SPONSOR TRAINING

Become a Certified Onward Ops Volunteer Sponsor!

Thank you for your interest in becoming a certified volunteer sponsor with Onward Ops. Your dedication will make a significant difference for transitioning Service Members.

All sponsor certification training is provided and sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Questions or Concerns? Please contact Danielle Bracco at danielle@hq.onwardops.org.

Option 1: Self Paced Training & Orientation

Online Modules & Live Virtual Orientation

This option offers flexibility, allowing you to complete online modules at your own pace, followed by a live orientation session with the Onward Ops team.

Key Features:

Flexible: Complete online modules when it's convenient for you.
Program Specifics: The live orientation session will cover the Onward Ops program, your sponsor dashboard, and service member pairing.

Next Steps:

Step 1: Complete Online Modules

Click Here To Get Started: Columbia+ Peer Sponsor Modules
Important: Columbia+ is an external platform. Please use your personal email to create an account. Your Onward Ops email will activate upon successful certification. You can still access your Sponsor HQ dashboard with your Onward Ops account.

Step 2: Register for a Live Orientation Session

You MUST complete Step 1 (online modules) before attending an orientation session.
Register Here: Orientation Session

Upcoming Orientation Sessions (all times ET):

Wednesday, October 8, 2025; 7 pm - 8 pm ET
Wednesday, October 15, 2025; 12 pm -1 pm ET
Thursday, October 30, 2025; 11 am - 12 pm ET
Wednesday, November 5, 2025; 12 pm - 1 pm ET
Thursday, November 13, 2025; 1 pm - 2 pm ET
Tuesday, November 18, 2025; 11 am - 12 pm ET
Wednesday, December 3, 2025; 7 pm - 8 pm ET
Tuesday, December 9, 2025; 1 pm - 2 pm ET
Monday, December 15, 2025; 12 pm - 1 pm ET

Option 2: Veteran Cultural Competency Training (VCCT)

Veteran Cultural Competence Training (VCCT)

This 3-hour live virtual deep dive provides essential tools to better support Veterans in their post-service journeys, bridging the understanding gap between civilians and Veterans. Upon successful completion, you will receive your certification. Led by The VA VISN 2 MIRECC and the Transitioning Servicemember/Veteran and Suicide Prevention Center (VA TASC).

Key Features:

Comprehensive: Covers critical aspects of the veteran experience.
Interactive: Live session with Q&A.
Direct Certification: Become certified as an Onward Ops volunteer peer sponsor immediately after completion.

Upcoming Training Dates (all times ET):

Dates to be announced for late Fall 2025,

Next Steps:

NEXT STEPS AFTER CERTIFICATION

You've completed your training – congratulations! Here's what happens next:

Complete Your Enrollment: If you haven't already, please fill out the Onward Ops Sponsor enrollment form [HERE](Link to enrollment form).
Dashboard Update: Your sponsor profile status on the Onward Ops dashboard will be updated to "Certified."
"Next Steps" Email: You'll receive a detailed "Next Steps" email with more information.
Email Activation: Your dedicated Onward Ops Google Workspace account (email) will be activated.
Meet Your CIC: We'll introduce you to your assigned Community Integration Coordinator (CIC).
Service Member Match: Once a Service Member is moving to your region, you'll receive your match!

Questions or Concerns? Please contact Danielle Bracco at danielle@hq.onwardops.org.

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