Re-visioning veteran readjustment: Evaluating outcomes of a green-jobs training program

Christine Bellotti*, Charlene Laffaye, Kenneth R. Weingardt, Mark Fischer, Tom Schumacher

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: This pilot project examined the mental health and quality of life outcomes achieved by 17 OIF/OEF (Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom) veterans who participated in the first cohort of the Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC) green jobs training program at Green River Community College in Auburn, Washington. Methods: The VCC is an innovative, 10-month educational program which provides academic and vocational training to OIF/OEF veterans who are interested in pursuing environmental careers or green jobs. All subjects successfully completed a 10-month full-time training program that required adherence to a rigorous schedule of classroom academics and outdoor field work. An assessment battery measuring depression, anxiety, PTSD, physical health, and perceived quality of life was administered at baseline, mid-point, and at the end of the training program. Results: Improvements were found in two of the measures (improvement in social functioning and ability to perform daily tasks) which is noteworthy with such a small sample size (n = l7). Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that participation in the VCC may help to improve the social and physical functioning of OIF/OEF veterans. Addressing readjustment issues for all returning veterans through vocational training in the emerging field of green jobs is discussed and considered.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)51-57
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Volume35
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 15 2011

Keywords

  • Veteran readjustment
  • green jobs training
  • vocational-rehabilitation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Rehabilitation
  • Occupational Therapy

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Re-visioning veteran readjustment: Evaluating outcomes of a green-jobs training program'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this