Jonathan Kolodziej — A Commitment to Expanding Access to Services for Veterans

According to United States Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2023 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, over 35,000 veterans experience homelessness in the U.S. At Pine Street Inn, we work with 300 veterans each year through our supportive housing, shelters, job training, street outreach and behavioral health programs.

Jonathan Kolodziej, one of Pine Street’s behavioral health program managers, works with people who are housed in Pine Street’s veterans residences in Chelsea and Dorchester to provide stability. “I first became interested in working with veterans while growing up in Northampton, Massachusetts where my father worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital,” Jonathan says.

Like some of Pine Street’s staff, Jonathan has had lived experience with homelessness. He is also in recovery from substance use disorder. While he began his career working in addiction recovery services, Jonathan wanted to work with veterans, especially those who had experienced homelessness.

“My experiences mean that I can better relate to the people I work with,” Jonathan says. “Those who have served often have trauma and struggle to adjust to daily life outside the military. Many veterans turn to substance use to cope with what they’ve seen. At Pine Street, we provide a supportive housing environment. I’ve seen so many amazing success stories.”

In his role, Jonathan also works to build community through monthly house meetings, cookouts in the summer, shared meals around the holidays and engaging people in group activities. He also works with veterans to ensure they get the services they are entitled to.

“Everyone needs different levels of engagement,” Jonathan says. “Some of the vets don’t need much assistance, while others need more help. I work with residents to make medical appointments, get referrals to substance use treatment and connections to behavioral health resources and to make sure they have all of their documentation so they can remain in Pine Street housing.”

Jonathan is committed to reducing barriers for marginalized communities and expanding access to services for veterans. “I’m fortunate to be in a position where I can make a difference,” Jonathan says. I value this population and their service. I’m able to work with some great people and let them know that they are cared for.”