Many of our veterans face formidable economic and social challenges as they transition from military to civilian life, both as a consequence of delayed entry into the ‘normal’ life-course of education and work – and because many now endure physical and psychological disabilities as a consequence of their military service. Conservative estimates suggest that at least 30% of those who have served since 2001 will transition to civilian life with a service-connected disability, a reality that represents just one of the factors that likely contributes to the disproportionally high unemployment rate among our post-9/11 veterans. Further, while the total number of homeless veterans has actually declined over the past five years, the number of young, post-9/11 veterans sleeping on our streets is increasing every day.

Finally, most disturbing is the fact that our veterans are taking their own lives at an alarming rate—on average, each day 17 veterans commit suicide in the U.S. Following a decade at war, the cumulative challenges associated with meaningfully and effectively supporting America’s veterans was recently described by a senior government official as a "social and economic tsunami that could overwhelm the resources of this country for two generations."

Clear Path for Veterans offers support services such as the Dogs2Vets program, Talking Circles, Culinary and Agriculture programs, along with available recreational activities in a place of natural beauty. We believe it is the responsibility of communities to support our veterans in whatever way they need to ensure they can return to their families and communities with success. Without a sense of community and belonging, a model for healing is difficult at best.

Corporate Sponsorship of Events
We are currently seeking sponsors for our monthly meals for military offering an opportunity for the community to meet local veterans. If you or your business is interested in sponsoring one or more of these events, please contact our office at 315-687-3300 or email us at info@clearpathforvets.com .

Other events to sponsor include

• January. Winter activities day
• June. Doug & Helen Marrone Red, White and Blue BBQ
• September. Memorial bike ride
• October. Fall Harvest
• November. Thanksgiving Dinner for Veterans in Transition
• December. Holiday party
• Dog events

Veteran’ s Voice
The Veteran’s Voice is a monthly education segment aired on WSYR News Channel 9 with the sole purpose of bridging the gap between community and veterans. Information for this monthly segment is created by the VMFS group. Members of the group include Syracuse VA Medical Center, military base and family readiness representatives, educational institutions, government and civic resources, recreation and other support services. Cost for underwriting this program is $1,500 per month and includes TV and website exposure for companies seeking to support veterans and the community.
Veteran’ s Voice Information and Sponsorship (12-page PDF)