Across the United States Stand Downs afford Veterans the opportunity to connect with vital services that improve the quality of their lives. Stand downs span one to three days of veteran focused events highlighting beneficial Veteran services – at no cost to our Veterans. Services may include food, shelter, clothing, health screenings, VA and Social Security benefits counseling, and referrals to a variety of other necessary services including employment and substance abuse treatment – and much more.
Many times it is the combined efforts of both the public and private sectors that provide Veterans with solutions.
The first Stand Down was organized in 1988 by a group of Vietnam Veterans in San Diego. Since then, Stand Downs have been used as an effective tool in reaching out to Veterans by creating a welcoming and nonjudgemental environment promoting health and well-being.
Stand Down is designed to afford Veterans the tools and resources to build personal success, growth and self awareness. In addition Stand Down may offer support in the areas of legal issues, employment, access to health services / benefits.
The first Stand Down, under the auspices of the Vietnam Veterans of San Diego (VVSD), provided coordinated, comprehensive services to Veterans in need over a three-day period at one site. The intent was to bridge many of the physical and psychological barriers between service providers and recipients. Primary emphasis was placed on the creation of a community in which Veterans are treated with respect and given the opportunity to relax, interact and form ties with peers and volunteers while receiving much needed specific services. Stand Downs across the nation have helped Event thousands of Veterans since its inception.