Veteran Resources: Brevard County
Amanda Herrnkind, MSW
University of Central Florida
Manager of Public Relations, Office of the Brevard County Property Appraiser
Granddaughter of WWII Army Veteran, 82nd Airborne division and sister to an Army Ranger and Airman, Amanda is a strong advocate for the Veteran and Active-duty community here in Brevard County. She has completed two Marine Corps marathons in honor of the fallen and continues to work daily with elected official, Dana Blickley, and other Veteran advocates that serve this great county. Here are a few of the local resources her practice as a Social Worker paved the way to connection; we hope you too can find them helpful and empowering.
Just as different countries have unique cultural practices, individuals who have served in the military develop a cultural relationship and understanding of hierarchy, structure, uniformity, and sacrifice that many who have simply lived in the “civilian world” cannot fully relate. Once an individual moves past their time in the Armed Services, transitioning to civilian life may be difficult. Hardships can arise due to the loss of the cultural dynamic that existed day to day in their job duties and routine, due to injury, both seen and unseen, changes in family dynamics, and other potential risk factors. As an active social worker within the Veteran community, I have gleaned a myriad of local resources and have had the honor to make a difference in the lives of many.
It is up to the individual to choose to utilize the resources available in a way in which to promote a positive sense of self, increased awareness, and competence in what the resources can do to provide beneficial tools and strategies for change. Just because your culture (situation) may have changed, does not mean you have to lose your sense of control or the ability to adapt; you just might need some new tools.