The National Association of Concerned Veterans (NACV) has been serving veterans since 1968, supporting successful transitions from military to civilian life. Our Great Expectations (GE) Program is a comprehensive, evidence-based readjustment, transition, and re-entry program designed to help veterans and their families achieve long-term success, health, and stability.

Originally developed in 1973 at the University of Alabama, the GE Program has evolved with input from hundreds of veteran service providers, tens of thousands of veterans, and collaborations with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Department of Defense (DoD), Department of Labor, and other community and faith-based organizations.

The GE Program focuses on empowering veterans who face the greatest challenges during their transition to civilian life. These include veterans who may be underserved, experiencing mental health or substance use challenges, homelessness, unemployment, or limited social support.

The program provides a structured approach to:



• Assess and triage veterans’ needs
• Provide individualized, wrap-around care
• Support physical, mental, and emotional well-being
• Promote life skills, career development, and financial literacy
• Facilitate social connections, family relationships, and community integration

• Duration: 8–16 weeks, with individualized pacing based on readiness and commitment
• Components: 13+ modules covering mental health, sobriety, physical wellness, job skills, financial literacy, ethics, values, and more
• Approach: Evidence-based, interactive, and practical, using affirmations, journaling, peer support, case management, and mastery of skills
• Support: Graduates receive ongoing guidance from NACV and veteran service organizations (VSOs)

The GE Program has demonstrated measurable success over decades:

• Higher employment and financial stability
• Improved health and mental well-being
• Reduced hospital and emergency visits
• Increased participation in VA programs
• Strengthened family and community connections

The program is adaptable for veterans of all backgrounds, including active duty, Reserve, and National Guard members, as well as post-secondary institutions, vocational programs, and step-down care settings.

NACV works closely with VA medical centers, VSOs, and community partners to supplement and enhance existing services. Our goal is to provide practical, scalable solutions that improve outcomes for veterans while complementing VA programs and initiatives.

Join Us

The National Association of Concerned Veterans is dedicated to helping veterans succeed. Together with our partners, we can support veterans and their families in achieving meaningful, lasting outcomes.