Howard Center is pleased to announce the launch of its Military and Veteran Program, a new initiative designed to support active service members, veterans, and their families.
The program offers individualized counseling, care management, crisis intervention, and connection to community resources to help members navigate the challenges of reintegration, recovery, and wellness. Services are tailored to meet each member’s needs, ensuring they receive compassionate and effective care in a supportive environment. ALL veterans are welcome regardless of discharge status.
In addition to meeting a critical community need with the high incidence of mental health, substance use disorder, and suicide rates, the launch of targeted services for veterans and military service members aligns with the federal certification model for the Certified Community-Based integrated Health Centers Initiative (CCBHC). Howard Center expects to be fully certified by July 2026, becoming one of over 500 CCBHC initiatives nationwide which are designed to ensure access to coordinated comprehensive care. A key component of the CCBHC model and certification is that it allows more flexibility to respond to trends in client and community needs, such as services for veterans.
Ryan Boldwin, program coordinator for the Military and Veteran Program, shared his inspiration for leading this initiative: “Our mission is to make sure that no service member or veteran feels alone on their journey home. Through this program, we aim to create a strong community of support—one that honors the courage and sacrifice of those who have served—by helping them heal, connect, and thrive. This is about giving back to the members who have given so much to all of us.”
The program will work closely with local and regional partners, including the Veterans Affairs system, community organizations, and family networks, to ensure coordinated, holistic care.
Major General Gregory C. Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard applauds this new program and has himself made mental health, trauma and stress among service members a key focus of his service. He has openly shared his own struggles upon reintegration after being deployed to Ramadi, Iraq in the wake of 9/11.
“Military service shapes a person’s life in profound ways, and we appreciate Howard Center’s commitment to providing active service members, veterans, and their families with these critical services,” said Knight. “Like so many struggling with reintegration and the stresses of daily life, it can be hard to ask for help and even to know where to turn. This program is another important entry point for anyone in need of care. I want all Vermonters to know that there is no shame in asking for help, in fact, it is among the bravest things a service member can do.”
It is crucial for our community to know that there are professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by those who have served, and that they are there to listen, support, and provide members, and their families, with the resources and support needed.
For more information please visit Military and Veteran Program or call Access and Intake at 802-488-6000.
More information and resources for veterans can be found at the State of Vermont Office of Veteran’s Affairs.
Vermont National Guard members can access additional resources by contacting Behavioral Services.
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ABOUT HOWARD CENTER: Howard Center has a long and rich history as a trusted provider in the community. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we have been providing progressive, compassionate, high-quality care and supports to those in need. Today, we offer an array of exemplary mental health, substance use, and developmental services across the lifespan. As Vermont’s largest social service organization, our 1,300 staff help more than 19,000 people each year in over 60 locations throughout Vermont in collaboration with dozens of community partners. Howard Center’s 24/7/365 crisis service, First Call for Chittenden County, is available to meet the needs of Chittenden County children, adults, and families in crisis by calling 802-488-7777 or call 988. www.howardcenter.org. Help is here. A United Way of Northwest Vermont Funded Agency.