Ramsey County is on the hunt for military vets to help their fellow comrades-in-arms through the Veterans Treatment Court (VTC). The program offers an alternative to the usual legal rigmarole for vets who've ended up on the wrong side of the law, by connecting them with services tailored to address the unique struggles that can come post-service.
These volunteer mentors play a key role, dedicating up to an hour each week to be a beacon of guidance, whether it's through a call, a text, or a meeting face-to-face. The goal is simple, yet profound: support a fellow veteran on their journey to healing. Qualifying mentors must be veterans with an honorable discharge and possess the ability to pass a background check. A commitment to serve for at least one year and complete necessary training are also among the requisites detailed by Ramsey County Veterans Services.
Participating in the VTC isn't just about avoiding the gavel—it's about tapping into resources for mental health, substance abuse, and other service-related issues that may have nudged these vets toward the courthouse steps in the first place.
Mentors don't just show up and wing it; they're equipped through required training sessions and continuing education opportunities throughout their tenure. It's hard work, especially when you're striving to mend not just legal woes but the unseen injuries of service. If you're a vet looking to make a tangible difference in a peer's life—and you've got the heart, the time, and the all-clear background—the county's call for mentors might just be your call to duty.
