Since 1993, a coalition of over 50 Nashville organizations has used this concept to organize a three day event for veterans who are homeless. The event provides outreach, information, and a variety of social services for this area's homeless veterans. The event has been held annually each fall. Coalition members represent over 25 community services agencies, over 25 veteran service organizations, and many local businesses.
In 1996, the IRS granted OSDN nonprofit status. In 1997, the US Dept. of Labor awarded OSDN its "Epic Award" -- Exemplary Performance in the Community" for its work serving veterans. OSDN was the only non-profit so honored in the US that year.
In 1999, OSDN's Board of Directors elected to expand services to homeless veterans by becoming a full-time service agency. A Service Center was opened and four houses were purchased for a Transitional Housing Program able to serve over 30 veterans.
In 2000, OSDN was selected as a United Way Partner Agency.
Operation Stand Down Nashville, Inc operates programs that train and support veterans as they work themselves off the streets and back into the community as responsible and contributing citizens. Our 16 full-time staff and 12 part-time staff members work miracles daily.
OSDN not only works with the homeless veteran population but is a service center for ALL honorably discharged veterans. OSDN is Middle Tennessee's best advocate for homeless veterans. OSDN provides a full complement of services through our four major components:
Service Center
Employment Services
Transitional Housing Program
Annual Stand Down Event
