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Veterans and Military Families

Vet2Vet

PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Vet2Vet Program

Vet2Vet connects Veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and military families with peer support from people who understand military service. Vet2Vet staff and peer mentors help participants build connections, navigate challenges, find helpful resources, and strengthen their mental and emotional well-being.

Services are available at no cost to Veterans and families from all eras. There are no restrictions based on service dates, discharge status, or dependency status.

How Vet2Vet Can Help

Vet2Vet services may include:

  • One-to-one peer support and mentoring
  • Peer networking groups
  • Social and recreational activities
  • Outreach and community connection
  • Case management and resource navigation
  • Advocacy and support accessing services
  • Connections to counseling and mental health services
  • Referrals for housing, employment, education, benefits, legal services, substance use services, and other community resources
  • Support for military families and loved ones

Participants decide which services and activities are most helpful for them.

Peer Networking and Community Activities

Vet2Vet creates welcoming opportunities for Veterans and members of the Armed Forces to connect with one another in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

Peer networking meetings and activities are held throughout Orange County, including Newburgh, Middletown, and Port Jervis. Activities vary based on participant interests and may include:

  • Veteran Community Nights
  • Billiards
  • Meditation and Tai Chi
  • Writing groups
  • Food and movie nights
  • Recreational outings
  • Community service projects
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Military family gatherings

Visit the MHAOC Calendar for upcoming Vet2Vet activities.

Connect With Vet2Vet

Complete the Vet2Vet connection form if you are a Veteran, Service Member, or family member looking for peer support, activities, resources, or help navigating services. A Vet2Vet team member will contact you to learn about your needs and discuss available support. Request Support From Vet2Vet. For questions, call 845-342-2400.

Veteran Volunteer Opportunities

Veterans who want to give back can volunteer alongside other Veterans through community service projects, outreach activities, mentoring, and Vet2Vet events. Volunteer opportunities vary based on current community needs and the program’s activity schedule. Vet2Vet connection form to ask about current volunteer opportunities.

Orange County Veterans Service Provider Network

The Orange County Veterans Service Provider Network brings together organizations that serve Veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and military families. Network members help connect Veterans with support related to:

  • Mental health and suicide prevention
  • Employment and education
  • Housing and homelessness
  • Legal services
  • Substance use services
  • Family and children’s services
  • Domestic violence and sexual assault
  • Benefits, healthcare, and other community resources

Organizations interested in joining the network can call 845-342-2400 for information.

Preparing to Leave Military Service?

Onward Ops provides no-cost transition support for currently serving Service Members and recently separated Veterans, including Reserve and National Guard members. Participants receive planning tools, personalized resources, and the option to connect with a trained sponsor as they prepare for civilian life. Learn About Onward Ops Military Transition Support.

Need Support Now?

Facing something big or small? Call 311 within Orange County or 1-800-832-1200 anytime. Local counselors are available 24/7. For suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, call 988.

Flyer for Veteran Community Nights hosted by Orange County Vet2Vet at VFW John T. Kenney Post 973 in Newburgh. The graphic shows veterans gathered around a pool table with the words “Connection. Camaraderie. Community.” Activities include billiards on Tue

Veteran Community Nights bring Veterans together for connection, camaraderie, and community through billiards, meditation and Tai Chi, writing groups, and food and movie nights. Hosted by Orange County Vet2Vet at VFW John T. Kenney Post 973 in Newburgh, these gatherings are open to all Veterans.

Our Impact 2025

  • Services Provided in our Community

    102,600+

  • Meals Served to Participants

    8,500+

  • Crisis Contacts

    65,000+

  • Sexual Assault Survivors Supported

    200+

© 2026 Mental Health Association in Orange County Inc.

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