| Veterans
News Flash 
Veterans
Transitional Services Program Launched by Community
Catalysts
Monday July 7, 2008
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Community Catalysts
of California, a non-profit organization serving
individuals with developmental and other disabilities,
today announced that it has successfully launched
a new program: Community Catalysts Veterans Transitional
Services (CCVTS).
CCVTS is designed to help combat-wounded service
members and veterans find affordable housing and
provide services that help them transition to civilian
life.
CCVTS provides case management, affordable, accessible
housing, daily living skills training, job development,
on-the-job coaching, and follow-up services to
assure long-term success.
“There is a critical need in San Diego for
this kind of program,” said Jim Jenkins,
CEO of Community Catalysts. “This is a home-grown
solution that has been tailor made for San Diego’s
wounded service members. Our goal is to help them
receive the support they need to transition back
to living and working in the community.”
Working primarily with service members exiting
Naval Medical Center San Diego and partnering with
the Wounded Marine Careers Foundation, the program
has already placed seven individuals in their own
homes. There is currently a waiting list of service
members who will join the program once suitable
housing and funding are identified.
“We are seeking private as well as public
funding to help the program become financially
sustainable,” continued Jenkins. “But
community support is the most critical element
in our efforts to provide care and hope to these
service members who have sacrificed so much for
our country. Everything helps.”
While CCVTS has taken the lead, they are seeking
assistance with start up costs and ongoing operational
expenses. In addition to a fundraising campaign
by mail and on the web, there is
a CCVTS benefit dinner held at the El Cajon Elks
Lodge on August 23rd. Anyone interested in volunteering
with the program, making a donation or attending
the community fundraiser should contact Anna Jenkins
directly at 858-569-1059 or tickets@ccvts.net.
Tickets $25.
“This will be a great opportunity to meet
the individuals involved with the program, learn
more about what we’re doing and have a steak
dinner. Everyone is welcome!” said Jenkins.
In addition to the VTS program, Community Catalysts
offers independent living services, supported living
services, supported employment services, social/recreational
services, crisis services, triage facility, transportation
services and day program services to disabled consumers.
Last year, the organization launched the Community
Catalysts Housing Alliance, which is working to
develop affordable and accessible housing for individuals
with developmental and other disabilities.
Community
Catalysts of California is a nonprofit
501(c)(3) public benefit corporation that has offices
throughout California and serves over 1,000 individuals
with developmental and other disabilities. They
provide training and support services including
employment, housing, and daily living skills. During
its 25 years of operation, Community Catalysts
has returned over $80 million in direct services
to more than 5,000 individuals throughout the state
of California.
SOURCE:
Yahoo News
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