1. Governor’s Northern Wisconsin Economic Development Summit December 1, 2015 Trego, WI Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program Helping Homeless Veterans in Northern WI John A. Scocos Secretary Department of Veterans Affairs

2. Veterans Outreach & Recovery Program (VORP) In 2014, the WDVA and the Department of Health Services were awarded a $1.2 million dollar grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to provide mental health and substance abuse services to homeless and/or chronic homeless veterans in Wisconsin. In 2015, the departments were awarded an additional $1.2 million dollars to expand participation in the program.

3. Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP) VORP is a comprehensive, coordinated outreach, treatment and recovery support program for veterans who are homeless and have a behavioral health disorder. VORP supports the existing treatment and homeless programs and provides services in the 49 counties of northern and central Wisconsin.

4. Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP) VORP utilizes key local contacts including county homeless programs, behavioral health services, veteran organizations, and housing services to help provide the appropriate recovery supports so that the veterans are successful in reaching their goals. We work with the veterans to ensure they have stable housing, connect them to proper treatment, and follow-up to ensure that the treatment is continual and effective.

5. Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP) VORP employs Outreach and Recovery Specialists, working as case-managers, assigned to each of six regions where veterans have difficulties accessing adequate housing and treatment services. Hiring has just been completed for the six Recovery Specialists.

6. Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP) 1 st VORP office serving northern Wisconsin is located in Chippewa Falls. Since the facility opened, we have successfully served dozens of veterans and helped put them on a path towards becoming economically empowered. 2 nd VORP office location just opened in Hayward for Northern Wisconsin.

7. Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP)

8. VORP: A Path To Empowerment A Few Success Stories Burnett County: Iraq War veteran in her 30s was evicted from her apartment in Cable, relocated to Hayward, and was sleeping in her car. Resources are being provided for housing needs and DWD is assisting with employment. The veteran is also being connected to the local animal shelter for volunteer and possible employment opportunities, as Veterinary Science was her college major. Eau Claire County: Persian Gulf era Navy veteran in his early 40s has screened positive for depression, anxiety, and moderate alcohol abuse, factors that led to him losing his full time job. We are providing mental health services and employment and rent assistance. Additionally, assistance is being provided for Internet services for his 15-year-old daughter’s educational needs. Bayfield County: A 63-year-old Marine Corps veteran who served from 1969-1971 is currently unemployed due to mental health issues after being a truck driver for many years. VORP is working with him to file for appropriate military benefits, getting him mental health treatment and providing rent and utility assistance. We are helping many more!

9. Questions about the VORP? Nicole Lillis, Program Manager (715) 726-2545 nicole.lillis@dva.wi.gov www.WisVets.com