06/17/2026
: The VA Veteran Sponsorship Initiative (VSI) is a public-private partnership between federal and community partners that provides VA-certified, volunteer, peer sponsors and connection to community services. VA researchers assessed more than 1,000 active-duty Soldiers who transitioned out of the military in 2023, half of whom participated in VSI. Those in the VSI program were 2% less likely to have a su***de attempt and 20% more likely to use VA primary care within 10 months of leaving the Army. The findings demonstrate that VSI can be a valuable tool to support Veterans during the transition to civilian life. (International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Apr. 17, 2026)
https://www.research.va.gov/news_briefs/news_brief.cfm...