Learn More About Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program May 14

OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Veterans’ Services Agency (VSA) hosts two ‘meet and greet’ sessions for veterans and their families to learn more about the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program. On Thursday, May 14, the first session starts at 9 a.m. with a second at 6 p.m. They take place at Friends of Recovery Oswego County’s Community Outreach Center, 808 W. Broadway, Suite 3, Fulton.

“We invite veterans and their families to come learn more about the Dwyer Program and the ways our office can help them,” said Oswego County VSA Director Eric Boozer. “The initiative focuses on fostering connections among veterans while providing a variety of core services, such as peer support groups, one-on-one peer mentorship, crisis intervention, resource connections, family support and more.”

VSA staff will discuss information about the program and answer any questions attendees have. Complimentary refreshments – including coffee and doughnuts in the morning and pizza in the evening – will be available.

To reserve a space at one of the program sessions, contact the VSA at [email protected] or call 315-591-9100 or 315-529-0454.

The Joseph P. Dwyer Veterans Peer Support Program was founded in memory of PFC Joseph P. Dwyer, who served as a combat medic for the U.S. Army in Iraq. Following his return to civilian life, Dwyer struggled with PTSD, depression and substance abuse for many years. He died in 2008 at the age of 31.

In 2012, the New York State Senate and the New York State Office of Mental Health partnered to launch the pilot of the peer support program. The program initially focused on suicide prevention for veterans suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injury. As the program expanded, the focus evolved to include a broader range of issues that veterans face regarding their overall well-being and re-integration into civilian life.

For more information about the event or the local Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, contact Veterans’ Principal Peer Mentor Ward Bowen at 315-529-0454 or visit Oswego County J.P. Dwyer Peer Mentor Program on Facebook.

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