What are the benefits of community service for veterans and military families?

1 Transition support

One of the benefits of community service for veterans and military families is that it can help them adjust to civilian life after leaving the military. Many veterans face difficulties in finding employment, education, housing, health care, and social support in the civilian world, and may feel isolated, lost, or misunderstood. Community service can provide them with a sense of belonging, identity, and continuity, as they apply their skills, knowledge, and values to a new context. It can also help them build new networks, relationships, and resources that can facilitate their transition and integration into the civilian community.

2 Meaning and purpose

Another benefit of community service for veterans and military families is that it can help them find meaning and purpose in their lives. Many veterans and military families experience a loss of meaning and purpose after leaving the military, as they may struggle to find a new role, direction, or mission in life. Community service can help them reconnect with their core values, passions, and goals, and offer them a way of making a positive difference in the world. It can also help them cope with the moral and emotional challenges of their military service, such as guilt, grief, anger, or trauma, by providing them with a sense of redemption, healing, and hope.

3 Connection and belonging

A third benefit of community service for veterans and military families is that it can help them create and maintain connections and a sense of belonging in their communities. Many veterans and military families feel disconnected from or misunderstood by the civilian society, and may experience loneliness, alienation, or stigma. Community service can help them bridge the gap between the military and civilian cultures, and foster mutual understanding, respect, and appreciation. It can also help them meet and interact with people who share their interests, values, and experiences, and form meaningful and supportive relationships. Additionally, community service can help them access and contribute to the resources, opportunities, and services that are available in their communities.

4 Social work role

As social workers, we can play an important role in supporting veterans and military families in finding and engaging in community service that suits their needs, preferences, and goals. We can help them identify their strengths, interests, and values, and match them with service opportunities that align with them. We can also help them overcome the barriers and challenges that may prevent them from participating in community service, such as lack of time, money, transportation, or information. We can also help them reflect on and evaluate their community service experiences, and connect them with other resources and supports that can enhance their well-being and quality of life.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?