Phoenix VA Outreach Teams Reach Veterans at Local Stand Down

The event connected more than 100 Veterans with critical health care and support services in a community-based setting.

Phoenix VA outreach teams included representatives from Community Care, Telehealth, Suicide Prevention, Eligibility and Enrollment, the Veterans Justice Program, Toxic Exposure Screenings, and the Health Promotion Disease Prevention (HPDP) program, which provided vaccinations and health screenings throughout the event.

“One of the things I love about coming out here is that we’re on the Veterans’ turf—their territory—and I feel like we’re their guests, here to serve them,” said Jayson Lutes, RN, manager of the HPDP program at Phoenix VA. “In this environment, some Veterans feel more comfortable approaching VA and learning about available resources when it’s right in their neighborhood, and that’s exciting for me.”

The HPDP team—comprised of four Phoenix VA nurses—administered 20 vaccinations and completed 20 health assessments, including blood pressure checks, during the Stand Down. In addition to on-site care, the team provided education on annual screenings and vaccination schedules to help Veterans stay on track with preventive health care.

A unique aspect of HPDP outreach is the use of local VA outpatient clinic staff. At this Stand Down, two nurses from the Staff Sergeant Alexander W. Conrad VA Health Care Clinic in Gilbert, Arizona, were present.

“Involving local nurses gives them the opportunity to meet in person the Veterans they serve in those areas,” said Lutes. One nurse shared that she encountered a Veteran who recognized her from a previous clinic appointment.

Isabel Kozak, NP, who has served with VA for 25 years, said her most meaningful moments come from meeting Veterans where they are and hearing their appreciation for VA’s support.

“I think it’s wonderful that VA participates in events like this,” said Kozak. “It’s important to go out into the community, and the Veterans truly appreciate us being here.”

Veteran Stand Downs are held throughout the Valley and across Arizona, typically hosted by Veteran Service Organizations to bring essential resources directly to Veterans. In addition to VA health services, representatives from the Veterans Benefits Administration provided disability claims assistance. Other organizations, including the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), offered services such as free clothing and haircuts.

U.S. Army Veteran and American Legion Post 35 member Michael Brunton attended his second Stand Down with the post and encouraged other Veterans to participate.

“It’s been a great turnout,” said Brunton. “It’s all about Veterans getting what they need.”

American Legion Post 35 hosts its annual Veteran Stand Down every December and encourages all Veterans to attend.

Veteran Service Organizations interested in requesting Phoenix VA participation at community events may email prphoenix@va.gov.