Veteran Support Specialist
Fundamentals

Your path starts here

As you begin VSS Fundamentals, here’s what this work is all about:

• Giving you the tools to truly help. You’ll learn how military culture and identity can shape how someone asks for help, and you’ll build practical skills you can use right away—reflective listening, brief motivational interviewing techniques, and clear steps for connecting people to the right resources through warm handoffs. This course is designed for real-world, time-limited moments where what you say and do next matters.
• Being the professional who “gets it.” VSS Fundamentals is built for the people veterans and their families often meet first—front desk staff, care coordinators, community providers, clinicians, and others who serve the public. You do not have to be a veteran to make a difference. You just need the awareness to recognize military identity, the confidence to ask the question, and the ability to respond with respect and clarity.
• Expanding what your role can do. Whether you work in healthcare, human services, education, employment, housing, or a community-facing position, you’ll strengthen your ability to address a wide range of needs—from benefits and basic supports to mental health and community connection—so you can support Service Members, Veterans, and their Families more effectively and completely.

In short, this program is about equipping you to make a real, practical difference for veterans and their families—right where you already work.