The Dryhootch Family Resource Center was developed as a holistic approach to meeting the needs of veteran family members. Peer support is the cornerstone behind everything we do at Dryhootch. Therefore, the Family Resource Center mimics the same peer support model that Dryhootch uses to support veterans.
Our vision is to improve the overall health and well-being of veteran family members through peer support services, connections with other veteran family members, and addressing unmet physical and mental health needs. We will provide veteran family members with peer to peer support as they transition, alongside their veteran family member, from military service to the civilian lifestyle.
There are three program areas that fall under the Family Resource Center:
Family Peer Support
Just like veterans, veteran family members have unique experiences that non-military family members do not understand. Our family peers are trained to share their own experiences, struggles, and successes in order to model that treatment works, recovery is possible, there is hope, and people are not alone.
Mentors listen and empathize and connect people to valuable resources and support programs.
Mentors empower others to move forward along the path of recovery.
Mentors provide a listening, empathetic ear to individuals/families dealing with mental health issues.
Mentors make referrals to community providers in the areas of education, financial resources, medical/healthcare, employment and housing services, legal support, mental health services, domestic violence support, addiction, benefits info, and referrals and insight into how to support their struggling veteran.
Health & Wellness
Veteran family members are not eligible to receive care through the VA and many do not have healthcare coverage. Many do not have a regular healthcare or dental provider and have not had a regular check-up in more than two years. Veteran family members often express that their own physical and mental health and well-being are challenged. It is also very common that veteran family members suffer from depression and anxiety disorders, feel stressed, and lonely. One of our goals through the Family Resource Center is to increase the health and wellness of veteran family members.
Community & Social Activities
Veteran family members are often over-looked and forgotten while their veteran family member is deployed or transitioning from military service to the civilian lifestyle. They feel isolated and misunderstood and struggle with mental health issues, addiction, and family relationship issues. Veteran family members often have a difficult time relating to non-veteran families. We encourage participation in community and social events with other veteran family members. Through the Family Resource Center we will offer regular family support groups, social gatherings, and respite opportunities available through our community partners.