Stand Down

The original Stand Down for homeless veterans was modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War to provide a safe retreat for units returning from combat operations. At secure base camp areas, troops were able to take care of personal hygiene, get clean uniforms, enjoy warm meals, receive medical and dental care, mail and receive letters, and enjoy the camaraderie of friends in a safe environment. Stand Down afforded battle-weary soldiers the opportunity to renew their spirit, health and overall sense of well-being.

That is the purpose of the Stand Down for homeless veterans, and achieving those objectives requires a wide range of support services and time. The program is successful because it brings these services to one location, making them more accessible to homeless veterans.

In July 2002, the founders of Stand Down – Robert Van Keuren, Dr. Jon Nachison and Vietnam Veterans of San Diego – asked the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV) to become the “keeper of the flame” and provide national leadership for the movement. Since the first Stand Down in San Diego in 1988, the program has become recognized as the most valuable outreach tool to help homeless veterans in the nation today.

Stand Down Guide
Information about the history of Stand Down, essential program components, event classifications, and how to organize and develop a Stand Down program for your community.

Stand Down Overview
Brief document that highlights Stand Down's background, desired outcomes, development models and services and offers possible partners and funding resources.

Stand Down Information Form
To include your Stand Down event in the national registry and NCHV’s newsletter and website, please complete the Stand Down Information Form and e-mail sdenardo@nchv.org or fax to 202-546-2063 or 888-233-8582.

After Action Report
Once your event has concluded please fill out the After Action Report. The information on this form is used by NCHV and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to compile an annual report on Stand Down programs that provide outreach and supportive services to homeless veterans. If you have questions or need assistance with this report, contact Samira Denardo at 202-546-1969 or by email at sdenardo@nchv.org.

Stand Downs
To have your Stand Down information listed on our website, download and fill out the Stand Down Information Form and e-mail sdenardo@nchv.org or fax to 202-546-2063 or 888-233-8582.

Class Key
A - Stand Down (3- or 4-day event with shelter)
B - Homeless Veterans Resource Fair (2-day event)
C - Homeless Veterans Resource Fair (1-day event)
D - Homeless Veteran Health Fair
E - Homeless Veterans Job Fair
F - Other Events

More events will be added as information is received.​