Publication Date

Spring 2026

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Interdisciplinary Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Erica Ceka

Second Advisor

Dr. Natalia Ermasova

Third Advisor

Dr. Jonathan Tennial

Abstract

This study draws on qualitative thematic analysis of oral histories from The HistoryMakers Digital Archive to examine gaps in services experienced by African American veterans during their transition from military to civilian life and how nonprofit organizations can develop more resilient and equity-centered support systems to better meet veterans’ needs. The findings confirm existing literature that characterizes veteran reintegration as complex and multidimensional, while extending it by demonstrating how challenges such as mental health, employment instability, and housing insecurity are deeply interconnected and cumulative. The findings also reveal that African American veterans face additional structural barriers due to systemic inequalities in access to resources and opportunities. While highlighting the limitations of current nonprofit and government approaches, which often rely on fragmented and generalized service models, the study highlights the importance of peer networks, culturally responsive services, and community-based organizations for veterans during the transition. By integrating lived experience with the Resilience Activation Framework, this study contributes to scholarship in public administration and nonprofit management. It also offers relevant insights for policymakers and community-based organizations, calling for more integrated, equity-driven, and collaborative approaches to veteran service delivery.

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