A qualitative investigation that applies an ecological strengths-based perspective to veterans' experience of reintegration into civilian life

Reintegration to civilian life continues to be challenging for many veterans despite numerous programs that were developed to assist with this process. Emerging literature suggests veteran engagement in volunteer organizations promotes their reintegration. Our exploratory study applies an ecological strengths-based framework to enhance our knowledge of veteran volunteerism and reintegration in the context of a disaster relief organization: Team Rubicon. Findings suggest ecological factors, such as re-creating a familiar culture of camaraderie among veterans and building upon individual strengths that allow veterans to apply their specialized skills, helped instill feelings of connectedness and contribution to their respective civilian communities.