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CompeerCORPS, OASIS merger means enhanced services for veterans
CompeerCORPS, OASIS merger means enhanced services for veterans
Compeer Rochester has merged with OASIS Adaptive Sports, Inc., enabling an expansion of regional services by offering outdoor adventures for veterans with disabilities.
Honeoye-based OASIS (Outdoor Adventures for Sacrifice in Service) Adaptive Sports is now part of CompeerCORPS, the organization’s program for veterans.
“By combining our resources, we will be able to serve more veterans in need, expand our ability to serve disabled veterans, while also significantly increase our geographic footprint in New York,” Sara Passamonte, Compeer president and executive director, said in a news release.
Developed in 2011, CompeerCORPS employs the power of friendship to help veterans lead successful, productive lives through activities, transportation, and group mentoring. The program assists more than 150 veterans annually in Monroe County.
Joining forces with OASIS, which serves approximately 50 veterans each year, enables CompeerCORPS to adaptive activities such as snow sports, sailing, archery, horsemanship and fly fishing. The OASIS programs help promote independence, as well as social and emotional well-being.
“Both Compeer and OASIS are devoted to providing veterans with compassionate services to help them transition from military life to civilian life as seamlessly as possible,” Vito Vasiliauskas, president of OASIS, said. “Mental, as well as physical health and advocacy for veterans are crucial to our mutual missions. Together we can provide an increased level of meaningful experiences to help veterans obtain an improved quality of life.”
The Monroe County Veterans Service Agency says 22 percent of veterans in New York suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and/or major depression. Pandemic-related stress, including a compressed job market, compounds those issues.
“As we are all spending many more hours than usual indoors and often isolated, this program, with its alternate focus on outdoor sports-themed activities, comes at a perfect time,” Passamonte said.
For more information, visit the Compeer website.
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