Affiliations: VA HSR&D Center for Health Care Evaluation, Menlo Park, CA, USA | Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA | Washington Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC) | WDVA PTSD Outpatient Program
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Christine Bellotti, VA HSR&D Center for Health Care Evaluation, VA Palo Alto Health Care System (MC: MPD 152), 795 Willow Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA. Tel.:+1(650) 493 5000 x29834; Fax:+1 (650) 617 2736; E-mail: Christine.bellotti@yahoo.com
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.
Keywords: Veteran readjustment, vocational-rehabilitation, green jobs training
