Western Mass Veterans Treatment Court Celebrates 4 Years of Operations with Graduations

In recognition of four years of operation and to observe Veteran’s Day,  the Western Mass Veterans Treatment Court located in the Holyoke District Court at 20 Court Plaza, Holyoke will hold a graduation for two successful participants Nov. 13, 2019 at 2:30 p.m. 

Presiding justice Judge Laurie Macleod will oversee the court session, including the graduations.  The public is welcome to attend.

The WMVTC serves court-involved veterans from Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin County.  Veterans charged with serious offenses and who have mental health and/or substance abuse issues are eligible to apply for admission into the two-year, intensive program.  Participants receive strict supervision from the Probation Department and a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan through the Veteran’s Administration, Soldier On, and other community partners.  Since its launch in 2015 the court has supervised approximately 70 participants and has seen 34 successful graduations for both male and female veterans.

In addition to the WMVTC team of court and treatment professionals, the WMTC has partnered with a volunteer Mentorship Program.  Mentors (mostly retired veterans) give their time to participants through positive pro-social interaction and by giving the participants a person outside the legal system they can turn to for guidance and support.

The Mentorship Program is always looking for new volunteers to assist their fellow Veterans.  If you are interested in volunteering as a mentor please contact the Mentorship Program coordinator John Sullivan at johnvetmentor@gmail.com