Southern Oregon Stand Down

September 17, 18, 19, 2010

Our Mission

To assist those disadvantaged and homeless veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces by bringing together over 40 local, state, federal and other community resources to one location. Services include: V.A. medical and mental health screening, eyeglasses, dental, V.A. and Social Security benefits counseling, assistance with legal issues through a homeless court, substance abuse counseling and intervention, employment and vocational counseling, 3 meals a day, food stamps, haircuts, showers, a safe place to sleep, and cold weather clothing. The ultimate goal is to help these veterans transition into an independent, productive life in our society.

 What is a Stand Down and It’s History

“Stand Down” is a military term for time of rest and recovery for exhausted combat units. Today, “Stand Down” refers to the grassroots, community-based intervention program designed to help our nation’s disadvantaged and homeless veterans combat life on the streets.  Currently each year there are over 100 Stand Downs scheduled around the United States. The concept of a hand-up, not a hand-out is carried out through the work of hundreds of volunteers and organizations across the nation.

 The first Stand Down was held in San Diego during the summer of 1988.  It was the brainchild of 2 Vietnam Veterans who saw that the homeless crisis was increasing among the veteran population. It is estimated that over 125,000 homeless veterans have received assistance from the various Stand Downs nationwide.

 Our History

The first Southern Oregon Stand Down (SOSD) was held in 1992 at the VA in White City. This will be the 19th year that SOSD will hold the event. During these 19 years, we have assisted over 8,200 homeless and disadvantaged veterans.  In addition to all of the services provided by the 40+ service providers and 250+ volunteers, we serve over 1,400 meals.

 Southern Oregon Stand Down is a Non-profit 501(c)3 organization.