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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" > <channel> <title>VA News</title> <atom:link href="https://news.va.gov/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://news.va.gov</link> <description>News and Information from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 19:15:18 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <item> <title>Veteran Resources: Events of the week April 7, 2025</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139365/veteran-resources-events-week-april-7-2025/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139365/veteran-resources-events-week-april-7-2025/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Outreach]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139365</guid> <description><![CDATA[We’ve curated an assortment of events that aim to assist, educate, and enrich Veterans and their families.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <p>We’ve curated an assortment of events that aim to assist, educate, and enrich Veterans and their families. Each week, we’ll continue to post relevant and timely events for the Veteran community.</p> <p>Whether you’re a Veteran, service member, caretaker or family member, there are events and experiences tailored to the unique needs of the Veteran community posted below.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">National:</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78390" rel="noopener">Caregiver Mental Wellness Workshop Registration: Online</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 1:00 – 1:15 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78118" rel="noopener">Wellbeing YOU – Online</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78138" rel="noopener">Hosted by VA Center for Faith – “Overview of Housing and Urban Development/VA Supportive Housing (HUD/VASH) & Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)”</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78076" rel="noopener">Heroes Connect: Military to Manufacturing Virtual Engagement with Cargill</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78390" rel="noopener">Caregiver Mental Wellness Workshop Registration: Online</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78324" rel="noopener">SBA Hour with Veterans Webinar</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78416" rel="noopener">G.I. Jobs Get Hired Workshop – Online</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78182" rel="noopener">Sharing The Journey – Online Support Group</a></p> <p>April 14, 2025, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78051" rel="noopener">Sports Performance Certification Seminar – Online</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78139" rel="noopener">Hosted by VA Center for Faith – “VA S.A.V.E. Suicide Prevention”</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78051" rel="noopener">Sports Performance Certification Seminar – Online</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78120" rel="noopener">Caregivers: Your Life and Your Health Matters – Online</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 8:00 – 9:30 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/76686" rel="noopener">Stress Solutions Workshop – Online</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 1:00 – 1:15 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78118" rel="noopener">Wellbeing YOU – Online</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78477" rel="noopener">Veteran Ventures: Turning Side Gigs into Successful Businesses – Online</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78051" rel="noopener">Sports Performance Certification Seminar – Online</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78119" rel="noopener">Online Caregiver Chat</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alabama</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. ET, Hoover, AL: <a href="https://www.va.gov/birmingham-health-care/events/78027" rel="noopener">2025 Veterans Resource Event & Career Fair</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET, Irondale, AL: <a href="https://www.va.gov/birmingham-health-care/events/72029" rel="noopener">Creative Arts Class</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alaska</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Arizona</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Arkansas</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">California</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. ET, Santa Cruz, CA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/palo-alto-health-care/events/68666" rel="noopener">Medical outreach for Veterans – Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET, Ventura, CA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/greater-los-angeles-health-care/events/78453" rel="noopener">VA 101: Overview on VA Benefits</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. ET, Santa Cruz, CA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/palo-alto-health-care/events/68666" rel="noopener">Medical outreach for Veterans – Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Colorado</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Connecticut</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Delaware</h2> <p>No events listed for this week<strong></strong></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">District of Columbia</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Washington, DC: <a href="https://www.va.gov/washington-dc-health-care/events/77034" rel="noopener">In-Person Meditation Practice, Take A Pause</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Florida</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Georgia</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET, Fort Benning, GA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78433" rel="noopener">Job Fair at Fort Benning</a></p> <p>April 11, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Newnan, GA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/atlanta-health-care/events/78122" rel="noopener">Veteran Benefits and Resource Expo – Fri, Apr 11, 2025</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Guam</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hawaii</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Idaho</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Illinois</h2> <p>April 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Chicago, IL: <a href="https://www.va.gov/chicago-health-care/events/56659" rel="noopener">Veterans Coffee Break with Southside Strong</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Indiana</h2> <p>April 14, 2025, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. ET, Marion, IN: <a href="https://www.va.gov/northern-indiana-health-care/events/78107" rel="noopener">Advance Care Planning Events</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Iowa</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, Iowa City, IA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/iowa-city-health-care/events/78367" rel="noopener">VA Claims Clinic</a></p> <p>April 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, Iowa City, IA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/iowa-city-health-care/events/78367" rel="noopener">VA Claims Clinic</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kansas</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. ET, Fort Riley, KS: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78074" rel="noopener">Military to Manufacturing Fort Riley Career Fair</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kentucky</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET, Erlanger, KY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78514" rel="noopener">Applications Open For DAV Patriot Boot Camp (May 14th – 16th) – Erlanger, KY</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. ET, Bowling Green, KY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/tennessee-valley-health-care/events/78419" rel="noopener">Warren County (Kentucky) Veterans Town Hall</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET, Erlanger, KY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78514" rel="noopener">Applications Open For DAV Patriot Boot Camp (May 14th – 16th) – Erlanger, KY</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Louisiana</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maine</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maryland</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Massachusetts</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. ET, Leeds, MA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/central-western-massachusetts-health-care/events/73034" rel="noopener">Veteran Walk-in Flu Clinics</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. ET, Leeds, MA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/central-western-massachusetts-health-care/events/73034" rel="noopener">Veteran Walk-in Flu Clinics</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Michigan</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Michigan Center, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77741" rel="noopener">ID.me and Login.gov Account Creation Assistance</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Adrian, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77742" rel="noopener">ID.me and Login.gov Account Creation Assistance</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. ET, Wyandotte, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78162" rel="noopener">Veterans Resource and Enrollment Fair</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Holland, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/battle-creek-health-care/events/77013" rel="noopener">MyHealtheVet Assistance</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Minnesota</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mississippi</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Missouri</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET, Kansas City, MO: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78440" rel="noopener">Kansas City Veterans Job Fair</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Montana</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nebraska</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nevada</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Hampshire</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Jersey</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Mexico</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New York</h2> <p>April 12, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, New York , NY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78103" rel="noopener">NYU Veterans Writing Workshop</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">North Carolina</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. ET, Goldsboro, NC: <a href="https://www.va.gov/fayetteville-coastal-health-care/events/78087" rel="noopener">Goldsboro Spring Health Fair</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">North Dakota</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ohio</h2> <p>April 11, 2025, 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. ET, Xenia, OH: <a href="https://www.va.gov/dayton-health-care/events/78337" rel="noopener">Xenia Food Truck Rally</a></p> <p>April 12, 2025, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. ET, Columbus, OH: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/75529" rel="noopener">Cafe Connect for Women Veterans – Columbus, OH</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. ET, St. Clairsville, OH: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78305" rel="noopener">Belmont County Advance Directive Fair</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Toledo, OH: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77952" rel="noopener">ID.me and Login.gov Account Creation Assistance</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Oklahoma</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET, Enid, OK: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78152" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Enid, OK</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Oregon</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pennsylvania</h2> <p>April 12, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Waterford, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/erie-health-care/events/78469" rel="noopener">Waterford Veteran Resource Fair</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Greensburg, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78303" rel="noopener">Westmoreland County Advance Directive Fair</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Uniontown, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78302" rel="noopener">Fayette County Advance Directive Fair</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Monroeville, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78301" rel="noopener">Monroeville Advance Directive Fair</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Pittsburgh, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78258" rel="noopener">Heinz Campus Advance Directive Fair</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Washington, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78306" rel="noopener">Washington County Advance Directive Fairs</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Pittsburgh, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/pittsburgh-health-care/events/78304" rel="noopener">University Drive Advance Directive Fair</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rhode Island</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">South Carolina</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Ridgeland, SC: <a href="https://www.va.gov/charleston-health-care/events/77753" rel="noopener">Jasper County Vetearn Affairs VHA Enrollment Event</a></p> <p>April 11, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Monks Corner, SC: <a href="https://www.va.gov/charleston-health-care/events/77755" rel="noopener">Berkeley County Veterans Affairs</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">South Dakota</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tennessee</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Texas</h2> <p>April 11, 2025, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. ET, Dallas, TX: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77502" rel="noopener">Soldiers’ Angels Military and Veteran Food Distribution – Dallas, TX</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Utah</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Vermont</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Virginia</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Virginia Beach, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77674" rel="noopener">757 Career Summit Preparation Seminar (Day 1) – Virginia Beach, VA</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77582" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (PENINSULA) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77579" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (Norfolk)</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Virginia Beach, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77677" rel="noopener">757 Career Summit Preparation Seminar (Day 2) – Virginia Beach, VA</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77589" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect (Southside) – Norfolk, VA</a></p> <p>April 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77584" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect (Peninsula) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 14, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Fort Belvoir, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78091" rel="noopener">Creative Salute: A FREE art class in honor of service at the National Museum of the United States Army</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77575" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Peninsula) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 15, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77567" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Southside) – Norfolk, VA</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77582" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (PENINSULA) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 16, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77579" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (Norfolk)</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Washington</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 10:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET, Spokane, WA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77544" rel="noopener">Fiscal Year 2025 Caregiver Support Program Summit – Spokane, WA</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">West Virginia</h2> <p>April 10, 2025, 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. ET, Parsons, WV: <a href="https://www.va.gov/clarksburg-health-care/events/77212" rel="noopener">Veteran Town Hall (Tucker County)</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wisconsin</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wyoming</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <p>To find events in your local area, visit the <a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp" rel="noopener">VA Facility Locator</a> and click your state and local area. Events are listed near the bottom of each page.</p> <p>Additionally, you can find more events online at <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/" rel="noopener">Outreach Events</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139365/veteran-resources-events-week-april-7-2025/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Forty-four pounds down and a motivating TeleMOVE! journey</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139133/forty-four-pounds-down-telemove-journey/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139133/forty-four-pounds-down-telemove-journey/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[MOVE! Weight Management Program]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139133</guid> <description><![CDATA[Larry Trujillo lost 44 pounds and improved his relationship with food during the 90-day TeleMOVE! telehealth program.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Forty-four pounds down. Yet for Larry Trujillo, the numbers on the scale were no longer the most important aspect of his weight loss journey.</p> <p>The 72-year-old Vietnam Veteran discovered a newfound purpose with food and what it meant for his body that has led to improved mental health and personal relationships, all thanks to TeleMOVE!, VA’s 90-day telehealth program that shares messages about nutrition, physical activity and behavior change with periodic check-ins with a clinician. </p> <p>“It was ultimately a lifestyle change. Now I enjoy eating, whereas before I just ate,” he explained.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kicking off TeleMOVE!</h2> <p>Trujillo was already familiar with VA’s telehealth programs when he first began TeleMOVE! His VA mental health appointments are virtual and he enjoys the convenience and comfort of attending from home.</p> <p>When his VA provider suggested he try out the MOVE! Weight Management Program, he knew the in-person sessions would not be a good fit. Trujillo has PTSD and struggles with being in group settings. TeleMOVE! Remote Patient Monitoring – Home Telehealth was the ideal solution.</p> <p>Trujillo (pictured above with his wife, Sofie) still remembers the first words spoken by the program coordinator during his first TeleMOVE! session: “There are no such thing as ‘bad’ foods.” Trujillo’s wife, Sofie, who was sitting next to him, immediately leaned over and said, “I like her.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unlearning old habits</h2> <p>Over the course of weekly sessions, Trujillo began unlearning his habit of eating just for the sake of eating. Most importantly, Sofie helped him adjust his choices to nutritionally dense foods that would keep him full. “I was more interested in changing the way I do things rather than just stop eating,” he said, reflecting on the change. </p> <p>As part of the program, he was sent a table placemat that explained what food group portions to include on his plate at meals. Trujillo uses it to plan his meals to this day.</p> <p>He also received a weight scale and wearable activity tracker to send his readings to his VA care coordinator. This gave him a sense of accountability and motivation.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The bigger impact</h2> <p>Trujillo enjoyed TeleMOVE! so much that he chose to do another session after his 90-day program ended. Although he still has a “target weight” in mind, he’s more interested in the journey. His relationships with his wife, family members and friends have significantly improved. And he likes to share his TeleMOVE! experience with other Veterans whenever he gets a chance.</p> <p>While he was at the VA medical center being treated for kidney stones, he encouraged another Veteran to sign up for the program.</p> <p>“If all else seems like its failing, go to TeleMOVE!” he said.</p> <p>To learn more about TeleMOVE!, talk to your VA provider or visit the <a href="https://www.move.va.gov/" rel="noopener">MOVE! Weight Management Program webpage.</a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139133/forty-four-pounds-down-telemove-journey/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Hiring Veterans: Jobs of the week for April 7, 2025</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139360/hiring-veterans-jobs-week-april-7-2025/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139360/hiring-veterans-jobs-week-april-7-2025/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Hiring Veterans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[jobs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139360</guid> <description><![CDATA[This post contains links to jobs for the week of April 7, 2025. Each week, we post relevant and timely listings as we receive them, and for the locations listed.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Editor’s note: This post contains links to jobs that are active at the time of publishing. Most job listings close 7-30 days after publishing. The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <p>Each week, we receive job announcements from employers and employment websites—including <a href="https://recruitmilitary.com/" rel="noopener">RecruitMilitary</a>, <a href="https://www.vetjobs.org/" rel="noopener">VetJobs</a> and <a href="https://www.hiremilitary.us/s/" rel="noopener">HireMilitary</a>—looking to hire Veterans. This post contains links to job listings for the week of April 7, 2025. Each week, we’ll continue to post relevant and timely listings as we receive them, and for the locations listed.</p> <p>By recognizing the skills, discipline, leadership and problem solving abilities that Veterans possess, employers can benefit greatly from hiring them. Veterans bring a diverse perspective, adaptability and a strong work ethic to the workplace, enriching the company culture and fostering innovation.</p> <p>Check out the latest job listings below for the week of April 7, 2025:</p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1436" rel="noopener">Remote – Adolescent and Children’s Therapist – Calm Seas Psychotherapy</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1435" rel="noopener">Remote – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist – Calm Seas Psychotherapy</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1414" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Accountant for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1413" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Accountant (Systems) for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1417" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Business Analyst for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1416" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Financial Analyst for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1415" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Financial Liasson for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1445" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Supervisory Management and Program Analyst for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1420" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Sr. Complex Claims Adjuster, Mass Tort</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1449" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Complex Claims Director</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1449" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Senior Analyst</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45936515/Facilities-Coordinator-Airbus-Mobile-AL" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45936515/Facilities-Coordinator-Airbus-Mobile-AL" rel="noopener">Mobile, AL – Facilities Coordinator – Airbus</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45948591/Operations-Manager-WM-Formerly-Waste-Management-Flagstaff-AZ" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45948591/Operations-Manager-WM-Formerly-Waste-Management-Flagstaff-AZ" rel="noopener">Flagstaff, AZ – Operations Manager – WM</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/44628061/Sales-Representative-BrandSafway-Doral-FL" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/44628061/Sales-Representative-BrandSafway-Doral-FL" rel="noopener">Miami, FL – Sales Representative – BrandSafway</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45941016/General-Accountant-Plastipak-Packaging-Plymouth-MI" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45941016/General-Accountant-Plastipak-Packaging-Plymouth-MI" rel="noopener">Plymouth, MI – General Accountant – Plastipak Packaging</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1466" rel="noopener">Fayetteville, NC – Audit Senior Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1472" rel="noopener">TX – Account Manager, Marketing</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1345" rel="noopener">Central Texas – Account Manager (Project Management/Business Development/Sales) – Heritage Roofing and Construction</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1476" rel="noopener">VA – Audit Remediation Specialist</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1472" rel="noopener">VA – Account Manager, Marketing</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Overseas Roles with Acuity International:</h2> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1394" rel="noopener">Iraq – Administrative and Logistics Security Specialist Manager – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/69" rel="noopener">Iraq – Protective Security Specialist – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs?department=Jobs&location=Overseas#menu" rel="noopener">Iraq – Armorer – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/77" rel="noopener">Iraq – Research Analyst – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs?department=Jobs&location=Overseas#menu" rel="noopener">Marshall Islands – Multiple Medical Roles – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/70" rel="noopener">Somalia – Senior Guard – Acuity International</a></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="67" height="87" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/04/home-depot.jpg" alt="The Home Depot Military" class="wp-image-139363" /></figure> <p>Join over 35,000 veterans who are continuing their careers with The Home Depot. We value your commitment, strong leadership, and decision-making skills. Here, you can continue to be part of a culture that takes care of each other and makes a difference. Visit <a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/career-areas/military?utm_content=military" data-type="link" data-id="https://careers.homedepot.com/career-areas/military?utm_content=military" rel="noopener">The Home Depot Military Commitment</a> to find out more<strong>.</strong></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/21088540/lead-mechanic" rel="noopener">Ocala, FL: Lead Mechanic</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/21025710/mobile-service-mechanic" rel="noopener">Charlotte, NC: Mobile Service Technician</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/21402062/mobile-service-mechanic" data-type="link" data-id="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/21402062/mobile-service-mechanic" rel="noopener">Dallas, TX: Mobile Service Technician</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/21185798/home-depot-equipment-services-market-supervisor" rel="noopener">San Bernardino, CA: Home Depot Equipment Services Market Supervisor</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=1705" rel="noopener">Lihue, HI</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=3406" rel="noopener">West Lebanon, NH</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=2409" rel="noopener">Rockland, ME</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=4152" rel="noopener">Allison Park, PA</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=1703" rel="noopener">Maui, HI</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=4135" rel="noopener">Cranberry Township, PA</a></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="488" height="78" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/VA-careers.png?w=488" alt="Work at VA." class="wp-image-137347" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/VA-careers.png?resize=350,56 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/VA-careers.png 488w" sizes="(max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px" /></figure> <p>Whether you’re looking for the care you’ve earned or the career you deserve, we’re all about Veterans at VA. Many of our <a href="https://vacareers.va.gov/career-guidance/veterans-and-transitioning-military/?utm_source=news.va.gov&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=VHA_VETRESOURCES_FY25Q2_BLOG_VANEW_TRAF_BRAN_US_VETERAN_XXXXXX">popular jobs</a> for prior and transitioning military personnel offer special hiring preferences, application resources, and more to help you start a rewarding career serving others who served.</p> <p>See this week’s job announcements below for a variety of clinical and nonclinical positions at VA facilities around the country:</p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results/?l=&d=VA&hp=vet&hp=public&p=1&s=relevance&sd=asc&k=peer%20specialist" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Peer Specialist</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results/?l=&d=VA&hp=vet&hp=public&p=1&s=relevance&sd=asc&k=Police" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Police Officer</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results/?l=&d=VA&hp=vet&hp=public&p=1&s=relevance&sd=asc&k=medical%20support%20assistant" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Medical Support Assistant</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834636000" rel="noopener">San Francisco, CA – Operations Supervisor (Engineering)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834560500" rel="noopener">West Haven, CT – Supervisory Healthcare Engineer</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834256300" rel="noopener">Bay Pines, FL – Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834603900" rel="noopener">Lewiston, ID – Intermediate Care Technician</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/833820600" rel="noopener">Wichita, KS – Nursing Assistant (Community Living Center)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834327700" rel="noopener">Bronx, NY – Utility Systems Repairer/Operator</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834543200" rel="noopener">Chillicothe, OH – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/832500100" rel="noopener">Tulsa, OK – Electrician</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834612000" rel="noopener">Roseburg, OR – Physician (Employee Occupational Health)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834546800" rel="noopener">Chesapeake, VA – Health Technician</a></p> <p><a href="https://vacareers.va.gov/?utm_source=news.va.gov&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=VHA_VETRESOURCES_FY25Q2_BLOG_VANEW_TRAF_BRAN_US_VETERAN_XXXXXX">Find more jobs at VA</a>.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="488" height="78" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/Veterans-Canteen-Service-Career.jpg?w=488" alt="Job opportunities at the Veterans Canteen Service." class="wp-image-135862" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/Veterans-Canteen-Service-Career.jpg?resize=350,56 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/Veterans-Canteen-Service-Career.jpg 488w" sizes="(max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px" /></figure> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=v30hpk" rel="noopener">Aurora, CO – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=kb0naq" rel="noopener">Aurora, CO – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/CareerCenter/v2/details.aspx?cid=7891&jid=706757&locvalue=1062&recruiter=michelle.kolpacki@va.gov&request_id=249302" rel="noopener">Lake Nona, FL – Registered Dietitian</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=wtawc7" rel="noopener">Orlando, FL – Certified Dietary Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=vn8uhe" rel="noopener">Viera, FL – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=bj6nc0" rel="noopener">Hines, IL – Assistant General Manager – Retail</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=bbc79d" rel="noopener">Topeka, KS – Supervisory Operations Clerk</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=eikccq" rel="noopener">Detroit, MI – Assistant General Manager – Restaurant</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=p9mq5t" rel="noopener">Charlotte, NC – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/CareerCenter/v2/details.aspx?cid=7891&jid=706974&locvalue=1142&recruiter=michelle.kolpacki@va.gov&request_id=675448" rel="noopener">Albany, NY – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=cqd14t" rel="noopener">Albany, NY – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=vvrytj" rel="noopener">Bath, NY – General Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=13ixwt" rel="noopener">Bronx, NY – Cook</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=f9kf7v" rel="noopener">Bronx, NY – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=mhgax0" rel="noopener">Bronx, NY – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=qq6egh" rel="noopener">Oklahoma City, OK – Assistant General Manager – Restaurant</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=m4tffk" rel="noopener">Aspinwall, PA – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=bh5lsh" rel="noopener">Memphis, TN – Assistant General Manager – Retail</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.vacanteen.va.gov/VACANTEEN/VCSCareers.asp" rel="noopener">Click here for more openings!</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Veteran Entrepreneurship</h2> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78324" rel="noopener">Online: SBA Hour with Veterans – April 10, 2025, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.veteranservicebrands.com/lp/hm-four-brands-one-mission/" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Veteran-Only Franchise Opportunities</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Career Fairs</h2> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77575" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Peninsula) – April 8, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77567" rel="noopener">Norfolk, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Southside) – April 8, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78431/" rel="noopener">National Virtual Career Fair for Veterans<strong> – </strong>April 8, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77674/" rel="noopener">Virginia Beach, VA: 757 Career Summit Preparation Seminar – April 9-10, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77582" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners – April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77579" rel="noopener">Norfolk, VA: HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners – April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78433/" rel="noopener">Fort Benning, GA: Military Community Job Fair – April 9, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78076/" rel="noopener">Virtual: Heroes Connect Military to Manufacturing Engagement with Cargill – April 9, 2025, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77589" rel="noopener">Norfolk, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect – April 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77584" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect – April 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/birmingham-health-care/events/78027/" rel="noopener">Hoover, AL: 2025 Veterans Resource Event & Career Fair – April 10, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78440/" rel="noopener">Kansas City, MO: Veterans Job Fair – April 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78416" rel="noopener">Virtual: G.I. Jobs Get Hired Workshop – April 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78074/" rel="noopener">Fort Riley, KS: Military to Manufacturing Career Fair – April 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p>If you are interested in sharing your Veteran friendly positions, please <a href="https://www.research.net/r/NC9S2BY" rel="noopener">sign up today</a> for the VetResources Community Network Employer Collaborative to arrange a no-cost consult.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139360/hiring-veterans-jobs-week-april-7-2025/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>March Good News Report highlights community, care</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139379/march-good-news-report-highlights-community-care/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139379/march-good-news-report-highlights-community-care/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason Davis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 06 Apr 2025 20:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dayton VA]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139379</guid> <description><![CDATA[The Dayton VA Medical Center released its March 2025 Good News Report, spotlighting compassionate care, special recognitions, and life moments shared by Veterans and staff.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The Dayton VA Medical Center released its March 2025 Good News Report, spotlighting compassionate care, special recognitions, and life moments shared by Veterans and staff.</p> <p>On March 6, congressional staffers, including representatives from Sen. Bernie Moreno’s office, visited the medical center to engage directly with Veterans. The visit included hospital room visits and conversations with participants in the mental health residential rehabilitation program. “We are here and we need you. We need this,” one Veteran told the staffers, urging continued support for VA services.</p> <p>Vietnam-era Veterans were honored March 28 in a ceremony at the Community Living Center in recognition of National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Veterans received commemorative pins and listened to live music and remarks from Medical Center Director Jennifer DeFrancesco and Dayton National Cemetery Director Doug Ledbetter.</p> <p>“We take this honor very seriously,” Francesco said. “We have over 13,000 Veterans that we serve here at the Dayton VA who are Vietnam-era Veterans.”</p> <p>The medical center also celebrated Social Work Month, recognizing the contributions of over 130 social workers. Chief of Staff Laura Cox Vance praised their role in care coordination, calling social workers “the glue that binds all of those various services and connections together.”</p> <p>A highlight of the month was a wedding held in the hospital chapel on March 21. Army Veteran Neil Wages and his partner of 28 years, Michelle Sprow, were joined in marriage with the support of Dayton VA staff. The ceremony, planned by social workers and chaplain services, was followed by a small reception with cake and sparkling blush. “We just decided to do it and thought it would be honorable and the thing to do since he served his country,” Sprow said. When asked if he felt any different now that he’s married, Wages stated, “It’s kind of hard to explain, but yeah, I do. I’m happy.”</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> <div class="video-shortcode"><iframe title="Good News Report March 2025" width="1400" height="788" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8k2mGl5ML6s?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> </div></figure> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139379/march-good-news-report-highlights-community-care/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>“I visit my corpsman every Memorial Day.”</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139278/i-visit-my-corpsman-every-memorial-day/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139278/i-visit-my-corpsman-every-memorial-day/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Memorial Day]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139278</guid> <description><![CDATA[Each year, I return to honor my old corpsman's memory and reflect on serving together.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The silence feels heavy as I walk through Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. It always feels this way. Each year, I return to honor my old corpsman’s memory and reflect on serving together in 2005.</p> <p>I stand by her headstone, tracing the carved letters with my fingers. Memories of her infectious laugh and vivid blue eyes blend with my sorrow. Through tear-filled eyes, I recall the sacrifices she and many others made to defend our country.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Understanding Memorial Day</h2> <p>Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a day for solemn remembrance. It’s a day to honor service members who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.</p> <p>Nationwide, people will visit cemeteries, share stories and reflect on the sacrifices made by these individuals.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The toll of loss</h2> <p>I think about the families and friends of fallen service members. Memorial Day can be a deeply emotional time, bringing up feelings of grief and sorrow. It is a reminder of the losses we’ve experienced.</p> <p>For those who know the heartache of loss, there is support available.</p> <p>VA can assist you through the Veterans Crisis Line 24/7 (Dial <a href="tel:988">988</a> and Press 1) and free grief counseling at Vet Centers. These community-based centers provide a supportive environment for processing grief and connecting with others. You are not alone in your grief.</p> <p>To find a Vet Center near you, call <a href="tel:18779278387">1-877-927-8387</a> or use the <a href="https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center" rel="noopener">online location finder</a>.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Honoring their memory</h2> <p>Row after row, name after name, each headstone belongs to someone who served, had dreams, was loved and had a story.</p> <p>Some will run their fingers over the letters like I do. Others will say the names out loud. Some will share stories of courage, sacrifice, humor and the little things that made them who they were.</p> <p>To my fellow Veterans, as you visit cemeteries and reflect, know that you are not alone in your grief. Let their memory remind you of the courage and commitment that defined those we lost. To the families and survivors of fallen service members, your loved one’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.  </p> <p>We can grieve and honor them differently, but what matters is that we do.</p> <p>Every Memorial Day at 3 p.m. local time, Americans pause for the National Moment of Remembrance—a minute of silence that unites us in gratitude and respect. I’ll be standing right next to my corpsman as we mourn, remember and celebrate, honoring those who sacrificed everything so we could live freely.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Learn more</h2> <p>Find a National Cemetery, learn about the history of Memorial Day or find ways to honor our fallen heroes at the National Cemetery Administration’s <a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/history/Memorial-Day-history.asp#MemorialDay" rel="noopener">Memorial Day history page</a>.</p> <p></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139278/i-visit-my-corpsman-every-memorial-day/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Honoring Veterans: Army Veteran Mary Edwards Walker</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139374/honoring-veterans-army-veteran-mary-edwards-walker/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139374/honoring-veterans-army-veteran-mary-edwards-walker/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason Davis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Veteran of the Day]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#VeteranOfTheDay]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139374</guid> <description><![CDATA[This week’s Honoring Veterans Spotlight honors the service of Army Veteran Mary Edwards Walker.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Mary Edwards Walker was born in November 1832 in Oswego, New York. Walker grew up wanting to help people, as her parents were abolitionists who valued knowledge and freedom. So much so that her parents created the first <a href="https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/mary-edwards-walker" rel="noopener">free school</a> in Oswego so their daughter would have the same chance at an education as boys. Walker not only attended school as a young lady, but she also went on to pursue higher education to help people. She first attended seminary school and became a teacher; then, in 1855, she earned her medical degree at Syracuse Medical College in New York and became a surgeon.</p> <p>After earning her degree, Walker tried to pursue a career in the Union Army when the Civil War began but was promptly denied because she was a woman. For this reason, she worked as a surgeon at a hospital in Washington, D.C., until she was commissioned by Union Forces, specifically the Army of Cumberland, to aid the soldiers in 1863. She became the U.S. Army’s first female <a href="https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/mary-edwards-walker" rel="noopener">surgeon</a>. </p> <p>Walker served many soldiers and civilians alike, often crossing enemy lines. A consequence of her courage was that Confederate soldiers took her as a prisoner of war because she was thought to be a spy for the Union. During this time, Walker was sent to Richmond, Virginia, where she refused to wear any clothing provided to her that was designed for women. Walker believed pants were more comfortable and hygienic in her profession and much easier when performing gruesome surgeries. In 1864, she was released as part of a prisoner exchange, and later, in September of that year, she was contracted as the assistant surgeon of the <a href="https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/mary-edwards-walker" rel="noopener">Ohio 52nd Infantry.</a> </p> <p>At the war’s end in 1865, Walker became the first and only woman ever to receive a Medal of Honor. She became an avid prohibitionist and women’s rights activist, where she played a role in the suffrage movement. In 1916, her Medal of Honor was revoked, but that did not stop her from wearing it with pride until she died in 1919, where she was buried in her black suit. Ultimately, Jimmy Carter restored her <a href="https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/mary-edwards-walker" rel="noopener">Medal of Honor</a> in 1977.</p> <p>We honor her service.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nominate a Veteran for Honoring Veterans</h2> <p>Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? VA’s Honoring Veterans social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.</p> <p>It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much information as you can put together, along with some good photos. Visit our <a href="http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/28415/contribute-veteran-day/" rel="noopener">blog post about nominating</a> to learn how to create the best submission.</p> <p>Writer: Mariah Bailey</p> <p>Editors: Lillian Williams, Tayler Rairigh</p> <p>Researcher: Raphael Romea</p> <p>Graphic Designer: William Vega</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139374/honoring-veterans-army-veteran-mary-edwards-walker/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Have your buddy’s six: Know your role in preventing Veteran suicide</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139285/have-your-buddys-six-role-in-preventing-suicide/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139285/have-your-buddys-six-role-in-preventing-suicide/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Suicide Prevention]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139285</guid> <description><![CDATA[Veteran was trained to collaborate with fellow Airmen. Having his buddy’s six was important, and still is.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>During my service, I was trained to collaborate with my fellow Airmen and have my buddy’s six, ensuring each person’s unique skills contributed to accomplishing the mission. We learned together and worked together, building a strong, united team.</p> <p>It’s no different now that you’re out. Well, you likely don’t live with someone you served with and you probably don’t work together, either. But you can still count on them, and they can count on you, especially during a tough time, like facing a suicide crisis.</p> <p>Everyone plays a role in Veteran suicide prevention, and Veterans helping other Veterans is crucial to saving lives.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Identify early signs of struggle</h2> <p>You know your Veteran buddies. Even if you haven’t seen each other in years, that kind of connection lives forever. This closeness may help you better sense if they’re struggling. It might be something as subtle as the tone of their voice or something more obvious, like not texting or calling you back.</p> <p>And though every Veteran is unique and may show different signs of crisis, there are things you should be aware of and look out for, like these crisis signs (call 911 if there’s an active threat of suicide):</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Thinking about hurting or killing themself.</li> <li>Looking for ways to kill themself.</li> <li>Talking about death, dying or suicide.</li> <li>Self-destructive behavior, such as drug abuse, risky use of weapons, etc.</li> </ul> <p>Warning signs include:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Appearing sad or depressed most of the time.</li> <li>Hopelessness.</li> <li>Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness or mood swings.</li> <li>Feeling excessive guilt, shame or sense of failure.</li> <li>Rage or anger.</li> <li>Engaging in risky activities without thinking.</li> <li>Increasing alcohol or drug misuse.</li> <li>Losing interest in hobbies, work or school.</li> <li>Showing violent behavior, like punching a hole in the wall or getting into fights.</li> <li>Giving away prized possessions.</li> </ul> <p>If you or a Veteran you know is experiencing one or more of the warning signs, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7, confidential support. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect. To reach responders, <a href="tel:988">Dial 988 then Press 1</a>, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text <a href="sms:838255">838255</a>. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A conversation can help more than you think</h2> <p>Even though you know your buddies well and have been through a lot together, it might still be tough to find the right words when they show warning signs. And you may be afraid you’ll put the idea of suicide into their head. Just talking about suicide won’t give them the idea or increase their risk. Having a frank, direct conversation could give them the opening they’ve been waiting for to really talk about what they’re going through. </p> <p>If you’re not sure where to start, here are some ideas to get the conversation going:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>“It sounds like you’re feeling so incredibly (insert appropriate feeling here—trapped, overwhelmed, betrayed, etc.). Sometimes when people feel this way, they think about suicide. Is this something you’re thinking about?”</li> <li>“When did you first start feeling like killing yourself?”</li> <li>“Did something happen that made you begin to feel like taking your life?”</li> </ul> <p>You can find more tips by reading VA’s <a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/media/5loh24dj/crisis-conversation-handout_final-1-6-23.pdf" rel="noopener">How to Start the Conversation</a> handout.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Know which resources are available</h2> <p>If you’re able to connect with your Veteran buddy and they need support, the next step is finding the right resources to help. VA has a range of resources for Veterans based on sex, age, branch or types of challenges they’re facing, including the following:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/REACH/" rel="noopener">Don’t wait. Reach out.</a> helps connect Veterans and their loved ones with resources and support for coping with all kinds of life challenges.</li> <li><a href="https://www.maketheconnection.net/" rel="noopener">Make the Connection</a> features real stories of Veterans’ and their family members’ post-service experiences, challenges and recovery, as well as ways to find treatment and support.</li> <li><a href="https://www.sep.va.gov/sep/veterans-service-organizations" rel="noopener">Veterans Service Organizations</a> help Veterans and their families understand and access VA programs and benefits.</li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/index.asp" rel="noopener">VA’s Office of Suicide Prevention</a> provides all sorts of suicide prevention resources, like information about secure firearm and medication storage, treatment options and tools to help Veterans work on problem-solving, managing their anger, developing parenting skills and more. </li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">You’re critical to this mission</h2> <p>Your experiences have shaped who you are, and your support can make a lifesaving difference. By listening without judgment and speaking openly about suicide, you help create a stronger, more connected Veteran community. Together, we can make an impact.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139285/have-your-buddys-six-role-in-preventing-suicide/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Veterans Ready: Preparing for tornadoes and spring storms</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139331/preparing-for-tornadoes-and-spring-storms/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139331/preparing-for-tornadoes-and-spring-storms/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[emergency preparedness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139331</guid> <description><![CDATA[It’s essential for Veterans to take action and prepare for tornados and spring storms while staying informed.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Weather-related risks come in all shapes and forms and at any time. It’s essential for Veterans to take action and prepare for the worst while staying informed. Here are tips for Veterans during the spring storm and tornado seasons.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Understand the threat</h2> <p>Tornadoes, usually developing from severe thunderstorms, may strike with very little warning almost anywhere and can produce catastrophic, widespread destruction. Spring, between March and June, is peak season for tornadoes to potentially occur. They are incredibly violent; tornado winds will vary in speed, but can reach more than 200 mph and have the potential to destroy buildings, flip cars and create deadly debris.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Be alert and informed</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Know the signs.<strong> </strong>Tornadoes could develop from rotating clouds; involve a loud roar, similar to a freight train; and appear as dark, greenish skies.</li> <li>Sign up for alerts. Use the <a href="https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products" rel="noopener">FEMA app</a>, <a href="https://celebrating200years.noaa.gov/transformations/weather/radio.html" rel="noopener">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, and local emergency alert systems to receive warnings in real time.</li> <li>Understand alerts. A tornado watch is an alert to be prepared, given favorable conditions, for a tornado to develop. A tornado warning means to immediately take shelter, as a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Build a tornado-specific emergency kit</h2> <p>Have a room identified that provides enhanced safety conditions where emergency supply kits can be stored. The supplies can include the following:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days).</li> <li>Non-perishable food.</li> <li>Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (such as a NOAA Weather Radio).</li> <li>Flashlights and extra batteries.</li> <li>First aid kits.</li> <li>Whistle (to signal for help).</li> <li>Dust masks and plastic sheeting.</li> <li>Local maps.</li> <li>Copies of personal documents and medical records (use My HealtheVet to access VA records).</li> <li>Medications, hearing aids, glasses and mobility device chargers.</li> <li>Comfort items for kids or pets.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Create a tornado plan</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Identify a safe shelter and location (possibly a basement or interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows).</li> <li>Families should have a communication plan to ensure each member of the household knows how to reach one another and where to meet if separated.</li> <li>Drill together to test the plans and practice tornado response actions regularly.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Know your VA support options</h2> <p>VA is here to support Veterans, family members and caregivers before, during and after disasters. Some key emergency response mechanisms include:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://news.va.gov/132965/disaster-assistance-and-resources-for-veterans/">VA disaster assistance:</a> Temporary housing, emergency prescriptions and replacement of damaged medical equipment.</li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/VHAEMERGENCYMANAGEMENT/assets.asp" rel="noopener">VA mobile medical units:</a> Various mobile assets deployed to affected areas to ensure continuity of care.</li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/mobile-vet-center/" rel="noopener">Mobile Vet Centers:</a> Provide free, confidential counseling and crisis support with no appointments needed.</li> <li><a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/" rel="noopener">Veterans Crisis Line:</a> Available 24/7 at 988 (press 1) or Text 838255 for support services during and after traumatic occurrences. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call.</li> <li><a href="https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home?popup=true" rel="noopener">My HealtheVet:</a> Manages appointments, medication refills and access to online health records.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Connect with your community</h2> <p>Veterans may have a tendency to lead in emergency situations. If and when possible, check-in on neighbors who may need assistance, especially seniors or people with disabilities. Share your plans and encourage others to do the same.</p> <p>Remember, preparedness isn’t just a checklist—it’s peace of mind. Stay informed and follow local guidance.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Resources</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Get <a href="https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes" rel="noopener">information on actions to take before, during and after a tornado</a>.</li> <li>Learn more about <a href="https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/veterans" rel="noopener">programs available to Veterans following disasters</a>.</li> <li>Learn about <a href="https://news.va.gov/132965/disaster-assistance-and-resources-for-veterans/">disaster assistance and resources</a>.</li> </ul> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139331/preparing-for-tornadoes-and-spring-storms/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Veterans find hope and healing on the slopes as Winter Sports Clinic kicks off in Colorado</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139336/veterans-hope-healing-winter-sports-clinic/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139336/veterans-hope-healing-winter-sports-clinic/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason Davis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2025 19:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Adaptive Sports]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Top Stories]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter sports clinic]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139336</guid> <description><![CDATA[Nearly 400 Veterans from across the country have gathered in Snowmass Village for the 39th Annual National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. This premier adaptive rehabilitation event, co-presented by VA and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), continues through April 5.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Nearly 400 Veterans from across the country have gathered in Snowmass Village for <a href="https://www.wintersportsclinic.org/" rel="noopener">the 39th Annual National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic</a>. This premier adaptive rehabilitation event, co-presented by VA and <a href="https://www.dav.org/" rel="noopener">Disabled American Veterans (DAV)</a>, continues through April 5.</p> <p>The weeklong clinic offers Veterans with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, visual impairments and other serious disabilities a chance to explore adaptive sports, including Alpine and Nordic skiing, sled hockey, rock climbing and more.</p> <p>The clinic’s theme, “Miracles on a Mountainside,” resonated with participants like Navy Veteran Devora Exline, who credits adaptive sports with transforming her outlook on life.</p> <p>“One of the things that adaptive sports has really helped me with is to get back my positiveness and turning anything negative into a positive,” said Exline, speaking during the event. “What do they say, ‘miracles on a mountainside?’ I think that’s been the miracle for me.”</p> <p>Founded in 1987 with just 90 participants, the clinic has grown into one of the world’s largest adaptive winter sports events. More than 600 volunteers and medical staff help Veterans push past perceived limits and embrace new possibilities.</p> <p>For 21-year-old Navy Veteran Jeremy “JJ” Trammell, Jr., the experience has been nothing short of life-affirming. “I’m so normal. I can do this stuff!” said Trammell when asked if he was excited about returning to the event.</p> <p>His mother and caregiver, Maria Trammell, added that JJ felt alive and was himself again during the clinic.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> <div class="video-shortcode"><iframe title="#wintersportsclinic Downhill Daily | Tues 4/1" width="1400" height="788" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nkBolOpWK3M?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> </div></figure> <p>The clinic is more than recreation, though. It’s a vital form of therapy and connection. For Army Veteran Bryan McCrickerd, the slopes represent an escape from darkness and a path toward hope.</p> <p>“It’s an escape, a lifeline,” McCrickerd said. “I wish all Vets in my condition would try this because it would cut down on suicide.”</p> <p>As the clinic continues through the week, Veterans will not only master new skills on the Colorado slopes but also forge bonds and build confidence that will carry over long after the snow has melted.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Events and Activities at the 2025 Winter Sports Clinic Include:</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Alpine skiing.</li> <li>Nordic (cross-country) skiing.</li> <li>Sled hockey.</li> <li>Curling.</li> <li>Snowmobiling.</li> <li>Adaptive snowboarding.</li> <li>Indoor rock wall climbing.</li> <li>Scuba diving (indoor pool sessions).</li> <li>Fly fishing clinics.</li> <li>Educational sessions on adaptive technology and wellness.</li> </ul> <p>The Winter Sports Clinic is one of several national rehabilitation events organized by VA’s Office of National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events. These adaptive sports and therapeutic arts programs are designed to support the health, wellness and community reintegration of Veterans with disabilities.</p> <p>Backed by clinical expertise and strong partnerships with Veteran Service Organizations, sponsors and local communities, these events empower Veterans to thrive through physical activity, creativity and connection.</p> <p>Veterans interested in participating in future adaptive sports clinics or therapeutic arts programs can learn more by visiting the <a href="https://department.va.gov/veteran-sports/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VA National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events website</a> for additional information and eligibility requirements.</p> <p>Catch more of the action on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Sports4Vets" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FSports4Vets">X (formerly Twitter)</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sports4vets/" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>. </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139336/veterans-hope-healing-winter-sports-clinic/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Army Veteran redefines the story of resilience</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139113/army-veteran-redefines-story-resilience/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139113/army-veteran-redefines-story-resilience/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Augusta VA]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139113</guid> <description><![CDATA[Army Veteran Jeffery Williams' journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance and the power of innovation in transforming lives.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>In 2004, not long after Army Veteran Jeffery Williams celebrated his 21st birthday, he was supporting Marine Corps Civil Affairs Operations in Ramadi, Iraq. As his platoon worked to provide security for important humanitarian assistance in an area of combat operations, the vehicle he was traveling in hit an improvised explosive device, killing two of his fellow soldiers.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large"><a href="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Group_r1.jpg"><img decoding="async" width="432" height="371" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Group_r1.jpg?w=432" alt="Full team" class="wp-image-139115" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Group_r1.jpg?resize=350,301 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Group_r1.jpg 432w" sizes="(max-width: 432px) 100vw, 432px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Army Veteran Jeffery Williams and team</figcaption></figure></div> <p>The explosion left Williams paralyzed from the chest down.</p> <p>Williams grew up in Wilcox County in the small town of Alberta. Now he is thriving a few hours from his hometown, in Huntsville, Alabama. He credits his perseverance to his roots and military service. Thanks to VA, he lives life with a purpose and determination to overcome adversity.</p> <p>“When I reflect 20 years ago and remember where I was mentally and physically and compare that memory to now, I would tell you this would not be possible,” he shared. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">VA brings source of healing</h2> <p>Through VA, Williams realized he could live an independent life despite his paralysis. “At first, I said I would have preferred to die on the battlefield. I was feeling sorry for myself. My healing process started when I got to the Spinal Cord Injury Center at the <a href="https://www.va.gov/augusta-health-care/" rel="noopener">Augusta VA</a>, home to one of VA’s Spinal Cord Injury and Disorder Centers. They got me started to heal,” he said.</p> <p>Williams’ first move toward independence was when his health care team arranged a meeting with another paralyzed Veteran. The team strategically placed Williams at a window to witness another Veteran surviving paralysis arrive, park and exit his vehicle. The two met shortly after.</p> <p>“When I saw that, it changed my attitude and that was when I realized I could live a normal life, but just differently. I could see these VA employees enjoy what they were doing. They were passionate and weren’t only doing it because it was their job. They cared about me,” he said.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Enter the Ekso Indego</h2> <p>Williams visits the Spinal Cord Injury Center once a year. Three years ago, he showed interest in attending the VA Wheelchair Games. With the help of his rehabilitation specialist at Birmingham VA, he’s been a participant ever since.</p> <p>While at the games two years ago, a vendor demonstrating the Ekso Indego powered lower-limb exoskeleton caught Williams’ attention. The Exoskeleton is a five-piece system that allows patients with paralysis to stand and walk.</p> <p>“I was approved for a trial and the rest is history,” he said.</p> <p>Williams was fitted for his exoskeleton unit in 2024. Over the past five months, the technology has been part of his every VA rehabilitation visit and is periodically used outside of VA. Birmingham VA has trained his CrossFit coach and family members to assist with using the Exoskeleton when away from the VA facility.</p> <p>“When I first stood up to have a conversation with someone at eye level it was very cool. I’m still building up my strength and tolerance, but I was prepared to never stand or walk again,” he said.</p> <p>“He is super excited to get in this unit and work together to use it better and learn more from it,” said Danielle Peterson, physical therapist at the Huntsville clinic. “He’s expressed so much gratitude and shown how much the exoskeleton has changed his life. What an amazing personality and energy he brings to therapy.”</p> <p>Williams is an encouraging source for anyone facing a life-changing event, like paralysis. He stressed that VA is full of resources and introducing him to exoskeleton technology has put a new perspective on his life. “I believe the care is superb. I think VA care is better than anywhere,” he added.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rising to the occasion </h2> <p>Williams’ journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance and the power of innovation in transforming lives. From the battlefield to rebuilding his future with the support of VA, he has redefined what is possible after paralysis. His story is not just about survival. It’s about thriving, adapting and inspiring others to push beyond their limitations.</p> <p>As he continues to embrace new technology and advocate for fellow Veterans, Williams stands tall, not just with the help of the exoskeleton but through his unwavering determination to live life on his terms.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139113/army-veteran-redefines-story-resilience/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>4</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>VetServe 2025: Join VA in National Day of Service, April 23</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139258/vetserve-join-national-day-service-april-23/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139258/vetserve-join-national-day-service-april-23/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Apr 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VA Volunteers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[National Day of Service]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VetServe]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139258</guid> <description><![CDATA[VetServe is a celebration of service and a call-to-action to encourage Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors to serve in their community.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Each year, VA joins the nation to observe and celebrate National Volunteer Week, which occurs this year on April 20 – 26, 2025. As part of this special week, join us in supporting a National Day of Service through “VetServe 2025,” a campaign to strengthen volunteer capacity across the nation on April 23, 2025.</p> <p>This special observance highlights the tremendous impact volunteers make in Veterans’ lives. Your time and dedication can make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have served our nation.<br><br>VetServe 2025 brings together volunteers, Veteran Service Organizations, community leaders and VA staff in a synchronized day of service across all 50 states. From maintaining Veterans’ memorials to organizing resource fairs and providing home repairs for disabled Veterans, participants are making a tangible difference in Veterans’ lives.</p> <p>Join VA in supporting a National Day of Service, April 23, 2025. VetServe is a celebration of service and a call-to-action aimed to encourage the nation’s 19 million Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors to serve in their community.</p> <p>For ideas of how or where to serve, check out the<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.research.net/r/9MLJTHL" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.research.net/r/9MLJTHL" rel="noopener">Volunteer Directory</a>.</p> <p>Organizations are encouraged to visit <a href="https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/vetserve-2025-coming-together-to-serve-those-who-served-us" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/vetserve-2025-coming-together-to-serve-those-who-served-us" rel="noopener">RallyPoint </a>and <a href="https://togetherweserved.com/vetserve2025" data-type="link" data-id="https://togetherweserved.com/vetserve2025" rel="noopener">Together We Served</a> to post opportunities, share success stories and outcomes of successful Veteran volunteer service in the community. </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rallypoint.com%2Fanswers%2Fvetserve-2025-coming-together-to-serve-those-who-served-us&data=05%7C02%7C%7C8609700c04b84f4c853c08dd6bd260e0%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638785273490914217%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ocPUtrZ2SdvtHI3CCsJ2uAIlWJLK5uWWzNrbD0lFE88%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener">VetServe 2025: “Coming Together to Serve Those Who Served Us | RallyPoint</a> </li> <li><a href="https://togetherweserved.com/vetserve2025" rel="noopener">Together We Served – VetServe 2025</a>.</li> </ul> <p><br></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139258/vetserve-join-national-day-service-april-23/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>19</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Find scholarships for Veterans at Scholarship America</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139264/find-scholarships-veterans-scholarship-america/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139264/find-scholarships-veterans-scholarship-america/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2025 18:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[college students]]></category> <category><![CDATA[scholarships]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139264</guid> <description><![CDATA[Scholarship America administers scholarships for students attending vocational school, two-year colleges, and four-year colleges and universities.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <p><a href="https://scholarshipamerica.org/" rel="noopener">Scholarship America</a> is the nation’s leading administrator of private scholarships, awarding $5.7 billion to more than 3 million students since 1958. The organization administers a wide range of scholarships—and emergency grants—for students attending vocational school, two-year colleges, and four-year colleges and universities. These funds help close funding gaps and reduce the amount of debt students need to take on to complete their education.</p> <p>Scholarship America proudly administers several programs specifically <a href="https://scholarshipamerica.org/students/scholarships-for-veterans/" rel="noopener">for Veterans</a>. These scholarships allow the organization to support those who have volunteered to defend our country as they transition into the civilian workforce.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Wells Fargo Veterans Scholarship Program </h2> <p>The Wells Fargo Veterans Scholarship Program awards $5,000 to honorably discharged Veterans, as well as spouses and widowed spouses of disabled Veterans, pursuing full-time graduate or undergraduate study. <a href="https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/wellsfargoVeterans/" data-type="link" data-id="https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/wellsfargoVeterans/" rel="noopener">Apply </a>by April 10, 2025. Wells Fargo also offers <a href="https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/wp-content/uploads/Wells-Fargo-Emergency-Grant-Program-2025-flyer.pdf" rel="noopener">emergency grants</a> to Veteran students facing short-term financial need.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The DLA Piper BRAVO (Building Relationships to Advance Veterans’ Opportunities) Scholarship</h2> <p>The DLA Piper BRAVO Scholarship supports honorably discharged Veterans enrolling in an ABA-accredited law school with $6,000 in funding. Applications will open in fall 2025; click the <a href="https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/dlapiper/" rel="noopener">Notify Me button</a> to be alerted when the application opens.</p> <p>Scholarship America is dedicated to eliminating financial barriers to educational success so that any student can pursue their dream. If you’re a Veteran working toward a degree, there are scholarships to be found through Scholarship America.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139264/find-scholarships-veterans-scholarship-america/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>12</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Preventing suicide among women Veterans</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139025/preventing-suicide-among-women-veterans/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139025/preventing-suicide-among-women-veterans/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Inside Veterans Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Suicide Prevention]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Women Veterans]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139025</guid> <description><![CDATA[VA’s latest data shows a decrease in the suicide rate among women Veterans, but more effective interventions and support systems are needed.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>You may not know the following facts, but it’s true that the suicide rate among women Veterans decreased between 2021 and 2022, and that it’s because VA suicide prevention programs are playing a part.</p> <p>After climbing over the last two decades, the suicide rate among women Veterans decreased from 2021 to 2022, according to data from the <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/data.asp" rel="noopener">2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report</a>.</p> <p>The age-adjusted suicide rate (which gives us a more accurate way to compare Veteran and general U.S. population data) among women Veterans decreased by 24.1% between 2021 and 2022 (the latest year for which data is available). This decline tells us VA programs may be effectively reaching this group.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Women Veterans: The latest data</h2> <p>The report reveals other notable improvements from 2021 to 2022, including:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>12% decrease in the use of firearms in women Veteran suicide deaths.</li> <li>30% decrease in firearm and suffocation suicide rates among women Veterans.</li> <li>29.6% decrease in the age-adjusted suicide rate among women Veterans receiving care from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).</li> </ul> <p>Though we’re encouraged by these numbers, we will keep working to enhance our meaningful programs and resources for women Veterans.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">VA efforts to support women Veterans</h2> <p>In addition to being the fastest-growing population in the Veteran community, women are the fastest-growing group of Veterans who use VA services. We continue to expand services so that women can receive trauma-sensitive, tailored care, particularly for those at increased risk for suicide.</p> <p>Here are resources currently available:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/WOMENSHEALTH/wvpm-locator.asp" rel="noopener">Women Veterans Program managers</a>: These people are available at every VA medical center to ensure women receive tailored care and are connected to necessary services.</li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/women-vets/index.asp" rel="noopener">Expanded mental health care access</a>: A complete range of care, including telehealth and peer support, is available to address PTSD, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.</li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome/index.asp" rel="noopener">Military sexual trauma services</a>: VA offers free services and resources to meet survivors where they are in their recovery.</li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/wholehealth/" rel="noopener">Whole Health approach</a>: This type of treatment includes traditional care and therapies like yoga and meditation to manage stress and build resilience.</li> <li><a href="https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/WOMENSHEALTH/topics/post-pregnancy-health-care.asp" rel="noopener">Postpartum and perinatal mental health</a>: These programs focus on health during and after pregnancy, addressing postpartum depression and related concerns.</li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/women-vets/reproductive-mental-health/index.asp" rel="noopener">Reproductive mental health</a>: VA offers treatments for reproductive mental health conditions.</li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/" rel="noopener">Research and data-driven interventions</a>: Researchers constantly work to find ways to tailor suicide prevention treatments and programs.</li> <li><a href="https://www.hsrd.research.va.gov/centers/womens_health/whrn.cfm" rel="noopener">VA Women’s Health Research Network</a>: This program ensures women Veterans’ health research is considered when creating new practices and policies.</li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/womenvet/" rel="noopener">Center for Women Veterans</a>: CWV advocates for access to VA benefits and services.</li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/stop-harassment/" rel="noopener">VHA Assault and Harassment Prevention Office</a>: This office oversees VA’s commitment to providing a safe, welcoming and professional environment for all employees, Veterans, volunteers and visitors. Harassment or sexual assault will not be tolerated at any VA facility.</li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/persona/veteran-women.asp" rel="noopener">Women Veterans coordinators</a>: Each Veterans Benefits Administration regional office has a coordinator who provides information, assistance and resources to women concerning VA benefits, non-VA resources and any additional benefits.</li> </ul> <p>If you’re a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive 24/7, confidential support. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect. To reach responders, <a href="tel:988">Dial 988 then Press 1</a>, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat, or text <a href="sms:838255">838255</a>. </p> <p>You can get more information about the <a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/" rel="noopener">Veterans Crisis Line</a> and can access <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/index.asp" rel="noopener">VA’s suicide prevention resources</a>.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A call to action</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Suicide is preventable.</li> <li>Everyone plays a role in suicide prevention.</li> <li>There is hope for people who have thoughts of suicide.</li> </ul> <p>Experience tells us that when Veterans have access to the right support before a crisis happens, lives can be saved.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A commitment to women Veterans</h2> <p>As the women Veteran population has grown, it’s become a bigger focus for VA. We continue to create support systems and outreach programs to reduce suicides among women Veterans and improve their overall quality of life.</p> <p>Through these efforts, VA is working to empower women Veterans to seek help and receive the care they’ve earned.</p> <p>Learn how you can help prevent suicide at the <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/prevention/index.asp" rel="noopener">Office of Suicide Prevention</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139025/preventing-suicide-among-women-veterans/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Leading the fight against Veteran food insecurity</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139246/leading-fight-against-veteran-food-insecurity/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139246/leading-fight-against-veteran-food-insecurity/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Food insecurity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Soldiers' Angels]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139246</guid> <description><![CDATA[Last year, Soldiers' Angels supported over 49,000 food-insecure military and Veteran families with 1.4 million pounds of food.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <p>America’s military-connected community is facing a food insecurity crisis. Despite their service and sacrifices, far too many Veterans and active duty service members struggle to put food on the table. According to the <a href="https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1230-1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RAND Corporation</a>, 25.8% of active duty service members experienced food insecurity in 2018, alarmingly higher than their civilian counterparts (9%). As inflation rises with no end in sight, so too does this crisis.</p> <p>That is where <a href="https://soldiersangels.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Soldiers’ Angels</a> steps in. In 2024, the organization supported over 49,000 food-insecure military and Veteran families with 1.4 million pounds of food, making Soldiers’ Angels the largest provider of food exclusively to Veterans in the country.</p> <p>Unfortunately, this is only scratching the surface. That’s why in 2025, Soldiers’ Angels is aiming to expand food assistance by 50%.</p> <p>Soldiers’ Angels food assistance programs include:</p> <ol start="1" class="wp-block-list"> <li>Military and Veteran Food Distributions (MVFDs): Operating in seven cities nationwide, these monthly events provide 150-300 Veteran and military families with, on average, 75 pounds of groceries.</li> <li>Food pantries: Beginning in Detroit with continued support from the Detroit Pistons, these resources are available to the military-connected community daily. Soldiers’ Angels is in the process of expanding food pantries to other sites across the country.</li> <li>Boxed lunches: Soldiers’ Angels provides non-perishable boxed lunches to low-income Veterans in VA medical facilities.</li> <li>Canteen gift cards: Provide Veterans in VA medical facilities across the country with gift cards for use at facility canteens for nutritious meals, removing an additional layer of stress to their visits.</li> </ol> <p>These initiatives are built to support the growing needs of the military-connected community.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How Soldiers’ Angels is driving further change</h2> <p>Launched in February 2025, the monthly Cincinnati Military and Veteran Food Distribution now supports 150 Veteran and military families each month. Cincinnati joins Atlanta, Charleston, Dallas, Denver, Orlando and San Antonio in the MVFD line-up.</p> <p>Soldiers’ Angels has taken over the monthly events in Cincinnati from the VA medical center, which had previously hosted the event since 2022. The organization aims to enhance the quality of food provided at the Cincinnati event, improve the distribution infrastructure and raise awareness about food insecurity within the military-connected community.</p> <p>The Cincinnati initiative will have a profound impact on a region where food insecurity affects many military-connected families. This program is not just a relief effort—it’s a beacon of hope, providing tangible support and recognizing the dignity of those who have served.</p> <p>MVFD expansion will continue into Washington, D.C., slated to open in summer 2025, offering support to Veterans in one of the most densely populated military-connected regions in the United States.</p> <p>Outside of new MVFD locations, Soldiers’ Angels is expanding in other key markets:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>The Detroit Food Pantry, funded by the Detroit Pistons, has undergone renovations to create a more effective and welcoming environment while continuing its essential services.</li> <li>Charlotte, North Carolina, is in the process of opening a food pantry with Soldiers’ Angels.</li> <li>The San Antonio MVFD, which already supports hundreds of families monthly, is set to increase its reach from 250 to 300 families per month in 2025. This represents an additional 45,000 pounds of food distributed annually.</li> <li>Through a partnership with Kroger Racing, Soldiers’ Angels is hosting nine additional pop-up MVFDs in Daytona Beach, Fort Worth, Charlotte and more.</li> </ul> <p>The legacy, reach and impact of Soldiers’ Angels define a leader in the fight against Veteran food insecurity. The organization’s innovative approach feeds Veterans and creates a sense of belonging and community. </p> <p>But every initiative has its limits. Every new MVFD site, every additional family served and every expanded program requires assistance to make it possible. Philanthropic partners, foundations, grants and volunteers are essential to supporting Soldiers’ Angels’ mission at scale.</p> <p><a href="https://soldiersangels.org/volunteer/volunteer-to-feed-veterans/" data-type="link" data-id="https://soldiersangels.org/volunteer/volunteer-to-feed-veterans/" rel="noopener">Learn how</a> to volunteer, partner or get more details about Soldiers’ Angels food assistance programs.</p> <div class="wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://soldiersangels.org/volunteer/volunteer-to-feed-veterans/" rel="noopener">VOLUNTEER TODAY</a></div> </div> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139246/leading-fight-against-veteran-food-insecurity/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Live Whole Health #266: Wrap it Up!</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139279/live-whole-health-266-wrap-it-up/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139279/live-whole-health-266-wrap-it-up/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason Davis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 20:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#LiveWholeHealth]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139279</guid> <description><![CDATA[Making healthy choices about what you eat and drink is a powerful way to care for yourself. You need the right fuel to feel well and have the energy to do what matters most to you.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Food is the fuel that keeps your engine humming. It may seem easier to run through a drive-up window or grab a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies when you’re hungry, but you can’t get the energy your body needs with a burger or a sweet snack.</p> <p>Making healthy choices about what you eat and drink is a powerful way to care for yourself. You need the right fuel to feel well and have the energy to do what matters most to you.</p> <p>What’s more, a healthy diet can reduce pain and inflammation, improve the quality of your sleep and reduce symptoms of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It can even lower the risk of certain cancers.</p> <p>You don’t have to be a chef to create a scrumptious and nutritious meal or snack! The hummus wrap delivers fiber and veggies all in a hand-held pocket of total yumminess.</p> <p>Give your body the fuel that will support your <a href="https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTH/index.asp" rel="noopener">Whole Health</a> with this Hummus Wrap:</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> <div class="video-shortcode"><iframe title="Healthy Teaching Kitchen: Hummus Wrap" width="1400" height="788" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6l7j30Q4LOM?list=PL3AQ_JVoBEywA0DxUr5WalEVr6iGcnjYf" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div> </div></figure> <p>Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 15 minutes | Yield: 1 serving | Serving Size: 1 Wrap</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>2 Tablespoons hummus (store bought or homemade) </li> <li>1 (8-inch) whole-wheat tortilla </li> <li>1/2 Cup mixed salad greens </li> <li>2 Tablespoons finely chopped sweet onion </li> <li>1/4 Cup thinly sliced cucumber </li> <li>2 Tablespoons diced tomato </li> <li>2 Tablespoons shredded carrots </li> <li>1 Tablespoon balsamic vinaigrette</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Directions </h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Spread hummus over the tortilla. </li> <li>Layer tortilla with salad greens, onion, cucumber, tomato, and carrots. </li> <li>Drizzle with the vinaigrette. </li> <li>Fold the sides of tortilla over towards the center, then roll up tightly. 5) Serve cold. Recipe Notes Make sure to store humus in refrigerator at 33 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit and discard after 3 to 4 days.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nutrition Facts </h2> <p>Per Serving: Calories: 250 | Total Fat: 12.5 g | Saturated Fat: 3 g Sodium: 100 mg | Total Carbohydrate: 29 g | Dietary Fiber: 6.5 g | Protein: 7 g</p> <p>Adapted from personal recipe | Submitted by Lakelyn Lumpkin.</p> <p>For more recipes, please visit <a href="https://www.nutrition.va.gov" rel="noopener">VA’s Nutrition and Food Services online</a> or at https://www.nutrition.va.gov.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139279/live-whole-health-266-wrap-it-up/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Veteran Resources: Events of the week March 31, 2025</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139262/veteran-resources-events-week-march-31-2025/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139262/veteran-resources-events-week-march-31-2025/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Events]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Outreach]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139262</guid> <description><![CDATA[We’ve curated an assortment of events for Veterans and their families. Each week, we post relevant and timely events for the Veteran community.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <p>We’ve curated an assortment of events that aim to assist, educate, and enrich Veterans and their families. Each week, we’ll continue to post relevant and timely events for the Veteran community.</p> <p>Whether you’re a Veteran, service member, caretaker or family member, there are events and experiences tailored to the unique needs of the Veteran community posted below.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">National</h2> <p>April 2, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78097" rel="noopener">MilitaryHire and The American Legion: A National Virtual Hiring Event</a></p> <p>April 2, 2025, 12:00 – 12:15 p.m. CT, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78118" rel="noopener">Wellbeing YOU – Online</a></p> <p>April 2, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78061" rel="noopener">Mission: Fatherhood – Online</a></p> <p>April 2, 2025, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/washington-dc-health-care/events/76974" rel="noopener">Virtual Breast Cancer Support Group</a></p> <p>April 4, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78239" rel="noopener">War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC) Mindfulness Meditation Phone-Based Class</a></p> <p>April 7, 2025, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78089" rel="noopener">Watercolor Bootcamp (Sign up by April 5, 2025 to participate!)- Online</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. CT, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78120" rel="noopener">Caregivers: Your Life and Your Health Matters – Online</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 12:00 – 12:15 p.m. CT, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78118" rel="noopener">Wellbeing YOU – Online</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78138" rel="noopener">Hosted by VA Center for Faith – “Overview of Housing and Urban Development/VA Supportive Housing (HUD/VASH) & Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)”</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET, Online: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78076" rel="noopener">Heroes Connect: Military to Manufacturing Virtual Engagement with Cargill</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alabama</h2> <p>April 4, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CT, Demopolis, AL: <a href="https://www.va.gov/tuscaloosa-health-care/events/77259" rel="noopener">Marengo County Veterans Town Hall</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. CT, Irondale, AL:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/birmingham-health-care/events/72029" rel="noopener">Creative Arts Class</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alaska</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Arizona</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Arkansas</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">California</h2> <p>April 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. PT, Santa Cruz, CA:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/palo-alto-health-care/events/68666" rel="noopener">Medical outreach for Veterans – Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. PT, Santa Cruz, CA:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/palo-alto-health-care/events/68666" rel="noopener">Medical outreach for Veterans – Santa Cruz Veterans Memorial Building</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Colorado</h2> <p>April 4, 2025, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. MT, Aurora, CO: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77505" rel="noopener">Soldiers’ Angels Military and Veteran Food Distribution – Denver, CO</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Connecticut</h2> <p>April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Hamden, CT: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78153" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Hamden, CT</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Delaware</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">District of Columbia</h2> <p>April 3, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Washington, D.C.: <a href="https://www.va.gov/washington-dc-health-care/events/77034" rel="noopener">In-Person Meditation Practice, Take A Pause</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Florida</h2> <p>April 2, 2025, 9:00  – 10:00 a.m. ET, West Palm Beach, FL:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/west-palm-beach-health-care/events/64425" rel="noopener">Free Legal services are back in partnership with Legal Aid of Palm Beach County!</a></p> <p>April 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77579" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (Norfolk)</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Georgia</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Guam</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hawaii</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Idaho</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Illinois</h2> <p>April 4, 2025, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT, Chicago, IL: <a href="https://www.va.gov/chicago-health-care/events/56659" rel="noopener">Veterans Coffee Break with Southside Strong</a></p> <p>April 4, 2025, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. CT, Crestwood, IL:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/62367" rel="noopener">Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 84 Veterans Meeting Event</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Indiana</h2> <p>April 7, 2025, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. ET, Fort Wayne, IN: <a href="https://www.va.gov/northern-indiana-health-care/events/78100" rel="noopener">Advance Care Planning Events</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Iowa</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kansas</h2> <p>April 4, 2025, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. CT, Overland Park, KS: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78154" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Overland Park, KS</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Kentucky</h2> <p>April 3, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. CT, Paducah, KY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78156" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Paducah, KY</a></p> <p>April 4, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Lexington, KY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/lexington-health-care/events/76266" rel="noopener">VOCATIONAL ASSISTANCE</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET, Prospect, KY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78150" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Prospect, KY</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Louisiana</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maine</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maryland</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Massachusetts</h2> <p>April 3, 2025, 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. ET, Leeds, MA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/central-western-massachusetts-health-care/events/73034" rel="noopener">Veteran Walk-in Flu Clinics</a></p> <p>April 3, 2025, 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. ET, Brockton, MA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/boston-health-care/events/78071" rel="noopener">Women Veterans Open House and Info Session</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. ET, Leeds, MA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/central-western-massachusetts-health-care/events/73034" rel="noopener">Veteran Walk-in Flu Clinics</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Michigan</h2> <p>April 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Canton, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77950" rel="noopener">ID.me and Login.gov Account Creation Assistance</a></p> <p>April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Canton, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77950" rel="noopener">ID.me and Login.gov Account Creation Assistance</a></p> <p>April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET, Manchester, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77739" rel="noopener">Washtenaw County Veteran Service Office – Coffee & Conversation</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Michigan Center, MI: <a href="https://www.va.gov/ann-arbor-health-care/events/77741" rel="noopener">D.me and Login.gov Account Creation Assistance</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Minnesota</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mississippi</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Missouri</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Montana</h2> <p>April 7, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. MT, Poplar, MT: <a href="https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/events/78308" rel="noopener">Montana VA PACT Act claims event — Fort Peck</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. MT, Crow Agency, MT: <a href="https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/events/78309" rel="noopener">Montana VA PACT Act claims event — Crow Agency</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nebraska</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nevada</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Hampshire</h2> <p>April 5, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET, Manchester, NH: <a href="https://www.va.gov/manchester-health-care/events/78121" rel="noopener">Women Veterans’ Town Hall and Claims Clinic</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Jersey</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Mexico</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">New York</h2> <p>April 2, 2025, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, New York, NY:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78113" rel="noopener">Pink and White Women’s Empowerment Luncheon – New York, NY</a></p> <p>April 4, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET, Canandaigua, NY: <a href="https://www.va.gov/finger-lakes-health-care/events/77809" rel="noopener">Canandaigua Veteran’s Mini Stand Down</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">North Carolina</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. ET, Goldsboro, NC:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/fayetteville-coastal-health-care/events/78087" rel="noopener">Goldsboro Spring Health Fair</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">North Dakota</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ohio</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Oklahoma</h2> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. CT, Enid, OK: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78152" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Enid, OK</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Oregon</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pennsylvania</h2> <p>April 3, 2025, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET, Erie, PA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/erie-health-care/events/78351" rel="noopener">Donate Life Month Kick Off Event</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rhode Island</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">South Carolina</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">South Dakota</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tennessee</h2> <p>April 8, 2025, 8:00 – 8:45 a.m. ET, Cookeville, TN: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78151" rel="noopener">Veterans Benefits Seminar – Cookeville, TN</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Texas</h2> <p>April 5, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. MT, El Paso, TX: <a href="https://www.va.gov/el-paso-health-care/events/78088" rel="noopener">Live Whole Health Summit</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Utah</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Vermont</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Virginia</h2> <p>April 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA:  <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77582" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (PENINSULA) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77589" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect (Southside) – Norfolk, VA</a></p> <p> April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77584" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect (Peninsula) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77575" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Peninsula) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 8, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77567" rel="noopener">Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Southside) – Norfolk, VA</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Virginia Beach, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77674" rel="noopener">757 Career Summit Preparation Seminar (Day 1) – Virginia Beach, VA</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Newport News, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77582" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (PENINSULA) – Newport News, VA</a></p> <p>April 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET, Norfolk, VA: <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77579" rel="noopener">HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners (Norfolk)</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Washington</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">West Virginia</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wisconsin</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wyoming</h2> <p>No events listed for this week</p> <p>To find events in your local area, visit the <a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp" rel="noopener">VA Facility Locator</a> and click your state and local area. Events are listed near the bottom of each page.</p> <p>Additionally, you can find more at <a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/" rel="noopener">Outreach Events</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139262/veteran-resources-events-week-march-31-2025/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Blind TeleRehabilitation provides virtual services to Veterans with vision loss</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139273/blind-telerehabilitation-virtual-services/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139273/blind-telerehabilitation-virtual-services/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vision]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139273</guid> <description><![CDATA[Blind TeleRehabilitation offers blind and visual impairment rehabilitation assessment, training, specialized technology and support groups.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>For Veterans who are blind or have low vision, daily tasks that were once easy—like cooking and using technology—can become difficult. VA’s Blind TeleRehabilitation is here to meet the various needs and goals of Veterans with vision loss.</p> <p>The program provides Veterans with virtual assessment and training (such as cooking classes, self-care management and fall prevention), assistive technology and themed-support groups.</p> <p>“We really stress the importance of Veterans learning how to do things that they’ve always done, but just a little bit differently because they have vision loss,” said Ella Hart, National Blind Rehabilitation planning specialist.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Vision loss support</h2> <p>A common myth is that Veterans need to be considered legally blind to receive rehabilitation care or that their vision loss must be a direct result of their service. This is not true. In fact, the program serves any Veteran enrolled in VA health care whose vision loss impacts their life. This includes vision loss after a brain injury or stroke, or aging-related eye conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts or glaucoma.</p> <p>Veterans can be referred to Blind TeleRehabilitation through their Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) coordinator, VA primary care provider, social worker or optometrist.</p> <p>The first step of the program is for Veterans to complete an assessment about their condition, challenges and goals. Veterans then work with a blind rehabilitation specialist to address the barriers they face. For example, a Veteran can take a virtual class on setting up their smartphone with accessibility features. Additionally, the program can issue technology, such as head-mounted reading devices.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Filling the gaps</h2> <p>There are 13 inpatient Blind Rehabilitation Centers, 52 outpatient low-vision clinics and 106 blind rehabilitation outpatient specialists (offering home visits) around the nation providing both in-person and virtual care through VA.</p> <p>Virtual care can also be provided by referring Veterans to the Blind Rehabilitation Assistive Technology Hub (based in Augusta, Georgia), as well as to one of four Clinical Resource Hubs (located in VISNs 4, 6, 7 and 23) offering virtual blind rehabilitation assessment and training.</p> <p>Hart stressed that this is a “lifetime program” for Veterans. The TeleRehabilitation team is there to support Veterans as their goals and challenges evolve.</p> <p>“It’s important to meet the needs of Veterans wherever they are,” she added.</p> <p>For more information about Blind TeleRehabilitation, talk to your VA care team. Learn more about <a href="https://telehealth.va.gov/" rel="noopener">VA telehealth services</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139273/blind-telerehabilitation-virtual-services/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>5</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Hiring Veterans: Jobs of the week for March 31, 2025</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139268/hiring-veterans-jobs-week-march-31-2025/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139268/hiring-veterans-jobs-week-march-31-2025/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Hiring Veterans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[jobs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139268</guid> <description><![CDATA[This post contains links to local, partner, state, and federal jobs for the week of March 31, 2025.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Editor’s note: This post contains links to jobs that are active at the time of publishing. Most job listings close 7-30 days after publishing. The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <p>Each week, we receive job announcements from employers and employment websites—including <a href="https://recruitmilitary.com/" rel="noopener">RecruitMilitary</a>, <a href="https://www.vetjobs.org/" rel="noopener">VetJobs</a> and <a href="https://www.hiremilitary.us/s/" rel="noopener">HireMilitary</a>—looking to hire Veterans. This post contains links to job listings for the week of March 31, 2025. Each week, we’ll continue to post relevant and timely listings as we receive them, and for the locations listed.</p> <p>By recognizing the skills, discipline, leadership and problem solving abilities that Veterans possess, employers can benefit greatly from hiring them. Veterans bring a diverse perspective, adaptability and a strong work ethic to the workplace, enriching the company culture and fostering innovation.</p> <p>Check out the latest job listings below for the week of March 31, 2025:</p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1436" rel="noopener">Remote – Adolescent and Children’s Therapist – Calm Seas Psychotherapy</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1435" rel="noopener">Remote – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist – Calm Seas Psychotherapy</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1420" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations (IL, GA, NJ, PA, TX) – Sr. Complex Claims Adjuster, Mass Tort</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1414" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Accountant for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1413" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Accountant (Systems) for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a><a></a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1417" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Business Analyst for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1416" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Financial Analyst for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1415" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Financial Liasson for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1445" rel="noopener">Multiple Locations – Supervisory Management and Program Analyst for Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1449" rel="noopener">GA, IL, NJ, PA – Complex Claims Director</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1449" rel="noopener">GA, IL, NJ, PA – Senior</a> Analyst</p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1466" rel="noopener">Fayetteville, NC – Audit Senior Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1472" rel="noopener">TX – Account Manager, Marketing</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1469" rel="noopener">TX – Sales Coach</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1345" rel="noopener">Central Texas – Account Manager (Project Management/Business Development/Sales) – Heritage Roofing and Construction</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1472" rel="noopener">VA – Account Manager, Marketing </a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1469" rel="noopener">VA – Sales Coach</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45896308/Supervisor-Assembly-Production-KARL-STORZ-Endoscopy-America-Inc-Goleta-CA" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45896308/Supervisor-Assembly-Production-KARL-STORZ-Endoscopy-America-Inc-Goleta-CA" rel="noopener">Goleta, CA – Supervisor, Assembly Production – Construction – KARL STORZ Endoscopy-America, Inc.</a></p> <p><a href="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=442030BR#jobDetails=3307202_6098" data-type="link" data-id="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=442030BR#jobDetails=3307202_6098" rel="noopener">Washington, D.C. – Sr. Network Engineer</a></p> <p><a href="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=441989BR#jobDetails=3307074_6098" data-type="link" data-id="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=441989BR#jobDetails=3307074_6098" rel="noopener">Crawfordsville, IN – Material Planner</a></p> <p><a href="https://jobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=441462BR" rel="noopener">New Jersey – Nuclear Shift Supervisor BWR</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45913783/Manager-Field-Marketing-COX-Bordentown-NJ" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45913783/Manager-Field-Marketing-COX-Bordentown-NJ" rel="noopener">Bordentown, NJ – Manager, Field Marketing – COX</a></p> <p><a href="https://jobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=440961BR" rel="noopener">Arlington, VA – Program Security Rep</a> </p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45917140/Training-Supervisor-Altec-Daleville-VA" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45917140/Training-Supervisor-Altec-Daleville-VA" rel="noopener">Daleville, VA – Training Supervisor – Altec</a></p> <p><a href="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45898619/Project-Manager-Digital-Integration-Solutions-Eaton-Kennewick-WA" data-type="link" data-id="https://my.recruitmilitary.com/job/45898619/Project-Manager-Digital-Integration-Solutions-Eaton-Kennewick-WA" rel="noopener">Kennewick, WA – Project Manager – Digital Integration Solutions – Eaton</a></p> <p><a href="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=442182BR#jobDetails=3307504_6098" data-type="link" data-id="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=442182BR#jobDetails=3307504_6098" rel="noopener">Menomonie, WI – Mechanic</a></p> <p><a href="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=442187BR#jobDetails=3307509_6098" data-type="link" data-id="https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageType=JobDetails&partnerid=16030&siteid=6098&Areq=442187BR#jobDetails=3307509_6098" rel="noopener">Union Grove, WI – Data Quality Specialist</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Overseas roles with Acuity International</h2> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/1394" rel="noopener">Iraq – Administrative and Logistics Security Specialist Manager – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/69" rel="noopener">Iraq – Protective Security Specialist – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs?department=Jobs&location=Overseas#menu" rel="noopener">Iraq – Armorer – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/77" rel="noopener">Iraq – Research Analyst – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs?department=Jobs&location=Overseas#menu" rel="noopener">Marshall Islands – Multiple Medical Roles – Acuity International</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruiterflow.com/tenova/jobs/70" rel="noopener">Somalia – Senior Guard – Acuity International</a></p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="488" height="78" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/VA-careers.png?w=488" alt="Work at VA." class="wp-image-137347" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/VA-careers.png?resize=350,56 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/12/VA-careers.png 488w" sizes="(max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px" /></figure> <p>Whether you’re looking for the care you’ve earned or the career you deserve, we’re all about Veterans at VA. Many of our <a href="https://vacareers.va.gov/career-guidance/veterans-and-transitioning-military/?utm_source=news.va.gov&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=VHA_VETRESOURCES_FY25Q2_BLOG_VANEW_TRAF_BRAN_US_VETERAN_XXXXXX">popular jobs</a> for prior and transitioning military personnel offer special hiring preferences, application resources and more to help you start a rewarding career serving others who served.</p> <p>See this week’s job announcements below for a variety of clinical and nonclinical positions at VA facilities around the country:</p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results/?l=&d=VA&hp=vet&hp=public&p=1&s=relevance&sd=asc&k=peer%20specialist" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Peer Specialist</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results/?l=&d=VA&hp=vet&hp=public&p=1&s=relevance&sd=asc&k=Police" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Police Officer</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results/?l=&d=VA&hp=vet&hp=public&p=1&s=relevance&sd=asc&k=medical%20support%20assistant" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Medical Support Assistant</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834352700" rel="noopener">San Diego, CA – Clinical Laboratory Scientist</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834163100" rel="noopener">Washington, D.C. – Environmental Services Technician</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834273700" rel="noopener">Honolulu, HI – Supervisory Dietitian (Chief)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834377700" rel="noopener">Boise, ID – Intermediate Care Technician</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834278800" rel="noopener">Beford, MA – Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/830042800" rel="noopener">Fort Harrison, MT – Radiologist (Chief of Diagnostic Imaging)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834354500" rel="noopener">Asheville, NC – Medical Records Technician (Coder)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834336200" rel="noopener">Las Vegas, NV – Physical Security Specialist</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/834251500" rel="noopener">Reno, NV – Utility Systems Operator</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/833525900" rel="noopener">Portland, OR – Equipment Support Specialist (Information Systems)</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/job/823377600" rel="noopener">White River Junction, VT – Nuclear Medicine Technologist</a></p> <p><a href="https://vacareers.va.gov/?utm_source=news.va.gov&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=VHA_VETRESOURCES_FY25Q2_BLOG_VANEW_TRAF_BRAN_US_VETERAN_XXXXXX">Find more jobs at VA</a>.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="488" height="78" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/Veterans-Canteen-Service-Career.jpg?w=488" alt="Job opportunities at the Veterans Canteen Service." class="wp-image-135862" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/Veterans-Canteen-Service-Career.jpg?resize=350,56 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/Veterans-Canteen-Service-Career.jpg 488w" sizes="(max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px" /></figure> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=wr6o0i" rel="noopener">San Francisco, CA – Supervisory Operations Clerk </a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=lhuscp" rel="noopener">Lake Nona, FL – Registered Dietitian</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=og6s3g" rel="noopener">Orlando, FL – Certified Dietary Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=8ems95" rel="noopener">Miami, FL – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/CareerCenter/v2/details.aspx?cid=7891&jid=706582&locvalue=1069&recruiter=michelle.kolpacki@va.gov&request_id=153443" rel="noopener">West Palm Beach, FL – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=wpy8lk" rel="noopener">West Palm Beach, FL – Retail Supply Clerk</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=46qvbb" rel="noopener">West Palm Beach, FL – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=hajkj7" rel="noopener">Decatur, GA – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=9gd146" rel="noopener">Decatur, GA – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=3jrfp7" rel="noopener">Hines, IL – Assistant General Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=b5feb0" rel="noopener">Indianapolis, IN – Office Clerk</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=xu27x1" rel="noopener">Columbia, MO – Cook</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=fu4yll" rel="noopener">Bath, NY – General Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=fx5yfj" rel="noopener">Oklahoma City – Assistant General Manager</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/CareerCenter/v2/details.aspx?cid=7891&jid=706522&locvalue=1176&recruiter=michelle.kolpacki@va.gov&request_id=503775" rel="noopener">Lebanon, PA – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=dc0njk" rel="noopener">Lebanon, PA – Retail Sales Associate</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=7ksvh5" rel="noopener">Amarillo, TX – Cook</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=pvcb5e" rel="noopener">Seattle, WA – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://recruit.hirebridge.com/v3/goto/?c=y44edk" rel="noopener">Tacoma, WA – Food Service Worker</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.vacanteen.va.gov/VACANTEEN/VCSCareers.asp" rel="noopener">Visit the VCS website for more openings!</a></p> <p>Join over 35,000 veterans who are continuing their careers with The Home Depot. We value your commitment, strong leadership, and decision-making skills. Here, you can continue to be part of a culture that takes care of each other and makes a difference. Visit <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fthd.co%2Fmilitary&data=05%7C02%7C%7C6450ec95bee14e1d60ed08dd5d812180%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638769531398036082%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=2dTqP5mtBrI6kOh%2FWuuNshBB4yCuIiFSJ%2FjvKSem08Y%3D&reserved=0" rel="noopener">The Home Depot Military Commitment</a> to find out more<strong>.</strong></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/16553088/warehouse-associate-onsite" rel="noopener">San Antonio, TX</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job/6961529/warehouse-associate-onsite" rel="noopener">Hagerstown, MD</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=6377" rel="noopener">Destin, FL</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=4135" rel="noopener">Cranberry Township, PA</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=1703" rel="noopener">Maui, HI</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=4152" rel="noopener">Allison Park, PA</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=3409" rel="noopener">Portsmouth, NH</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=3833" rel="noopener">Medina, OH</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=1303" rel="noopener">Fairbanks, AK</a></p> <p><a href="https://careers.homedepot.com/job-search-results?store_id%5b%5d=4502" rel="noopener">Rutland, VT</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Veteran Entrepreneurship</h2> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78434/" rel="noopener">Online: Boots 2 Business: Agriculture Reboot – Apr 4, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.veteranservicebrands.com/lp/hm-four-brands-one-mission/" rel="noopener">Nationwide – Veteran-Only Franchise Opportunities</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Career Fairs</h2> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77575" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Peninsula) – April 1, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77567" rel="noopener">Norfolk, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Employer Connect (Southside) – April 1, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77673/" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: HII Mission Technologies: Lunch & Learn – April 1, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77582" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners – April 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77579" rel="noopener">Norfolk, VA: HERO Wednesday Collaborative Partners – April 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78097/" rel="noopener">Virtual: MilitaryHire and The American Legion National Hiring Event – April 2, 2025, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77589" rel="noopener">Norfolk, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect – April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/77584" rel="noopener">Newport News, VA: Hampton Roads Military Community Education Connect – April 3, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/78235/" rel="noopener">Chicago, Il: Military Community Hiring Event – April 3, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CT</a></p> <p>If you are interested in sharing your Veteran friendly positions, please <a href="https://www.research.net/r/NC9S2BY" rel="noopener">sign up today</a> for the VetResources Community Network Employer Collaborative to arrange a no-cost consult.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139268/hiring-veterans-jobs-week-march-31-2025/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>5</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>New urgent care opens in Hawaii clinic</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139082/new-urgent-care-opens-in-hawaii-clinic/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139082/new-urgent-care-opens-in-hawaii-clinic/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 2025 20:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Urgent Care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VISN 21]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139082</guid> <description><![CDATA[Pacific Islands VA has opened a new urgent care clinic inside the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>On March 17, <a href="https://www.va.gov/pacific-islands-health-care/" rel="noopener">Pacific Islands VA</a> celebrated the opening of a new urgent care clinic inside the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic.</p> <p>“Today we open the first urgent care for Veterans in the Pacific Islands,” said Dr. Adam Robinson, director. “As we celebrate the structure, let’s also remember that it isn’t the building that makes the urgent care. It is the people. The dedication and caring of our staff, the work everyone does in service of those who have worn the cloth of our nation. That’s what really makes this urgent care possible.”</p> <p>Veterans will still need to go to an emergency room for emergent health concerns, such as a heart attack, stroke, major cut or injury or broken bones. However, urgent care can help with a variety of problems that require same-day service, such as a urinary tract infection, minor cuts and abrasions, headaches, rashes, fevers, insect bites and other concerns that cannot wait for a primary care appointment. Urgent care is ideal when a Veteran has an urgent problem but it’s not an emergency.</p> <p>“There was no urgent care planned when the Daniel K. Akaka VA Clinic opened,” said Clinic Chief April Seghorn (pictured above). “I’m very appreciative of everyone for their dedication and hard work.”</p> <p>We also have a new urgent care telehealth option for Veterans in the Pacific Islands. The new Health Connect Clinical Contact Center will provide easy, on-demand services to Veterans.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Clinical Contact Center can help with</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Pharmacy services.</li> <li>Scheduling appointments.</li> <li>Tele-emergency care.</li> <li>Clinical nurse triage.</li> </ul> <p>Veterans may still call 988, then press 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139082/new-urgent-care-opens-in-hawaii-clinic/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>6</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Why one Veteran’s resilience remains unshaken</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139093/why-one-veterans-resilience-remains-unshaken/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139093/why-one-veterans-resilience-remains-unshaken/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 2025 18:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[resilience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VISN 8]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139093</guid> <description><![CDATA[From one battle to the next, including four types of cancers, Eliot Winokur’s resilience remains unshaken.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>From one battle to the next, including four types of cancers linked to his time at Ground Zero, Eliot Winokur’s resilience has remained unshaken.</p> <p>The retired, Army lieutenant colonel is a competitive swimmer and a cancer warrior; he has faced each day with the same discipline and determination that defined his 35 years of military service. </p> <p>Swimming isn’t just a sport for him—it’s his lifeline. Three times a week he races against the clock in the local swimming lap pool, covering a mile and a half per session.</p> <p>For over 40 years, Eliot has been a competitive swimmer, a passion he credits to his late brother. </p> <p>“My brother was a competition swimmer, and he got me into it,” he recalled. “He passed away from Parkinson’s at 79, but I keep a picture of him in my bedroom that motivates me to keep going. I pick events that older folks stay away from, like the 400-meter individual medley and the 200-meter butterfly. There’s not much competition, and I enjoy the challenge.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">“Military taught me to pick a goal and stick with it.”</h2> <p>“The military gave me discipline and focus,” he continued. “It taught me to pick a goal, stick with it and achieve it. That mindset is what’s helped me keep going through every health challenge.”</p> <p>His service spannws both active and reserve duty. He started as an Army security agency cryptanalytic specialist and later became a medical service officer, spending seven years recruiting doctors for the Army Reserve. As a former recruiter for Army Reserve doctors, he understood the qualifications of VA medical professionals better than most.</p> <p>“I know their credentials, their backgrounds, and their expertise,” he added. “It’s a great system, and I wanted all my records in one place whether at the <a href="https://www.va.gov/bronx-health-care/" rel="noopener">Bronx VA</a> in New York or <a href="https://www.va.gov/west-palm-beach-health-care/" rel="noopener">West Palm Beach VA</a>. That continuity is critical, especially for someone with a lot of medical issues. If you take care of things early, you’re far better off than waiting until it’s too late.”</p> <p>With every swim, every breath and every fight, Eliot Winokur proves that resilience isn’t about surviving, it’s about thriving.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139093/why-one-veterans-resilience-remains-unshaken/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>VA nurse steps up when tornadoes threaten</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139128/va-nurse-steps-up-when-tornadoes-threaten/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139128/va-nurse-steps-up-when-tornadoes-threaten/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 29 Mar 2025 20:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VA Nurse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VISN 16]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139128</guid> <description><![CDATA[As severe weather threatened Mississippi, local news warned of a dangerous outbreak of tornadoes. A VA nurse stepped up.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>As severe weather threatened Mississippi on March 15, local news warned of a dangerous outbreak of tornadoes capable of tearing apart entire communities. Knowing what was at stake, a VA nurse at <a href="https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/" rel="noopener">Jackson VA</a> took swift action.</p> <p>The emergency management team activated the hospital incident command center, bringing together an interdisciplinary team of clinical and non-clinical staff to ensure the most vulnerable Veterans had the supplies and support needed before the storm arrived.</p> <p>The team contacted more than 480 Veterans, including those on home oxygen, dialysis, transplant patients, spinal cord injury patients and others. After the storm passed, those same Veterans were contacted again, this time to assess their immediate needs and provide assistance.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large"><a href="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/michelle-reid_r1.jpg"><img decoding="async" width="149" height="192" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/michelle-reid_r1.jpg?w=149" alt="VA nurse" class="wp-image-139130" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Michelle Reid</figcaption></figure></div> <p>Among those stepping up was Michelle Reid, a registered nurse with Home Based Primary Care. As the storms threatened, Reid’s commitment to Veterans went beyond duty. It was personal.</p> <p>Seventeen confirmed tornadoes swept through the state that day, leaving a trail of destruction in small southern towns. One of the most powerful storms was an EF4 tornado that started in Louisiana and tore through Mississippi, impacting Pike, Walthall, Marion, Jefferson Davis and Covington counties.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tornado on the ground for 65 miles</h2> <p>With maximum wind speeds of 170 mph, the tornado stayed on the ground for over 65 miles, leaving homes flattened, trees snapped and lives forever changed. Seventeen counties within Jackson VA area were impacted, including Jefferson Davis County, where Reid lives.</p> <p>“We had so many tornado warnings. They were just coming back-to-back,” Reid recalled.</p> <p>Reid, who had already made calls to several Veterans on Saturday instead of waiting until Sunday, grew concerned when she couldn’t reach two of them, one of whom was her neighbor. Without hesitation she got in her car and drove to check on them. Thankfully, both Veterans and their families were safe, but her actions highlighted the strong bond between VA nurses and their patients.</p> <p>“These are my neighbors. They’re my people. When they hurt, I hurt,” she said.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Home-based nurses become first responders</h2> <p>Rural Mississippi presents unique challenges for health care access. Many Veterans live miles from the nearest hospital, relying on home-based nurses like Reid to provide care and connection. In times of disaster, those nurses become first responders in ways that go beyond medicine.</p> <p>“There’s just a different relationship you have. Being a home-based nurse means you’re not just caring for a patient, you’re getting to know them, their families, even their pets. It’s an honor to serve our Veterans who served our country,” she said. “Small communities are resilient. People come together, they help and they rebuild. And I’m just grateful to be part of that.”</p> <p>Though the road to recovery will be long for the communities impacted by the storms, Reid remains steadfast in her dedication to her Veterans. Her story is a testament to the unwavering commitment of VA nurses who not only provide essential medical care, but also serve as lifelines of support in times of crisis.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139128/va-nurse-steps-up-when-tornadoes-threaten/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Honoring the legacy and contributions of Vietnam women Veterans</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139215/honoring-legacy-vietnam-women-veterans/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139215/honoring-legacy-vietnam-women-veterans/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason Davis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 29 Mar 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Women Veterans]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Center for Women Veterans]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139215</guid> <description><![CDATA[On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we recognize and honor the Americans who served during the Vietnam War. But there is a group of Veterans whose contributions have too often gone unrecognized—the women who also served in Vietnam. Your service, sacrifice, and resilience laid the foundation for future generations and shaped history.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we recognize and honor the Americans who served during the Vietnam War. But there is a group of Veterans whose contributions have too often gone unrecognized—the women who also served in Vietnam. Your service, sacrifice, and resilience laid the foundation for future generations and shaped history.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">A brave act of service</h2> <p>Women who served in critical positions during the Vietnam War helped shape both the military and their legacy as Veterans. From Nov. 1, 1955, to April 30, 1975, more than 265,000 American women volunteered to serve worldwide, with <a href="https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/assets/1/7/US_Servicewomen_in_the_Vietnam_War.pdf" rel="noopener">nearly 11,000 directly deployed to Vietnam</a>. Women braved extraordinary challenges, providing critical support in a war zone marked by intense combat and harsh conditions. They helped shatter stereotypes, serving under constant threats and navigating barriers that excluded women from traditional combat roles.</p> <p>Despite their bravery and loyalty in volunteering their service to our country through critical and life-saving positions, women were often not seen as Veterans by their peers. Many women who served also didn’t identify themselves as Veterans—but their courage and dedication laid the foundation for significant policy changes, expanded military roles, and improved health care for women Veterans.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The critical contributions of women</h2> <p>While many may think women served only as nurses, it is true that women in Vietnam served in many critical positions.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Medical staff: About <a href="https://news.va.gov/86001/women-veterans-bravely-served-vietnam-war/">90% of women served in life-saving positions as nurses</a> for the Army, Navy and Air Force Nurse Corps. They provided critical medical care in field hospitals, aboard hospital ships, within evacuation facilities and aboard medevac helicopters, including locations within combat zones under dangerous conditions.</li> <li>Intelligence and communications specialists: Women served in jobs requiring high levels of security clearance, including decoding messages and gathering reconnaissance data.</li> <li>Administrative and clerical staff: Women in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) supported the war effort through administrative, logistical and clerical work, ensuring efficient operations in command centers and managing critical communications.</li> <li>Air traffic controllers: Women in the U.S. Air Force (WAF) directed the flow of aircraft in and out of war zones, a responsibility that was crucial to the logistics of the war effort. These women worked in air traffic control towers, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of military planes, including those involved in combat and transport operations.</li> <li>Commanders and leaders: As the war progressed, women gained new opportunities to lead. In 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson <a href="https://www.defense.gov/observe/photo-gallery/igphoto/2001087830/" rel="noopener">opened promotions for women</a> to general and flag ranks. In 1972, regulations changed to allow women to <a href="https://www.army.mil/women/history/" rel="noopener">command units</a>, even those comprising hundreds of men.</li> <li>Trailblazers: Rear Adm. Frances Shea Buckley was a pioneering figure in the Navy Nurse Corps and the first Navy nurse corps officer to achieve a two-star rank. During the Vietnam War, she supervised the operating room on the USS Repose, caring for many wounded soldiers. After retiring in 1983, she continued to advocate for Veterans, serving on the board of the Veterans Medical Research Foundation and as chair of the then-named Veterans Administration <a href="https://www.va.gov/womenvet/acwv/index.asp" rel="noopener">Women’s Advisory Committee</a>. Buckley also taught at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Nursing, significantly impacting military medicine and Veteran health care.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your lasting legacy</h2> <p>Vietnam women Veterans: You redefined service, pushing boundaries and affirming your capabilities in high-stake environments. Your contributions and advocacy made a lasting impact on our nation, by:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Challenging norms. You served in life-threatening situations despite not being permitted to carry weapons or officially take on combat roles. Your presence and success challenged traditional norms, paving the way for expanded positions for women in the military, including the 2013 lifting of the military’s official combat ban on women.</li> <li>Health care innovations.<strong> </strong>You pioneered trauma care advancements, such as improved triage techniques. These innovations not only saved countless lives during the war but also influenced emergency medical practices in civilian health care.</li> <li>Advocacy and policy reform.<strong> </strong>After your service, many of you became fierce advocates. Your efforts led to specialized VA health care programs, including services tailored to women’s needs, such as reproductive and gynecological care, mental health support and initiatives addressing military sexual trauma.</li> <li>Recognition and representation.<strong> </strong>By the 1970s, your advocacy secured greater recognition and representation. Vietnam Veteran leaders like the first director of the <a href="https://www.va.gov/womenvet/" rel="noopener">VA Center for Women Veterans</a>, Joan A. Furey and Linda Spoonster Schwartz, who <a href="https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/WOMENSHEALTH/history/index.asp#furey" rel="noopener">championed change</a>, shaping policies that better serve all women Veterans today.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">VA honors you</h2> <p>We thank you for your courage, dedication and lasting impact on our nation’s history and future generations. You have left a legacy of courage, advocacy and progress.</p> <p>VA celebrates your contributions and continues to ensure your stories are heard. We are proud to serve you with <a href="https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/" rel="noopener">health care you can trust</a>. For more information on your earned benefits and services, follow us on follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VAWomenVets" rel="noopener">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/VAWomenVets" rel="noopener">X</a> at @VAWomenVets and on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/deptvetaffairs/women-veterans/" rel="noopener">Pinterest</a> @DeptVetAffairs. We share information on benefits and services, events, stories, research and more. Thank you for your service!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139215/honoring-legacy-vietnam-women-veterans/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>13</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>A century of strength with Dorothy Rudd</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139059/a-century-of-strength-with-dorothy-rudd/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139059/a-century-of-strength-with-dorothy-rudd/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2025 18:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[centenarians]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VISN 8]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139059</guid> <description><![CDATA[Dorothy “Pat” Rudd, 103, World War II Navy Veteran, has lived a life of service, pioneering the way for women in the military.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Dorothy “Pat” Rudd, a 103-year-old World War II Navy Veteran, has lived a life of service, pioneering the way for women in the military. As one of the first 200 members of the <a href="https://foundationforwomenwarriors.org/waves/" rel="noopener">Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES)</a> deployed overseas, Rudd helped shape history during a time when women’s roles in the armed forces were still being defined.</p> <p>Born in Peoria, Illinois, Rudd enlisted in 1942, following in the footsteps of her brother. Her service took her to Hawaii, where she worked as an educator, teaching literacy skills to fellow service members. Additionally, Rudd played a vital role in the war effort by helping in hospitals and caring for injured soldiers.</p> <p>“I wanted to do my part. My brother joined and I felt inspired to follow the same path. I knew I could make a difference,” she shared.</p> <p>Among her most emotional memories of service was helping sailors communicate with their families while they were away at sea. “I remember taking the time to sit with them and assist in writing letters home. For some, it was their sole connection to their loved ones. It meant the world to them, and it meant everything to me,” she said.</p> <p>Three years after the end of World War II in 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act into law, allowing women to serve as full permanent members of all military branches. The act solidified the role of female service members like Rudd, paving the way for future generations.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">“It was the best decision I ever made.”</h2> <p>After the war, Rudd settled in Orlando, Florida, with her husband. For many years she was unaware of the health care services available to her through VA.</p> <p>When Rudd started to feel unwell, her daughter urged her to visit Orlando VA. “I took my bag of medicine to VA and the doctor took one look and said, ‘While you’re here, let’s run some tests.’ When I came back two weeks later, he threw everything away except my thyroid medicine. From that moment I knew I’d be with VA for life,” she said.</p> <p>Now a resident of the <a href="https://www.va.gov/geriatrics/pages/va_community_living_centers.asp" rel="noopener">Community Living Center (CLC)</a> at the <a href="https://www.va.gov/orlando-health-care" rel="noopener">Orlando VA Healthcare System</a>, Rudd speaks highly of the care she receives. “I couldn’t ask for a better place to be. VA has been excellent to me, very helpful in every way. It was the best decision I ever made,” she added.</p> <p>Joelle Robles, social worker, has had the privilege of working closely with Rudd and witnessing her strength and resilience. “Ms. Rudd is an incredible woman with a remarkable story. Her journey reminds us how far women in the military have come and she continues to inspire everyone she meets. It’s an honor to be part of her journey.”</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139059/a-century-of-strength-with-dorothy-rudd/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Honoring Veterans: Marine Corps Veteran Opha May Johnson</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139233/honoring-veterans-marine-corps-veteran-opha-may-johnson/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139233/honoring-veterans-marine-corps-veteran-opha-may-johnson/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jason Davis]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Veteran of the Day]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#VeteranOfTheDay]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139233</guid> <description><![CDATA[This week’s Honoring Veterans Spotlight honors the service of Marine Corps Veteran Opha May Johnson, who served during World War I.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Opha May Johnson was <a href="https://www.wishtv.com/celebrating/celebrating-heroes/kokomo-first-female-marine/" rel="noopener">born</a> in May 1878 in Kokomo, Indiana. After high school, she studied in the shorthand and typewriting department at Wood’s Commercial College in Washington, D.C., and graduated as salutatorian in 1895. Johnson <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/retropolis/wp/2017/09/22/the-first-woman-marine-in-1918-she-couldnt-vote-but-rushed-to-serve/" rel="noopener">married</a> orchestra conductor Victor Hugo Johnson on Dec. 20, 1898. She then joined the Civil Service and served the U.S. under the Interstate Commerce Commission.</p> <p>Nearing the end of World War I, the U.S. and other Allied Powers had sustained massive casualties and needed more men on the front lines. On Aug. 8, 1918, Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels approved a new plan allowing women could enlist in the Marine Corps. Johnson was the first in line among 300 others, making her the first enlisted woman in the Marine Corps Reserve. While thousands of women across the country would also join in this effort, Johnson quickly rose to prominence as she served as a clerk at Headquarters Marine Corps, managing records and other issues where needed. In September 1918, she was promoted to sergeant, making her the highest-ranking woman in the Marine Corps.</p> <p>In 1919, Johnson became a charter member of Belleau Wood Post No. 1, the first ever post for female Marine Corps reservists. While most women were still not active in the field, their contribution to military office work was crucial to furthering war efforts and breaking barriers along the way. Among the 90 other women who served on this post, Johnson demonstrated that America’s women had just as much passion and commitment to service as its men. </p> <p>Following the end of World War I, the United States began <a href="https://www.worldwar1centennial.org/index.php/communicate/press-media/wwi-centennial-news/4221-opha-mae-johnson-first-woman-to-enlist-in-the-usmc.html" rel="noopener">disenrolling</a> women from service. Nevertheless, Johnson continued her career in service as a clerk in the War Department and continued to work for the Marine Corps as a civil servant until she retired in 1943, where she became active in the American Legion. Though her career was brief, she paved the path women to serve in the U.S. military. Without her efforts and the efforts of many others like her, the Allied Powers in World War I and the cause for women’s equality would have been greatly diminished. Her service opened the doors for generations of women Marines.</p> <p>Johnson died in August 1955 and was buried near her husband and parents in Rock Creek Cemetery. On Aug. 29, 2018, 100 years after the first women enlisted in the Marines, Johnson <a href="https://www.dvidshub.net/image/4688928/opha-may-johnson-monument" rel="noopener">received</a> a ceremonial grave marker. </p> <p>We honor her service.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nominate a Veteran for Honoring Veterans</h2> <p>Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? VA’s Honoring Veterans social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.</p> <p>It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much information as you can put together, along with some good photos. Visit our <a href="http://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/28415/contribute-veteran-day/" rel="noopener">blog post about nominating</a> to learn how to create the best submission.</p> <p>Writers: Mariah Bailey, Rahil Zaveri</p> <p>Editors: Lillian Williams, Tayler Rairigh, Adi Gulati</p> <p>Researchers: Raphael Romea, Annelies Stephens</p> <p>Graphic Designer: Kiki Kelley</p> <p></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139233/honoring-veterans-marine-corps-veteran-opha-may-johnson/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Returning WWII items to Veterans’ next of kin</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139055/returning-wwii-items-to-veterans-next-of-kin/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139055/returning-wwii-items-to-veterans-next-of-kin/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VISN 7]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWII Veterans]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139055</guid> <description><![CDATA[VA employees help return WWII items to two brothers’ families. Both brothers were WWII Veterans.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Columbia VA employees worked together to help return WWII items to two brothers’ families. Both brothers were WWII Veterans.</p> <p>A tube mailer with a large group photo mailed during WWII from Fort Dix, New Jersey, and a WWII commemorative medal with the Veteran’s name inscribed were dropped off at the front desk of the <a href="https://www.va.gov/columbia-south-carolina-health-care/locations/wm-jennings-bryan-dorn-department-of-veterans-affairs-medical-center/" rel="noopener">Dorn VA</a> campus.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large"><a href="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/20250311_152507000_iOS_r1.jpg"><img decoding="async" width="432" height="288" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/20250311_152507000_iOS_r1.jpg?w=432" alt="Mailer" class="wp-image-139057" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/20250311_152507000_iOS_r1.jpg?resize=350,233 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/20250311_152507000_iOS_r1.jpg 432w" sizes="(max-width: 432px) 100vw, 432px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mailer with medal</figcaption></figure></div> <p>Items are usually placed in the lost and found in case the owner is looking for them. Illyana Vereen, patient representative, knew he had something more than just the routine lost and found items.</p> <p>He gave the tube mailer with a three-cent postage stamp and a WWII commemorative medal to Derrick Bridges, chief of enrollment eligibility in the Dorn welcome center. Vereen asked Bridges to find a living relative to return the items. </p> <p>“I was trying to research [to] whom the items belonged and I was running into a few dead ends. I had shown Mr. Bridges the full photo and signatures and we were just in awe,” Bridges said.</p> <p>Bridges was able to determine their identities from the address label on the tube mailer and the name inscribed on the back of the medal. Decades ago, before concerns over identity theft, service members used to include their service number and Social Security Number on outgoing and in-coming mail. The return address label was partially torn away and the name was missing.</p> <p>“The first thing I noticed was this number, which I associated as a service number,” said Bridges. “I was able to plug it into one of our VA systems that looks up Veterans with service numbers and was able to find Charles Knight.” The name on the back of the medal was Edward C. Knight, Charles’ brother. </p> <p>Bridges determined that Charles had been treated at Dorn and had since passed away. Preliminary searches were unsuccessful, so Bridges contacted the Lexington County Veterans Service Office. It was determined that the brothers were from Gaston, South Carolina, but little more could be found.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">“Oh, his son goes to church here.”</h2> <p>They started searching various genealogy and search engine sites, eventually finding an obituary for Edward C. Knight Sr. with listings of his family. Phone numbers were found but most were disconnected or no answer.</p> <p>The memorial service and burial for Edward Sr. was at Beulah Methodist Church in Sandy Run, South Carolina. A phone number for the church was located, and after explaining what Johnson was looking for, the church secretary said, “Oh, his son goes to church here. I’ll be glad to give him your phone number.”</p> <p>Two days later, Edward Jr. called back.</p> <p>According to Edward Jr., his father didn’t talk much about his service. “I knew he had been stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey. When they found out he was an experienced carpenter, he was selected to build new barracks.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Team’s enduring commitment to honoring Veterans</h2> <p> “My dad had four brothers; three of them were in combat. When they would get together, there would be some stories about their service,” Edward Jr. shared.</p> <p>On March 13, a small ceremony was held with family members of Edward Sr. to return the items. Edward Jr. and his wife, Collette, attended the ceremony.</p> <p>A magnifying glass was found and Edward Jr. and his wife scanned the photo, trying to find either Charles or Edward Sr. Collette found one that could have been either, since they look similar.</p> <p>“They look a lot alike, but this guy right here is definitely my father,” Edward Jr. said.</p> <p>“Returning these cherished mementos to the families of our WWII Heroes is more than just an act of goodwill. It is a testament to the team’s enduring commitment to honoring our Armed Forces men and women’s service and sacrifice,” said Oscar G. Rodriguez, acting medical center director.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139055/returning-wwii-items-to-veterans-next-of-kin/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Free app seeks to match Veterans with personalized list of benefits</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139226/free-app-match-veterans-personalized-benefits/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139226/free-app-match-veterans-personalized-benefits/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mobile App]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139226</guid> <description><![CDATA[MyVetBENEFITS is a free, easy-to-use third-party mobile app and website that matches Veterans to the benefits they’re most likely eligible for. ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering. MyVetBENEFITS is not a service of the Department of Veterans Affairs.</p> <p>If you or a family member served in the military, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Am I getting all the benefits I’m eligible for?” With thousands of benefits available through VA, other federal and state agencies, and more than 40,000 military-focused nonprofits, navigating the system can be overwhelming. </p> <p>Veterans and their families can get instantly matched to benefits specifically for them on <a href="https://www.myvetbenefits.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MyVetBENEFITS</a>.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is MyVetBENEFITS? </h2> <p>MyVetBENEFITS is a free and easy-to-use third-party, mobile app and website that matches Veterans to the benefits they’re most likely eligible for—no guesswork, no confusion. </p> <ol start="1" class="wp-block-list"> <li>Answer a few simple questions about your or your family member’s service. </li> <li>Get a personalized benefits list of benefits tailored to you. </li> <li>Save, compare and explore benefits anytime, from any device. </li> </ol> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who can use MyVetBENEFITS?</h2> <p>From a new recruit exploring benefits for the first time or a service member preparing to transition back to civilian life, to Veterans, caregivers and surviving family members, all can use MyVetBENEFITS. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where to find MyVetBENEFITS?</h2> <p>Download MyVetBENEFITS for free in the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myvetbenefits/id1672871694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">App Store</a>, <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.myvetbenefits.app" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Play</a>, or visit <a href="https://www.myvetbenefits.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MyVetBENEFITS.com</a>. No matter how you access the app, your matched and saved benefits stay synced across all your devices, so you can access them anytime, anywhere. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why use MyVetBENEFITS? </h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Find benefits faster. No more endless searches—get matched instantly. </li> <li>Stay organized. Save and compare benefits across federal, state and nonprofit organizations. </li> <li>Discover state benefits. Thinking of moving? See which states offer the best support. </li> <li>Connect with assistance. Get direct access to services like disability claims support, employment, health & wellness, financial assistance and more. </li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Serving those who served </h2> <p>The Veteran-led team at MyVetBENEFTIS has built a platform to make the process simple, fast and accessible for every service member, Veteran and family. </p> <p>Go to <a href="https://www.myvetbenefits.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MyVetBENEFITS.com</a> or click below to get matched to your benefits today.   </p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-large"><a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myvetbenefits/id1672871694" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" width="200" height="63" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/apple-app-store.png?w=200" alt="apple app store logo" class="wp-image-97043" /></a></figure></div> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-large"><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.myvetbenefits.app" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" width="300" height="89" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/09/google-play-badge-1-300x89.png?w=300" alt="" class="wp-image-66192" /></a></figure></div>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139226/free-app-match-veterans-personalized-benefits/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>12</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Suicide prevention: Self-check assessment</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139230/suicide-prevention-self-check-assessment/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139230/suicide-prevention-self-check-assessment/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 27 Mar 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Suicide Prevention]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139230</guid> <description><![CDATA[The Veterans self-check assessment takes about 10 minutes to complete and has resources that can help if stress and depression are affecting you.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Checking in with yourself can save your life.</p> <p>For me, the gym is more than a place for exercise. It’s where I tune in to my body and mind. As I get older, my joints and muscles have plenty to say, and I’ve learned to listen.</p> <p>But beyond the occasional aches and pains, the gym is my personal check-in point. It’s where I take stock of life, sort through challenges and find clarity when stress starts piling up. I admit that it sometimes can be a struggle.</p> <p>Veterans tend to prioritize others’ needs. But if you’re at the point where it’s second nature to just keep pushing through negative issues, you could end up overwhelmed. You could even face a crisis.</p> <p>It’s always a good idea to check in with yourself, and we want you to know that there’s a tool available for you.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is VA’s self-check assessment?</h2> <p>VA and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention teamed up to create the <a href="https://www.vetselfcheck.org/welcome.cfm" rel="noopener">Veterans Self-Check Assessment</a>, a free, confidential tool to help you find out if stress and depression are affecting you and what you can do about it.</p> <p>The assessment includes a series of questions that takes about 10 minutes to complete. It’s designed specifically for Veterans, active-duty military service members and members of the National Guard and Reserve, as well as their family members.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What to expect</h2> <p>When you first go to <a href="https://www.vetselfcheck.org/welcome.cfm" rel="noopener">the Veterans self-check assessment,</a> you’ll see a welcome screen with information about how the service is voluntary, confidential and safe. You won’t be asked to provide your name or any other identifying information.</p> <p>You’ll be asked about the degree to which you or the person you’re taking the assessment for has been bothered by certain feelings in the last four weeks, such as:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Feeling nervous or worrying a lot.</li> <li>Becoming easily annoyed or irritable.</li> <li>Feeling your life is too stressful.</li> </ul> <p>The next questions relate to substance use and eating behaviors as well as problems and concerns. Veterans sometimes have a response to stressful military experiences, such as:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Repeated disturbing memories, thoughts or images of the stressful experience.</li> <li>Having physical reactions (like heart pounding, trouble breathing, sweating) when something reminded you of the stressful experience.</li> <li>Avoiding activities or situations because they remind you of the stressful experience.</li> <li>Difficulty concentrating.</li> </ul> <p>The assessment will then ask about feelings and behaviors experienced in the last two weeks, including whether you or the person you’re taking the assessment for has had thoughts of suicide or self-harm.</p> <p>Just because you click on the assessment doesn’t mean you have to take it. You’re welcome to click through each section and then choose whether to start the assessment. It covers a lot of very serious issues that may seem uncomfortable to think about. But it’s designed to get you thinking about your stress level and give you the option to access resources that may be helpful.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What happens after you take the assessment</h2> <p>Once you answer all the questions, you can choose to submit your assessment. If you do, you’ll be given a unique reference number for you to jot down. A <a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/" rel="noopener">Veterans Crisis Line</a> responder will review your answers and leave you a personal response on the self-check assessment website, for which you’ll need the reference number. If the responder thinks resources could be helpful, they’ll provide information in their note.</p> <p>Again, you’re in control and you decide what to do at this point. You don’t have to read the note or use the resources. If you want to chat with a responder, you can enter the Veterans Crisis Line online chat. It’s up to you. No follow-up services will be provided unless you want them. If an online chat is not what you want, you can also reach the Veterans Crisis Line via phone (<a href="tel:988">Dial 988 then Press 1</a>) or text (<a href="sms:838255">838255</a>).</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Prioritizing yourself now can help prevent a crisis in the future</h2> <p>When you think about it, so much of what we do every day is to avoid a future problem. I go to the gym to try to stay healthy and prevent disease.</p> <p>The same goes for our well-being. If we take the time now to find ways to decrease stress and depression, we reduce our risk of a future crisis. I encourage you to check out the assessment. It could help you find the resources you need to stay healthy and safe.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139230/suicide-prevention-self-check-assessment/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>8</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Two telehealth resources help you eat healthier</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139022/two-telehealth-resources-help-you-eat-healthier/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139022/two-telehealth-resources-help-you-eat-healthier/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2025 18:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category> <category><![CDATA[nutrition]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139022</guid> <description><![CDATA[Nutrition plays an important role in our overall health. Telehealth resources can help you set and achieve your healthy eating goals.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>It’s well known that nutrition is important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing existing conditions and meeting overall health goals. However, measuring and meeting nutritional needs may seem complicated and intimidating. You can make informed food choices and develop healthy nutritional and physical habits with the help of these VA telehealth resources.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">MOVE! Coach</h2> <p><a href="https://mobile.va.gov/app/move-coach" rel="noopener">MOVE! Coach</a> is a mobile weight management app designed for Veterans and available to all. Available for free on iOS and Android, MOVE! Coach provides education, self-management and tracking tools that make it easier to reach your weight goals.</p> <p>The app has a free library of resources on weight management, nutrition and other health topics. MOVE! Coach also provides users with a 16-week course of self-management modules that guide users to successful changes in weight.</p> <p>Veterans can track their progress by using the app’s daily weight diary, where they can keep note of eating, physical activity and goals. And calculation tools allow users to get in-depth information about daily activity by calculating exercise intensity, calories burned and activity-to-step conversions.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Healthy Teaching Kitchen</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.nutrition.va.gov/Healthy_Teaching_Kitchen.asp" rel="noopener">Healthy Teaching Kitchen</a> (HTK) program offers Veterans guided practice in cooking at home with nutritious, fresh ingredients. Veterans can use HTK to better their nutritional knowledge and cooking skills, gain control of their health and practice healthy habits.</p> <p>Healthy Teaching Kitchen classes include discussions on nutrients, meal planning and grocery shopping, and they encourage Veterans to get hands-on experience in the kitchen, too. At the end of each class, Veterans are given recipes for nutritious meals to make on their own, including disease-specific options like carbohydrate-controlled recipes for diabetes, recipes for heart health and anti-inflammatory recipes.</p> <p>Healthy Teaching Kitchen classes are offered in person at VA facilities or online via the VA Video Connect platform. To find out if your facility has an HTK program, contact your care team’s Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to get started</h2> <p>For more information on achieve your healthy eating goals and other VA telehealth resources, check out this <a href="https://www.nutrition.va.gov/nutrition/nnm_collaboration.asp" rel="noopener">VA Nutrition and Food Services news post</a> or visit the <a href="https://mobile.va.gov/appstore" rel="noopener">VA App Store</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139022/two-telehealth-resources-help-you-eat-healthier/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Mindfulness and the challenge of climbing</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139016/mindfulness-and-the-challenge-of-climbing/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139016/mindfulness-and-the-challenge-of-climbing/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Debra Sage]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2025 14:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mindfulness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VISN 15]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139016</guid> <description><![CDATA[Veterans learn to combine mindfulness with the challenge of climbing.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Veterans at St. Louis are learning firsthand the jargon and skills involved in rock climbing at Upper Limits while also applying mindfulness skills. </p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-large"><a href="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Lady-Vet_r1.jpg"><img decoding="async" width="355" height="432" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Lady-Vet_r1.jpg?w=355" alt="Rock climber" class="wp-image-139020" srcset="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Lady-Vet_r1.jpg?resize=350,426 350w, https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/Lady-Vet_r1.jpg 355w" sizes="(max-width: 355px) 100vw, 355px" /></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Rock climber</figcaption></figure></div> <p>The group sessions are sponsored by <a href="https://www.va.gov/st-louis-health-care/" rel="noopener">St. Louis VA</a>, courtesy of a grant through Adaptive Adventures, which supplies equipment and covers the fees to allow Veterans to attend without cost. </p> <p>Belay… harness… figure eight… climbing… take… these are part of the jargon and essential climbing safety terms for the first-time climber and the seasoned pro.</p> <p>“Climbing is inherently a mindful activity. Attention is focused in the present moment, and the mind and body are connected through breath and movement,” said psychologist and avid climber Dr. Devorah Ginn. “I can let go of all the thoughts that may be bothering me and just focus on climbing. It is a highly emotional activity that is a great avenue for mental health intervention. My belief that Veterans could benefit from learning mindfulness skills in action while climbing brought me to develop Grounded in the Heights, and here we are.”</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Blending recreational therapy and mental health</h2> <p>Thanks to recreation therapist John Schmeink and the program he established in 2017, Veterans experience rock climbing by blending recreational therapy and mental health through a mindfulness-based, therapeutic rock-climbing program, which Ginn is developing a treatment protocol.</p> <p>Retired Air Force Master Sgt. Sedric Anderson tried the adaptive rig and made it to the top of the wall unassisted. “That was great, but I’m tired. It was harder than I thought it would be. Being a double amputee requires overcoming limits and a different way of doing things. Since I can’t use my legs, I need to work on things in the gym that will give me what I need to be successful in this sport.”</p> <p>“We encourage Veterans of all abilities to join us and discover what we’re all about,” said Schmeink. “We have an amazing group of participants, including both young and old, as well as experienced climbers and beginners.”</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139016/mindfulness-and-the-challenge-of-climbing/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Veteran Buddy Link helps Veterans seeking friendship, support</title> <link>https://news.va.gov/139182/veteran-buddy-link-seeking-friendship-support/</link> <comments>https://news.va.gov/139182/veteran-buddy-link-seeking-friendship-support/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mike Molina]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2025 13:30:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[#VetResources]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vets Experience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[buddy check week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buddy Link]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Together We Served]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://news.va.gov/?p=139182</guid> <description><![CDATA[Together We Served has launched a new free service called "Veteran Buddy Link" to assist Veterans seeking friendship and support.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="alignright size-full"><img decoding="async" width="200" height="200" src="https://news.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/03/TWS-Buddy-Link-Logo-3-200.jpg" alt="Together We Served Buddy Link graphic." class="wp-image-139185" /></figure></div> <p>Together We Served (TWS), a military and Veteran online community website with 2.5 million members, has launched a new free service called ‘<a href="https://togetherweserved.com/buddylink" data-type="link" data-id="https://togetherweserved.com/buddylink" rel="noopener">Veteran Buddy Link</a>’ to assist Veterans who, due to their location or circumstances, may find themselves in a state of loneliness and would welcome the friendship and support of other Veterans, particularly those residing in their neighborhood.</p> <p>Veterans are justifiably proud of their service and often this portrayal of pride may mask possible underlying anxieties and other issues associated with loneliness. Those who have served share a unique bond that remains with them throughout their lives. Veterans are naturally drawn to and thrive in the company of other Veterans because the unique culture of military service and the commitment to service and sacrifice is common to all.</p> <p>This is the reason TWS’s Veteran Buddy Link service was specially designed to enable all Veterans, especially those who may feel isolated or alone, to seek the camaraderie of other Veterans in the comfort and security of TWS’s online environment which has often been acknowledged as reminiscent of a military base.</p> <p>To seek a Buddy connection, all a Veteran needs to do is first <a href="https://togetherweserved.com/buddylink" data-type="link" data-id="https://togetherweserved.com/buddylink" rel="noopener">register </a>at the TWS Veteran Buddy Link portal page.</p> <div class="wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-2 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex"> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://togetherweserved.com/buddylink" rel="noopener">REGISTER</a></div> </div> <p>Registration is straightforward and includes a brief summary of a Veteran’s military service, their zip code of residence, and an invitation to respond to: “If you would like to be connected with other Veterans for friendship or support, including those in your neighborhood, tell us a little bit more about yourself and how a Veteran Buddy connection would be welcome.”</p> <p>When a Veteran completes registration, an email is then automatically sent to all Together We Served members, residing in the same zip code, indicating that a Veteran in their neighborhood would welcome connecting with other local Veterans and, if interested, to log in to view their Buddy Link post and make contact.</p> <p>As a natural extension to <a href="https://department.va.gov/veterans-experience/va-veteran-buddy-checks/" data-type="link" data-id="https://department.va.gov/veterans-experience/va-veteran-buddy-checks/" rel="noopener">Buddy Check Week</a>, Veteran Buddy Link provides a year-round opportunity for any Veteran who has internet access to make meaningful connections with other Veterans, for social and welfare-related purposes, which could greatly improve the quality of their lives.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://news.va.gov/139182/veteran-buddy-link-seeking-friendship-support/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>28</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>