New York City Council
Committee on Veterans
Oct 29, 2024
·
01:00 PM
2 hr 16 min
Summary
A hearing on supporting families of veterans with PTSD, exploring challenges faced by these families and ways to better assist them.
Discussions focused on:
- Improving outreach to veterans who don't self-identify
- Expanding mental health resources
- Enhancing data collection and program effectiveness tracking
- Increasing funding for veteran support initiatives.
The hearing also highlighted personal experiences of council members and veterans, emphasizing the long-lasting impacts of PTSD on families.
Features testimony from the Department of Veterans Services (DVS), NYU Langone Health's Military Family Center, various non-profit organizations supporting veterans, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Introduction to joint oversight hearing on veterans' families and PTSD
Council Member Robert Holden introduces a joint oversight hearing focusing on supporting families of veterans with PTSD. The hearing involves the Committee on Veterans and the Committee on Mental Health, …
0:00:38
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16 sec
Mention of 'Vet the Vote' campaign success
Council Member Holden highlights the success of the 'Vet the Vote' campaign, which has enlisted veterans and their family members as poll workers for the upcoming election. - Nearly 160,000 …
0:00:54
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57 sec
Statistics on veterans' mental health in New York State
Council Member Holden presents recent statistics on the mental health of veterans returning to New York State over the past 5 years. - About 25% of returning veterans report symptoms …
0:01:52
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53 sec
Free mental health services for veterans in New York City
Council Member Holden mentions the availability of free mental health services for veterans and their families in New York City. - Services are provided through NYU Langone's military family center …
0:02:46
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16 sec
60 Minutes segment on PTSD's impact on veterans' families
Council Member Holden references a recent 60 Minutes segment that highlighted the impact of PTSD on veterans' families. - The segment focused on challenges faced by children and spouses of …
0:03:02
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44 sec
Council Member Holden's personal experience with his father's PTSD
Council Member Holden shares his personal experience growing up with a father who suffered from undiagnosed PTSD after serving in World War II. - Holden's father served in the Philippines …
0:03:48
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153 sec
Generational impact of PTSD and personal reflections
Council Member Holden reflects on the long-lasting and generational impact of PTSD on veterans' families, drawing from his personal experiences. - Holden expresses guilt over his past treatment of his …
0:06:21
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3 min
Introduction of colleague and acknowledgment of committee staff
Council Member Holden concludes his opening remarks by introducing his colleague and acknowledging the committee staff. - Introduces Linda Lee, Chair of the Mental Health Committee - Acknowledges committee staff …
0:09:52
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56 sec
Council Member Linda Lee's opening remarks on supporting families of veterans with PTSD
Council Member Linda Lee provides opening remarks for a joint oversight hearing on supporting families of veterans with PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health challenges faced by …
0:10:49
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3 min
Introduction and personal acknowledgment
Commissioner James Hendon of the NYC Department of Veterans Services begins his testimony by acknowledging Council Member Holden's veteran father, Joseph Amon Holden, and his mother, Anne.
0:14:56
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55 sec
Formal introduction and purpose of testimony
Commissioner James Hendon formally introduces himself and his team, stating the purpose of their appearance before the committee to address challenges faced by families supporting veterans with PTSD. - Introduction …
0:15:53
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32 sec
PTSD prevalence among veterans and impact on families
Commissioner Hendon presents statistics and information on the prevalence of PTSD among veterans and its significant impact on their families, drawing from recent studies and national data. - More than …
0:16:26
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159 sec
Avoiding the 'victim-hero narrative' for veterans
Commissioner Hendon emphasizes the importance of avoiding a 'victim-hero narrative' when discussing veterans and their mental health, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the veteran community. - The commissioner …
0:19:05
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47 sec
Need for blast exposure research in veteran health
Commissioner Hendon highlights the importance of research into blast exposure and its effects on brain health, emphasizing its relevance to veterans and other at-risk populations. - The testimony outlines various …
0:19:52
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116 sec
Overview of DVS mental health and support programs
Commissioner Hendon introduces the Department of Veterans Services' approach to addressing PTSD and mental health needs of veterans and their families through various programs and collaborations. - DVS prioritizes military …
0:21:49
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24 sec
Military Family Advocate Program
Commissioner Hendon details the Military Family Advocate (MFA) program, a collaboration between DVS and NYC Public Schools to improve outreach and support for military families. - The program aims to …
0:22:14
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49 sec
Expanded family resources and diverse mental health care
Commissioner Hendon outlines the expanded resources and diverse mental health care offerings provided by DVS to support all aspects of military life and family needs. - DVS offers various mental …
0:23:03
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151 sec
Peer support and community-based programs
Commissioner Hendon describes peer support and community-based programs initiated by DVS to promote socialization and connectivity among veterans and their families. - DVS has issued an RFP for the PFC …
0:25:35
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53 sec
Local laws and mental health program reporting
Commissioner Hendon discusses recent local laws that impact mental health programs and reporting for veterans in New York City. - Local Law 39 requires DVS to submit an annual report …
0:26:29
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37 sec
Additional DVS programs and initiatives
Commissioner Hendon outlines several additional programs and initiatives run by the Department of Veterans Services to support veterans' mental health and overall well-being. - The Veterans Mental Health Coalition brings …
0:27:06
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59 sec
Recommendations for City Council support and recent legislation
Commissioner Hendon acknowledges recent legislative support from the City Council and offers recommendations for further assistance to veteran-focused initiatives. - Recently enacted legislation includes Local Laws 37, 38, 39, and …
0:28:06
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134 sec
Conclusion and contact information
Commissioner Hendon concludes his testimony by reaffirming DVS's commitment to supporting veterans and their families, and provides comprehensive contact information for accessing services. - DVS reiterates its commitment to providing …
0:30:20
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57 sec
Questioning PTSD prevalence among veteran groups
Council Member Holden questions the claim that veterans don't experience PTSD at higher rates than the general population. Commissioner Hendon clarifies the nuances in PTSD rates among different veteran groups …
0:31:22
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88 sec
DVS outreach efforts and database challenges
Commissioner Hendon explains DVS's methods for connecting veterans and their families to mental health services, including in-person events, virtual outreach, and community partnerships. The discussion also covers challenges with veteran …
0:32:50
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132 sec
Council Member Holden's personal experiences with veteran PTSD
Council Member Holden shares his personal experiences growing up with a father who suffered from PTSD after World War II. He emphasizes the impact on family members, particularly children, and …
0:35:02
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159 sec
Challenges in veteran self-identification and outreach
Commissioner Hendon discusses the challenges in veteran self-identification and outreach efforts. He provides statistics on veteran self-identification rates and explains DVS's strategies to improve outreach. - Only 24.1% of veterans …
0:37:41
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3 min
Transition process and mental health support for veterans
The discussion focuses on the transition process for veterans leaving active duty and the challenges in providing mental health support during this period. Various aspects of the transition, including VA …
0:40:54
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5 min
Call for increased funding and support for veteran mental health programs
Council Member Holden emphasizes the long-term impacts of PTSD on veterans and their families, calling for increased funding and support for veteran mental health programs. The discussion highlights the broader …
0:46:37
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6 min
Discussion of DVS agency budget and allocation
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) agency budget. Commissioner James Hendon provides a breakdown of the $6,614,000 budget, with $3,900,000 allocated for personnel and …
0:53:07
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17 sec
Challenges in tracking and accountability for veterans in the system
Council Member Linda Lee addresses the difficulties in tracking and maintaining accountability for veterans within the system. She expresses concerns about silos between city agencies and the efficient use of …
0:53:25
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68 sec
Overview of the Military Family Advocate program in public schools
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the Military Family Advocate program in public schools. Dr. Lauren D'Mello explains the program's implementation and expansion. - The program started as a pilot …
0:54:33
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116 sec
Partnerships with DOHMH and other agencies for health and mental health services
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about DVS partnerships with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and other agencies for health and mental health services. Dr. Lauren D'Mello explains …
0:56:29
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103 sec
Training programs and curriculum for military cultural competency
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the curriculum and development of training programs for military cultural competency. Dr. Lauren D'Mello explains the collaborative approach to curriculum development. - DVS partners …
0:58:12
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67 sec
Referral system and support for complex cases
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about the referral system and support for complex cases involving veterans and their families. Dr. Lauren D'Mello explains the process and provides an example. - …
0:59:21
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70 sec
Relationships with nonprofit organizations providing supportive services
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about DVS's relationships with nonprofit organizations providing supportive services. Dr. Lauren D'Mello explains the nature of these connections. - Many organizations are part of the …
1:00:31
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22 sec
Funding and support for peer support and community-based programs
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about funding and support for peer support and community-based programs. DVS officials explain their approach to supporting these programs. - DVS primarily collaborates with organizations …
1:00:53
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85 sec
DVS's role in coordinating and supporting events for veterans
Council Member Linda Lee inquires about DVS's role in coordinating events for veterans. Ellen Greeley, Assistant Commissioner for Policy & Strategic Partnerships, explains their approach. - DVS takes the lead …
1:02:18
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55 sec
Clarification on DVS's non-clinical role and partnerships
Jason Loughran, Senior Advisor of Intergovernmental Affairs, clarifies DVS's non-clinical role and how they work with partners. - DVS does not have clinical staff - Most partners approach DVS with …
1:03:13
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27 sec
Importance of data collection and outreach to veteran populations
Commissioner James Hendon emphasizes the importance of data collection in DVS's work with veterans. Council Member Linda Lee acknowledges the practical recommendations provided. - DVS has a better handle on …
1:03:40
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60 sec
Challenges in serving diverse veteran populations and adapting approaches
Commissioner James Hendon discusses the challenges in serving diverse veteran populations and how DVS is adapting its approach to address these challenges. - 71% of veterans are 55 or older, …
1:04:41
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121 sec
Discussing effective mental health programs for veterans and their families
Council Member Holden inquires about the most effective mental health programs for veterans and their families, mentioning his positive experience with RTM therapy. Lauren D'Mello from DVS responds that program …
1:06:45
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65 sec
Addressing the need for measuring outcomes in mental health programs
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of measuring outcomes for mental health programs to ensure effective allocation of resources. He questions how DVS evaluates program success and tracks the number …
1:07:50
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60 sec
Challenges in data collection and program evaluation for veteran mental health services
DVS staff discuss the challenges in collecting data and evaluating the effectiveness of mental health programs for veterans and their families. They emphasize the need to consult with experts and …
1:08:50
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82 sec
Local Law 39 and its potential impact on data collection
Commissioner Hendon briefly discusses how Local Law 39 will help address the challenges of data collection and outcome measurement for veteran mental health services. - Local Law 39 is expected …
1:10:13
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31 sec
VetConnect NYC and challenges in case management for veterans
Jason Loughran discusses VetConnect NYC, an early adopter of care coordination in the city, and highlights the challenges faced in case management for veterans' mental health services. - VetConnect NYC …
1:10:44
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75 sec
Unique challenges faced by reservists and their families
Council Member Holden inquires about the specific challenges faced by reservists and their families, particularly focusing on the discharge process and the sudden nature of deployments. - Discussion on whether …
1:11:59
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62 sec
Improving communication and data sharing with nonprofits receiving Schedule C funding
Jason Loughran and Commissioner Hendon discuss the need for better communication and data sharing mechanisms with nonprofits receiving Schedule C funding to improve outcome tracking for veteran services. - Suggestion …
1:13:01
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65 sec
Collaboration between City Council and DVS on data collection from nonprofits
Council Member Linda Lee proposes ways to improve collaboration between City Council and DVS on data collection from nonprofits receiving discretionary funding for veteran services. - Lee mentions that nonprofits …
1:14:07
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36 sec
Council Member Marmorato inquires about discretionary funding for veteran mental health initiatives
Council Member Kristy Marmorato asks about the best ways to use discretionary funding to support mental health initiatives for veterans. She specifically inquires whether it's better to allocate funds to …
1:14:45
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26 sec
Commissioner Hendon explains the process for veteran organizations to apply for funding
Commissioner James Hendon provides information on how veteran organizations can apply for funding through the NYC.gov/vetcouncilfunding website. He also mentions support available through LaGuardia Community College's Apex Accelerator for application …
1:15:11
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38 sec
Ellen Greeley discusses the need for military cultural competency training for mental health professionals
Ellen Greeley, Assistant Commissioner for Policy & Strategic Partnerships, emphasizes the critical need for training mental health professionals in military cultural competency. She highlights the current deficiency in this area …
1:15:50
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152 sec
Commissioner Hendon offers additional insights on training and funding allocation
Commissioner James Hendon builds on Ellen Greeley's comments, offering to provide military cultural competency training to any group in council members' districts. He also advises on a broader approach to …
1:18:22
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45 sec
Council Member Marmorato proposes connecting DVS with local mental health education programs
Council Member Kristy Marmorato responds to the information provided by offering to connect DVS with a local school that teaches mental health. She expresses interest in facilitating collaboration between DVS …
1:19:07
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25 sec
Ellen Greeley recommends consideration of the RTM program for veterans
Ellen Greeley briefly mentions the RTM (Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories) program as an important initiative to consider for veteran support. Council Member Marmorato acknowledges the information and concludes her questioning. …
1:19:32
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22 sec
Council Member Paladino inquires about veteran advocates in schools
Council Member Vickie Paladino raises the issue of having veteran advocates in every school, mentioning a pending legislation from 2022. She questions the current number of schools with advocates and …
1:20:03
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93 sec
Clarification of the current status of the military family advocate program in schools
There is a clarification of the actual numbers of schools and families served by the military family advocate program. The discussion reveals that the program's reach is more limited than …
1:21:36
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20 sec
Council Member Paladino proposes legislation for veteran advocates in all schools
Council Member Vickie Paladino discusses the potential for legislation to establish veteran advocates in all schools. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of children from military families and …
1:21:57
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140 sec
Discussion on the reach and impact of the military family advocate program
Lauren D'Mello explains that the military family advocate program has had a greater reach than initially expected, impacting not only military families but also staff and community members connected to …
1:24:17
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37 sec
Special education services for military families in NYC schools
The discussion shifts to the importance of special education services for military families in NYC schools. Examples are provided to illustrate how the military family advocate program has helped families …
1:24:54
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86 sec
Council Member Holden inquires about best practices from other cities
Council Member Robert F. Holden asks Commissioner Hendon about lessons DVS has learned from other cities or states regarding supporting the mental health of veterans' families. He specifically inquires about …
1:26:24
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30 sec
Commissioner Hendon emphasizes the importance of transition programs
Commissioner James Hendon highlights the critical importance of transition programs for veterans, drawing from experiences of other states. He emphasizes the need to establish early connections with veterans returning to …
1:26:55
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69 sec
NYC's Vet to Vet program inspired by LA County's model
Lauren D'Mello, Executive Director of Mental Health at DVS, explains how NYC has been inspired by LA County's Veteran Peer Access Network to create their own Vet to Vet program. …
1:28:04
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73 sec
Discussion on funding for veteran mentorship programs
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the importance of funded mentorship programs for veterans, particularly in relation to veteran treatment courts. They explore the potential of expanding such programs …
1:29:17
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124 sec
Commissioner Hendon highlights DVS funding opportunities for veteran organizations
Commissioner James Hendon emphasizes the availability of funding opportunities for veteran organizations through DVS. He encourages veteran groups to apply for these resources. - DVS is actively informing veteran groups …
1:31:23
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38 sec
NYC's veteran programs influencing other cities and states
Jason Loughran, Senior Advisor of Intergovernmental Affairs at DVS, highlights how NYC's veteran programs are influencing other cities and states across the country. - Many cities are looking to adopt …
1:32:01
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34 sec
Request for data and closing remarks
Council Member Holden concludes the hearing by requesting specific data on families involved in treatment and offering closing remarks. The DVS team agrees to follow up with the requested information. …
1:32:36
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31 sec
Testimony by Alicia Kershaw, Executive Director of GallopNYC
Alicia Kershaw, Executive Director of GallopNYC, testified about their therapeutic horsemanship programs for veterans and their families. She shared personal stories of veterans who have benefited from their services and …
1:35:54
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3 min
Council Member Holden praises GallopNYC's therapeutic horseback riding program
Council Member Robert F. Holden expresses strong support for GallopNYC's therapeutic horseback riding program for veterans. He emphasizes the program's benefits in helping veterans bond with family members and providing …
1:39:37
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95 sec
Discussion on expanding GallopNYC's program and future plans
Council Member Holden and Alicia Kershaw discuss the potential for expanding GallopNYC's therapeutic horseback riding program. They explore the possibility of presenting a capital plan for expansion in the near …
1:41:12
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40 sec
Council Member Ariola praises GallopNYC's impact in Howard Beach
Council Member Joann Ariola expresses strong support for GallopNYC, praising its vital work with veterans, children with autism, seniors, and volunteers. She highlights how the organization has transformed Sunrise Stables …
1:41:52
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58 sec
Testimony by Coco Culhane, Executive Director of Veteran Advocacy Project
Coco Culhane, Executive Director of Veteran Advocacy Project, emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making in veteran support programs and urged the council to focus on identifying and funding existing successful …
1:43:02
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160 sec
Council Member Holden inquires about outcomes and resource allocation
Council Member Holden engages in a brief Q&A session, responding to testimony from the Veteran Advocacy Project. He seeks information on program outcomes and optimal resource allocation. - Asks about …
1:45:42
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27 sec
Council Member Holden comments on DVS challenges and expresses interest in further discussion
Council Member Holden remarks on the challenges faced by the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and expresses interest in further discussion with the Veteran Advocacy Project representative. - Highlights the …
1:46:09
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25 sec
Testimony by Margaret Gambaro, Manager of Access Initiatives at Intrepid Museum
Margaret Gambaro, Manager of Access Initiatives at Intrepid Museum, testified about the museum's programs and initiatives supporting veterans and their families, particularly those dealing with PTSD. She highlighted various free …
1:46:41
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3 min
Council member's appreciation for Intrepid Museum's veteran programs
Council Member Holden expresses appreciation for the Intrepid Museum's programs that encourage veterans to talk about their service. He emphasizes the importance of these programs for veterans and their families. …
1:50:06
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48 sec
Discussion on expanding Intrepid Museum programs for veterans and families
Council Member Holden engages in a Q&A session with Margaret Gambaro about expanding programs at the Intrepid Museum for veterans and their families. They discuss various initiatives and their impact …
1:50:54
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4 min
Council member's personal experience with ineffective veteran support programs
Council Member Holden responds to a question about his personal experience with ineffective veteran support programs and the impact of false hope on veterans and their families. - Holden acknowledges …
1:55:12
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78 sec
Testimony by Mount Lacey, Veteran
Mount Lacey, a veteran, provides critical testimony about his recent negative experiences with the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and calls for accountability rather than increased resources. He describes a …
1:56:31
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3 min
Council Member Holden addresses veteran's concerns and promises assistance
Council Member Holden engages in a dialogue with Mount Lacey, a veteran who expressed concerns about DVS services and being barred from One Center Street. Holden promises to help resolve …
1:59:51
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91 sec
Testimony by Dr. Justin Pomerenke, Clinical Psychologist at NYU Langone Health Military Family Center
Dr. Justin Pomerenke from NYU Langone Health's Military Family Center testified about the center's work in providing mental health services to veterans and their families, particularly those dealing with PTSD. …
2:01:50
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133 sec
Council member inquires about PTSD effects on veterans' families
Council Member Holden asks Dr. Pomerenke about the symptoms and challenges faced by family members of veterans with PTSD. Dr. Pomerenke explains the various issues observed in spouses, parents, siblings, …
2:04:03
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146 sec
Discussion on NYU's treatment programs and resource allocation
Council Member Holden inquires about NYU's treatment programs, wait lists, and recommendations for resource allocation. Dr. Pomerenke discusses the high demand for couples therapy and the clinic's efforts to connect …
2:06:30
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169 sec
Testimony by Sergio Villaverde, Chair of Veterans Affairs Committee at Bronx Community Board 8
Sergio Villaverde, a veteran and Chair of the Veterans Affairs Committee at Bronx Community Board 8, provided testimony on important issues facing veterans in New York City. He emphasized three …
2:09:48
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4 min
Council Member Holden discusses the importance of veteran outreach and identification
Council Member Robert F. Holden emphasizes the critical nature of outreach to veterans who don't self-identify, acknowledging the challenges in connecting with these individuals. He proposes innovative ideas for reaching …
2:14:03
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115 sec
