represents a nationwide effort to tackle the issue of Veteran suicide by connecting them with supportive individuals in their communities.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • TSMVs must be 18-years of age or older,
• • be approximately 6 months from military discharge and
• • be planning to transition to one of the target cities included in the evaluation during an active enrollment window for the respective city.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • N/A