Wounded Warrior Project’s (WWP) Warrior Care Network has just received international applause. This groundbreaking initiative, which helps veterans heal from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health challenges, is being honored with the 2024 Sarah Haley Memorial Award for Clinical Excellence. The prestigious recognition comes from the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies, and it marks a milestone moment in the battle to provide life-altering care for those who’ve served.
The Sarah Haley Award isn’t handed out lightly. It’s given to those making remarkable strides in treating trauma. The award’s namesake, Sarah Haley, was a trailblazing social worker who made it her mission to address the emotional needs of Vietnam veterans. Now, Warrior Care Network is following in her footsteps by helping a new generation of veterans who’ve carried the mental scars of their service.
Since 2015, more than 5,000 veterans and service members have gone through the Warrior Care Network’s programs, which focus on brain health and recovery. This isn’t your average care approach either—participants attend highly specialized programs that last one to three weeks. The goal? Fast-track their healing process using expert-led clinical treatment, wellness workshops, and peer support.
Chris Hoff, an Army veteran who went through the program, describes it as a turning point in his life. “Going to the Warrior Care Network was probably one of the greatest decisions I made,” Hoff shared. After struggling with PTSD and experiencing suicidal thoughts, Hoff credits the program with helping him reach a much better place.
One of the key features of the Warrior Care Network is its partnerships with some of the top medical centers in the country, including Emory Healthcare, Massachusetts General’s Home Base, UCLA Health’s Operation Mend, and Rush University’s Road Home Program. Together, they provide tailored, confidential care for veterans dealing with the heavy toll of trauma. And here’s the kicker: the program is completely free to participants, thanks to WWP and generous donors.
Dr. Erin Fletcher, who oversees the Warrior Care Network, emphasized how much this recognition means to the team. “We’re committed to delivering the highest-quality care for veterans and their families. Receiving this award confirms that our work is making a real difference, and we’re honored by the recognition.”
The numbers speak volumes. Over 90% of those who go through the Warrior Care Network complete their program, and a whopping 95% say they’d recommend it to their peers. For many veterans, the care they receive in these sessions provides a lifeline when they need it most.
Wounded Warrior Project and its partners will officially receive the Sarah Haley Memorial Award at the 40th annual meeting of the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies in Boston later this month, a momentous occasion for an initiative that’s already changing lives.
For the thousands of veterans seeking solace and support, this award solidifies that they’re in expert hands with the Warrior Care Network—hands that are dedicated to helping them find the peace they deserve.