When you speak to Frank Campo, you can feel the passion that he has for Veterans and their vast array of needs. In this edition of Community Conversation, Santa Barbara Foundation Communication Manager, Jordan Killebrew chats with Frank about the most pressing challenges for veteran’s in Santa Barbara County.
Jordan: Why are you passionate about what you do?
Frank: Most every veteran has put their life on hold to serve our country. In return, I feel the country owes its veterans. I feel I am a resource that can connect veterans with local employers.
Jordan: Why do you think veterans needs are a pressing issue in Santa Barbara County?
Frank: Santa Barbara County has over 23,000 veterans. Many that are enrolled in the VA healthcare system have to travel to Los Angeles or Fresno to visit regional medical centers. We need something closer so veterans do not have to travel 3-4 hours for medical appointments.
Jordan: What is something that you want people to know about our veteran needs in Santa Barbara County?
Frank: One need that is desired is a living wage. Many of our veterans come out of the military with a family (spouse & children). Many jobs start at entry level wages. Many veterans have the experience needed but oftentimes lack the education. It is very difficult to raise a family on the Central Coast due to the lack of affordability of housing.
Jordan: What impact would you say veterans needs have on our community at large?
Frank: The veteran population makes up a significant portion of the residents in the county. Many of the homeless that call Santa Barbara County home are veterans. Many of them qualify for a HUD-VASH voucher, yet many property owners do not want to rent to veterans because the see the HUD-VASH voucher the same as a Section 8 voucher.
Jordan: What was one of the most rewarding moments or memories that you have while working with a nonprofit, or within this issue that made you feel like you were really doing good?
Frank: Finding employment for a veteran that has struggled with barriers.
Jordan: How can our community do better to address the needs of our veteran population?
Frank: I feel the community can better address the needs of veterans by having a better understanding of military cultural competencies.
Jordan: How do you think the Santa Barbara Foundation can better address the needs of our veteran population?
Frank: In 2010, Governor Schwarzenegger created the Veteran Services Navigator program. This two-year program placed veterans in EDD offices to assist with obtaining services. I feel this program can be reconstituted. I would recommend placing these VSN veterans in the county veteran’s services offices
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