Volunteer

Veterans Treatment Court Mentor Program

Leave No Veteran Behind – Veteran Helping Veteran

With more than 300,000 veterans in Nevada there are some that get off track and end up at the Henderson Municipal Veterans Court. This court was established in June 2011 as an alternative sentencing program for U.S. Military Veterans, Active Duty Personnel and Retirees who have been arrested for misdemeanor crimes in Henderson.

Veterans in the Veterans Treatment Court Program are required to participate in rehabilitative programs based on individual needs; to perform community service; and to stay out of trouble as part of their sentencing.

The goal of a mentor is to assist the veteran in becoming a law abiding and productive citizen. No bond is as strong as the one that exists among those who have fought for their country. Having a fellow veteran to confide in and get their support and guidance helps them successfully complete the program. The mentor is a “battle buddy.”

Role of Mentor

Learn as much as possible about the mentee’s personal and professional background and any current problems.

  • Ensure mentee understands the court mandates and knows where to go for compliance and assistance.
  • Establish a convenient one-on-one meeting schedule. Be sure to meet with mentee at each court appearance.
  • Help mentee establish a structured schedule for making medical and VA appointments where warranted and fulfilling community volunteer requirements as mandated.
  • Be a resource to the mentee for identifying community-based organizations like VA, Vets Center, etc.
  • Always motivate mentee by:
    • Highlighting their successes, strengths, skills and knowledge
    • Focusing on week-to-week progress
    • Attending their graduation

“A lot of them have just fallen on hard times,”

Retired Judge Mark Stevens, a Marine Corp veteran who established Veterans Treatment Court

“The goal is to give them a fresh start — a hand up.”

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FAQ

Is there training involved?

Yes, after completing an application, undergoing a background check and being accepted, the mentor will be given training that will equip him/her for this new role as a mentor.

What is the time commitment?

The time commitment will vary based on the needs of the veteran. Court is held every Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. and mentors should be available to come to court proceedings when their assigned veteran is on the calendar. In circumstances where a mentor is unable to make a court session with their veteran, it is recommended that another mentor be notified so that they can fill in for the assigned mentor. Typically, a veteran is in the program for 1-2 years.

Can anyone be a mentor?

One must be a veteran or active duty member of one of the branches of the United States Military, including Navy, Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard or the corresponding reserve branches of the aforementioned services or member of the National Guard.

Become a Mentor by contacting

Corelle.Bellamy@CityofHenderson.com or (702) 267-3350

For more information, visit hendersonveteranscourt.com