The Stronger Together Standdown Impact

In an inspiring show of unity, this year’s Stronger Together Standdown brought together veterans, active-duty members, and the community for a day of hope, healing, and connection. What began as a local outreach event turned into a powerful movement of compassion and collaboration among community organizations, treatment providers, and service members. 

The standdown was hosted at the fairgrounds of Fort Walton Beach and welcomed hundreds of participants, including veterans experiencing homelessness, active-duty service members preparing for transition, and community members seeking assistance. 

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The event was coordinated through partnerships between the Panhandle Warrior Partnership America’s Warrior Partnership, Step-One Automotive, Banyon, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Mental Health Association of Fort Walton Beach and the Veteran Treatment Court, local VA services, mental health providers, housing agencies, educational programs, and healthcare organizations. Each group played a vital role in addressing the complex challenges that many veterans and homeless individuals face, from trauma and addiction to unemployment and lack of stable housing. 

Attendees received access to a wide range of on-site services, including: 

• Mental Health and Substance Use Counseling – Licensed clinicians offered confidential screenings, crisis intervention, and referrals for ongoing therapy. 

• Housing Assistance – Local housing authorities and nonprofits helped individuals’ complete applications for transitional and permanent housing programs. 

• Educational and Job Readiness Support – Community colleges and workforce agencies provided information on training opportunities, resume assistance, and job placement programs. 

• Medical, Vision, and Dental Care – Volunteer healthcare professionals provided free exams, eyeglasses, and preventive care. 

• Legal Aid and Veteran Treatment Court Resources – Veterans facing legal barriers connected directly with case managers and court liaisons to receive guidance and support toward rehabilitation and stability. 

One participant, a formerly homeless Army veteran named James, shared how the standdown became a turning point in his life. “I came here looking for a meal and ended up finding a path forward,” he said. Through the event, James connected with the Veteran Treatment Court, entered a local housing program, and began receiving mental health services. Six months later, he’s employed full-time and mentoring other veterans in recovery. 

Another attendee, Sergeant Thompson, an active-duty service member preparing to transition from the military, connected with a local counselor and educational advisor who helped her enroll in a certification program.  

“It opened my eyes to the resources available before discharge,” she said. “I’m grateful I don’t have to go through this transition alone.” 

By the end of the day: 

-244 people attended (Veterans, public, vendors, volunteers)  

-44 organizations exhibited  

-93 veterans were served (+ 12 veteran volunteers = 105  veterans)   

-8 veteran family members/caregivers were served  

-15 Homeless Veterans were housed as a result of the Standdown 

The success of this standdown demonstrated the power of collaboration and compassion. It reminded everyone that when a community stands together - bridging the gap between veterans, active-duty personnel, and those in crisis - true transformation is possible.