Posted on Jul 14, 2020
VetXL: Families Together Q&A with VA and community partners to provide information and responses from experts on Veteran family resources
396K
482
995
The Department of Veterans Affairs and our community partners at Health and Human Services, Cohen Veteran Network, American Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network, ARCHANGELS, Rosalyn Carter Institute, Transition Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), Walmart Military Programs, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Bob Woodruff Foundation, Americas Warrior Partnership, and Code of Support will be here on July 21st at 3PM EST to answer questions.
You can ask questions to the following people:
Dayna Cooper, Director, Home & Community Based Programs, VHA Geriatric Services
Lisa Pape, Deputy Chief PCS Officer, VHA Caregiver Support
LtCol Brad Lanto, Director, Field Operations, VHA Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
RDML Ann Duff, Director, VA Office of Survivor Assistance
The Honorable Cheryl Mason, Chairman of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Charmain Bogue, Executive Director of VA Education Service at VBA
Lori Gerhard, Director, Office of Interagency Innovation, U.S. Administration for Community Living (HHS)
SGT Bryce Carpenter, Ph.D., Manager, Veterans Legacy Program, National Cemetery Administration (NCA)
SGT Jordan Ketner, Lead Outreach Specialist, Veterans Benefits Administration, Benefits Assistance Service
Jessica Schiefer, VHA Communications Officer, Vet Centers rep
PO2 Joe Lattimer (https://rly.pt/JoeLattimer), Office of Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement, VBA
MAJ Eva Weatherley (https://rly.pt/EvaWeatherley), Training Consultant, Veterans Benefits Administration, Compensation Service
Gina Klaus (https://rly.pt/GinaKlaus), Program Analyst, VBA, Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Caitlin Thompson, VP, Community Partnerships at Cohen Veterans Network
Deirdre Armstrong, Director, Community Partnerships, Bob Woodruff Foundation
Melissa Comeau, Director, American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network
Alexandra Drane, Co-Founder & CEO at ARCHANGELS
Dr. Jennifer O., DrPH Executive Director Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving
Maj Bonnie Carroll, President and Founder, TAPS
COL Brynt Parmeter, Senior Director Military Programs at Walmart
Coleton Whitaker, Program Manager at Elizabeth Dole Foundation
Jeanette Gilles, Deputy Director of Community Integration at Americas Warrior Partnership
Kristy Kaufmann, Co-Founder & Executive Director at Code of Support Foundation
Helen Mowers (https://rly.pt/HelenMowers), Instructional System Design Manager at Military Child Education Coalition
Judy Glennon (https://rly.pt/JudyGlennon), Parent Programs Manager at Military Child Education Coalition
VBA-
The Office of Transition and Economic Developments (TED) mission is to ease the Veteran’s transition experience. Established in 2018, by the Under Secretary of Benefits, the Office of Transition and Economic Development is VBA’s newest business line, creating accountability and transparency as VA’s authority on the military life cycle and transition assistance. From when you first join the military to when you start your post-military life, TED is here to help you achieve success anytime, anywhere.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention-
VA's public health strategy to suicide prevention combines partnerships with communities to implement tailored, local prevention plans, while also focusing on evidence based clinical strategies for intervention. Our approach focuses on what we can do now, in the short term, as well as what we can do in the long term, to implement VA’s National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide. Many Veterans may not engage with VHA, so it is necessary to collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies to provide Veterans with resources, evidenced-based therapies, and the tools they need to reach them where they live, work, and thrive. Together, we all make a difference.
Appeals-
https://rly.pt/VAdecisionreviews
The Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Board) is an agency within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Its mission is to conduct hearings and issue timely decisions for Veterans and other appellants in compliance with the law, 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) § 7101(a). The Board is responsible for making final decisions on behalf of the Secretary regarding appeals for Veterans’ benefits and services from all three administrations - Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and National Cemetery Administration (NCA)—as well as the Office of General Counsel (OGC)that are presented to the Board for appellate review. The Board’s jurisdiction extends to all questions in a matter involving a decision by the Secretary under the law that affects a provision of benefits by the Secretary to Veterans, their dependents, or their survivors. 38 U.S.C. §§ 511(a); 7104(a). Final decisions on appeals are made by the Board based on the entire record in the proceeding and all applicable provisions of law and regulation. 38 U.S.C. § 7104(a).
Compensation Service-
Oversees the delivery of disability compensation, a tax-free monetary benefit paid to Veterans with disabilities that are the result of a disease or injury incurred or aggravated during active military service.
Veteran Readiness and Employment-
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) (Formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) services to help with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching. Other services may be provided to assist Veterans and Servicemembers in starting their own businesses or independent living services for those who are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment.
VA's Education and Career Counseling program is a great opportunity for Veterans and Servicemembers to get personalized counseling and support to help guide their career paths, ensure the most effective use of their VA benefits, and achieve their goals.
Vet Centers-
https://rly.pt/VetCenters
Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling (individual, group, marriage and family counseling) to eligible Veterans, active duty Service members, members of the National Guard and Reserve components, and their families. Vet Centers are located in easily accessible neighborhoods and are separate from VA Medical Centers and other VA locations to ensure confidential counseling and reduce barriers to care. There are 300 Vet Centers across the country, Puerto Rico, Guam , American Samoa and the US Virgin Islands. Call 877-WAR-VETS (927-8387) the 24/7 Vet Center Call Center anytime or visit http://www.vetcenter.va.gov to get connected to your local Vet Center.
Veteran Directed Care (VDC)-
https://rly.pt/VDC
The Veteran Directed Care program provides Veterans greater choice and control over their long term services and supports. The Veteran Directed Care (VDC) program offers Veterans and their caregivers greater access, choice and control over the long-term services and supports (LTSS) that help Veterans live at home and remain a part of their community. Veterans enrolled in VDC decide for themselves what mix of goods and services best meet their needs. This includes the ability to hire, schedule and supervise their workers. The VDC program is currently offered at 62 VA Medical Centers across the country. All Veterans, regardless of age, who are enrolled in the VA health care system and meet the clinical need for the service, are eligible to participate in VDC if it is offered at a local VA Medical Center.
Administration for Community Living (ACL)-
https://rly.pt/ACL
The Administration for Community Living was created around the fundamental principle that older adults and people of all ages with disabilities should be able to live where they choose, with the people they choose, and with the ability to participate fully in their communities. By funding services and supports provided by networks of community-based organizations, and with investments in research, education, and innovation, ACL helps make this principle a reality for millions of Americans. ACL’s mission is to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of older adults, people with disabilities across the lifespan, and their families and caregivers. ACL funds a nationwide network of state and community based organizations that assist older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers to access long term services, supports, programs and technologies that enable them to maximize their independence, well-being and health.
The Bob Woodruff Foundation
https://rly.pt/BWF
Our Mission: At the Bob Woodruff Foundation, we ask people to stand up for heroes so that we can find, fund, shape and accelerate solutions that help our impacted veterans, service members and their families thrive.
Our Vision: To be the universal, “blue chip” first stop for investments in veterans’ services, across business, philanthropy and the global public. We accomplish our mission through an industry-leading set of services, including our grantmaking and our Local Partner Network, as well as an innovation lab that develops new solutions and programmatic offerings for the veteran community.
Cohen Veterans Network-
https://rly.pt/CVNclinics
Cohen Veterans Network provides therapy and counseling for post-9/11 veterans, including those from the National Guard and Reserves, and military family members. High-quality, confidential mental health care is available regardless of role in uniform, combat experience, or discharge status.
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://rly.pt/RedCross
ARCHANGELS-
https://rly.pt/ARCHANGELS
ARCHANGELS is a national movement and platform that recognizes and honors caregivers, and through the combination of data and stories connects them to resources that can help. We believe shining a light on caregivers, so they feel seen and honored, is the first line of care. Loving on them and thanking them for the work they do is the next step. And step three is lifting them up by providing resources that actually help, including resources specifically for those caring for Veterans as well as Veteran caregivers. Our job is to find the things that make the good things about being a caregiver ‘good-er’, and the bad things better.
The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving-
https://rly.pt/RosalynCarterInstitute
RCI promotes the health, strength, and resilience of caregivers across the lifespan. RCI will champion the interests of caregivers by partnering with other organizations to support data-informed programs and policies that enable life-long health, strength, and resilience.
Operation Family Caregiver-
https://rly.pt/OFC
Operation Family Caregiver is a free and confidential program for the families and friends of veterans, providing one-on-one coaching, in person or virtually, by specially-trained coaches. Over 8 sessions, coaches work with caregivers to help them find strength through their journey and feel better about making decisions that will improve their lives, today and in the future. Everyone deserves a strong, health family.
Heroes MAKE America:
Heroes MAKE America is The Manufacturing Institute’s initiative to build connections between the military community and the manufacturing industry. Our signature training program provides our participants with the skills and certifications needed to find and excel in careers in manufacturing. Our program is open to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard, reservists and military spouses. In addition, all are welcome to join us for Heroes Connect: Military to Manufacturing where we virtually connect talent from the military community with manufacturers who are hiring today. We are committed to making today’s American Heroes tomorrow’s manufacturing leaders.
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).
Walmart-
https://rly.pt/Walmart
Elizabeth Dole Foundation-
https://rly.pt/EDF
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to strengthen and empower America’s military caregivers and their families by raising public awareness, driving research, championing policy, and leading collaborations that make a significant impact on their lives. See http://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org for more information.
America’s Warrior Partnership
https://rly.pt/AWP
America’s Warrior Partnership is committed to empowering communities to empower veterans. We fill the gaps that exist between veteran service organizations by helping nonprofits connect with veterans, their families and caregivers. Our programs bolster nonprofit efficacy, improving their results and empowering their initiatives.
Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®)-
https://rly.pt/MilitaryChild
Founded in 1998, the Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®) is a 501(c)(3) global, nonprofit leadership and advocacy organization focused exclusively on the well-being and needs of America’s approximately four million military and veteran-connected children, specifically in the areas of academic opportunity and excellence, school transition support, and developmental needs. Our goal is to ensure that every military-connected child grows and thrives through good and challenging times in order to be college, workplace, and ultimately, life-ready.
DOL-
DOL VETS: http://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets and http://www.veterans.gov
DOL resources to help workers and employers: http://www.dol.gov/coronavirus
Unemployment Compensation FAQs: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/VETS/files/unemployment-benefits-for-student-veterans-fact-sheet.pdf
HIRE Vets Medallion Award Program: http://www.HIREVets.gov
You can ask questions to the following people:
Dayna Cooper, Director, Home & Community Based Programs, VHA Geriatric Services
Lisa Pape, Deputy Chief PCS Officer, VHA Caregiver Support
LtCol Brad Lanto, Director, Field Operations, VHA Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
RDML Ann Duff, Director, VA Office of Survivor Assistance
The Honorable Cheryl Mason, Chairman of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Charmain Bogue, Executive Director of VA Education Service at VBA
Lori Gerhard, Director, Office of Interagency Innovation, U.S. Administration for Community Living (HHS)
SGT Bryce Carpenter, Ph.D., Manager, Veterans Legacy Program, National Cemetery Administration (NCA)
SGT Jordan Ketner, Lead Outreach Specialist, Veterans Benefits Administration, Benefits Assistance Service
Jessica Schiefer, VHA Communications Officer, Vet Centers rep
PO2 Joe Lattimer (https://rly.pt/JoeLattimer), Office of Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement, VBA
MAJ Eva Weatherley (https://rly.pt/EvaWeatherley), Training Consultant, Veterans Benefits Administration, Compensation Service
Gina Klaus (https://rly.pt/GinaKlaus), Program Analyst, VBA, Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Caitlin Thompson, VP, Community Partnerships at Cohen Veterans Network
Deirdre Armstrong, Director, Community Partnerships, Bob Woodruff Foundation
Melissa Comeau, Director, American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network
Alexandra Drane, Co-Founder & CEO at ARCHANGELS
Dr. Jennifer O., DrPH Executive Director Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving
Maj Bonnie Carroll, President and Founder, TAPS
COL Brynt Parmeter, Senior Director Military Programs at Walmart
Coleton Whitaker, Program Manager at Elizabeth Dole Foundation
Jeanette Gilles, Deputy Director of Community Integration at Americas Warrior Partnership
Kristy Kaufmann, Co-Founder & Executive Director at Code of Support Foundation
Helen Mowers (https://rly.pt/HelenMowers), Instructional System Design Manager at Military Child Education Coalition
Judy Glennon (https://rly.pt/JudyGlennon), Parent Programs Manager at Military Child Education Coalition
VBA-
The Office of Transition and Economic Developments (TED) mission is to ease the Veteran’s transition experience. Established in 2018, by the Under Secretary of Benefits, the Office of Transition and Economic Development is VBA’s newest business line, creating accountability and transparency as VA’s authority on the military life cycle and transition assistance. From when you first join the military to when you start your post-military life, TED is here to help you achieve success anytime, anywhere.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention-
VA's public health strategy to suicide prevention combines partnerships with communities to implement tailored, local prevention plans, while also focusing on evidence based clinical strategies for intervention. Our approach focuses on what we can do now, in the short term, as well as what we can do in the long term, to implement VA’s National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide. Many Veterans may not engage with VHA, so it is necessary to collaborate with federal, state, and local agencies to provide Veterans with resources, evidenced-based therapies, and the tools they need to reach them where they live, work, and thrive. Together, we all make a difference.
Appeals-
https://rly.pt/VAdecisionreviews
The Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Board) is an agency within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Its mission is to conduct hearings and issue timely decisions for Veterans and other appellants in compliance with the law, 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) § 7101(a). The Board is responsible for making final decisions on behalf of the Secretary regarding appeals for Veterans’ benefits and services from all three administrations - Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and National Cemetery Administration (NCA)—as well as the Office of General Counsel (OGC)that are presented to the Board for appellate review. The Board’s jurisdiction extends to all questions in a matter involving a decision by the Secretary under the law that affects a provision of benefits by the Secretary to Veterans, their dependents, or their survivors. 38 U.S.C. §§ 511(a); 7104(a). Final decisions on appeals are made by the Board based on the entire record in the proceeding and all applicable provisions of law and regulation. 38 U.S.C. § 7104(a).
Compensation Service-
Oversees the delivery of disability compensation, a tax-free monetary benefit paid to Veterans with disabilities that are the result of a disease or injury incurred or aggravated during active military service.
Veteran Readiness and Employment-
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) (Formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) services to help with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching. Other services may be provided to assist Veterans and Servicemembers in starting their own businesses or independent living services for those who are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment.
VA's Education and Career Counseling program is a great opportunity for Veterans and Servicemembers to get personalized counseling and support to help guide their career paths, ensure the most effective use of their VA benefits, and achieve their goals.
Vet Centers-
https://rly.pt/VetCenters
Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling (individual, group, marriage and family counseling) to eligible Veterans, active duty Service members, members of the National Guard and Reserve components, and their families. Vet Centers are located in easily accessible neighborhoods and are separate from VA Medical Centers and other VA locations to ensure confidential counseling and reduce barriers to care. There are 300 Vet Centers across the country, Puerto Rico, Guam , American Samoa and the US Virgin Islands. Call 877-WAR-VETS (927-8387) the 24/7 Vet Center Call Center anytime or visit http://www.vetcenter.va.gov to get connected to your local Vet Center.
Veteran Directed Care (VDC)-
https://rly.pt/VDC
The Veteran Directed Care program provides Veterans greater choice and control over their long term services and supports. The Veteran Directed Care (VDC) program offers Veterans and their caregivers greater access, choice and control over the long-term services and supports (LTSS) that help Veterans live at home and remain a part of their community. Veterans enrolled in VDC decide for themselves what mix of goods and services best meet their needs. This includes the ability to hire, schedule and supervise their workers. The VDC program is currently offered at 62 VA Medical Centers across the country. All Veterans, regardless of age, who are enrolled in the VA health care system and meet the clinical need for the service, are eligible to participate in VDC if it is offered at a local VA Medical Center.
Administration for Community Living (ACL)-
https://rly.pt/ACL
The Administration for Community Living was created around the fundamental principle that older adults and people of all ages with disabilities should be able to live where they choose, with the people they choose, and with the ability to participate fully in their communities. By funding services and supports provided by networks of community-based organizations, and with investments in research, education, and innovation, ACL helps make this principle a reality for millions of Americans. ACL’s mission is to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of older adults, people with disabilities across the lifespan, and their families and caregivers. ACL funds a nationwide network of state and community based organizations that assist older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers to access long term services, supports, programs and technologies that enable them to maximize their independence, well-being and health.
The Bob Woodruff Foundation
https://rly.pt/BWF
Our Mission: At the Bob Woodruff Foundation, we ask people to stand up for heroes so that we can find, fund, shape and accelerate solutions that help our impacted veterans, service members and their families thrive.
Our Vision: To be the universal, “blue chip” first stop for investments in veterans’ services, across business, philanthropy and the global public. We accomplish our mission through an industry-leading set of services, including our grantmaking and our Local Partner Network, as well as an innovation lab that develops new solutions and programmatic offerings for the veteran community.
Cohen Veterans Network-
https://rly.pt/CVNclinics
Cohen Veterans Network provides therapy and counseling for post-9/11 veterans, including those from the National Guard and Reserves, and military family members. High-quality, confidential mental health care is available regardless of role in uniform, combat experience, or discharge status.
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://rly.pt/RedCross
ARCHANGELS-
https://rly.pt/ARCHANGELS
ARCHANGELS is a national movement and platform that recognizes and honors caregivers, and through the combination of data and stories connects them to resources that can help. We believe shining a light on caregivers, so they feel seen and honored, is the first line of care. Loving on them and thanking them for the work they do is the next step. And step three is lifting them up by providing resources that actually help, including resources specifically for those caring for Veterans as well as Veteran caregivers. Our job is to find the things that make the good things about being a caregiver ‘good-er’, and the bad things better.
The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving-
https://rly.pt/RosalynCarterInstitute
RCI promotes the health, strength, and resilience of caregivers across the lifespan. RCI will champion the interests of caregivers by partnering with other organizations to support data-informed programs and policies that enable life-long health, strength, and resilience.
Operation Family Caregiver-
https://rly.pt/OFC
Operation Family Caregiver is a free and confidential program for the families and friends of veterans, providing one-on-one coaching, in person or virtually, by specially-trained coaches. Over 8 sessions, coaches work with caregivers to help them find strength through their journey and feel better about making decisions that will improve their lives, today and in the future. Everyone deserves a strong, health family.
Heroes MAKE America:
Heroes MAKE America is The Manufacturing Institute’s initiative to build connections between the military community and the manufacturing industry. Our signature training program provides our participants with the skills and certifications needed to find and excel in careers in manufacturing. Our program is open to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard, reservists and military spouses. In addition, all are welcome to join us for Heroes Connect: Military to Manufacturing where we virtually connect talent from the military community with manufacturers who are hiring today. We are committed to making today’s American Heroes tomorrow’s manufacturing leaders.
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).
Walmart-
https://rly.pt/Walmart
Elizabeth Dole Foundation-
https://rly.pt/EDF
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to strengthen and empower America’s military caregivers and their families by raising public awareness, driving research, championing policy, and leading collaborations that make a significant impact on their lives. See http://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org for more information.
America’s Warrior Partnership
https://rly.pt/AWP
America’s Warrior Partnership is committed to empowering communities to empower veterans. We fill the gaps that exist between veteran service organizations by helping nonprofits connect with veterans, their families and caregivers. Our programs bolster nonprofit efficacy, improving their results and empowering their initiatives.
Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®)-
https://rly.pt/MilitaryChild
Founded in 1998, the Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®) is a 501(c)(3) global, nonprofit leadership and advocacy organization focused exclusively on the well-being and needs of America’s approximately four million military and veteran-connected children, specifically in the areas of academic opportunity and excellence, school transition support, and developmental needs. Our goal is to ensure that every military-connected child grows and thrives through good and challenging times in order to be college, workplace, and ultimately, life-ready.
DOL-
DOL VETS: http://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets and http://www.veterans.gov
DOL resources to help workers and employers: http://www.dol.gov/coronavirus
Unemployment Compensation FAQs: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/VETS/files/unemployment-benefits-for-student-veterans-fact-sheet.pdf
HIRE Vets Medallion Award Program: http://www.HIREVets.gov
Military Family
Family
Civilian Supporter
Spouses
Caregiver
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 371
When can we get back to using the Waco front gate. When can we be seen more frequently than every 4 months? When will the VA get their online meds system working more efficiently?
My bronze star was stolen I filled to have it replaced over a year ago haven’t heard from anyone
Millions of military personnel and their family members, including children, were required to work, live, and go to school on one or more of the over 130 DoD Superfund sites (toxic waste dumps). Many of us were never told about the contamination, even though the DoD knew about the contamination, in some instances, for decades before our exposure.
When will the VA hire Board Certified Occupational & Environmental Medicine (COEM) / Occupational Medicine (OCCMED) doctors to diagnose and provide a treatment plan for our Service Connected (SC) injuries?
When will the employees of the VA cut through the Red Tape and provide medical care and compensation for our service-connected (SC) toxic exposure at the DoD Superfund sites?
When will the VA hire Board Certified Occupational & Environmental Medicine (COEM) / Occupational Medicine (OCCMED) doctors to diagnose and provide a treatment plan for our Service Connected (SC) injuries?
When will the employees of the VA cut through the Red Tape and provide medical care and compensation for our service-connected (SC) toxic exposure at the DoD Superfund sites?
Maj Bonnie Carroll
Dear A1C Frank Vera, Thank you for your question and your service. Many veteran and military service organizations, to include TAPS, have been working with Congress to address toxic exposure issues within the military. The FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act has over a dozen amendments addressing the health and environmental impact of PFAS exposure on military installations and severe environmental health hazards in military housing, and would require the EPA to list PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Superfund Program. The VA has stood up a site to address Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals and Materials https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/. If you have a disability that isn’t listed on the site, you may file a special claim with the VA and may be entitled to disability compensation or other benefits. With gratitude, Bonnie Carroll
Exposure to hazardous chemicals and materials | Veterans Affairs
Learn about chemical hazards or other hazardous materials you may have come in contact with during military service. Find out if you can get VA disability compensation for illnesses related to exposure to hazardous chemicals or materials.
i need a job i need to stand working nobody want to explotar me . Esther yo administración don 't have a plan or a service for a person like me Witherspoon 10 porcentaje of dísable) how mano veterans are there in same situation?
Melissa Comeau
Thank you for joining us today SPC Wooten. I want to share the Hero Care Resource Directory with you. There are over 800 resources for every zip code in America. There is a special category for transportation and goods. I hope this helps. https://herocare.auntbertha.com/
Find social services that serve your area, anywhere in the US
Why is it Pre K for young children isn’t apart of anything that the VA would help cover? Or even help with daycare to go to treatment for my sTBI
Melissa Comeau
Thank you for asking this question. Child care comes up all the time in the Red Cross Military Veteran Caregiver Network. It can be hard to manage your health care and child care simultaneously. There are many veterans and caregivers with young children that need child care options while getting health care. I wish there was more help with this.
Cpl Jamie Frei
Been a struggle since around 2018 but ones starting kindergarten and the bringing in one is doable just not two Melissa Comeau
I was in the USAF for 9 years and worked on the flight line. My hear is very bad and I now need Hearing Aids and was wondering if its covered as a vet
Read This Next
Continue with Facebook 
Continue with Google
You may want to reach out to the National Archives as they will assist in the replacement of lost awards and decorations. Hopefully they will be able to assist you!
https://www.archives.gov/veterans/replace-medals
Military Awards and Decorations
En Español The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) does not issue service medals; that is a function of each military service department. Requests for the issuance or replacement of military service medals, decorations and awards should be directed to the specific branch of the military in which the veteran served. However, for cases involving Air Force and Army personnel (click here for exceptions), the NPRC will verify the awards to...