*** NEWS RELEASE ***
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Anna Jenkins
July 7, 2008 Cell: 619-729-7166
Veterans Transitional Services Program Launched by
Community Catalysts
San Diego, CA –
Community Catalysts of California , a non-profit
organization serving individuals with developmental and
other disabilities, today announced that it has
successfully launched a new program: Community Catalysts
Veterans Transitional Services (CCVTS).,
CCVTS is designed to help combat-wounded service members
and veterans find affordable housing and provide services
that help them transition to civilian life.
CCVTS provides case management, affordable, accessible
housing, daily living skills training, job development,
on-the-job coaching, and follow-up services to assure
long-term success.
“There is a critical need in San Diego for this kind of
program,” said Jim Jenkins, CEO of Community Catalysts.
“This is a home-grown solution that has been tailor made
for San Diego’s wounded service members. Our goal is to
help them receive the support they need to transition back
to living and working in the community.”
Working primarily with service members exiting Naval
Medical Center San Diego and partnering with the Wounded
Marine Careers Foundation, the program has already placed
seven individuals in their own homes. There is currently a
waiting list of service members who will join the program
once suitable housing and funding are
identified.
“We are seeking private as well as public funding to help
the program become financially sustainable,” continued
Jenkins. “But community support is the most critical
element in our efforts to provide care and hope to these
service members who have sacrificed so much for our
country. Everything helps.”
While CCVTS
has taken the lead, they are seeking assistance with start
up costs and ongoing operational expenses. In addition to a
fundraising campaign by mail and on the web
(www.ccvts.net), there is a CCVTS benefit dinner held at
the El Cajon Elks Lodge on August 23rd. Anyone interested in volunteering
with the program, making a donation or attending the
community fundraiser should contact Anna Jenkins directly
at 858-569-1059 or tickets@ccvts.net.
Tickets $25.
“This will be a great opportunity to meet the individuals
involved with the program, learn more about what we’re
doing and have a steak dinner. Everyone is welcome!” said
Jenkins.
In addition to the VTS program, Community Catalysts offers
independent living services, supported living services,
supported employment services, social/recreational
services, crisis services, triage facility, transportation
services and day program services to disabled consumers.
Last year, the organization launched the Community
Catalysts Housing Alliance, which is working to develop
affordable and accessible housing for individuals with
developmental and other disabilities.
Community
Catalysts of California is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public
benefit corporation that has offices throughout California
and serves over 1,000 individuals with developmental and
other disabilities. They provide training and support
services including employment, housing, and daily living
skills. During its 25 years of operation, Community
Catalysts has returned over $80 million in direct services
to more than 5,000 individuals throughout the state of
California. For more information about Community Catalysts,
please visit their website,
www.communitycatalysts.org
or call
858-569-1055.
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