Welcome to another powerful episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast! 🎙️
In this episode, we’re honored to speak with Joseph Zolper, Manager of Veteran Outreach and Networking for the Road Home Program at Rush University Medical Center. Joseph shares his journey from serving as an Army Infantry Officer to finding his purpose in helping veterans and their families access critical mental health services.
The Road Home Program provides comprehensive, no-cost mental health care to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Through its innovative Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), participants can achieve months of therapy in just two weeks. The program’s impressive results include a 93–96% completion rate and significant reductions in PTSD symptoms for 50% of participants.
Joseph dives into the challenges veterans face in their transition to civilian life and how programs like Road Home fill the gap by providing personalized, impactful care. He also highlights the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health and offering support to service members, regardless of discharge status, VA eligibility, or location.
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Joseph’s personal transition story and his passion for supporting the veteran community.
- How the Road Home Program provides global access to mental health care, with all travel, lodging, and services covered at no cost.
- The details of the two-week IOP, including individual and group therapy, art therapy, mindfulness, and even acupuncture.
- The program’s holistic “mind, body, and soul” approach and its success in improving mental health outcomes.
- How veterans and their families can sign up for or support the Road Home Program.
🌟 Key Takeaways:
- Camaraderie and Community: How veterans find renewed connection and support during the program.
- Customizable Care: Options for family members, virtual therapy in 42 states, and a focus on long-term success.
- Breaking Barriers: The importance of serving veterans who may not qualify for VA services or who have challenging discharge statuses.
📞 Contact Information for Support or Collaboration:
Website: https://roadhomeprogram.org
Email: Joseph_R_Zolper@rush.edu
Phone: 312-854-9807
💬 Whether you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, family member, or supporter, this episode is packed with insights, resources, and hope.
Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. Lifeline!
📺 Subscribe for more episodes filled with impactful stories, resources, and actionable support for the military community.

#MentalHealthAwareness #RoadHomeProgram #HealingJourneys #vetsos #vetsospodcast #VeteranSupport #MilitaryFamilies