COC Forms Coalition to Support Student Veterans

College of the Canyons is partnering with the USC School of Social Work to form a coalition of businesses, organizations and individuals who aim to provide increased services for Santa Clarita’s student veterans.  The newly formed coalition met for the first time mid-August to discuss resources, programs and future plans.  Many local and regional partners were present, including about 25 non-profits, 10 businesses and several influential individuals.
As the largest school of social work in the world, USC provides a major contribution to this new coalition.  USC School of Social Work interns will donate their time and services to the veterans at College of the Canyons, assisting with all possible needs – from additional resources, counseling and treatment to job placement and housing.  The Los Angeles-based university is particularly fitting for this project because the social work department specializes in graduating social workers who understand and serve veterans; their students focus especially on the mental health effects of combat and service in the armed forces.
In addition to the partnership with USC, leaders of the local coalition are working to create a support network of businesses, organizations and individuals who can provide services, resources and connections that better the lives of student veterans.
College of the Canyons currently is the educational home for more than 1,100 veterans, many of them local residents, as well.  Though veterans receive financial support for tuition through the GI Bill, there are many other areas of support that need to be met to adequately care for this country’s soldiers.
If you or your business is interested in helping our local veterans, please feel free to drop a line to: Coalition, P.O. Box 800818, Santa Clarita, CA 91380, and someone will contact you immediately.