Community-based Research

We empower local leaders like yourself to use the data shared below to build and deliver programs that effectively meet the needs and, as a result, further empower military and Veteran families in your community.

Interested in commissioning research for your community?

Connect with us at [email protected].

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Illinois

Chicagoland Needs Assessment

The McCormick Foundation has sponsored a three-part needs assessment for active-duty, National Guard, and Reserve families in the Chicagoland area. Findings can be used to inform Blue Star Families’ and other local nonprofit program delivery and collective action.

Phase I: Exploratory Analysis

Currently-serving families, women, and minorities are underrepresented in available research
Available research on Chicagoland Veterans suggests that Veterans transitioning back to Chicago after leaving service struggle to find peer support networks, employment opportunities, and mental health care; their children encounter psychosocial difficulties transitioning into the school system

Chicagoland Literature Review (PDF)

Phase II: Focus Groups

In line with findings from the initial exploratory analysis, focus group participants identified COVID-19’s disruptive impacts, mental health and health care access challenges, and complexities associated with employment as key issues, regardless of location.

Chicagoland & Illinois Needs Assessment Phase II: Focus Groups Report

Phase III: Regional Survey

Download Results

Maryland