A review of extension programs serving military veterans and their families
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Younker, T., & Radunovich, H. L. (2024). A review of extension programs serving military Veterans and their families. Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal, 52(3), 178-195. https://doi.org/10.1111/fcsr.12501
Abstract Created by REACH:
This systematic review identified 112 Cooperative Extension System (Extension) programs or resources for Veterans and examined the research evidence of their success. Programs and resources were descriptively coded and organized into 9 domains: occupational training/support; mental health support; service projects targeting Veterans (e.g., fundraisers, community recognition); family support; livelihood support (e.g., food, housing); holistic support; quality of life; healthcare access/quality; and community development. 12 academic articles revealed limited evidence of program effectiveness. Overall, the programs targeted many of the common challenges faced by Veterans (e.g., employment, mental health) but would benefit from improved coordination among stakeholders and evaluation efforts.
Focus:
Veterans
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Subject Affiliation:
Veteran
Military families
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Methodology:
Review of Literature
Program Evaluation
Authors:
Younker, Terasa, Radunovich, Heidi Liss
Abstract:
To better understand the availability and quality of current Extension programming for Veterans and their families, the researchers reviewed the academic literature (yielding 12 publications) and conducted an online scan of Extension programs (yielding 112 resources). Programs discovered fell across nine areas: occupational training/support, mental health support, service to Veterans, family support, livelihood support, holistic support, life quality, healthcare access/quality, and community development. This study revealed that, while Extension programs exist for Veterans and their families, program coordination, needs assessments from Veteran populations, and better program evaluations are needed to maximize efficacy of Extension programs serving Veteran populations.
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Keywords:
veteran programs, extension programs
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
REACH Newsletter: