About

Who we are

The Veterans Advisory Council on Mental Health in Salt Lake City is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization established on March 30, 2015.

Our purpose

To be a liaison between Veterans and the Veterans Administration Salt Lake City Health Care System. In this role, we advocate for Veterans needing and receiving mental health services, provide a communication avenue for resolution of Veterans’ issues with Mental Health Leadership, and assist with the identification and development of needed programs and education opportunities Veterans and their families.

Our authority

We operate under the authority of the US Department of Veterans Affairs but we are not part of the government. We are organized independently and provide an independent voice working in cooperation with the VA Mental Health Service to ensure that Veterans are full partners in program development and service delivery.  Our VAC is composed of consumer-veterans, family members, community advocates and service organizations.

Our goals

We are committed to assisting our Veterans by being familiar with policies, programs, and resources available to assist those who served.

Provide support in navigating the VA Health Care and Benefits system.

Connect Veterans in need with Mental Health resources that are available to them.

Provide opportunities for Veterans to discuss issues with their peers

Identify and communicate concerns to Mental Health Leadership, working cooperatively to solve them as they arise

Establish relationships with various agencies that provide services to Veterans including Justice Outreach, Housing, VA Best Practices and VA Patient Services