Background Statement
Northern Colorado Veterans Resource Center (NCVRC) is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Greeley County Colorado. Founded in 2018 by veterans, the organization serves as a hub of services for individuals returning from combat, as well as those who may continue to struggle with civilian integration. The mission of NCVRC is to help veterans and their families receive
the resources, benefits, and education they deserve. Since its founding, NCVRC has served over 985 Veterans since 2018. As of August 2022, the NCVRC has averaged 27 Veterans each Month. October 2022 was the NCVRC busiest month serving 40 Veterans total! Each year the number of Veterans we see increase and the needs of our Veterans are becoming more complex. With your support, we will be able to provide efficient and effective services regardless of how many Veterans we are serving each Month.
The capstone program of the NCVRC is the Peer Support Navigation Program (PSNP). This client-centered program is designed for accessibility, utilizing peer relationships to assist veterans in navigating the challenges of reintegration into civilian life. The Center also serves as a hub of community resources, with four organizations meeting clients on-site offering services both to veterans and their families and a network of dozens of other service providers offering impactful services, originating with NCVRC contact.
Clients of NCVRC present with a variety of needs along a wide spectrum of needs--from emergency housing to health care access to support applying for college. They are guided through these processes by peer navigators, trained to support other veterans using the
framework of social-determinants of health. While clients may present with a variety of initial concerns, navigators typically assist them in accessing an average of three types of support
The peer support model has proved extremely valuable for returning service men and women, who may have a lack of knowledge or trust for VA services. While national efforts to address education about the VA and to improve its services continue, it is vital to ensure that each individual receives the care they critically need. NCVRC clients report feeling understood and heard by peer navigators and return for continued support. In this way, peer navigation bridges the gap between important VA benefits and services and the veterans who required them. By streamlining the process of accessing benefits and providing a clear path to overcoming challenges, with a safe and trusted navigator, more veterans in Northern Colorado are receiving the support for which they qualify, and so badly need.