Date

5-2025

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Major

Collaborative Health and Human Services

Abstract

This project addressed the issue of justice-involved veterans who fail to utilize Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits, increasing their risk of incarceration. The project consisted of distributing a VA Resource Handbook aimed at enhancing veterans' awareness and utilization of VA benefits, thus improving their reintegration outcomes. Using convenience sampling, the project administered pre- and post-intervention surveys to measure changes in awareness, barriers, and benefit utilization among 16 justice-involved veterans. Results indicated a significant increase in veterans’ awareness of VA benefits post-intervention, prompting additional benefit claims submissions. Critical barriers identified included long wait times, insufficient staffing at Monterey County Military and Veteran Affairs Office (MVAO), and restricted pedestrian access due to ongoing construction. The project's survey design, however, limited accurate assessment of participants' post-intervention confidence levels. Recommendations include hiring additional Veteran Service Representatives (VSRs) at MVAO and improving pedestrian access to offices. Further research is needed to understand why veterans receiving VA services and benefits continue engaging in criminal activities. Lastly, it is strongly recommended that VTC implement peer support and establish specialized in-custody services within the Monterey County Jail.

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