http://blogs.journalism.cuny.edu/interactive2010/2009/11/15/a-look-at-veterans-present-and-future/
Monday, December 7, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
NY1 interviews Home Again Program
http://ny1.com/1-all-boroughs-news-content/news_beats/education/108768/cuny-program-helps-vets-adjust-to-life-on-campus/
NY1 Interviews Home Again Program Director, Caroline Peacock, and Veteran Peer Advocate, August Coleman
NY1 Interviews Home Again Program Director, Caroline Peacock, and Veteran Peer Advocate, August Coleman
Monday, November 2, 2009
PTSD Stigma
The stigma associated with PTSD for veterans and active duty service members must be overcome. PTSD and other mental health consequences of war have been stigmatized to the degree that many veterans who are suffering are not willing to come forward and seek the treatment they need to get better. As a result, veterans refuse to seek the help they need and are entitled to.
Many veterans could benefit from breaking out of the "suck it up and soldier on" mentality which is the norm for service members. It's important for veterans to know that it is okay to seek help, and in fact, seeking help is a sign of strength. Unforunately, the chain of command has historically considered seeking treatment to be a sign of being a weak soldier, who is mentality unfit, and that stigma has carried over in transition to civilian life. Fighting this attitude is probably the biggest obstacle for veterans with PTSD.
Many veterans suffer behind closed doors without any sense of hope for the future. They believe by suppressing their memories and by "boxing it up" that the memories will go away. There are veterans who live in in the shadow, unwilling to reach out and admit they can't battle this "invisible wound of war" on their own. Veterans should know that they can always apply what the military has taugh- to "adapt and overcome" and accomplish the mission by seeking treatment for a better way of life. Help does not come to those who don't seek it. Veterans are not alone!
Anti Stigma Resources/Articles
Army.Mil
http://www.army.mil/-news/2009/10/08/28458-education-key-to-overcome-ptsd-stigma/
National Alliance for Mental Illness
http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=fight_stigma
Veterans Resource-National Alliance for Mental Illness
http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=Veterans_Resources&Template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=53587&lstid=879
NCPTSD
http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/ptsd-work-and-community.asp
Wounded Warrior Project
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/content/view/915/921/
National Institute of Mental Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml
Many veterans could benefit from breaking out of the "suck it up and soldier on" mentality which is the norm for service members. It's important for veterans to know that it is okay to seek help, and in fact, seeking help is a sign of strength. Unforunately, the chain of command has historically considered seeking treatment to be a sign of being a weak soldier, who is mentality unfit, and that stigma has carried over in transition to civilian life. Fighting this attitude is probably the biggest obstacle for veterans with PTSD.
Many veterans suffer behind closed doors without any sense of hope for the future. They believe by suppressing their memories and by "boxing it up" that the memories will go away. There are veterans who live in in the shadow, unwilling to reach out and admit they can't battle this "invisible wound of war" on their own. Veterans should know that they can always apply what the military has taugh- to "adapt and overcome" and accomplish the mission by seeking treatment for a better way of life. Help does not come to those who don't seek it. Veterans are not alone!
Anti Stigma Resources/Articles
Army.Mil
http://www.army.mil/-news/2009/10/08/28458-education-key-to-overcome-ptsd-stigma/
National Alliance for Mental Illness
http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?section=fight_stigma
Veterans Resource-National Alliance for Mental Illness
http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=Veterans_Resources&Template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=53587&lstid=879
NCPTSD
http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/ptsd-work-and-community.asp
Wounded Warrior Project
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/content/view/915/921/
National Institute of Mental Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml
New York Times Blog
New York Times Blog- Iraq/Afghanistan
http://homefires.blogs.nytimes.com/
Women in arms series -
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/us/series/women_at_arms/index.html
http://homefires.blogs.nytimes.com/
Women in arms series -
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/us/series/women_at_arms/index.html
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Stop Loss Payment
If you were stop loss since Sept 2001, you will receive retro active pay of $500 per month.
You can apply after Oct 21.2009
www.stoplosspay.army.mil
Soldiers, retirees and veterans who think they may be eligible for retroactive stop-loss pay have 12 months to apply for the special $500 per month entitlement authorized by Congress earlier this year.
As many as 140,000 current and former soldiers may qualify for payment.
Effective Oct. 21, the Army will compensate soldiers for each month, or portion of a month, they were retained on active duty beyond their contracted separation or voluntary retirement date.
Claims may be submitted starting Oct. 21 and must be filed by Oct. 21, 2010.
Payments are retroactive to Sept. 11, 2001, and cover involuntary service performed through Sept. 30, 2009.
However, soldiers who have received regular stop-loss pay for service performed after Oct. 1, 2008, will be compensated only if they were in stop-loss status before that date.
The retroactive compensation will be paid lump sum for the months served in stop-loss status.
Soldiers will not receive regular stop-loss pay and retroactive stop-loss pay for the same period.
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service will determine the applicable tax exclusion for retroactive pay that was earned in a combat zone, according to Army officials.
While all the armed forces have imposed some form of stop-loss since 9/11, the Army has liberally applied the policy to its active and reserve components over the past nine years, with restrictions initially imposed on soldiers in priority specialties, and since 2003, on entire units.
Because of stop-loss’s widespread use, Army personnel officials estimate that nearly 140,000 current and former soldiers may be eligible.
To qualify, soldiers, retirees, veterans or their survivors must file a claim with the Army no later than Oct. 21, 2010.
Claims can be submitted electronically beginning Oct. 21 at a dedicated Web site, www.stoploss pay.army.mil.
Soldiers and former soldiers qualify for retroactive stop-loss pay if they were retained on active duty beyond:
* A contractual expiration term of service, or ETS, date, or in the case of reservists, their contractual ETS in the Selected Reserve.
* An approved separation date based on an unqualified resignation or release from active duty or, in the case of reservists, an approved request for transfer to the Individual Ready Reserve.
* An approved retirement based on length of service.
You can apply after Oct 21.2009
www.stoplosspay.army.mil
Soldiers, retirees and veterans who think they may be eligible for retroactive stop-loss pay have 12 months to apply for the special $500 per month entitlement authorized by Congress earlier this year.
As many as 140,000 current and former soldiers may qualify for payment.
Effective Oct. 21, the Army will compensate soldiers for each month, or portion of a month, they were retained on active duty beyond their contracted separation or voluntary retirement date.
Claims may be submitted starting Oct. 21 and must be filed by Oct. 21, 2010.
Payments are retroactive to Sept. 11, 2001, and cover involuntary service performed through Sept. 30, 2009.
However, soldiers who have received regular stop-loss pay for service performed after Oct. 1, 2008, will be compensated only if they were in stop-loss status before that date.
The retroactive compensation will be paid lump sum for the months served in stop-loss status.
Soldiers will not receive regular stop-loss pay and retroactive stop-loss pay for the same period.
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service will determine the applicable tax exclusion for retroactive pay that was earned in a combat zone, according to Army officials.
While all the armed forces have imposed some form of stop-loss since 9/11, the Army has liberally applied the policy to its active and reserve components over the past nine years, with restrictions initially imposed on soldiers in priority specialties, and since 2003, on entire units.
Because of stop-loss’s widespread use, Army personnel officials estimate that nearly 140,000 current and former soldiers may be eligible.
To qualify, soldiers, retirees, veterans or their survivors must file a claim with the Army no later than Oct. 21, 2010.
Claims can be submitted electronically beginning Oct. 21 at a dedicated Web site, www.stoploss pay.army.mil.
Soldiers and former soldiers qualify for retroactive stop-loss pay if they were retained on active duty beyond:
* A contractual expiration term of service, or ETS, date, or in the case of reservists, their contractual ETS in the Selected Reserve.
* An approved separation date based on an unqualified resignation or release from active duty or, in the case of reservists, an approved request for transfer to the Individual Ready Reserve.
* An approved retirement based on length of service.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Post 9/11Advance Payment
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki today announced further outreach to Veteran-students eligible for a special emergency payment of their education benefits. Veterans can now apply online beginning Oct. 2. Veteran-students can also request courtesy transportation to VA regional benefits offices.
Last week Shinseki announced that on Friday, Oct. 2, VA’s 57 regional benefits offices will begin providing on-the-spot emergency payments up to $3,000 to students who have applied for their education benefits but who have not yet received a government payment.
Citing the distance many Veterans would have to travel to apply in person at a VA benefits office, Shinseki announced Veterans can also apply online at www.va.gov, starting Oct. 2. The online application will guide Veterans through the process to supply needed information. Shinseki noted that online applicants will receive their emergency payments through the mail after processing.
“VA is adapting to meet the financial needs of our Veteran-students who are on campus,” Shinseki said. “They should be focusing on their studies, not worrying about financial difficulties.”
Students without their own transportation can also request free van service, provided by volunteers, to carry them to the nearest benefits office. To obtain this service, Veterans would have to call their nearest VA medical center and ask for the “Volunteer Transportation Coordinator.” Transportation will be on a first-come, first-served, space-available basis. Veterans can find a map and list of medical centers at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=1.
Whether traveling by personal vehicle or volunteer van, VA officials suggest students check their mail boxes and banking accounts before leaving home, since some Veterans will find their checks have already arrived. VA would like to recognize the volunteers and Veterans Service Organizations for partnering with the Department to ensure that Veterans’ needs are met.
The emergency checks are an advance on each student’s education benefits, and the amount will be deducted from future benefits payments. Checks will be written at the regional offices for Veterans who bring a photo ID and evidence of their enrollment. VA officials emphasize that $3,000 is the maximum payment, with many Veterans receiving smaller payments based upon their likely monthly education benefits.
A map and list of the participating VA regional benefits offices is available on the Internet at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3. The most updated information regarding VA issuing emergency checks will be available at VA’s web site www.va.gov starting Oct. 1.
NYC VA Regional Office - 245 West Houston Street, NY, NY 10014.
Students may apply online by going to http://www.va.gov. Applicants would receive their checks in the mail.
Last week Shinseki announced that on Friday, Oct. 2, VA’s 57 regional benefits offices will begin providing on-the-spot emergency payments up to $3,000 to students who have applied for their education benefits but who have not yet received a government payment.
Citing the distance many Veterans would have to travel to apply in person at a VA benefits office, Shinseki announced Veterans can also apply online at www.va.gov, starting Oct. 2. The online application will guide Veterans through the process to supply needed information. Shinseki noted that online applicants will receive their emergency payments through the mail after processing.
“VA is adapting to meet the financial needs of our Veteran-students who are on campus,” Shinseki said. “They should be focusing on their studies, not worrying about financial difficulties.”
Students without their own transportation can also request free van service, provided by volunteers, to carry them to the nearest benefits office. To obtain this service, Veterans would have to call their nearest VA medical center and ask for the “Volunteer Transportation Coordinator.” Transportation will be on a first-come, first-served, space-available basis. Veterans can find a map and list of medical centers at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=1.
Whether traveling by personal vehicle or volunteer van, VA officials suggest students check their mail boxes and banking accounts before leaving home, since some Veterans will find their checks have already arrived. VA would like to recognize the volunteers and Veterans Service Organizations for partnering with the Department to ensure that Veterans’ needs are met.
The emergency checks are an advance on each student’s education benefits, and the amount will be deducted from future benefits payments. Checks will be written at the regional offices for Veterans who bring a photo ID and evidence of their enrollment. VA officials emphasize that $3,000 is the maximum payment, with many Veterans receiving smaller payments based upon their likely monthly education benefits.
A map and list of the participating VA regional benefits offices is available on the Internet at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3. The most updated information regarding VA issuing emergency checks will be available at VA’s web site www.va.gov starting Oct. 1.
NYC VA Regional Office - 245 West Houston Street, NY, NY 10014.
Students may apply online by going to http://www.va.gov. Applicants would receive their checks in the mail.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
PTSD information
What is PTSD?
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur after you have been through a traumatic event. A traumatic event is something horrible and scary that you see or that happens to you. During this type of event, you think that your life or others' lives are in danger. You may feel afraid or feel that you have no control over what is happening.
Anyone who has gone through a life-threatening event can develop PTSD. These events can include:
Combat or military exposure
Child sexual or physical abuse
Terrorist attacks
Sexual or physical assault
Serious accidents, such as a car wreck.
Natural disasters, such as a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or earthquake.
After the event, you may feel scared, confused, or angry. If these feelings don't go away or they get worse, you may have PTSD. These symptoms may disrupt your life, making it hard to continue with your daily activities.
How does PTSD develop?
All people with PTSD have lived through a traumatic event that caused them to fear for their lives, see horrible things, and feel helpless. Strong emotions caused by the event create changes in the brain that may result in PTSD.
Most people who go through a traumatic event have some symptoms at the beginning. Yet only some will develop PTSD. It isn't clear why some people develop PTSD and others don't. How likely you are to get PTSD depends on many things. These include:
-How intense the trauma was or how long it lasted
-If you lost someone you were close to or were hurt
-How close you were to the event
-How strong your reaction was
-How much you felt in control of events
-How much help and support you got after the event
Many people who develop PTSD get better at some time. But about 1 out of 3 people with PTSD may continue to have some symptoms. Even if you continue to have symptoms, treatment can help you cope. Your symptoms don't have to interfere with your everyday activities, work, and relationships.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be terrifying. They may disrupt your life and make it hard to continue with your daily activities. It may be hard just to get through the day.
PTSD symptoms usually start soon after the traumatic event, but they may not happen until months or years later. They also may come and go over many years. If the symptoms last longer than 4 weeks, cause you great distress, or interfere with your work or home life, you probably have PTSD.
There are four types of symptoms: reliving the event, avoidance, numbing, and feeling keyed up.
Reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms):
Bad memories of the traumatic event can come back at any time. You may feel the same fear and horror you did when the event took place. You may have nightmares. You even may feel like you're going through the event again. This is called a flashback. Sometimes there is a trigger: a sound or sight that causes you to relive the event.
Triggers might include:
Hearing a car backfire, which can bring back memories of gunfire and war for a combat veteran
Seeing a car accident, which can remind a crash survivor of his or her own accident
Seeing a news report of a sexual assault, which may bring back memories of assault for a woman who was raped
Avoiding situations that remind you of the event:
You may try to avoid situations or people that trigger memories of the traumatic event. You may even avoid talking or thinking about the event.
A person who was in an earthquake may avoid watching television shows or movies in which there are earthquakes
A person who was robbed at gunpoint while ordering at a hamburger drive-in may avoid fast-food restaurants
Some people may keep very busy or avoid seeking help. This keeps them from having to think or talk about the event.
Feeling numb:
You may find it hard to express your feelings. This is another way to avoid memories.
You may not have positive or loving feelings toward other people and may stay away from relationships
You may not be interested in activities you used to enjoy
You may forget about parts of the traumatic event or not be able to talk about them.
Feeling keyed up (also called hyperarousal):
You may be jittery, or always alert and on the lookout for danger. This is known as hyperarousal. It can cause you to:
Suddenly become angry or irritable
Have a hard time sleeping
Have trouble concentrating
Fear for your safety and always feel on guard
Be very startled when someone surprises you
What are other common problems?
People with PTSD may also have other problems. These include:
Drinking or drug problems
Feelings of hopelessness, shame, or despair
Employment problems
Relationships problems including divorce and violence
Physical symptoms
Can children have PTSD?
Children can have PTSD too. They may have the symptoms described above or other symptoms depending on how old they are. As children get older their symptoms are more like those of adults.
Young children may become upset if their parents are not close by, have trouble sleeping, or suddenly have trouble with toilet training or going to the bathroom
Children who are in the first few years of elementary school (ages 6 to 9) may act out the trauma through play, drawings, or stories. They may complain of physical problems or become more irritable or aggressive. They also may develop fears and anxiety that don't seem to be caused by the traumatic event.
What treatments are available?
When you have PTSD, dealing with the past can be hard. Instead of telling others how you feel, you may keep your feelings bottled up. But treatment can help you get better.
There are good treatments available for PTSD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of counseling. It appears to be the most effective type of counseling for PTSD. There are different types of cognitive behavioral therapies such as cognitive therapy and exposure therapy. A similar kind of therapy called EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is also used for PTSD. Medications can be effective too. A type of drug known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is also used for depression, is effective for PTSD.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:Email: ncptsd@va.gov
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur after you have been through a traumatic event. A traumatic event is something horrible and scary that you see or that happens to you. During this type of event, you think that your life or others' lives are in danger. You may feel afraid or feel that you have no control over what is happening.
Anyone who has gone through a life-threatening event can develop PTSD. These events can include:
Combat or military exposure
Child sexual or physical abuse
Terrorist attacks
Sexual or physical assault
Serious accidents, such as a car wreck.
Natural disasters, such as a fire, tornado, hurricane, flood, or earthquake.
After the event, you may feel scared, confused, or angry. If these feelings don't go away or they get worse, you may have PTSD. These symptoms may disrupt your life, making it hard to continue with your daily activities.
How does PTSD develop?
All people with PTSD have lived through a traumatic event that caused them to fear for their lives, see horrible things, and feel helpless. Strong emotions caused by the event create changes in the brain that may result in PTSD.
Most people who go through a traumatic event have some symptoms at the beginning. Yet only some will develop PTSD. It isn't clear why some people develop PTSD and others don't. How likely you are to get PTSD depends on many things. These include:
-How intense the trauma was or how long it lasted
-If you lost someone you were close to or were hurt
-How close you were to the event
-How strong your reaction was
-How much you felt in control of events
-How much help and support you got after the event
Many people who develop PTSD get better at some time. But about 1 out of 3 people with PTSD may continue to have some symptoms. Even if you continue to have symptoms, treatment can help you cope. Your symptoms don't have to interfere with your everyday activities, work, and relationships.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be terrifying. They may disrupt your life and make it hard to continue with your daily activities. It may be hard just to get through the day.
PTSD symptoms usually start soon after the traumatic event, but they may not happen until months or years later. They also may come and go over many years. If the symptoms last longer than 4 weeks, cause you great distress, or interfere with your work or home life, you probably have PTSD.
There are four types of symptoms: reliving the event, avoidance, numbing, and feeling keyed up.
Reliving the event (also called re-experiencing symptoms):
Bad memories of the traumatic event can come back at any time. You may feel the same fear and horror you did when the event took place. You may have nightmares. You even may feel like you're going through the event again. This is called a flashback. Sometimes there is a trigger: a sound or sight that causes you to relive the event.
Triggers might include:
Hearing a car backfire, which can bring back memories of gunfire and war for a combat veteran
Seeing a car accident, which can remind a crash survivor of his or her own accident
Seeing a news report of a sexual assault, which may bring back memories of assault for a woman who was raped
Avoiding situations that remind you of the event:
You may try to avoid situations or people that trigger memories of the traumatic event. You may even avoid talking or thinking about the event.
A person who was in an earthquake may avoid watching television shows or movies in which there are earthquakes
A person who was robbed at gunpoint while ordering at a hamburger drive-in may avoid fast-food restaurants
Some people may keep very busy or avoid seeking help. This keeps them from having to think or talk about the event.
Feeling numb:
You may find it hard to express your feelings. This is another way to avoid memories.
You may not have positive or loving feelings toward other people and may stay away from relationships
You may not be interested in activities you used to enjoy
You may forget about parts of the traumatic event or not be able to talk about them.
Feeling keyed up (also called hyperarousal):
You may be jittery, or always alert and on the lookout for danger. This is known as hyperarousal. It can cause you to:
Suddenly become angry or irritable
Have a hard time sleeping
Have trouble concentrating
Fear for your safety and always feel on guard
Be very startled when someone surprises you
What are other common problems?
People with PTSD may also have other problems. These include:
Drinking or drug problems
Feelings of hopelessness, shame, or despair
Employment problems
Relationships problems including divorce and violence
Physical symptoms
Can children have PTSD?
Children can have PTSD too. They may have the symptoms described above or other symptoms depending on how old they are. As children get older their symptoms are more like those of adults.
Young children may become upset if their parents are not close by, have trouble sleeping, or suddenly have trouble with toilet training or going to the bathroom
Children who are in the first few years of elementary school (ages 6 to 9) may act out the trauma through play, drawings, or stories. They may complain of physical problems or become more irritable or aggressive. They also may develop fears and anxiety that don't seem to be caused by the traumatic event.
What treatments are available?
When you have PTSD, dealing with the past can be hard. Instead of telling others how you feel, you may keep your feelings bottled up. But treatment can help you get better.
There are good treatments available for PTSD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of counseling. It appears to be the most effective type of counseling for PTSD. There are different types of cognitive behavioral therapies such as cognitive therapy and exposure therapy. A similar kind of therapy called EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is also used for PTSD. Medications can be effective too. A type of drug known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which is also used for depression, is effective for PTSD.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:Email: ncptsd@va.gov
Monday, September 14, 2009
Gay and Lesbian Veterans
The New York Chapter of American Veterans for Equal Rights
www.averny.tripod.com
LBGT Community Center
208 W.13 street (Manhattan)
718-849-5665
The Center (The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center)
http://www.gaycenter.org/
Rainbow Heights Club
25 Flatbush Ave- Forth Floor
Brooklyn NY 11217
718-852-2584
www.rainbowheights.org
www.averny.tripod.com
LBGT Community Center
208 W.13 street (Manhattan)
718-849-5665
The Center (The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center)
http://www.gaycenter.org/
Rainbow Heights Club
25 Flatbush Ave- Forth Floor
Brooklyn NY 11217
718-852-2584
www.rainbowheights.org
Substance Abuse
Samaritan Village
Veterans Program
43rd street Veterans Program
327 West 43rd Street
NY,NY 10036
Ed Thompson Veterans Center
130-15 89th Road
Richmond Hill NY 11418
Admission Dept
718-657-6195
1-800 532-HELP
Reality House, INC
34-51 Vernon Blvd
LIC, NY 11106
212-281-6004
www.realityhouseny.org
National Veterans Foundation
http://www.nvf.org/
NYS OASAS
http://www.oasas.state.ny.us/
Veterans Program
43rd street Veterans Program
327 West 43rd Street
NY,NY 10036
Ed Thompson Veterans Center
130-15 89th Road
Richmond Hill NY 11418
Admission Dept
718-657-6195
1-800 532-HELP
Reality House, INC
34-51 Vernon Blvd
LIC, NY 11106
212-281-6004
www.realityhouseny.org
National Veterans Foundation
http://www.nvf.org/
NYS OASAS
http://www.oasas.state.ny.us/
Employment
America Works
www.americaworks.com
New York State Dept of Labor
www.labor.state.ny.us
New York State Div of Veteran Affairs
http://veterans.ny.gov/vet_emp.html
Point of Contact: Veterans Representatives
http://www.labor.state.ny.us/VETs/EmploySpec/VeteransEmploySpec.shtm
Helmets to Hardhats
http://helmetstohardhats.org/
Hire Vets First
http://www.hirevetsfirst.gov/
Office of Personnel Employment
http://www.opm.gov/Veterans/
United States Dept of Labor
http://www.dol.gov/vets/
Vet Jobs
http://www.vetjobs.com/
USAJOBS
http://www.usajobs.gov/veteranscenter/
Veterans Employment Coordination Service (VECS)
http://www.va.gov/vecs/
www.americaworks.com
New York State Dept of Labor
www.labor.state.ny.us
New York State Div of Veteran Affairs
http://veterans.ny.gov/vet_emp.html
Point of Contact: Veterans Representatives
http://www.labor.state.ny.us/VETs/EmploySpec/VeteransEmploySpec.shtm
Helmets to Hardhats
http://helmetstohardhats.org/
Hire Vets First
http://www.hirevetsfirst.gov/
Office of Personnel Employment
http://www.opm.gov/Veterans/
United States Dept of Labor
http://www.dol.gov/vets/
Vet Jobs
http://www.vetjobs.com/
USAJOBS
http://www.usajobs.gov/veteranscenter/
Veterans Employment Coordination Service (VECS)
http://www.va.gov/vecs/
TBI - Traumatic Brain Injury
BIASNYS is a program focusing on returning veterans and TBI called the Traumatic Brain Injury Training and Military Veterans Services Project.
Brain Injury Association of NYS
10 Colvin Ave Albany, NY 12206
518-459-7911
www.bianys.org
or
http://www.bianys.org/veterans/index.html
NYS Department of Health of Medicaid Management
Traumatic Brain Injury Initiatives
1(518) 474-6580
Brain Injury Association of NYS
10 Colvin Ave Albany, NY 12206
518-459-7911
www.bianys.org
or
http://www.bianys.org/veterans/index.html
NYS Department of Health of Medicaid Management
Traumatic Brain Injury Initiatives
1(518) 474-6580
Friday, September 11, 2009
WFUV Interview
September 12, 2009: Home Again: Veterans and Families Initiative featured on WFUV Radio.
LISTEN LIVE: Saturday, September 12th, 7:30-8:00 a.m. WFUV 90.7 FM
On Saturday, September 12th at 7:30 AM, Cityscape, WFUV's weekly half-hour public affairs show, will delve into a variety of other issues affecting military veterans and their families, from unemployment to parenting. Host George Bodarky will be joined by panelists Robert Schwartz of Helmets to Hardhats, Dr. Marisa Koten of Strategic Outreach to Families of All Reservists, Caroline Peacock of the Home Again: Veterans and Families Initiative at the Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services, and Afghanistan veteran and Home Again Peer Advocate Edward Diaz.
For more information about Home Again: Veterans and Families Initiative, contact Caroline Peacock at cpeacock@jbfcs.org or (646) 957-0853.
LISTEN LIVE: Saturday, September 12th, 7:30-8:00 a.m. WFUV 90.7 FM
On Saturday, September 12th at 7:30 AM, Cityscape, WFUV's weekly half-hour public affairs show, will delve into a variety of other issues affecting military veterans and their families, from unemployment to parenting. Host George Bodarky will be joined by panelists Robert Schwartz of Helmets to Hardhats, Dr. Marisa Koten of Strategic Outreach to Families of All Reservists, Caroline Peacock of the Home Again: Veterans and Families Initiative at the Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services, and Afghanistan veteran and Home Again Peer Advocate Edward Diaz.
For more information about Home Again: Veterans and Families Initiative, contact Caroline Peacock at cpeacock@jbfcs.org or (646) 957-0853.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Readjustment/ Mental Health/ Suicide Prevention/Domiciliary Care
Readjustment Counseling Services
VA provides outreach and readjustment counseling services through 232 community-based Vet Centers located in all 50 states. Readjustment Counseling is designed to help combat veterans readjust to civilian life.
Eligibility: Veterans are eligible if they served on active duty in a combat theater during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, or the campaigns in Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Somalia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq and the Global War on Terror. Veterans, who served in the active military during the Vietnam-era, but not in the Republic of Vietnam, must have requested services at a Vet Center before Jan. 1, 2004.
Services Offered: Vet Center staff provides individual, group, family, military sexual trauma, and bereavement counseling to combat veterans in the effort to make a satisfying transition from military to civilian life. Services include individual and group counseling, marital and family counseling for treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or help with any other military related issue that affects functioning within the family, work, school or other areas of everyday life. Other services include outreach, education, medical referral, homeless veteran services, employment, VA benefit referral, and the brokering of non-VA services.
Bereavement Counseling: Bereavement Counseling related to service members: Bereavement counseling is available through Department of Veterans Affairs (VA’s) Vet Centers to all immediate family members (including spouses, children, parents, and siblings) of service members who die in the line of duty while on active service. This includes federally-activated members of the National Guard and reserve components. Bereavement services may be accessed by calling (202) 461-6530.
Bereavement Counseling related to Veterans: Bereavement counseling is available through any Veterans Health Administration medical center to immediate family members of veterans who die unexpectedly or while participating in a VA hospice or similar program, as long as the immediate family members had been receiving family support services in connection with or in furtherance of the veteran’s treatment. (In other cases, bereavement counseling is available to the veteran’s legal guardian or the individual with whom the veteran had certified an intention to live, as long as the guardian or individual had been receiving covered family support services.) This bereavement counseling is of limited duration and may only be authorized up to 60 days. However, VA medical center directors have authority to approve a longer period of time when medically indicated. For additional information, contact the nearest Vet Center, or visit http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/.
Mental Health Care Treatment
Veterans eligible for VA medical care may apply for general mental health treatment including specialty services, such as PTSD and substance abuse treatment, which are available at all VA medical centers. To find the nearest facility go to www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp
Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Veterans experiencing an emotional crisis or who need to talk to a trained mental health professional may call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free lifeline number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers are immediately connected with a qualified and caring provider who can help.
Domiciliary Care
Domiciliary care provides rehabilitative and long-term, health-care for veterans who require minimal medical care but do not need the skilled nursing services provided in community living centers. A Domiciliary also provides rehabilitative care for veterans who are homeless.
Eligibility: VA may provide domiciliary care to veterans whose annual gross household income does not exceed the maximum annual rate of VA pension or to veterans the Secretary of Veterans Affairs determines they have no adequate means of support. The co pays for extended care services apply to domiciliary care. Call your nearest benefits or health care facility to obtain the latest information.
Education- Post 9/11 Chapter 33,GI BIll/ Chapter 30
Education and Training
Post – 9/11 GI Bill
Eligibility: The Post- 9/11 GI Bill is a new education benefit program for service members and veterans who served on active duty on or after Sept.11, 2001. Benefits are payable for training pursued on or after Aug. 1, 2009. No payments can be made under this program for training pursued before that date. To be eligible, the service member or veteran must serve at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, and remain on active duty or be honorably:
1. Discharged from active duty status;
2. Released from active duty and placed on the retired list or temporary disability retired list;
3. Released from active duty and transferred to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve;
4. Released from active duty for further service in a reserve component of the Armed Forces. Veterans may also be eligible if they were honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability after serving 30 continuous days after Sept. 10, 2001.Generally, service members or veterans may receive up to 36 months of entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Montgomery GI Bill
Eligibility: VA educational benefits may be used while the service member is on active duty or after the service member's separation from active duty with a fully honorable military discharge. Discharges “under honorable conditions” and “general” discharges do not establish eligibility. Eligibility generally expires 10 years after the service member’s discharge. However, there are exceptions for disability, re-entering active duty, and upgraded discharges. All participants must have a high school diploma, equivalency certificate, or have completed 12 hours toward a college degree before applying for benefits. Previously, service members had to meet the high school requirement before they completed their initial active duty obligation. Those who did not may now meet the requirement and reapply for benefits. If eligible, they must use their benefits either within 10 years from the date of last discharge from active duty or by Nov. 2, 2010, whichever is later. For more information, visit http://www1.va.gov/opa/Is1/4.asp or http://www.gibill.va.gov/
Post – 9/11 GI Bill
Eligibility: The Post- 9/11 GI Bill is a new education benefit program for service members and veterans who served on active duty on or after Sept.11, 2001. Benefits are payable for training pursued on or after Aug. 1, 2009. No payments can be made under this program for training pursued before that date. To be eligible, the service member or veteran must serve at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after Sept. 10, 2001, and remain on active duty or be honorably:
1. Discharged from active duty status;
2. Released from active duty and placed on the retired list or temporary disability retired list;
3. Released from active duty and transferred to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve;
4. Released from active duty for further service in a reserve component of the Armed Forces. Veterans may also be eligible if they were honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability after serving 30 continuous days after Sept. 10, 2001.Generally, service members or veterans may receive up to 36 months of entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Montgomery GI Bill
Eligibility: VA educational benefits may be used while the service member is on active duty or after the service member's separation from active duty with a fully honorable military discharge. Discharges “under honorable conditions” and “general” discharges do not establish eligibility. Eligibility generally expires 10 years after the service member’s discharge. However, there are exceptions for disability, re-entering active duty, and upgraded discharges. All participants must have a high school diploma, equivalency certificate, or have completed 12 hours toward a college degree before applying for benefits. Previously, service members had to meet the high school requirement before they completed their initial active duty obligation. Those who did not may now meet the requirement and reapply for benefits. If eligible, they must use their benefits either within 10 years from the date of last discharge from active duty or by Nov. 2, 2010, whichever is later. For more information, visit http://www1.va.gov/opa/Is1/4.asp or http://www.gibill.va.gov/
Service Connected Disability/Pension
Service-Connected Disabilities
Disability Compensation
Disability compensation is a monetary benefit paid to veterans who are disabled by an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during active military service. These disabilities are considered to be service-connected. Disability compensation varies with the degree of disability and the number of veteran’s dependents, and is paid monthly. Veterans with certain severe disabilities may be eligible for additional special monthly compensation. The benefits are not subject to federal or state income tax. The payment of military retirement pay, disability severance pay and separation incentive payments, known as SSB (Special Separation Benefits) and VSI (Voluntary Separation Incentives) affects the amount of VA compensation paid to disabled veterans. To be eligible, the service of the veteran must have been terminated through separation or discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. For additional details, visit the Web site at http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/
Programs for Service-Connected Disabilities
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program assists veterans who have service-connected disabilities obtain and maintain suitable employment. Independent living services are also available for severely disabled veterans who are not currently ready to seek employment. Additional information is available on VA’s Website at http://www.vetsuccess.gov/
Eligibility: A veteran must have a VA service-connected disability rated at least 20 percent with an employment handicap, or rated 10 percent with a serious employment handicap, and be discharged or released from military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Service members pending medical separation from active duty may also apply if their disabilities are reasonably expected to be rated at least 20 percent following their discharge.
Services: Rehabilitation services provided to participants in the VR&E program are under one of five tracks. VA pays the cost of approved training that is included in an individual’s rehabilitation plan. Subsistence allowance may also be provided. The five tracks are:
* Reemployment with Previous Employer: For individuals who are separating from active duty or in the National Guard or Reserves and are returning to work for their previous employer.
* Rapid Access to Employment: For individuals who either wish to obtain employment soon after separation or who already have the necessary skills to be competitive in the job market in an appropriate occupation.
* Self-Employment: For individuals who have limited access to traditional employment, need flexible work schedules, or who require more accommodation in the work environment due to their disabling conditions or other life circumstances.
* Employment through Long-Term Services: For individual who need specialized training and/or education to obtain and maintain suitable employment.
* Independent Living Services: For veterans who are not currently able to work and need rehabilitation services to live more independently.
Period of a Rehabilitation Program: Generally, veterans must complete a program within 12 years from their separation from military service or within 12 years from the date VA notifies them that they have a compensable service-connected disability. Depending on the length of program needed, veterans may be provided up to 48 months of full-time services or their part-time equivalent. These limitations may be extended in certain circumstances.
Work-Study: Veterans training at the three-quarter or full-time rate may participate in VA’s work-study program and provide VA outreach services, prepare/process VA paperwork, work at a VA medical facility, or perform other VA-approved activities. A portion of the work-study allowance equal to 40 percent of the total may be paid in advance.
VA Pensions
Eligibility for Disability Pension
Veterans with low incomes who are permanently and totally disabled, or are age 65 and older, may be eligible for monetary support if they have 90 days or more of active military service, at least one day of which was during a period of war. (Veterans who entered active duty on or after Sept. 8, 1980, or officers who entered active duty on or after Oct. 16, 1981, may have to meet a longer minimum period of active duty). The veteran’s discharge must have been under conditions other than dishonorable and the disability must be for reasons other than the veteran’s own willful misconduct. Payments are made to bring the veteran’s total income, including other retirement or Social Security income, to a level set by Congress. Un-reimbursed medical expenses may reduce countable income for VA purposes.
Disability Compensation
Disability compensation is a monetary benefit paid to veterans who are disabled by an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during active military service. These disabilities are considered to be service-connected. Disability compensation varies with the degree of disability and the number of veteran’s dependents, and is paid monthly. Veterans with certain severe disabilities may be eligible for additional special monthly compensation. The benefits are not subject to federal or state income tax. The payment of military retirement pay, disability severance pay and separation incentive payments, known as SSB (Special Separation Benefits) and VSI (Voluntary Separation Incentives) affects the amount of VA compensation paid to disabled veterans. To be eligible, the service of the veteran must have been terminated through separation or discharge under conditions other than dishonorable. For additional details, visit the Web site at http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/
Programs for Service-Connected Disabilities
Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program assists veterans who have service-connected disabilities obtain and maintain suitable employment. Independent living services are also available for severely disabled veterans who are not currently ready to seek employment. Additional information is available on VA’s Website at http://www.vetsuccess.gov/
Eligibility: A veteran must have a VA service-connected disability rated at least 20 percent with an employment handicap, or rated 10 percent with a serious employment handicap, and be discharged or released from military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Service members pending medical separation from active duty may also apply if their disabilities are reasonably expected to be rated at least 20 percent following their discharge.
Services: Rehabilitation services provided to participants in the VR&E program are under one of five tracks. VA pays the cost of approved training that is included in an individual’s rehabilitation plan. Subsistence allowance may also be provided. The five tracks are:
* Reemployment with Previous Employer: For individuals who are separating from active duty or in the National Guard or Reserves and are returning to work for their previous employer.
* Rapid Access to Employment: For individuals who either wish to obtain employment soon after separation or who already have the necessary skills to be competitive in the job market in an appropriate occupation.
* Self-Employment: For individuals who have limited access to traditional employment, need flexible work schedules, or who require more accommodation in the work environment due to their disabling conditions or other life circumstances.
* Employment through Long-Term Services: For individual who need specialized training and/or education to obtain and maintain suitable employment.
* Independent Living Services: For veterans who are not currently able to work and need rehabilitation services to live more independently.
Period of a Rehabilitation Program: Generally, veterans must complete a program within 12 years from their separation from military service or within 12 years from the date VA notifies them that they have a compensable service-connected disability. Depending on the length of program needed, veterans may be provided up to 48 months of full-time services or their part-time equivalent. These limitations may be extended in certain circumstances.
Work-Study: Veterans training at the three-quarter or full-time rate may participate in VA’s work-study program and provide VA outreach services, prepare/process VA paperwork, work at a VA medical facility, or perform other VA-approved activities. A portion of the work-study allowance equal to 40 percent of the total may be paid in advance.
VA Pensions
Eligibility for Disability Pension
Veterans with low incomes who are permanently and totally disabled, or are age 65 and older, may be eligible for monetary support if they have 90 days or more of active military service, at least one day of which was during a period of war. (Veterans who entered active duty on or after Sept. 8, 1980, or officers who entered active duty on or after Oct. 16, 1981, may have to meet a longer minimum period of active duty). The veteran’s discharge must have been under conditions other than dishonorable and the disability must be for reasons other than the veteran’s own willful misconduct. Payments are made to bring the veteran’s total income, including other retirement or Social Security income, to a level set by Congress. Un-reimbursed medical expenses may reduce countable income for VA purposes.
NYS Veterans Tuition
Veterans Tuition AwardVeterans Tuition Awards (VTA) are awards for full-time study and part-time study for eligible veterans matriculated at an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting institution or in an approved vocational training program in New York State.
NOTE: Students previously approved for this award must apply for payment each year. Those students attending a vocational school or who are attending an approved undergraduate or graduate program part-time may apply for payment for the current academic year by completing the supplement.
Award AmountsFor full-time study, a recipient shall receive an award of up to the full cost of undergraduate tuition for New York state residents at the State University of New York, or actual tuition charged, whichever is less. Full-time study is defined as twelve or more credits per semester (or the equivalent) at a degree-granting institution, or twenty-four or more hours per week in a vocational training program.For part-time study, awards will be prorated by credit hour. Part-time study is defined as at least three but fewer than twelve credits per semester (or the equivalent) at a degree-granting institution, or six to twenty-three hours per week in a vocational training program.
2009 – 2010 Awards
For the 2009-10 academic year, the maximum annual full-time award is set at 98% of tuition or $4,895.10, whichever is less. For part-time study the initial award figure is estimated at the cost of full-time attendance. Upon certification of the student’s part-time status the award is recalculated according to the number of credits certified and the student’s actual part-time tuition liability. If a Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) award is also received, the combined academic year award cannot exceed tuition. Thus, the TAP award may be reduced accordingly.
Duration
Full-time StudyUndergraduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to eight semesters (four years) of undergraduate study. Awards can be made available for up to semesters of undergraduate study for enrollment in an approved five-year program or for enrollment in an approved program of remedial study.Graduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to six semesters (three years) of graduate study.Vocational Training Programs - Awards are available for up to a maximum of four semesters (two years) of study in an approved vocational training program.
Part-time StudyUndergraduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to the equivalent of eight semesters (four years) of full-time undergraduate study in a four-year program. Awards can be made available for up to the equivalent of ten semesters (five years) of full-time study for enrollment in an approved five-year undergraduate study.Graduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to the equivalent of six semesters (three years) of part-time graduate study.Vocational Training Programs - Awards are available for up to a maximum of eight semesters (four years) of part-time study in an approved vocational training program.Approved programs are defined as undergraduate degree, graduate degree, diploma, and certificate programs at degree-granting institutions, or noncredit vocational training programs of at least 320 clock hours specifically approved by the New York State Division of Veteran's Affairs' Bureau of Veterans Education.
Eligible Veterans
Eligible students are those who are New York State residents discharged under honorable conditions from the U.S. Armed forces and who are:
Vietnam Veterans who served in Indochina between February 28, 1961 and May 7, 1975. Persian Gulf Veterans who served in the Persian Gulf on or after August 2, 1990.Afghanistan Veterans who served in Afghanistan during hostilities on or after September 11, 2001. Veterans of the armed forces of the United States who served in hostilities that occurred after February 28, 1961 as evidenced by receipt of an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal or a Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal.
These students must also:
Establish eligibility by applying to HESC. Be New York State residents. Be US Citizens or eligible noncitizens. Be matriculated full or part- time at an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting institution in New York State or in an approved vocational training program in New York State. Have applied for the Tuition Assistance Program for full-time undergraduate or graduate study.
How to Establish Eligibility
Complete the New York State Veterans Tuition Award Supplement or contact HESC. Be sure to print the Web Supplement Confirmation, sign and return it along with the required documentation according to the instructions.Questions regarding eligible service or how to document service should be directed to the HESC Scholarship Unit at 1-888-697-4372.
NOTE: Students previously approved for this award must apply for payment each year. Those students attending a vocational school or who are attending an approved undergraduate or graduate program part-time may apply for payment for the current academic year by completing the supplement.
Award AmountsFor full-time study, a recipient shall receive an award of up to the full cost of undergraduate tuition for New York state residents at the State University of New York, or actual tuition charged, whichever is less. Full-time study is defined as twelve or more credits per semester (or the equivalent) at a degree-granting institution, or twenty-four or more hours per week in a vocational training program.For part-time study, awards will be prorated by credit hour. Part-time study is defined as at least three but fewer than twelve credits per semester (or the equivalent) at a degree-granting institution, or six to twenty-three hours per week in a vocational training program.
2009 – 2010 Awards
For the 2009-10 academic year, the maximum annual full-time award is set at 98% of tuition or $4,895.10, whichever is less. For part-time study the initial award figure is estimated at the cost of full-time attendance. Upon certification of the student’s part-time status the award is recalculated according to the number of credits certified and the student’s actual part-time tuition liability. If a Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) award is also received, the combined academic year award cannot exceed tuition. Thus, the TAP award may be reduced accordingly.
Duration
Full-time StudyUndergraduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to eight semesters (four years) of undergraduate study. Awards can be made available for up to semesters of undergraduate study for enrollment in an approved five-year program or for enrollment in an approved program of remedial study.Graduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to six semesters (three years) of graduate study.Vocational Training Programs - Awards are available for up to a maximum of four semesters (two years) of study in an approved vocational training program.
Part-time StudyUndergraduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to the equivalent of eight semesters (four years) of full-time undergraduate study in a four-year program. Awards can be made available for up to the equivalent of ten semesters (five years) of full-time study for enrollment in an approved five-year undergraduate study.Graduate Degree-Granting Programs - Awards are available for up to the equivalent of six semesters (three years) of part-time graduate study.Vocational Training Programs - Awards are available for up to a maximum of eight semesters (four years) of part-time study in an approved vocational training program.Approved programs are defined as undergraduate degree, graduate degree, diploma, and certificate programs at degree-granting institutions, or noncredit vocational training programs of at least 320 clock hours specifically approved by the New York State Division of Veteran's Affairs' Bureau of Veterans Education.
Eligible Veterans
Eligible students are those who are New York State residents discharged under honorable conditions from the U.S. Armed forces and who are:
Vietnam Veterans who served in Indochina between February 28, 1961 and May 7, 1975. Persian Gulf Veterans who served in the Persian Gulf on or after August 2, 1990.Afghanistan Veterans who served in Afghanistan during hostilities on or after September 11, 2001. Veterans of the armed forces of the United States who served in hostilities that occurred after February 28, 1961 as evidenced by receipt of an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal or a Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal.
These students must also:
Establish eligibility by applying to HESC. Be New York State residents. Be US Citizens or eligible noncitizens. Be matriculated full or part- time at an undergraduate or graduate degree-granting institution in New York State or in an approved vocational training program in New York State. Have applied for the Tuition Assistance Program for full-time undergraduate or graduate study.
How to Establish Eligibility
Complete the New York State Veterans Tuition Award Supplement or contact HESC. Be sure to print the Web Supplement Confirmation, sign and return it along with the required documentation according to the instructions.Questions regarding eligible service or how to document service should be directed to the HESC Scholarship Unit at 1-888-697-4372.
Transition From Military to VA
Transition Assistance
VA has stationed personnel at major military hospitals to help seriously injured service members returning from Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) as they transition from military to civilian life. OEF/OIF service members who have questions about VA benefits or need assistance in filing a VA claim or accessing services can contact the nearest VA office or call 1-800-827-1000.
Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program
Recently separated veterans and those with service-connected disabilities, significant barriers to employment or who served on active duty during a period in which a campaign or expedition badge was authorized can contact the nearest state employment office for employment help through the Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program. The program may be conducted through state or local public agencies, community organizations or private, nonprofit organizations.
Unemployment Compensation
Veterans who do not begin civilian employment immediately after leaving military service may receive weekly unemployment compensation for a limited time. The amount and duration of payments are determined by individual states. Apply by contacting the nearest state employment office listed in your local telephone directory.
Veterans Preference for Federal Jobs
Since the time of the Civil War, veterans of the U.S. armed forces have been given some degree of preference in appointments to federal jobs. Veterans’ preference in its present form comes from the Veterans’ Preference Act of 1944, as amended, and now codified in Title 5, United States Code. By law, veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. armed forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over others when hiring from competitive lists of eligible candidates, and also in retention during a reduction in force (RIF). To receive preference, a veteran must have been discharged or released from active duty in the U.S. armed forces under honorable conditions (honorable or general discharge). Preference is also provided for certain widows and widowers of deceased veterans who died in service; spouses of service-connected disabled veterans; and mothers of veterans who died under honorable conditions on active duty or have permanent and total service-connected disabilities. For each of these preferences, there are specific criteria that must be met in order to be eligible to receive the veterans’ preference. For additional information, visit the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Web site at http://www.opm.gov/veterans/html/vetguide.asp#2.
Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment: Allows federal agencies to appoint eligible veterans to jobs without competition. These appointments can be converted to career or career-conditional positions after two years of satisfactory work. Veterans should apply directly to the agency where they wish to work. For information, visit http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ei4.asp
VA has stationed personnel at major military hospitals to help seriously injured service members returning from Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) as they transition from military to civilian life. OEF/OIF service members who have questions about VA benefits or need assistance in filing a VA claim or accessing services can contact the nearest VA office or call 1-800-827-1000.
Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program
Recently separated veterans and those with service-connected disabilities, significant barriers to employment or who served on active duty during a period in which a campaign or expedition badge was authorized can contact the nearest state employment office for employment help through the Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program. The program may be conducted through state or local public agencies, community organizations or private, nonprofit organizations.
Unemployment Compensation
Veterans who do not begin civilian employment immediately after leaving military service may receive weekly unemployment compensation for a limited time. The amount and duration of payments are determined by individual states. Apply by contacting the nearest state employment office listed in your local telephone directory.
Veterans Preference for Federal Jobs
Since the time of the Civil War, veterans of the U.S. armed forces have been given some degree of preference in appointments to federal jobs. Veterans’ preference in its present form comes from the Veterans’ Preference Act of 1944, as amended, and now codified in Title 5, United States Code. By law, veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. armed forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over others when hiring from competitive lists of eligible candidates, and also in retention during a reduction in force (RIF). To receive preference, a veteran must have been discharged or released from active duty in the U.S. armed forces under honorable conditions (honorable or general discharge). Preference is also provided for certain widows and widowers of deceased veterans who died in service; spouses of service-connected disabled veterans; and mothers of veterans who died under honorable conditions on active duty or have permanent and total service-connected disabilities. For each of these preferences, there are specific criteria that must be met in order to be eligible to receive the veterans’ preference. For additional information, visit the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Web site at http://www.opm.gov/veterans/html/vetguide.asp#2.
Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment: Allows federal agencies to appoint eligible veterans to jobs without competition. These appointments can be converted to career or career-conditional positions after two years of satisfactory work. Veterans should apply directly to the agency where they wish to work. For information, visit http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ei4.asp
Military Medals and Records/Replacing Military Medals
Medals awarded while in active service are issued by the individual military services if requested by veterans or their next of kin. Requests for replacement medals, decorations, and awards should be directed to the branch of the military in which the veteran served.
However, for Air Force (including Army Air Corps) and Army veterans, the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) verifies awards and forwards requests and verification to appropriate services. Requests for replacement medals should be submitted on Standard
Form 180, “Request Pertaining To Military Records,” which may be obtained at VA offices or the Internet at http://www.va.gov/vaforms/. Forms, addresses, and other information on requesting medals can be found on the Military Personnel Records section of NPRC’s website at http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/index.html For questions, call Military Personnel Records at (314) 801-0800 or e-mail questions to: MPR.center@nara.gov.
Replacing Military Records
If discharge or separation documents are lost, veterans or the next of kin of deceased veterans may obtain duplicate copies by completing forms found on the Internet at http://www.archives.gov/research/index.html and mailing or faxing them to the NPRC.
Alternatively, write the National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
Correcting of Military Records
To justify a correction, it is necessary to show to the satisfaction of the board that the alleged entry or omission in the records was in error or unjust. Applications should include all available evidence, such as signed statements of witnesses or a brief of arguments supporting the correction. Application is made with DD Form 149, available at VA offices, veteran’s organizations or visit http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/formsprogram.htm
However, for Air Force (including Army Air Corps) and Army veterans, the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) verifies awards and forwards requests and verification to appropriate services. Requests for replacement medals should be submitted on Standard
Form 180, “Request Pertaining To Military Records,” which may be obtained at VA offices or the Internet at http://www.va.gov/vaforms/. Forms, addresses, and other information on requesting medals can be found on the Military Personnel Records section of NPRC’s website at http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/index.html For questions, call Military Personnel Records at (314) 801-0800 or e-mail questions to: MPR.center@nara.gov.
Replacing Military Records
If discharge or separation documents are lost, veterans or the next of kin of deceased veterans may obtain duplicate copies by completing forms found on the Internet at http://www.archives.gov/research/index.html and mailing or faxing them to the NPRC.
Alternatively, write the National Personnel Records Center, Military Personnel Records, 9700 Page Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132-5100.
Correcting of Military Records
To justify a correction, it is necessary to show to the satisfaction of the board that the alleged entry or omission in the records was in error or unjust. Applications should include all available evidence, such as signed statements of witnesses or a brief of arguments supporting the correction. Application is made with DD Form 149, available at VA offices, veteran’s organizations or visit http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/formsprogram.htm
Veteran Organizations/ Non-profit that provide VA claims assistance
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #32
Veterans Resource Center (All Veterans Welcomed)
VSO Edward Diaz
Tel: 718-326-2964
Fax: 718-326-2918
74-06 Metropolitan Ave
Middle Village NY, 11379
VSO Peter D. Garon
Tel: 718-897-8387
93-29 Queens Blvd
Rego Park NY, 11374
AMERICAN LEGION DEPT SVC OFF
JOHN W KAVANAGH
245 W HOUSTON ST RM 315A NY, NY 10014
PHONE: 212-807-3066 FAX: 212-807-4029
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department Service Officer
Nickla N. Culbert
245 West Houston Street - Room 207
New York, NY 10014-4805
Phone: 212 807-3164
Fax: 212 807-4023
E-Mail: nickla.culbert@va.gov
Disabled American Veterans
National Service Officers
VA Regional Office 245 West Houston St., Rm. 204
New York, NY 10014 Telephone: 212-807-3157
Veterans Resource Center (All Veterans Welcomed)
VSO Edward Diaz
Tel: 718-326-2964
Fax: 718-326-2918
74-06 Metropolitan Ave
Middle Village NY, 11379
VSO Peter D. Garon
Tel: 718-897-8387
93-29 Queens Blvd
Rego Park NY, 11374
AMERICAN LEGION DEPT SVC OFF
JOHN W KAVANAGH
245 W HOUSTON ST RM 315A NY, NY 10014
PHONE: 212-807-3066 FAX: 212-807-4029
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department Service Officer
Nickla N. Culbert
245 West Houston Street - Room 207
New York, NY 10014-4805
Phone: 212 807-3164
Fax: 212 807-4023
E-Mail: nickla.culbert@va.gov
Disabled American Veterans
National Service Officers
VA Regional Office 245 West Houston St., Rm. 204
New York, NY 10014 Telephone: 212-807-3157
VA Medical Centers,Clinics & Vet Centers (NYC)
VA Medical Centers:
Bronx 10468 (130 West Kingsbridge Rd., 718-584-9000 or 800-877-6976)
Brooklyn 11209 (800 Poly Place, 718-836-6600)
New York 10010 (423 East 23rd Street, 212-686-7500)
Jamaica 11425 (St. Albans Primary & Extended Care Center, 179-00 Linden
Blvd. & 179 St., 718-526-1000)
Northport 11768 (79 Middleville Road, 631-261-4400 or 800-551-3996)
Clinics:
Bronx 10459 (953 Southern Blvd., 718-741-4900)
Brooklyn 11201 (40 Flatbush Ave. Extension, 8th Fl., 718-439-4300)
New York 10027 (55 West 125th St., 212-828-5265)
New York 10011 (Opiate Substitution Program, 437 W 16 St., 212-462-
4461)
Staten Island 10314 (1150 South Ave, 3rd Floor – Suite 301, 718-761-2973)
Sunnyside 11104 (41-03 Queens Blvd., 718-741-4800)
Vet Centers:
Bronx 10458 (130 West Kingsbridge Rd., Rm. 7A-13, 718-367-3500)
Brooklyn 11201 (25 Chapel St., Suite 604, 718-624-2765)
New York 10004 (32 Broadway, Suite 200, 212-742-9591)
New York 10027 (55 West 125th St., 11th Fl., 212-426-2200)
Staten Island 10301 (150 Richmond Terrace, 718-816-4499)
Woodhaven 11421 (75-10B 91st Ave., 718-296-2871)
Bronx 10468 (130 West Kingsbridge Rd., 718-584-9000 or 800-877-6976)
Brooklyn 11209 (800 Poly Place, 718-836-6600)
New York 10010 (423 East 23rd Street, 212-686-7500)
Jamaica 11425 (St. Albans Primary & Extended Care Center, 179-00 Linden
Blvd. & 179 St., 718-526-1000)
Northport 11768 (79 Middleville Road, 631-261-4400 or 800-551-3996)
Clinics:
Bronx 10459 (953 Southern Blvd., 718-741-4900)
Brooklyn 11201 (40 Flatbush Ave. Extension, 8th Fl., 718-439-4300)
New York 10027 (55 West 125th St., 212-828-5265)
New York 10011 (Opiate Substitution Program, 437 W 16 St., 212-462-
4461)
Staten Island 10314 (1150 South Ave, 3rd Floor – Suite 301, 718-761-2973)
Sunnyside 11104 (41-03 Queens Blvd., 718-741-4800)
Vet Centers:
Bronx 10458 (130 West Kingsbridge Rd., Rm. 7A-13, 718-367-3500)
Brooklyn 11201 (25 Chapel St., Suite 604, 718-624-2765)
New York 10004 (32 Broadway, Suite 200, 212-742-9591)
New York 10027 (55 West 125th St., 11th Fl., 212-426-2200)
Staten Island 10301 (150 Richmond Terrace, 718-816-4499)
Woodhaven 11421 (75-10B 91st Ave., 718-296-2871)
Additional Resources
Web Sites
VA Home Page http://www.va.gov/
Education Benefits http://www.gibill.va.gov/
Health Care Eligibility www.va.gov/healtheligibility
Returning Service membershttp://www.oefoif.va.gov/
Home Loan Guaranty http://www.homeloans.va.gov/
Records www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel
Mental Health http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
Federal Jobs http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/
Veterans Preference www.opm.gov/veterans/index.asp
Employment Assistance http://www.vetsuccess.gov/
Veterans Employment and Training www.dol.gov/vets
VA Home Page http://www.va.gov/
Education Benefits http://www.gibill.va.gov/
Health Care Eligibility www.va.gov/healtheligibility
Returning Service membershttp://www.oefoif.va.gov/
Home Loan Guaranty http://www.homeloans.va.gov/
Records www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel
Mental Health http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
Federal Jobs http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/
Veterans Preference www.opm.gov/veterans/index.asp
Employment Assistance http://www.vetsuccess.gov/
Veterans Employment and Training www.dol.gov/vets
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors
General Eligibility
Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Active service means full-time service, other than active duty for training, as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Certain VA benefits require service during wartime.
VA Health Care
Basic Eligibility
A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable may qualify for VA health care benefits. Reservists and National Guard members may also qualify for VA health care benefits if they were called to active duty (other than for training only) by a Federal order and completed the full period for which they were called or ordered to active duty.
Minimum Duty Requirements: Veterans who enlisted after Sept. 7, 1980, or who entered active duty after Oct. 16, 1981, must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty in order to be eligible. This minimum duty requirement may not apply to veterans discharged for hardship, early out or a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.
Enrollment
For most veterans, entry into the VA health care system begins by applying for enrollment. To apply, complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits, which may be obtained from any VA health care facility or regional benefits office, or on line at http://www.va.gov/1010ez or by calling 1-877-222-VETS (8387). Once enrolled, veterans can receive health care at VA health care facilities anywhere in the country.
Recently Discharged Combat Veterans
Effective Jan. 28, 2008, veterans discharged from active duty on or after Jan. 28, 2003, are eligible for enhanced enrollment placement into Priority Group 6 (unless eligible for higher enrollment Priority Group placement) for five-years post discharge. Veterans with combat service after Nov. 11, 1998, who were discharged from active duty before Jan. 28, 2003, and who apply for enrollment on or after Jan. 28, 2008, are eligible for this enhanced enrollment benefit through Jan. 27, 2011. During this period of enhanced enrollment benefits, these veterans receive VA care and medications at no cost for any condition that may be related to their combat service. Veterans, including activated reservists and members of the National Guard, are eligible for the enhanced “Combat Veteran” benefits if they served on active duty in a theater of combat operations after Nov. 11, 1998, and have been discharged under other than dishonorable conditions.
Women Veterans
Women veterans are eligible for the same VA benefits as male veterans. Comprehensive health services are available to all women veterans including primary care, specialty care, mental health care and reproductive health care services. VA provides management of acute and chronic illnesses, preventive care, contraceptive services, menopause management, Pap smears and mammography. Gynecology and maternity care are available and referrals are made to appropriate clinicians in the community for services that VA is unable to provide. In 1999, the uniform benefits package included a maternity care benefit for women veterans as well as infertility evaluation and limited treatment. Special initiatives include Women Veterans Comprehensive Health Centers and Clinical Programs of Excellence. For information, visit
http://www.va.gov/womenvet VA health care professionals provide counseling and treatment to help veterans overcome psychological issues resulting from sexual trauma that occurred while serving on active duty, or active duty for training if service was in the National Guard or reserves. Veterans who are not otherwise eligible for VA health care may still receive these services. Appropriate services are provided for any injury, illness or psychological condition resulting from such trauma. Women Veterans Program Managers are available at all VA facilities, See the facility locator at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/home to help veterans seeking treatment and benefits. For additional information, visit http://www.publichealth.va.gov/womenshealth/
Eligibility for most VA benefits is based upon discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Active service means full-time service, other than active duty for training, as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Certain VA benefits require service during wartime.
VA Health Care
Basic Eligibility
A person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable may qualify for VA health care benefits. Reservists and National Guard members may also qualify for VA health care benefits if they were called to active duty (other than for training only) by a Federal order and completed the full period for which they were called or ordered to active duty.
Minimum Duty Requirements: Veterans who enlisted after Sept. 7, 1980, or who entered active duty after Oct. 16, 1981, must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty in order to be eligible. This minimum duty requirement may not apply to veterans discharged for hardship, early out or a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty.
Enrollment
For most veterans, entry into the VA health care system begins by applying for enrollment. To apply, complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits, which may be obtained from any VA health care facility or regional benefits office, or on line at http://www.va.gov/1010ez or by calling 1-877-222-VETS (8387). Once enrolled, veterans can receive health care at VA health care facilities anywhere in the country.
Recently Discharged Combat Veterans
Effective Jan. 28, 2008, veterans discharged from active duty on or after Jan. 28, 2003, are eligible for enhanced enrollment placement into Priority Group 6 (unless eligible for higher enrollment Priority Group placement) for five-years post discharge. Veterans with combat service after Nov. 11, 1998, who were discharged from active duty before Jan. 28, 2003, and who apply for enrollment on or after Jan. 28, 2008, are eligible for this enhanced enrollment benefit through Jan. 27, 2011. During this period of enhanced enrollment benefits, these veterans receive VA care and medications at no cost for any condition that may be related to their combat service. Veterans, including activated reservists and members of the National Guard, are eligible for the enhanced “Combat Veteran” benefits if they served on active duty in a theater of combat operations after Nov. 11, 1998, and have been discharged under other than dishonorable conditions.
Women Veterans
Women veterans are eligible for the same VA benefits as male veterans. Comprehensive health services are available to all women veterans including primary care, specialty care, mental health care and reproductive health care services. VA provides management of acute and chronic illnesses, preventive care, contraceptive services, menopause management, Pap smears and mammography. Gynecology and maternity care are available and referrals are made to appropriate clinicians in the community for services that VA is unable to provide. In 1999, the uniform benefits package included a maternity care benefit for women veterans as well as infertility evaluation and limited treatment. Special initiatives include Women Veterans Comprehensive Health Centers and Clinical Programs of Excellence. For information, visit
http://www.va.gov/womenvet VA health care professionals provide counseling and treatment to help veterans overcome psychological issues resulting from sexual trauma that occurred while serving on active duty, or active duty for training if service was in the National Guard or reserves. Veterans who are not otherwise eligible for VA health care may still receive these services. Appropriate services are provided for any injury, illness or psychological condition resulting from such trauma. Women Veterans Program Managers are available at all VA facilities, See the facility locator at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/home to help veterans seeking treatment and benefits. For additional information, visit http://www.publichealth.va.gov/womenshealth/
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Home Again: Veterans and Families Initiative
Greetings!
Home Again: Reaching Out is a program that utilizes the time and talent of CUNY student veterans to provide support to other student veterans. Many servicemembers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are enrolled in colleges within the CUNY system throughout New York. Some veterans may struggle to readjust to civilian, school and family life. Trouble focusing in school, navigating the GI bill, applying for benefits, coping with memories from war, and getting along with friends and family are all common challenges. Home Again Peer Advocates know what it’s like, and are able to reach out to other vets in a way that is comfortable, meaningful, and helpful. When in need of extra support, the Peer Advocates are able to help the veteran get the help they need.
If you would like more information about Home Again, contact me at 646 957 0853 or cpeacock@jbfcs.org
Home Again: Reaching Out is a program that utilizes the time and talent of CUNY student veterans to provide support to other student veterans. Many servicemembers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are enrolled in colleges within the CUNY system throughout New York. Some veterans may struggle to readjust to civilian, school and family life. Trouble focusing in school, navigating the GI bill, applying for benefits, coping with memories from war, and getting along with friends and family are all common challenges. Home Again Peer Advocates know what it’s like, and are able to reach out to other vets in a way that is comfortable, meaningful, and helpful. When in need of extra support, the Peer Advocates are able to help the veteran get the help they need.
If you would like more information about Home Again, contact me at 646 957 0853 or cpeacock@jbfcs.org
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