Joint Resiliency Directorate Program Has Big Impact On The Guard
The Joint Resiliency Directorate (J9) integrates and synchronizes programs, policies, and resources to support the readiness and well-being of service members, civilians, and families across the Pennsylvania National Guard (PANG). It provides state leadership with recommendations, assessments, and data to improve force readiness and resilience. It serves as the focal point for resiliency programs that include those discussed below and more.
The Resiliency, Risk Reduction, and Suicide Prevention program (R3SP) oversees resiliency, drug testing, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programs. The Substance Abuse Program (SAP) implements the Unit Risk Inventories and Risk Mitigation Plans to address high risk behaviors within units. Additionally, SAP coordinates the referral process for all alcohol and substance abuse related cases. The Drug Testing Program conducts Unit Deterrence Leader training and implements the state urinalysis testing program. The Suicide Prevention Coordinator conducts unit level suicide awareness training and the Suicide Intervention Officer certification course.
The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program (SAPR) serves as the command’s dedicated office for preventing sexual harassment and assault, supporting victims, and ensuring compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) policies. They guide victims through restricted and unrestricted reporting, medical care, legal options, and counseling resources. They provide commanders and units with prevention strategies and bystander intervention tools while promoting a culture of dignity, respect, and reinforcing standards of behavior across the force.
The Service Member and Family Support (SMFS) program encompasses Soldier & Family Readiness Specialists, Child & Youth Program Coordinators, Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program Specialists, Personal Financial Counselors, and the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve program. They provide military and family assistance, promote military and family readiness, and also increase financial literacy and education to support Pennsylvania’s service members, families, veterans, and civilian employer partners. Our dynamic team strengthens service members and families through every stage of the deployment cycle in preparing service members to fulfill state and federal duty.
The Office of Integrated Primary Prevention (OIPP) program assists leaders in the Pennsylvania National Guard in building combat readiness through healthy unit climates and by fostering a workplace environment free from abuse and harm. The OIPP does this by empowering leaders with data and research, implementing evidence-based prevention activities, and measuring the impact of prevention activities over time. Specifically, the OIPP addresses the reduction of self-directed harm, directed harm, and sexual, family, and workplace violence through a comprehensive public health approach that reduces harmful behaviors.
The State Equal Employment Office (SEEM) trains, educates and advises all levels of command and members of the PANG on Equal Opportunity issues to assist in establishing an effective command climate. The SEEM office advocates for programs that maximize human potential and ensure fair treatment for all people based on individual merit, fitness, capability, and performance. This office focuses on creating and sustaining effective units by eliminating discriminatory behaviors and practices.
The J9’s focus and mission are to support service members, civilians, and families as they support and serve in the PANG. These programs provide vast resources that cover different aspects of life and are accessible at any time for those who may need them.