(AP) — A program that began six years ago at a Veterans Affairs medical center in Wichita is helping former service members overcome barriers to re-entering the civilian workforce.

Now, the program’s coordinator hopes to expand the service throughout Kansas to help more veterans with such problems as mental illness and homelessness.

Robin Madson established the Compensated Work Therapy program in 2007 at Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center. Counselors help veterans find medical or mental health treatment. Some get special assistance developing job skills and good work habits.

About a dozen companies and organizations work with the program. Les Eck, owner of Rusty Eck Ford, says his dealership has been involved for several years.