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you Served U.S. Let Us Serve You.

Free programs and support for veterans in Rochester, NY, and the following counties:

  • Genesee

  • Livingston

  • Monroe

  • Ontario

  • Orleans

  • Wayne

Our Services

Veterans Outreach Center is dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized services to the people who served our country. Whether you wore our nation’s uniform for one day or your entire career, we are here for you. Contact us today to learn how VOC can help you.

2025 Special Events!

From the Blog

VOC Blog
Backed by Research: Benefits of Mindfulness for Veterans with PTSD  
Jeff Klein, Wellness Programs Manager
Backed by Research: Benefits of Mindfulness for Veterans with PTSD  
Jeff Klein, Wellness Programs Manager

The Mayo Clinic states that “spending too much time planning, problem-solving, daydreaming, or thinking negative or random thoughts can be draining and make you more likely to experience stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.” For veterans with PTSD or other mental health challenges, stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression may stem from experiences during their military service. 

Read More →
Jeff Klein, Wellness Programs Manager
VOC Travels to D.C. to Advocate for Non-Opioid Prescriptions for Veterans
Laura Heltz, Executive Director & U.S. Army Veteran
VOC Travels to D.C. to Advocate for Non-Opioid Prescriptions for Veterans
Laura Heltz, Executive Director & U.S. Army Veteran

For more than a decade, I’ve been working with veterans who struggle with substance abuse. I’ve seen veterans at every stage of recovery – some of whom were able to overcome their addiction; others who relapsed; and, tragically, some who overdosed. In too many of these cases, this all could have been avoided if not for their reliance on prescription opioids. These brave servicemembers stood up for our country and freedoms only to be knocked down by addiction to medication that is supposed to help them manage chronic and post-surgical pain. This is an epidemic that is unfair to the people who served our country.

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Laura Heltz, Executive Director & U.S. Army Veteran
How Free Bus Passes Address Veteran Economic and Mental Health Barriers
Laura Heltz, Executive Director & U.S. Army Veteran
How Free Bus Passes Address Veteran Economic and Mental Health Barriers
Laura Heltz, Executive Director & U.S. Army Veteran

Imagine the return of a veteran after years of dedicated service. Their world, initially involving camaraderie and clear directives, has been replaced by the complex civilian world. For some veterans, this transition may be eagerly anticipated, but it can come with unforeseen battles fought on the streets on which they live and in their own minds. These can lead to both economic hardship and/or mental health challenges. For those veterans, the availability of accessible public transportation is a critical, albeit sometimes overlooked, factor that influences both financial stability and psychological well-being. 

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Laura Heltz, Executive Director & U.S. Army Veteran
Reinterpreting Veteran Needs for the Future of Services
Veterans Outreach Center
Reinterpreting Veteran Needs for the Future of Services
Veterans Outreach Center

Veterans Outreach Center (VOC) has witnessed the evolving lives of veterans since its inception in 1973, and in the same way our founders felt, we are compelled to continually reevaluate the traditional models of veteran services to keep up with their changing needs and preferences. 

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Veterans Outreach Center
Tips for Veterans to Build and Maintain an Exercise Routine for Lasting Mental Health Benefits
Chris Culver, Fitness Center Coordinator
Tips for Veterans to Build and Maintain an Exercise Routine for Lasting Mental Health Benefits
Chris Culver, Fitness Center Coordinator

It goes without saying that physical activity is necessary to get fit. However, research also shows that it’s a good tool for supporting mental health. Moving your body can help manage stress from service, ease feelings of depression or anxiety, and build resilience. Getting started with an exercise routine can be a big step at first, but making it a regular habit will yield real benefits.

Read More →
Chris Culver, Fitness Center Coordinator

Thank you to our presenting sponsors!

 

Flag Day
Presented By:

Golf Fore Vets

Pound the Ground

A Stars and Stripes Celebration
Presented By:

Hope For Heroes Telethon

 
 
 

For more information about sponsoring VOC’s special events, please contact Michele Martel at 585.295.7824

Thank You to Our 2025 Special Event Sponsors!

Media Partners

Proud Members Of

Tickets for Troops