Ian Brickey: (202) 675-6270, ian.brickey@sierraclub.org
Shannon MacColl: shannon.maccoll@veterans.ny.gov
ALBANY, NY -- Today, the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services and the Outdoor Rx Coalition announced a partnership to address barriers that prevent veterans recovering from service-related trauma from accessing New York public lands and waters.
The new partnership will increase veterans’ access to New York’s public lands and waters, boost the availability of effective outdoor programs for veterans, and allow for improved communication between State agencies and the many organizations serving veterans.
“We are pleased to join forces with the Division of Veterans’ Services to advance this critical effort,” said Lt. Col. (ret.) Aaron Leonard, Chair of the Outdoor Rx Coalition. “Working collectively will allow us to reach those veterans most in need of the healing and respite only nature can provide.”
The New York State Division of Veterans' Services (NYS DVS) is New York's advocacy agency for all veterans, service members, and their families. The Outdoor Rx Coalition, which focuses on successfully implementing New York’s Outdoor Rx Act, perfectly meets the goal of NYS DVS to provide the best and highest quality care and services to New York’s veteran families. NYS DVS is excited to partner with the Coalition and to continue its ongoing collaboration with community partners since the passage of this important legislation in 2020.
“We are so thankful for the ongoing work of the Outdoor Rx Coalition and we are excited to formalize our partnership to expand access to outdoor therapies and public lands,” said Viviana DeCohen, Director of the New York State Division of Veterans’ Services. “This collaboration will allow us to continue our work to ensure all veterans, including historically under-served populations, feel welcome and have entry to these life-changing therapies and programs.”
Studies show that veterans who participate in outdoor adventure and experiential education programs report significant reduction in depression and anxiety as well as an increased willingness to seek mental health care.
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.