Buffalo Veterans Treatment Court
The Buffalo Veterans Treatment Court was established in January 2008 and diverts eligible veteran-defendants who are charged with felony or misdemeanor non-violent criminal offense to a specialized criminal court docket. Veterans are identified through evidence-based screening and assessments. They voluntarily participate in a judicially supervised treatment plan that they develop with a team of court staff, veteran health care professionals, veteran peer mentors, health care professionals and mental health professionals.
Holistic, integrated support services for veterans
The Buffalo Veterans Treatment Court achieves positive veteran behavior by providing links to:
Substance abuse services
Mental health services
Academic and / or vocational skills improvement services;
Residential / housing assistance
Outpatient and/or transition support
Job placement and job retention services
The Buffalo Veterans Mentor Group
One unique component to the Buffalo Veterans Treatment Court is the Buffalo Veteran Mentor Group, a successful, results-driven, and veteran-focused program organized as a separate nonprofit organization and driven by volunteers in the community.
Operating under the slogan, ”leave no veteran behind,” our volunteer mentors maintain a unique role in the courtroom, working directly with Veterans Treatment Court participants in a facilitator, advisor, sponsor and supporter role.
About Our Veteran Mentors
Mentors meet with participants at every court session and are often in contact between sessions. The mentor program is run by a mentor coordinator and participants come from all branches of the military. Many mentors have been drawn from a number of veterans’ service organizations and governmental organizations. Mentors understand the roles of other support team members and “fill the gap” to help keep the participant moving successfully toward completing the Veterans Treatment Court program. The mentor is also a primary resource and referral provider who connects the veteran with benefits, assistance, and community-based support services.
Become A Veteran Mentor
-
Mentor Handbook
Information to help you act as a coach, guide, role model, advocate, and support person.
-
Mentor Application
To start the process of becoming a veteran mentor, download and fill out the application.
-
Mentor Contract
Once you’ve filled out your application, download and sign our mentor contract.
Support Our Work
Your generous donation will be used to support our veterans on their journey by providing bus passes, rent assistance, and more.
A Groundbreaking Model
In 2008, Judge Russell, the now retired presiding Judge of the Buffalo Drug and Mental Health Courts, created the nation's first Veteran Treatment Court in Buffalo, NY. Judge Russell dedicated his efforts to create positive change and assist veterans in need. Today, there are Veteran Treatment Courts nationwide.