New Program Helps Veterans Who Face Changes In Life

When people leave the military, it can sometimes be tough to transition back into the world of civilians. Because of that, The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs is starting a new program to help make that transition easier and show veterans all the great things our state can offer them. 

The great thing about this new program is it can help people learn about all the resources available here in Oklahoma, from anywhere in the world. 

Robert Cole hangs out at the Coffee Bunker once a week and says the Coffee Bunker is one of the places that helped him get back on his feet. He says he's had ups and downs after his military service, and he knows how important programs like this new one can be. 

It’s called The Oklahoma Specific Transition Education Program or OKSTEP for short. 

"I feel this new program is set up in a similar fashion to help veterans separated from the military also be successful in their mission to be a happy, healthy, and productive member of society," Cole said.  

He says programs like this are necessary because at times, veterans feel forgotten. 

Randall Coon, with the ODVA says the new transition program is to be a one-stop shop for service members and veterans to help them discover what makes Oklahoma a great place to live. From our work and schooling options to the low cost of living and tons of great things to do to keep people busy during their free time. 

"We provide guidance and direction for all service members whether you've been out one month, one year, ten years, it's there," Coon said.  

The program helps veterans not just after they get out of the military, but is available for their entire lifetime, as their needs change over time. Veterans will also have access to online, skill-based training with more than 5,000 topics. Cole says programs like this are a safety net. 

"You talk to Vietnam veterans, and they talk about the way they were treated when they were brought home. I haven't experienced anything of the kind and I feel this will go a long way towards that never happening to any other veteran that ever comes home from anything that happens in the future,” Cole said. 

He says he plans on checking out the program and seeing how it can help him move forward. 

To learn more about OKSTEP, CLICK HERE.