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VetXL: Survivors Together – Live Q&A with VA and Community Partners. What are your questions?
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Join us live on May 20th at 2PM ET for a Q&A session in support of Memorial Day for Survivors and Caregivers and Mental Health Awareness.
You can ask questions to the following people:
» RDML Ann Duff - Director of the Office of Survivors Assistance, VA
» Delaney Heffner - Supervisor, VHA CHAMPVA
» SMSgt Thomas Paulus - Program Management Officer, VHA CHAMPVA
» Shauntye Alexander - Deputy Director, Office of Community Care
» Coleton Whitaker - Director of Programs, Elizabeth Dole Foundation
» Maj Bonnie Carroll - President & Founder, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
» Nancy Menagh - President, Gold Star Wives of America
» LTC Jon Drake - VP Operations, Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
» Kylie Willis - Enrollment Coordinator, Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
» LTC Hugo Lentze - Chief Strategic Partnerships Officer, Travis Manion Foundation
» Melissa Comeau - Director, American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network
» Pete Jeffries - National Engagements Director, AARP
» Leah Christensen - Clinical Program Coordinator, VA Caregiver Support Program
» Maj Lillie Mells - Program Coordinator, VHA Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
» Detra Giles - Assistant Director, Outreach, Office of Transition and Economic Development
» Pamela Avey Stemple - National Service Officer, American Gold Star Mothers
» Joe Duran - Director Policy and Planning, VA
» Kristie Thibodeau - Outreach Specialist, CaringBridge
» Angell Bolden-Green - Chief, Outreach, Office of Transition and Economic Development
» 2LT (Join to see) - Engagement and Memorial Innovations, National Cemetery Administration
VA Office of Survivor Assistance:
The Office of Survivors Assistance serves as an expert resource regarding all benefits and services furnished by the VA to Survivors and Dependents of deceased Veterans and members of the Armed Forces. We can help you navigate the myriad of benefits and services available, and direct you to your best options. Additionally, we work closely with veteran service organizations, other departments, state and local veteran groups and community leaders to educate everyone about available services and benefits.
TAPS:
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides compassionate care and survivor support services for the families of America’s fallen military heroes. Since 1994, TAPS has offered support to more than 95,000 survivors of fallen military in the form of peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, grief seminars and retreats for adults, Good Grief Camps for children, casework assistance, connections to community-based care, online and in-person support groups and a 24/7 resource and information helpline for all who have been profoundly affected by a death of a military loved one. For more information go to taps.org or call the TAPS National Military Survivor Helpline at 800.959.TAPS (8277).
VA Caregiver Support Program (CSP):
The Caregiver Support Program promotes the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our nation’s Veterans, through education, resources, support, and services. CSP is comprised of two programs, the Program of General Caregiver Support Services and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. For more information, please visit: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
American Gold Star Mothers:
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc was founded and incorporated in Washington, D.C. 92 years ago. We are a nonprofit membership organization of mothers whose children died while on active duty, died as a result of their service, or are missing in action. We have members in chapters around the country who keep alive the memory of their sons and daughters by helping veterans, active-duty military, and their families. As a service organization, we continue the service of our sons and daughters, who would have been veterans, by volunteering at VA Medical Centers in our local communities.
Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation:
Our mission is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The vision of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is to ensure that every child of a fallen patriot receives all necessary college funding. http://rly.pt/FallenPatriots
AARP:
AARP brings together free resources, timely programs, and important information to help Veterans & Military Families navigate their options on caregiving, fighting fraud, finding employment, and connecting with their earned service benefits at AARP.org/Veterans. With over 5 million AARP members nationwide who have served or are currently serving in America’s armed forces, AARP is on a mission to support Veterans and Military Families. Check our FREE resources, programs & timely information at: http://www.AARP.org/Veterans #AARPsalutesVets
Gold Star Wives of America:
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. is a Congressional Charter Organization of surviving spouses (male and female) of those who have died as a result of active duty or service connected causes. We provide (non monetary) assistance and support to survivors. Our members honor our spouses through our voluntary service to Active Duty, Veterans and Surviving Family members.
Travis Manion Foundation:
Travis Manion Foundation strives to unite and strengthen communities by training, developing, and highlighting the role models that lead them. We develop programs, training opportunities, and events designed to empower veterans and families of the fallen, and then inspire them to pass on their values to the next generation and the community at large.
American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network:
The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) offers peer-based support and services to connect those providing care to service members and veterans living with wounds, illnesses, injuries and/or aging. The mission of the MVCN is to provide our nation’s military and veteran caregivers of all eras with peer support to reduce isolation and increase connection, engagement, knowledge, skills and hope.
The MVCN helps caregivers of all eras and at all stages of caregiving by providing access to three peer support programs:
· Online Peer Support Community
· Peer Mentor Support Program
· Peer Support Groups (Online & Community-Based)
New Integrated Condolence Care Program - https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/press-release/2020/red-cross-offers-virtual-care-for-families-who-have-lost-loved-o.html
CaringBridge:
CaringBridge provides a free, easy to use website to help Veterans & Military families communicate and coordinate support during a health event. Confronting an illness, injury or death is one of the most demanding, isolating things you can do. Family and friends are an amazing source of support, but constantly sharing updates with each and every one of them is difficult. CaringBridge replaces countless texts, phone calls and emails with a free, easy-to-use communications platform including:
· Journal to Share Updates and Receive Messages
· Easy-to-use Planner
· Ad-Free, Secure and Safe Platform
Learn more at CaringBridge.org/military
You can ask questions to the following people:
» RDML Ann Duff - Director of the Office of Survivors Assistance, VA
» Delaney Heffner - Supervisor, VHA CHAMPVA
» SMSgt Thomas Paulus - Program Management Officer, VHA CHAMPVA
» Shauntye Alexander - Deputy Director, Office of Community Care
» Coleton Whitaker - Director of Programs, Elizabeth Dole Foundation
» Maj Bonnie Carroll - President & Founder, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
» Nancy Menagh - President, Gold Star Wives of America
» LTC Jon Drake - VP Operations, Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
» Kylie Willis - Enrollment Coordinator, Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
» LTC Hugo Lentze - Chief Strategic Partnerships Officer, Travis Manion Foundation
» Melissa Comeau - Director, American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network
» Pete Jeffries - National Engagements Director, AARP
» Leah Christensen - Clinical Program Coordinator, VA Caregiver Support Program
» Maj Lillie Mells - Program Coordinator, VHA Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
» Detra Giles - Assistant Director, Outreach, Office of Transition and Economic Development
» Pamela Avey Stemple - National Service Officer, American Gold Star Mothers
» Joe Duran - Director Policy and Planning, VA
» Kristie Thibodeau - Outreach Specialist, CaringBridge
» Angell Bolden-Green - Chief, Outreach, Office of Transition and Economic Development
» 2LT (Join to see) - Engagement and Memorial Innovations, National Cemetery Administration
VA Office of Survivor Assistance:
The Office of Survivors Assistance serves as an expert resource regarding all benefits and services furnished by the VA to Survivors and Dependents of deceased Veterans and members of the Armed Forces. We can help you navigate the myriad of benefits and services available, and direct you to your best options. Additionally, we work closely with veteran service organizations, other departments, state and local veteran groups and community leaders to educate everyone about available services and benefits.
TAPS:
The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides compassionate care and survivor support services for the families of America’s fallen military heroes. Since 1994, TAPS has offered support to more than 95,000 survivors of fallen military in the form of peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, grief seminars and retreats for adults, Good Grief Camps for children, casework assistance, connections to community-based care, online and in-person support groups and a 24/7 resource and information helpline for all who have been profoundly affected by a death of a military loved one. For more information go to taps.org or call the TAPS National Military Survivor Helpline at 800.959.TAPS (8277).
VA Caregiver Support Program (CSP):
The Caregiver Support Program promotes the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our nation’s Veterans, through education, resources, support, and services. CSP is comprised of two programs, the Program of General Caregiver Support Services and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. For more information, please visit: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
American Gold Star Mothers:
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc was founded and incorporated in Washington, D.C. 92 years ago. We are a nonprofit membership organization of mothers whose children died while on active duty, died as a result of their service, or are missing in action. We have members in chapters around the country who keep alive the memory of their sons and daughters by helping veterans, active-duty military, and their families. As a service organization, we continue the service of our sons and daughters, who would have been veterans, by volunteering at VA Medical Centers in our local communities.
Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation:
Our mission is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The vision of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is to ensure that every child of a fallen patriot receives all necessary college funding. http://rly.pt/FallenPatriots
AARP:
AARP brings together free resources, timely programs, and important information to help Veterans & Military Families navigate their options on caregiving, fighting fraud, finding employment, and connecting with their earned service benefits at AARP.org/Veterans. With over 5 million AARP members nationwide who have served or are currently serving in America’s armed forces, AARP is on a mission to support Veterans and Military Families. Check our FREE resources, programs & timely information at: http://www.AARP.org/Veterans #AARPsalutesVets
Gold Star Wives of America:
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. is a Congressional Charter Organization of surviving spouses (male and female) of those who have died as a result of active duty or service connected causes. We provide (non monetary) assistance and support to survivors. Our members honor our spouses through our voluntary service to Active Duty, Veterans and Surviving Family members.
Travis Manion Foundation:
Travis Manion Foundation strives to unite and strengthen communities by training, developing, and highlighting the role models that lead them. We develop programs, training opportunities, and events designed to empower veterans and families of the fallen, and then inspire them to pass on their values to the next generation and the community at large.
American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network:
The Military and Veteran Caregiver Network (MVCN) offers peer-based support and services to connect those providing care to service members and veterans living with wounds, illnesses, injuries and/or aging. The mission of the MVCN is to provide our nation’s military and veteran caregivers of all eras with peer support to reduce isolation and increase connection, engagement, knowledge, skills and hope.
The MVCN helps caregivers of all eras and at all stages of caregiving by providing access to three peer support programs:
· Online Peer Support Community
· Peer Mentor Support Program
· Peer Support Groups (Online & Community-Based)
New Integrated Condolence Care Program - https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/press-release/2020/red-cross-offers-virtual-care-for-families-who-have-lost-loved-o.html
CaringBridge:
CaringBridge provides a free, easy to use website to help Veterans & Military families communicate and coordinate support during a health event. Confronting an illness, injury or death is one of the most demanding, isolating things you can do. Family and friends are an amazing source of support, but constantly sharing updates with each and every one of them is difficult. CaringBridge replaces countless texts, phone calls and emails with a free, easy-to-use communications platform including:
· Journal to Share Updates and Receive Messages
· Easy-to-use Planner
· Ad-Free, Secure and Safe Platform
Learn more at CaringBridge.org/military
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Mental Health
Family
Caregiver
Memorial Day
Responses: 35
COVID-19 Update:
VA is now expanding walk-in COVID-19 vaccinations to offer this service at all VA facilities and clinics that offer COVID-19 vaccines. The urgency to vaccinate as many eligible individuals as quickly as possible remains a top priority for VA, and this service ensures that all Veterans, spouses, caregivers, and those authorized under the SAVE LIVES Act have an opportunity to receive COVID-19 vaccination from VA. The effort is in support of the President’s goal of administering at least one vaccine shot to 70% of the U.S. adult population by July 4, 2021.
VA encourages those who wish to get their COVID-19 vaccine without an appointment to check their local facility’s walk-in hours/requirements. VA vaccination clinics are not open 24 hours. Our priority remains the safety of all those receiving vaccine from VA. Individuals taking advantage of walk-in vaccination may need to wait for the vaccine to be prepared, and will be screened when entering a VA facility. Face masks are mandatory for all and physical distancing measures will be in place.
The primary goal of the VA COVID-19 vaccination effort is to protect those we serve from COVID-19, including Veterans, their spouses, caregivers, employees and federal partners. Through this effort, VA has vaccinated more than 2.5 million Veterans, 25,000 spouses and over 60,000 individuals under the SAVE LIVES Act.
VA is now expanding walk-in COVID-19 vaccinations to offer this service at all VA facilities and clinics that offer COVID-19 vaccines. The urgency to vaccinate as many eligible individuals as quickly as possible remains a top priority for VA, and this service ensures that all Veterans, spouses, caregivers, and those authorized under the SAVE LIVES Act have an opportunity to receive COVID-19 vaccination from VA. The effort is in support of the President’s goal of administering at least one vaccine shot to 70% of the U.S. adult population by July 4, 2021.
VA encourages those who wish to get their COVID-19 vaccine without an appointment to check their local facility’s walk-in hours/requirements. VA vaccination clinics are not open 24 hours. Our priority remains the safety of all those receiving vaccine from VA. Individuals taking advantage of walk-in vaccination may need to wait for the vaccine to be prepared, and will be screened when entering a VA facility. Face masks are mandatory for all and physical distancing measures will be in place.
The primary goal of the VA COVID-19 vaccination effort is to protect those we serve from COVID-19, including Veterans, their spouses, caregivers, employees and federal partners. Through this effort, VA has vaccinated more than 2.5 million Veterans, 25,000 spouses and over 60,000 individuals under the SAVE LIVES Act.
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is proud to present a virtual competition unlike any other for America’s youngest heroes. They’re teaming up with host Jocko Sims to celebrate all the incredible and unique talents our country’s military and veteran kids have to offer. Social media toolkit attached.
Whether it’s dancing, hula hooping, dunking, cooking, painting, drumming, singing - they can’t wait to showcase the talent of children in the military community! Enter for a chance to be featured in their show this summer and take home some prizes.
The top six winners will receive a FREE three-night family vacation for four to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida! The deadline for submissions is May 28th.
Learn more at Military Kids Have Talent - Hidden Heroes
Whether it’s dancing, hula hooping, dunking, cooking, painting, drumming, singing - they can’t wait to showcase the talent of children in the military community! Enter for a chance to be featured in their show this summer and take home some prizes.
The top six winners will receive a FREE three-night family vacation for four to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida! The deadline for submissions is May 28th.
Learn more at Military Kids Have Talent - Hidden Heroes
Andi Martinez
Military Kids Have Talent - Hidden Heroes
We’re so excited to see what you’ve got! Please fill out the form here and provide a link for us to view and download a video of your kid’s talent.
Announcing the Veteran Household Financial Health & Planning Survey
Student Veterans of America (SVA) is excited to share its first annual survey on veteran households’ financial health and planning designed to improve financial health and literacy in the veteran community. Reports on the financial health of general population households often overlook the specific and unique needs of veteran households. This survey seeks to close this gap and help policy makers and stakeholders understand how the GI Bill, VA home loans, and other public programs impact veterans’ lives. The survey only takes a few minutes to complete and the deadline to participate is June 20th.
https://studentveterans.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fp5Yw5402YgByS?Channel=VA
Student Veterans of America (SVA) is excited to share its first annual survey on veteran households’ financial health and planning designed to improve financial health and literacy in the veteran community. Reports on the financial health of general population households often overlook the specific and unique needs of veteran households. This survey seeks to close this gap and help policy makers and stakeholders understand how the GI Bill, VA home loans, and other public programs impact veterans’ lives. The survey only takes a few minutes to complete and the deadline to participate is June 20th.
https://studentveterans.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fp5Yw5402YgByS?Channel=VA
I was married in February of 2020, my wife is from the Philippines and We haven't got her green card yet!!! Shes my caregiver an helps me with everything but I am not allowed put her on my DISABILITY check what can I do to expedite this situation!!! It feels very unfair, meanwhile illegals are getting all kinds of help from every direction!!! Please help me get thru this, thank you in advance!!!
Maj Bonnie Carroll
Thank you for your service, Sgt Hammond. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) review and process most immigration applications and time may vary depending on the application type. Unfortunately, the pandemic has made standard case processing times longer. However, you may request to expedite case processing, which is approved by USCIS on a case by case basis. To learn more, please contact USCIS at [login to see] .
Melissa Comeau
Sgt James Hammond my heart goes out to you with this challenge. I am hope you can get the support you need from USCIS.
How do we joint the conversation? I don't see a link to the call/zoom or is this just via web?
Ryan Callahan
SFC Walter Matkovich correct, this is via web so there will be no audio or visual component. You can ask a question right in this discussion and our great leaders will be able to answer it. Thanks!
Maj Bonnie Carroll
SFC Matkovich, thank you for your service to our country and for joining us on RallyPoint. We look forward to answering any questions you may have.
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