Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America

Quick Reaction Force

Over four million veterans served in the U.S. armed forces since 9/11, and many faced significant challenges during their transition from military to civilian life. Navigating the VA and the thousands of non-governmental resources available to veterans can be highly challenging and overwhelming, and inability to access care and benefits contributes to poor health and social outcomes for veterans. IAVA’s 2020 member survey found that nearly half of their respondents had trouble accessing necessary services, and also identified a need for peer support in the veteran community. IAVA’s Quick Reaction Force (QRF) provides a 24/7 peer support hotline and comprehensive care management program to all veterans and their families regardless of era of service, discharge status, or location, to ensure they access the care and resources they need. Peer support provides veterans a sense of immediate trust, improves their quality of life, and increases engagement with and persistence through treatment and other support programs. This BWF grant will provide peer support and comprehensive case management to 150 veterans to improve their quality of life, reduce stress, and increase their adherence to, and completion of, treatment plans.