Oswego County Hosts Dwyer Peer Support Program Events

Veterans and families invited to learn about mental health resources on May 14

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:54pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a lone figure sitting on a park bench, obscured by soft, hazy light and color, conveying a sense of solitude and introspection.The Dwyer Peer Support Program aims to foster connections and provide mental health resources for veterans struggling to reintegrate into civilian life.Oswego Today

The Oswego County Veterans' Services Agency is hosting two 'meet and greet' sessions on May 14 for veterans and their families to learn more about the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program, which provides peer support groups, one-on-one mentorship, crisis intervention, and other services to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life.

Why it matters

The Dwyer Peer Support Program was founded in memory of a combat medic who struggled with PTSD, depression, and substance abuse after returning from Iraq. The program aims to address the mental health challenges many veterans face and help them successfully transition back into their communities.

The details

The first session starts at 9 a.m. and the second at 6 p.m. on May 14 at the Friends of Recovery Oswego County's Community Outreach Center in Fulton. VSA staff will provide information about the program and answer questions, and complimentary refreshments will be served. To reserve a space, veterans and families can contact the VSA by email or phone.

  • The events will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026.
  • The first session starts at 9 a.m. and the second session starts at 6 p.m.

The players

Oswego County Veterans' Services Agency

The county agency hosting the events to provide information about the Dwyer Peer Support Program.

Eric Boozer

The director of the Oswego County Veterans' Services Agency.

Ward Bowen

The Veterans' Principal Peer Mentor for the local Dwyer Peer Support Program.

Joseph P. Dwyer

A combat medic who served in the U.S. Army in Iraq and later struggled with PTSD, depression, and substance abuse before passing away in 2008 at the age of 31. The peer support program is named in his memory.

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What they’re saying

“We invite veterans and their families to come learn more about the Dwyer Program and the ways our office can help them.”

— Eric Boozer, Director, Oswego County Veterans' Services Agency

What’s next

Veterans and their families interested in attending the events on May 14 should contact the Oswego County Veterans' Services Agency to reserve a space.

The takeaway

The Dwyer Peer Support Program provides crucial mental health resources and community connections for veterans in Oswego County, helping them successfully transition back to civilian life after serving their country.