Equipping communities with proven programs and supports
The Institute for Military & Veteran Family Wellness designs, tests, and delivers programs that build resilience and strengthen support networks for service members, veterans, and their families. Our team transforms research into practical solutions, tailoring every initiative to the real needs of the military and veteran community.
We advance mental health and community support through:
- Innovative research
- Training in evidence-based practices
- Program development and implementation
Partnering with organizations nationwide, we develop innovative resources for community members with unique needs while enhancing support systems for all military and veteran families. By connecting expertise with lived experience, we deliver lasting wellness and measurable impact.
Area of Focus
The Institute addresses the social support and behavioral health needs faced by military and veteran families. By fostering collaboration among experts and community members, we drive the development of practical solutions and inform best practices that elevate wellbeing across the military and veteran community.
Research & Evaluation
We lead and collaborate on research that advances mental health, social support, and well-being for service members, veterans, and their families. Guided by the priorities of the military community, our studies focus on patient-centered outcomes and real-world impact. We also conduct program evaluation, both in-house and with partners, to ensure every initiative delivers measurable benefits and truly meets community needs.
Programs
We deliver a variety of free programs supporting the wellness needs of military and veteran families, developed in partnership with community stakeholders and experts. Our in-house initiatives are led through the Veteran Spouse Network—a national program that fosters peer support, meaningful connections, and practical wellness strategies for military and veteran families. Every program is rigorously evaluated, and proven models are disseminated to maximize impact across the community.
Engagement
We empower the military and veteran community through targeted training, educational opportunities, and collaborative services. By working alongside organizations and experts, we strengthen the resources and support available to families nationwide.
Addressing Wellness
Well-being is multifaceted and always evolving. Using SAMHSA’s 8 Dimensions of Wellness—emotional, financial, social, spiritual, occupational, physical, intellectual, and environmental—we take a holistic approach to supporting military and veteran families.
We know priorities shift with life’s changes, and a perfect balance isn’t always possible. Progress or challenges in one area often ripple across the others. That’s why we consider all eight dimensions as a whole when developing recommended supports, so solutions adapt to the dynamic needs of our community.
Emotional
Managing feelings and behaviors while coping with life’s challenges.
Environmental
Occupying and maintaining environments that support well-being
Financial
Achieving satisfaction and security with current and future financial situations
Intellectual
Expanding creativity, knowledge, and skills through lifelong learning
Occupational
Finding fulfillment and enrichment through meaningful work
Physical
Prioritizing activity, nutrition, sleep, and physical health.
Social
Building connection, belonging, and a reliable support system
Spiritual
Cultivating purpose, meaning, and alignment with personal values