Veteran Sponsorship Initiative (VSI)

The Veteran Sponsorship Initiative (VSI) is a structured transition support program led by Dr. Joe Geraci, Ph. D., that pairs newly transitioning service members with trained sponsors in the community. The initiative aims to improve reintegration outcomes by providing social connection, mental health awareness, and navigation of available resources.

Each year more than 200,000 service members leave the military and face significant challenges adjusting to civilian life. Research shows that many Veterans struggle with mental health, employment, housing instability, and lack of support systems. Veterans who experience isolation are at greater risk of suicide. The VSI seeks to bridge that gap early in the transition process—before Veterans fall through the cracks.

This initiative benefits service members transitioning to civilian life, particularly those at risk of mental health issues or social disconnection. It also benefits their families and communities by improving reintegration outcomes and reducing risk factors associated with veteran suicide.

Goals:

  • VSI’s short-term goal is to build a scalable, evidence-informed sponsorship model that is integrated into DoD and VA systems.

  • VSI’s long-term goal is to improve post-transition mental health, reduce suicide rates, and enhance access to benefits and care.

Unlike many post-service programs, VSI intervenes before a crisis begins. By pairing transitioning service members with trained civilian sponsors, it builds a proactive safety net. The initiative is grounded in evidence and clinical expertise, and it leverages both government and grassroots support for greater reach and sustainability.

VSI measures outcomes through participant follow-up, mental health metrics, and reintegration benchmarks. As of 2025, the following progress has been made:

  • Pilot programs have been launched in key regions with strong engagement from community sponsors.

  • Positive early data shows improved emotional well-being and access to care among participants.

  • VSI has received federal and philanthropic funding and has been highlighted as a model for national replication.



What is the impact of VSI?

Programs

Veteran Sponsorship Initiative

VSI is supported through a combination of federal contracts, philanthropic grants, and in-kind contributions from nonprofit partners like BVMRF. However, expansion is currently limited by funding constraints.

Funding is needed to:

• Expand to additional VA sites and regions

• Train and support a national network of sponsors

• Build technology infrastructure for sponsor matching and tracking

• Evaluate long-term impact through research

Funders can support pilot sites, sponsor training, or promote general program growth. To support VSI, you can donate, partner as a sponsor organization, or help us connect with communities that are ready to lead this initiative. Your support will directly impact Veterans during one of the most critical moments in their lives.

How You Can Support VSI

VSI Leadership

Investigator Insights - Evaluating the Transitioning Service Member Support Program
Dr. Joseph Geraci - VA Health Systems Research Podcasts

Contact the Veteran Sponsorship Initiative.

BVMRFAdmin@va.gov
(718) 741-4442

130 West Kingsbridge Road
Bronx, NY 10468