Let's take a deeper look at the vital work of the Road Home Program. We aired our episode about the Road Home Program with the Manager of Veteran Outreach and Networking, Joseph Zolper, on December 10, 2024. The Road Home Program is dedicated to the mental health and wellness of veterans, service members, members of the National Guard, reservists and families at no cost and regardless of discharge status. Their mission is to compassionately care for veterans, service members and their families by providing individualized care and navigation of services to help heal the invisible wounds of war.
From Service to Support: Joseph Zolper’s Journey
Joseph Zolper
Joseph ZolperJoseph Zolper’s path exemplifies the essence of transition from military to civilian life. Growing up in suburban Chicago, Joseph earned a degree from Illinois State University before commissioning as an Army Infantry Officer in 2015. During his military career with the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, he deployed to Afghanistan in 2018-2019, earning a Bronze Star and Combat Infantry Badge.
Post-service, Joseph’s career began at Amazon, where he led a military employee resource group. This initiative reignited his passion for supporting the military community and ultimately led him back to Chicago to join the Road Home Program. This non-profit organization addresses the mental health needs of veterans, service members, and their families—a mission that resonated deeply with Joseph, given his personal experiences with mental health challenges during his transition.
The Road Home Program: A Lifeline for Veterans and Families
The Road Home Program, based in Chicago, provides comprehensive mental health care at no cost to veterans, service members, and their families. Funded philanthropically, the program ensures accessibility for individuals regardless of their discharge status, VA eligibility, or diagnosis. Here are the key highlights of the program:
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
The IOP compresses months of therapy into a transformative two-week format. Participants undergo intensive daily sessions, including individual therapy, group therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, and psychoeducation. With a completion rate of over 93%, the program boasts remarkable outcomes—a 50% reduction in PTSD severity for participants and an average 20-point drop in PTSD scoring metrics.
Global Reach and Inclusivity
From Alaska to the Netherlands, the program serves individuals globally, covering travel, lodging, and treatment costs. Virtual therapy options are available in 42 states, further expanding accessibility. Additionally, the program has extended its services to National Guard members, reservists, and families through virtual and in-person sessions.
Family-Centered Care
Recognizing the ripple effect of mental health, the Road Home Program now includes tailored services for families. Spouses, partners, caregivers, and even adult children can access virtual and in-person support. A dedicated two-week program for family members launched recently, addressing the unique challenges they face.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
The Road Home Program takes a “mind, body, and soul” approach to mental health. With offerings like art therapy and acupuncture, participants explore unconventional yet effective methods of healing. Onsite chaplains address moral injuries, while clinicians—many with military backgrounds—create a safe, understanding environment.
Continuing the Journey
The program’s impact doesn’t end after two weeks. Veterans and families leave equipped with tools to thrive, not just survive. The Road Home Program provides follow-up care, connects participants with local resources, and offers virtual aftercare to ensure lasting progress.
Join the Mission
For veterans, service members, and families looking to embark on their healing journey or for supporters seeking to contribute, visit roadhomeprogram.org. You can also contact Joseph Zolper directly at [email protected] or 312-854-9807.
Closing Thoughts
At VET S.O.S. Podcast, we believe in the power of community and support to guide veterans through the sea of transition. The Road Home Program exemplifies this mission, offering hope and healing to those who have given so much. Remember don't drown in the sea of transition, grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline.
