2011-2012 Outreach to Veterans and

Military Families

Presented to Washington State TBI Conference 2012

Mark Fischer,TBI Project Manager,

WDVA, Behavioral Health

Timm Lovitt,TBI Field Coordinator,

OEF & OIF Veteran

Objectives…

1. To increase awareness about the Veterans and Military Families TBI Outreach Project.

2. To explain current efforts and outcomes.

Background…

2007

The Washington Traumatic Brain Injury Strategic Partnership Advisory Council is

created by House Bill 2055.

Background…

2007

“…to advise the Governor, the Legislature, and the Secretary of the DSHS on the best ways to… promote optimal quality of life for all individuals

with TBI and their families…”

Background…

2007 2008

The Council publishes, Recommendations for a Comprehensive Statewide Plan.

Background…

2007 2008

1. Continuing the foundational activities…

2. Create and improve access, coordination, and availability of essential services.

3. Build upon existing data, screening, and reporting systems.

Background…

2007 2008 2009

Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, H.R. 1388, creates provisions for Veterans Corps. Focus is to enhance services for Veterans and their families.

Background…

2007 2008 2009

Washington State becomes the first state in the nation to create a Vet Corps program.

Background…

2007 2008 2009 2010

The Council and the WDVA partner together to provide TBI outreach to

Veterans and family members through the Vet Corps network.

Background…

2007 2008 2009 2010

Three main areas of focus:1. Deliver TBI information to Veterans and

family members.2. Build public awareness.

3. Improve access, coordination, and availability of essential services.

Background…

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Project Outcomes for 2011:

1. 77 TBI resource events were conducted.

2. Over 1,200 Washington residents received training on TBI.

3. 103 Veterans and family members received direct

service/support.

Project Focus for 2012…

1. Increase delivery of TBI information to Veterans and

family members.

2. Continue to build public awareness.

3. Assist Veterans and family members in accessing essential

services.

4. Survey Veterans and military families on TBI related

needs.

5. Extend TBI outreach to homeless and incarcerated

populations.

Project Outcomes for 2012…

1. Outreach has been extended to 70 sites.

2. Approx. 1,500 Washington State residents received TBI

training and/or information.

3. 76 Veterans and family members have received direct

service/support in accessing essential services.

4. Survey for TBI survivor needs has received a 26%

response rate.

Questions…

Thank You!