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SVF Graduate
CW – 2013
“To fellow veterans, if you need help, come and get it. Don’t wait until it’s too late.”
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SVF Graduate
SM – 2013
“I also want to thank all mentors, staff, instructors, as well as all the other past present and future volunteers that take time out, … from their personal lives to help us veterans get back on track.”
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SVF Graduate
KP – 2014
“I had let an incident in my life define me. It took a DUI and this program to remind me that I am so much more.”
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SVF Graduate
MM – 2013
“I can never thank you enough for what all of you have done for me and all other veterans.”
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SVF Graduate
SS - 2017
“It is with great humility that I express my deepest appreciation and gratitude for your support, care, and concern.
When a member of a community falls, members of the community step in and help the fallen get back up…. Thank you for everything.”
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SVF Graduate
JV
“I learned a lot of little things during forum that helped expand my thinking. The information I received allowed me to look at myself and others with an enlightened point of view.…
Moreover I am thankful for everyone who volunteers their efforts to this cause. I am a better person because of your help in keeping this program running.”
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SVF Graduate
CR – 2011
“Having the opportunity to participate in Veteran’s court has made a big impact on my life. As a result of Veteran’s Court, attending the forums and having a mentor, I was able to get my life back on the right track.…Thank you for allowing me this opportunity to turn my life around and work towards my goals and dreams in an alcohol free, clear mindset.”
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SVF Graduate
RP – 2013
“Over the past year I have been given a wealth of knowledge that I would have never made an attempt to discover on my own.
For this, I will be forever grateful to the countless number of People who are a part of this Veterans Program.”
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SVF Graduate
JW – 2011
One of the most important pieces of information I’ve take away from my involvement is the number of individuals, (community agencies, military oriented volunteers, other veterans) that are available to help.
…. Above all, I learned there is a network of people in Spokane that match the cultural fit I miss from my military experience and want to see veterans successfully transition into a satisfying and safe lifestyle.”
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SVF Graduate
TY
Veterans forums over the past year have been enlightening, informative, warm, and above all a sort of refuge for the many who wander thru life lost, as vets in our country.
I’ve been there, lived out of a backpack on the streets, held a sign for money on snowy Christmas eve’s, wondered where my next meal would come from. It’s hard as hell finding a place u can rest at night, that’s safe, so u don’t get beat up in your sleep.
The veterans court system, forums and the undaunting efforts of those involved, make u feel safe, offer you guidance and tools to cope and fix problem areas, and won’t let you go hungry.”
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SVF Graduate
RM – 2013
“So, thank you all again for not leaving this veteran left behind.”
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SVF Graduate
SM – 2014
“This is a Fantastic program that should be in all states. It really helps a veteran move on from their troubles…I hope the Veterans Court [Forum] grows like a wildfire, and I am glad to be a part of it…”
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SVF Graduate
DM – 2014
“This program worked for me because it’s the only place where the 4 essential parts of recovery and reintegration are pulled together into one coordinated effort…. For me the 4 essential parts began with: getting priority access to care: If you can’t get to the care you need or get the right care you can never get started….The second essential part for me was Treatment…I have only good things to say about my treatment….The VA helped me get my life and my family back – to them I am forever grateful….The third essential part for me was the Court Review Process…you restored my beliefs that our courts help people just as well as they can administer justice…The last essential part of this program for me is the Mentorship Program and Forums. I intentionally used the word “is” because the guest speakers at the forums are awesome – it would be impossible for any one person to access those type of people on their own.”
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SVF Graduate
RL – 2012
“I can’t thank all of you I just want you to all know that this has given me another chance at life.
I will be truly thankful to each and every one of you that were a part of this.”
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SVF Graduate
JK – 2017
“Thank you for providing such a unique and needed service for our veterans from the greatest generation to the latest generation.
I feel very fortunate to have been able to participate in the Court and Forum process and am thankful for the opportunity to do so…. I hope to come back as a new mentor and give back a little of what I have been given. God bless you all, thanks from the bottom of my heart.”
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SVF Graduate
JK – 2016
“I would like to thank the Veteran’s Court for everything it has done for me. It has really been a great experience, more than I could ever have imagined.
I would never expect a Court system to be so rewarding. The monthly forums are filled with volunteers who truly care, and who want to help Veteran’s.
It’s a very positive atmosphere, filled with camaraderie. It has given me a sense of belonging that I haven’t felt since my time in service.”
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SVF Graduate
SK – 2013
“For me this court [Forum] was an amazing opportunity for me to step back and look at my life and the direction it was going.
I found that I did not like or actually approve of the turn my life was taking. This program gave me the information and tools to re direct my goals and set a new path for the rest of my life.”
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SVF Graduate
CH – 2017
“I thank the court, your honor, and all members of this veteran’s association and Forum to give people like me the help they need and a second chance for a positive life after the military.
I look forward to growing more, making new veteran friends, and learning more about myself in the months to come.”
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SVF Graduate
H-2013
“I have met many caring and real people throughout the course of this program. It was wonderful to feel a part of something where others understand your struggles, there to genuinely help you and make a difference in your life.
I never once felt judged or looked down upon for my mistakes, instead there was open arms, listening ears and friends to help at every turn.”
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SVF Graduate
G – 2013
“These people u see around you (VET Court & Forum), realize you’re different, they don’t make excuses for you, but give you the tools it takes to change, to recognize, and to adapt to the new you… they see the demons that you carry, they honestly want to help… look at what is being given to you, the guidance, instruction, and directions to places with even more people waiting to help you… I can tell u from my own personal experience, it’s one hell of an honor to be here.”
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SVF Graduate
JG-2016
“I am very thankful for this veterans court [Forum] and I promise I will be a mentor. It’s my personal duty to give back to the program that gave me a second chance. I made it. Thank you to my mentor and thank you to everyone working in this program.”
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SVF Graduate
RH – 2017
Throughout this program I have been given the tools and knowledge to make wiser choices to better myself. I have learned my lesson and have improved my life.”
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SVF Graduate
JS – 2016
“…after my time overseas, I had grown accustomed to having this comradery or togetherness during my tour with a platoon and a battalion, this type of feeling I grew to love like it was a tangible object I could hold onto forever, making it a part of my life, and making it a safety net to fall on when I needed it.
So, when I finally came back to the United States and was finally released from my demobilization, that connection I had made over the deployment was severed, completely, and then the feeling of a hole within myself began.
However, what the Veterans Court [Forum] has shown me is that I am in fact not alone, that I wasn’t left behind, and that people do care about what I do with my life even complete strangers.”
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SVF Graduate
G – 2013
“These people u see around you (VET Court & Forum), realize you’re different, they don’t make excuses for you, but give you the tools it takes to change, to recognize, and to adapt to the new you… they see the demons that you carry, they honestly want to help… look at what is being given to you, the guidance, instruction, and directions to places with even more people waiting to help you… I can tell u from my own personal experience, it’s one hell of an honor to be here.”
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SVF Graduate
JG-2016
“I am very thankful for this veterans court [Forum] and I promise I will be a mentor. It’s my personal duty to give back to the program that gave me a second chance. I made it. Thank you to my mentor and thank you to everyone working in this program.”
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SVF Graduate
TD – 2012
“So, I want to say thank you too all of you. For where 2 or more Veterans come to gather, I will always have family.”
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SVF Graduate
CC-2011
“…the most important process of the whole ideal with the Veteran’s Court and that is the Veteran’s Forum…. It has enriched and changed my life and given to me the tools to keep my life and the know-how to help deal with my personal problems.
This year has gone by quickly yet has been so helpful, now it is my turn to pay it forward and to help another veteran who needs the help that I needed.”
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SVF Graduate
EC – 2016
“…nobody ever wants to be in trouble with the law. But in a time where I found myself in that very situation, I am grateful that this program was willing to let me participate in it…. I feel this program has made a positive difference in my life, and the experiences I have had during the course of this program have helped me to become a more mentally, physically, and emotionally capable man.”
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SVF Graduate
KC
“Without this program I have no doubt I would have kept drinking and making bad decisions. I now feel I have the tools and support to be successful and be a better husband, father, and person overall.”
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SVF Graduate
JB – 2012
“From my mentor, to my probation officer, to my public defender, to the judges who have the humbleness to mingle with all of us that have messed up, and all of the speakers, also veterans at all of the forums, I have experienced love and caring and appreciation that I didn’t believe that I deserved. And all of this, in an atmosphere of dignity and respect.”
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SVF Graduate
RC – 2012
“I knew that the Veteran court had to be a blessing in disguise but didn’t know the potential of opportunity it had behind it. With the support and resources that I have acquired from the forums and my mentor I have gone back to school and re-established my relationship with my wife and family. So again, I say thank you for everything that you have done for me I will never forget it.”
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SVF Graduate
LC- 2013
“I think the veterans court is a great thing and I hope it continues to grow exponentially over the years so that it may help those Veterans (like myself) who are lost and in need of a listening ear and a little bit of guidance. Thank you.”
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SVF Graduate
JA
“It’s hard to imagine where I would have been without all the support and guidance that I have received here. This program is not a cure or a free hand out but with a little hard work and determination anyone can find help here and I believe that all probation programs should be done like this one.”
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SVF Graduate
TB
“This program has given me a second chance, not only on my criminal record but on my life. I strongly believe I would either be in jail or dead if it weren’t for the support, I have received over the last year…. I hope this program continues to grow in the years to come. I would like to see my Veteran brothers and sisters receive the support they need.”
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SVF Graduate
JB – 2012
“From my mentor, to my probation officer, to my public defender, to the judges who have the humbleness to mingle with all of us that have messed up, and all of the speakers, also veterans at all of the forums, I have experienced love and caring and appreciation that I didn’t believe that I deserved. And all of this, in an atmosphere of dignity and respect.”
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SVF Graduate
MD – 2016
Being part of the Forums has been a game changer. With the lessons learned there and given the opportunity to go through Mentor Boot Camp was amazing.
I will never forget the names, faces and the memories of all who have sat in this courtroom over the 15 months. Thank you for being part of this experience.”
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SVF Graduate
RN – 2014
“…one of the biggest things that stands out to me about this program is the incredible experience that the forum provides. Being educational, informative, as well as entertaining, it offers membership to a strong community of welcoming veterans – and more importantly provides a vital sense of connection for the individual veteran that may be suffering and so direly needs it! I feel so blessed to have been exposed to such a wonderful group of people with the genuine desire to help others succeed.
I truly admire what has been built here and proudly solute not only those responsible for its creation, but those that carry it forward on a daily basis! If this program has taught me anything, it is that although our experiences in military service as well as many experiences in our individual lives can often give us deep wounds that leave no visible scars – we have also been given something much more important – we have been given each other!”
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SVF Graduate
RA – 2014
“I wish for the Court and Forum to grow strong & successful so they can help many veterans. It’s a wonderful system that has been created! Good on You!”
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SVF Graduate
AA
“Through this process, I found a lot of problems I didn’t know I had.
But with those problems came solutions and support. For the first time in a while, I was getting help with my issues, whereas in the military, we’re usually just instructed to “Lock it up!” And “Get the job done”.
I can’t tell you what this has meant to my Family and I, this has truly been a privilege and I feel lucky to have been a part of this process and watch it grow into what it is today.”
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SVF Graduate
RR – 05-18-17
“I made a mistake; I broke a law that I swore as a veteran to defend and protect those around me. We were all trained to do just that. And through this system, Veterans Court, we continue our training, through classes, the VA, and Forum where we talk with others who know our problems and pains.
I’ve been given the opportunity to better myself – and that’s what I’ve done… I was allowed the choice of a mentor, a battle buddy, a person I can trust with my life to stand beside me. They are all here to lead from the front, to guide and show me the way, offering their hand should I stumble or require assistance. I am not being pushed nor will they carry me on my journey.”
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SVF Graduate
CS – 2014
“It is with great excitement and humility I am writing this letter today to request my graduation in the veterans Court… I am honored to have been a part of this amazing program.
When I first entered the Veterans Forum, I had no clue this program even existed, today I find myself very thankful for the program and the people who put some [sic] much work into it.”
SVF Graduated: PS – 2015
My thanks to the VA Forum, I am quiet and pretty much a loner, but it only took a couple Forums to realize what an impressive group and organization it is from top to bottom. My thanks to all the staff, volunteers, speakers. I have always been proud to be a Vet, the Forum humbled ME and made even more so. Thank all of you.” -
SVF Graduate
CH – 2016
“The VET Court is like a 5-way team: Myself and any Vet we’re given the opportunity to be educated, Vet Center, Forums, A mentor to discuss good or problem situations, a PO to mediate between attorney- prosecutor-court (monitor Progress) and a Judge to oversee it all.
Unlike other courts, this system seems to be designed to assist an individual instead of just awarding fines and punishment. My impression is if you’re sincere, the court is willing to give a person the chance to get back on track.”
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SVF Graduate
LS - 01/12/17
“My life was a mess…alcohol played a big role in my life. Janice from the V.A. introduced me to VET Court. I agreed to the terms hoping to be a better person.
I hope someday I can return the favor to this great program. Otherwise, I probably wouldn’t be here if not for this Vets program.
I would also like to tell veterans that are in this program, be true to yourself and this program DOES work if you give it a chance. I’m proof of this.”
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SVF Mentor
“My participation as a SVF Mentor in support of 16 veteran defendants during the past six years has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have seen that my efforts to develop relationship and to encourage and reinforce positive efforts has made a stabilizing contribution to these veterans as they struggled to recover from the debilitating symptoms of PTSD, TBI and MST, and to put their life on a positive track.
My experience as a veteran Mentor has been a “two-way street”. I have benefited personally by becoming part of the SVF community of veterans and by developing rewarding relationships with my brother veterans. When you guide/mentor others you are also healed.”
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SVF Graduate
JH – 2017
“Over the past year I went from being homeless and hopeless to having a stable living condition and being excited for what the future holds. The resources made available through this court and the forum have played an integral role in this transition. I believe I am ready to continue this without the supervision provided by the court because I am aware that even though it is not there, I can still reach out to the people who are a part of this program for help if things become uncertain in my life again.”
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SVF Graduate
JR - 2017
“I am a happy man today! There are hurdles to negotiate and, I do not need alcohol to make my way. I have had a life of troubles, and alcohol was my crutch. Not anymore.”
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SVF Graduate
1. I am not sick or broken. I am me.
2. It’s OK to walk away from confrontation.
3. When I am stressed/triggered – Go workout.
4. We are not alone.
5. It’s not magic. Maintain – work to maintain”. -
SVF Graduate
“I would never expect a Court system to be so rewarding. The monthly Forums are filled with volunteers who truly care and want to help veterans. It is a very positive atmosphere, filled with camaraderie. It has given me a sense of belonging that I haven’t felt since my time in the service”.
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SVF Graduate
LS – 2017
“My life was a mess…alcohol played a big role in my life…. I hope someday I can return the favor to this great program. Otherwise, I probably wouldn’t be here if not for this Vets program.
I would also like to tell veterans that are in this program, be true to yourself and this program DOES work if you give it a chance. I’m proof of this.”
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SVF Graduate
CH - 10/25/16
“The VET Court is like a 5-way team: Myself and any Vet we’re given the opportunity to be educated, Vet Center, Forums, A mentor to discuss good or problem situations, a PO to mediate between attorney- prosecutor-court (monitor Progress) and a Judge to oversee it all.
Unlike other courts, this system seems to be designed to assist an individual instead of just awarding fines and punishment. My impression is if you’re sincere, the court is willing to give a person the chance to get back on track.”
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SVF Graduate
MD – 11-03-16
“Being part of the Forums has been a game changer. With the lessons learned there and given the opportunity to go through Mentor Boot Camp was amazing.
I will never forget the names, faces and the memories of all who have sat in this courtroom over the 15 months. Thank you for being part of this experience.”
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SVF Graduate
regular customer
“I was lost on the wrong path, looking for answers and something to hide my pain and anger through alcohol. That was the wrong way.
The program has been a blessing in disguise. I had to hit rock bottom to see a much-needed reality check and understand the seriousness of my actions that impacted my life and my family”.
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Mentor - MC
Senior Mentor
“5 years ago, I was introduced to the SVF, when it was a sparkle in the eye of the veteran community. I’ve had the honor of watching this program grow to the successful organization that it is today.
Not only have I seen the changes in the lives of countless defendants/mentees, but I’ve also seen the change in myself and the other mentors in the program. It’s empowered me to be a better veteran advocate and lead a life that I can give back more to my veteran community in ways that I couldn’t have ever imagined.
I’ve been able to reach out and place the right resources needed to provided for our mentee’s and mentor’s as well. I get a great satisfaction of knowing that my mission is not short lived and that I’m able to pave forward with such an amazing team of carrying people who are on the same road as myself."
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Dan Kleckner
Member of Board, Northwest Golfers for Warriors, News Anchor, KHQ-TV
“It is without hesitation that our organization, Northwest Golfers for Warriors, donate proceeds from Dan Kleckner’s Golf Classic to Spokane Veterans Forum. We have seen firsthand the “boots on the ground” support SVF gives to our local Vets. Offering veterans, a second chance through guidance and education about life choices is the type of mentoring SVF delivers.”
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Dr. Mark Young, SVF Speaker
Professor, School of Education, Gonzaga University
“I was walking through Hemmingson (new student union building on campus) a few moments ago and I came across this table. I read each description about a soldier who had lost their life. Most had PTSD and most had committed suicide. You and your group do such valuable work. Glad I can be a small part of it.”
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Col Brian Newberry
USAF RET., Former Commander 92 ARW
“Veterans Forum is a force for good, a forum for redemption and veteran’s support. Having been acquainted with the program for the past year, I am most impressed with the dozens of mentors who rehabilitate veterans who have committed misdemeanors in our society. With an incredible recidivism rate of less than five percent, the mentors are extraordinary roles models steering the veterans back to their past military core values. Backed by a focused and thoughtful curriculum, Veterans Forum is a shining example of smart justice which gives a second chance to those who defended our country living up to the motto “Leave no veteran behind.” Judge Vance Peterson’s inspiration, Judge Fred Aronow’s direction and Program Director Bernice Gutman’s stewardship has made Spokane’s Veterans Forum the largest veterans court in the nation. March on Veterans Forum, your success is an American achievement.”
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Michael Cox
Community Colleges of Spokane and Vetcorps
“The Spokane Veterans Forum (SVF) is a great program. Due to the efforts of the SVF veterans are getting the help they need if it be Alcohol Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) instead of jail time. I have seen firsthand how the SVF has helped the veterans in the Spokane community with the classes they have at the monthly meetings as well as having community organizations like Vetcorps and Spokane Community College present to help veterans achieve their goal of getting into higher education, which could lead to a better paying job or a job in general. In my capacity as a Vetcorps Navigator stationed at Spokane Community College I get the privilege to not only help them apply for college and get into a program but also connect them with resources in the community as well as state and federal Veterans Administration.
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Seth Maier
Veteran Case Manager at WorkSource Spokane
“The Spokane Veterans Court Forum has been a great collaborative partner for WorkSource and other support organizations who serve veterans. The court/forum provides support services that help mentors assist veterans, who’ve made mistakes but want to become productive, working members of society. Their services reduce recidivism and allow veterans to restore their honor, respect and dignity. The Court/Forum’s mission directly supports and aligns with Employment Security’s vision ‘The right job for each person, every time’”
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