by: Peter Albrecht
MOBILE, Ala (WKRG) — On the same day a veteran with PTSD shot and killed a dozen people at a bar in California, a new facility designed to treat vets’ psychological and physical problems opened in Mobile.
It was four years in the making for Veterans Recovery Resources
“It started with an idea, and then getting a team of folks together and then raising a lot of money,” said the organization’s founder John Kilpatrick. “Putting together a clinical program, building a community of support among the other veteran service organizations, buying the property, renovating the property and doing everything it takes to get a business up and running.”
The veteran community was well represented at Thursday’s grand opening.
Most of the 30 or so medical professionals and staff members working at the clinic are vets.
“We come with come cultural competency because we’ve been there,” Kilpatrick said.
The organization is now raising money to add a residential facility. In the meantime, the clinic will treat vets for mental and physical health issues and coordinate with other available resources.
“We’re helping fill a gap where the V.A.. needs help,” Kilpatrick said. “We’ve become a great community partner with the V.A., really expanding the capability for mental health, behavior health, primary care and physical therapy.”
Kilpatrick said he chose a site on Springhill Avenue near Five Points for the clinic because it is on a bus route and because it is located near the city’s “medical corridor” that includes the Mobile Infirmary and other facilities.
Mayor Sandy Stimpson and Mobile County Commission President Connie Hudson were among the dignitaries attending Thursday’s grand opening.
