A group of Union County employees has completed their first round of training to help launch a Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) in our area. This special court will focus on helping veterans who are involved in the justice system by giving them support.

This foundational training, provided through AllRise, works to create better outcomes for people in treatment courts. Over two days, team members completed online lessons, joined in-person workshops, and spoke with experts. They learned how to build a strong Veterans Treatment Court program, support veterans with substance use disorders, and work better as a team.

“My dedicated court team and I are thrilled to be moving forward with the implementation of Veterans Treatment Court in Union County. This court is not a courtroom of punishment, but a courtroom of hope, healing and accountability," said Chief District Court Judge, Erin S. Hucks. "By connecting veterans with treatment for substance use disorders, mental health care, housing, employment, and mentorship—often from fellow veterans—we affirm our commitment to ensuring that no veteran is left behind.”

The training marked a significant milestone in the planning and preparation for a Veterans Treatment Court in Union County, which will provide specialized intervention and resources tailored to veterans’ unique needs. Veterans Treatment Courts are designed to support rehabilitation, reduce the chance that someone will commit another crime (known as recidivism), and honor the service of those who served in the military.

Agencies and organizations represented in the training included:

"It was an honor that our Veterans Services Office was invited to be a part of this training," said Michelle Marcano, Director of Veterans Services. "Robert Turner and I are excited to be on this team to further assist our veterans in whatever way we can. We are extremely thankful that Judge Hucks, her team, and numerous other agencies are willing to start a program like this for Union County veterans."

With training now complete, Union County is one step closer to launching a fully operational Veterans Treatment Court that reflects both national best practices and a strong local commitment to justice and care for veterans.