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RAND research and commentary on the issues that matter most
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Nov 11, 2021
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An encampment of tents with American flags in Los Angeles. Photo by Bethany/Adobe Stock
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This Veterans Day edition of Policy Currents highlights ways to better support those who have served. It also features an interview with two of the many veterans who work at RAND.
But first, a RAND report published today reveals findings from a yearlong study that followed 26 veterans experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles. Even though all of the participants lived near a major VA service center, only three had permanent housing by the time the study ended.
What might explain this? Although housing was a priority for study participants, the available options often didn't align with veterans' preferences. “They wanted a safe and private place that respects their autonomy,” said lead author Sarah Hunter.
These findings suggest that the VA needs to invest more in outreach services that can help veterans find stable, permanent housing that meets their needs. Doing so could lead to improved mental health and better quality of life for many veterans. Read more »
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Spencer Milo works on his balance during a physical therapy session at the Marcus Institute for Brain Health at the University of Colorado. Photo courtesy of Spencer Milo
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Millions of American service members came home from Iraq or Afghanistan with brain injuries, PTSD, and other invisible wounds of war. Some received excellent care; others received no care at all. In a recent study, RAND researchers examined programs that treat veterans who have these injuries, assessed what worked and what didn't, and proposed a new standard of care. This could help ensure that more wounded veterans have the best possible chance at recovery.
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Photo by SDI Productions/Getty Images
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Veterans' earnings after leaving the military were frequently lower than their active-duty earnings. That's according to a new RAND study. The authors examined more than 1 million records of veterans' employment and earnings following separation from the military. The findings suggest that more support may be needed to help service members build marketable career skills and transition into the civilian workforce.
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Jonathan Wong and Joslyn Fleming at RAND's Santa Monica headquarters in September 2021. Photo by Diane Baldwin/RAND Corporation
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Before they became RAND researchers, Jonathan Wong and Joslyn Fleming were U.S. Marines. In a new Q&A, they discuss their time in uniform, what inspired them to become Marines and—later—researchers, and how their military service guides the work they do at RAND. “Once a Marine, always a Marine,” said Fleming. “I still feel this overwhelming commitment to get it right for those Marines and other service members, to always remember whom these policies are going to impact.”
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We're working hard to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion at RAND. Our efforts focus on fostering culture and community, growing diverse and inclusive teams, and advancing equity through our research.
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