SE Indiana Veterans Resource Center (Community Resources)

VA

US Dept. of Veterans Affairs
www.va.gov

Veteran Services: Physical/Mental Health Resources & Services, GI Bill and breakdown of benefits, Disability Services.
Business: Assistance for Vets with starting their own businesses.
Media: News releases, publications & forms, special events, national observances, videos, speeches.
Locations: Address locators.

Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Gateway to VA Appeals)
http://www.bva.va.gov/index.asp

Caregiver Support: Caring for those Who Care
http://www.caregiver.va.gov/

GI Bill - Post 9/11 Summary
http://www.gibill.va.gov/post-911/post-911-gi-bill-summary/Post911_changes.html

GI Bill - Student Handouts, Brochures, and Regulations
http://www.gibill.va.gov/resources/student-handouts/

Healthcare Benefit Eligibility Tool
http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/tools/Quick_Eligibility_Check/index.asp

Healthcare Enrollment Financial Calculator
http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/apps/enrollmentcalculator/

Homeless Veteran Coordinators (List)
http://www.va.gov/HOMELESS/docs/HCHV_Sites_ByState.pdf

Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs
http://www2.illinois.gov/veterans/Pages/default.aspx

Kentucky Department of Veterans' Affairs
http://veterans.ky.gov/

Michigan Dept. of Military & Veteran Affairs
http://www.michigan.gov/dmva/0,1607,7-126-2362---,00.html

National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics
http://www1.va.gov/vetdata/

Office of Survivors Assistance
http://www.va.gov/survivors/

Ohio Department of Veterans Services
http://dvs.ohio.gov/

Site Navigator
http://www.va.gov/opa/sitenavigator.asp

Top Visited VA Webpages ("Big List")
http://www.va.gov/opa/sitenavigator.asp#biglist

Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Veterans/

Benefits

Benefits

Army National Guard G1: Personal Gateway
https://g1arng.army.pentagon.mil/Soldiers/Pages/default.aspx

In the Soldiers section, you will find pertinent information regarding benefits and programs as they relate to Soldiers of the ARNG. The Gateway serves as a one-stop shop for current ARNG information.

Illinois Dept. of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Service Officers
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=103591904087477906918.00046209f7e7827b062e2&ll=40.245992,-89.362793&spn=5.382338,16.962891&z=6

The mission of the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs is to assist veterans and their dependents and survivors in obtaining the benefits they are entitled to under the laws of the United States, and the State of Illinois or any other governmental agency, through its forty-three Veterans' Services Offices located statewide; to evaluate and approve veterans' education and training programs available at colleges, universities and vocational training centers in Illinois, to provide skilled nursing and domiciliary care for eligible veterans; and administer State grants and benefits to eligible Illinois veterans..

Indiana Dept. of Veterans Affairs: County Veterans Service Officers
http://www.in.gov/dva/2370.htm

All counties in the State employ a County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO). These CVSO's are veterans who stand ready to help you with your veteran-related needs. The County Veterans Service Offices have all the forms and other information you may need to obtain service from the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs as well as the forms for requesting State veterans' benefits. The Service Officers will assist you in finding the information and resources you need to solve your service-related problems. They are your liaison for all veteran issues.

Kentucky Dept. of Veterans Affairs: Benefits Representatives
http://veterans.ky.gov/Benefits/fieldrep/

KDVA provides professional help to veterans in obtaining and using all the federal and state benefits to which they are entitled. To that end, we help veterans and their dependents in the presentation, proof and establishment of all claims, privileges, rights and other veteran benefits which they may have under federal, state or local laws. Those other benefits include access to veterans nursing homes, burial with honors in veterans cemeteries, benefits counseling, and specific assistance for homeless veterans. KDVA never charges a fee to veterans for help in filing claims for veterans benefits.

Michigan Dept. of Military & Veteran Affairs: County Contacts
http://www.michigan.gov/dmva/0,1607,7-126-2362_43719---,00.html

The Department of Veterans Affairs endeavors to provide the best care and service to Michigan veterans.

Nat’l Native American Veterans' Association
http://www.nnava.org/index.html

Dedicated to helping Native American Veterans receive benefits from their military service regardless of tribal affiliation, degree of Native American blood or branch of service.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Benefits
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/benefits_and_compensation

Find information on military and VA benefits, military pay, disability compensation, insurance, Social Security benefits and more.

New GI Bill
http://newgibill.org/

Updates on the New GI Bill, Post 9/11 Benefits, Benefit Calculator, Student Veteran FAQ’s

Ohio Dept. of Veterans Services: County Veterans Service Offices
http://dvs.ohio.gov/home/county_veterans_service_officers.aspx

Your County Veterans Service Offices can assist you with a multitude of items including helping you with your claims and benefits. They should be your first contact when needing assistance.

Business

Business

Veteran & Military Business Owners Association
http://www.vamboa.org/

VAMBOA Mission:

Ensuring the development, growth and prosperity of Veteran Business Owners, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOB) and Military Business Owners of all sizes worldwide. We do so by connecting our members with private corporations and government agencies. We provide networking, collaboration, mentoring, education, certification and advocacy. VAMBOA’s “Vet Owned” seal symbolizes the talent, dedication, leadership and courage of these special Americans who currently serve or have served in our nation’s Armed Forces.

VAMBOA is your non-profit veteran business trade association that promotes and assists Veteran Business Owners, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOB) and Military Business Owners. We know that you possess special skills including leadership abilities and a work ethic second to none. Veteran Business Owners, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses (SDVOB) and Military Business Owners are highly qualified to build successful businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and responsible for job generation.

Deployment & Transition

Deployment & Transition

afterdeployment.org
http://afterdeployment.org/

Approximately 20% of OIF/OEF Service Members report adjustment problems in the months following a deployment. Limited provider availability and the stigma of being labeled with a “mental illness” are some of the barriers to seeking face-to-face care. In this light, the need for online behavioral health tools has never been greater. afterdeployment.org is an online resource supporting Service Members, their Families, and Veterans, with common post-deployment concerns. The website provides self-care solutions targeting post-traumatic stress, depression, anger, sleep, relationship concerns, and other mental health challenges. afterdeployment.org was developed in response to the 2006 and 2007 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) aimed at improving and augmenting military and civilian health care systems. The website went live to the public in AUG 08 and underwent a major redesign in JUL 09. The redesign featured easier navigation tools such as a search function and site map, a virtual assistant, and social networking features such as that includes blogs and community forums. Future content will include programs targeting traumatic brain injury, warrior resilience, veterans’ issues, military sexual trauma, anxiety, family and partner issues, and smoking cessation.

Center for Deployment Psychology
http://deploymentpsych.org/

Preparing Professionals to Support Warriors and Families. The Center for Deployment Psychology (CDP) trains military and civilian behavioral health professionals to provide high-quality deployment related behavioral health services to military personnel and their families.

Coming Home Project, The
http://www.cominghomeproject.net/

The Coming Home Project is a non-profit organization devoted, since 2006, to providing compassionate expert care, support, education, and stress management tools for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, service members, their families, and their service providers. We are a multidisciplinary, experienced team of psychotherapists, veterans and interfaith leaders committed to helping transform the wounds of war. Our programs address the psychological, emotional, spiritual and relationship challenges experienced during all stages of deployment, especially reintegration. We help rebuild the connectivity of mind, body, heart and spirit that combat trauma can unravel, renew relationships with loved ones, and create new support networks. We build a safe place – a community -- for families, their veterans and service members, and their service providers to come together and share their stories, struggles and accomplishments. We connect families with their communities as we collaborate to create integrative continuums of care. Single veterans and service members as well as those with physical injuries are also most welcome.

Half of Us
http://www.halfofus.com/veterans/

Almost 75% of 18-29 year olds personally know someone who has served in Iraq or Afghanistan. As these brave veterans come home, it is important that we all do our part to help in their transition back into civilian life, especially since many of these veterans will be starting or returning to college for the first time. Despite the sacrifices they have made, these veterans aren't looking for special treatment – they just want the opportunity to do well as students and have a good experience.

This resource center was created with the support of The Bob Woodruff Foundation. Learn more about their work to combat the physical and psychological wounds of war.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Coming Home
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources

Information that can help you readjust after deployment.

Nat’l Resource Directory: OEF/OIF Veterans
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/oef_oif_veterans

Learn about DoD and VA programs, services and resources for returning Veterans of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Military Service Records
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/military_service_records

Locate your military service records.

Real Warriors Project - Preparing for Deployment (Active Duty)
http://www.realwarriors.net/active/deployment/preparedeployment.php

Pre-deployment can be a stressful time for service members and their families. Whether you are a parent, a spouse or are single, making a plan prior to deployment is a great way to prepare for the road ahead. These preparations will ensure you are ready “to part” instead of simply ready “to go."

For detailed family focused pre-deployment preparation information, read “Preparing Children for Deployment” in the Families section.

Identifying resources and educating yourself about tips to successfully prepare will help you manage this transition. All of the military services provide service members with pre-deployment guidelines and checklists upon learning of their deployment.

Real Warriors Project: Plan for Financial Readiness Before Deployment (Guard/Reserve)
http://www.realwarriors.net/guardreserve/treatment/finances.php

Financial stability is vital when it comes to personal and family readiness, especially during deployment. Setting a financial plan is particularly important for members of the National Guard and Reserve, who also have incomes from civilian employment. Planning a budget appropriately can help prevent stress and protect against financial and emotional difficulties.

US Army: Warrior Transition Command
http://www.wtc.army.mil/

The Warrior Transition Command: Serves as the lead proponent for the Army's Warrior Care and Transition Program; Ensures that non-clinical processes and programs that support wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers are integrated and optimized throughout the Army; Supports the Army's commitment to the rehabilitation and successful transition of wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers back to active duty or to Veteran status

USMC: Return & Reunion Guide for Marines & Family (PDF)
Marine_Corps_Return_and_Reunion.pdf

A downloadable (PDF) version of the US Marine Corps publication from the Personal & Family Readiness Division, Manpower and Reserve Affairs Department.

Education

Education

Marine Corps Community Services: Education Programs
http://www.usmc-mccs.org/education/programs.cfm?sid=ml&smid=2

The U.S. Marine Corps Voluntary Education Program provides Service members the opportunity to reach their educational goals. They can complete their high school education, earn an equivalency diploma, improve their academic skills or level of literacy, and enroll in vocational and technical schools. They can also receive recommended college credit for military training and experience based on the American Council on Education (ACE) Guide to the Evaluation of Non-Traditional Learning Experiences in the Armed Forces, take tests to earn recommended college credits, complete an apprenticeship in a trade, and enroll in post-secondary education programs that lead to associate's, bachelor's, graduate and post graduate degrees.

Militaryscholar.org: Scholarship program of the Fisher House Foundation
http://militaryscholar.org/legacy/index.html

The Fisher House program is a unique private-public partnership that supports America's military in their time of need. The program recognizes the special sacrifices of our men and women in uniform and the hardships of military service by meeting a humanitarian need beyond that normally provided by the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

Myfuture.com
http://www.myfuture.com/

Myfuture.com helps young adults plan their next steps in life by bringing together the most recently available information about colleges, careers and military service opportunities from the U.S. Departments of Commerce, Defense, Education and Labor.

Developed by the Department of Defense, myfuture.com features career, college and military content, allowing users to explore all possibilities and gain insight into each option. For the first time, unbiased, detailed information on more than 900 civilian and military career fields and nearly 7,000 accredited colleges has been made accessible to young adults in one comprehensive site. In addition to college admissions details, average salaries and employment trends, myfuture.com provides advice on everything from taking the SAT to interviewing for a first job to preparing for boot camp. Step-by-step planning checklists are also provided as a guide for users, and favorite job and school information can be saved for return visits. Since myfuture.com is designed for young adults at many different life stages, we hope it will prove a helpful resource for many years.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Education & Training https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/education_and_training

Find information on education and job training opportunities including scholarships, tuition assistance programs, the GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program and more.

NVTI’s DVOP/LVER Locator
(aka – The Networker)
http://dvoplverlocator.nvti.ucdenver.edu/

The primary purpose of the DVOP/LVER Locator is to provide the user with the ability to quickly locate other veterans’ service professionals in a particular geographic area. Please be sure to define your search, i.e. if you want a listing of everyone in a particular city just type in that city and state. If you know you went to class with someone named Jones but you can’t remember where he/she was from simply type in the last name and it will bring up everyone with that last name in the Locator. If you know the zip code of the area, enter that. You can enter as little or as much information as you have.

Student Veterans of America
http://www.studentveterans.org

Founded in 2008, Student Veterans of America is a coalition of student veterans groups on college campuses across the United States. SVA has two major components: the executive staff and student veteran groups. SVA member chapters are student groups that have formed on college and university campuses to provide peer-to-peer networks for veterans who are attending those schools. These groups coordinate campus activities, provide pre-professional networking, and generally provide a touchstone for student veterans in higher education. Each local group plays a critical role in ensuring that every veteran is successful after their service.

Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php? - !/pages/Student-Veterans-of-America/141213311189?ref=search

Twitter:
http://twitter.com/studentvets

US Dept. of Education: Veterans & Military Families
http://www.ed.gov/veterans-and-military-families

The U.S. Department of Education's Web page for veterans, the members of the military, and their families:

Provides information on scholarships and grants to veterans and members of the armed forces and their families who meet the applicable eligibility criteria related to education.
Offers veterans and military spouses information intended to help them secure a job.
Reports legislative changes that affect the military and their families.
Gives information about collaborative efforts of DoD and ED to assist veterans, military personnel and their families in advancing their educational opportunities.
Supplies information in support of quality education for military dependent children.

Research, Stats, Program Evals, etc:
www2.ed.gov/rschstat/landing.jhtml

Explanation of ED Initiatives (GI Bill, etc.):
http://www2.ed.gov/about/inits/ed/index.html

Employment

Employment

Employment Support of the Guard & Reserve
http://www.esgr.org/site/

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization. It is a staff group within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs (OASD/RA), which is in itself a part of the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD).

The nation's Reserve components (referring to the total of all National Guard members and Reserve forces from all branches of the military) comprise approximately 48 percent of our total available military manpower. The current National Defense Strategy indicates that the National Guard and Reserve will be full partners in the fully integrated Total Force. Our Reserve forces will spend more time away from the workplace defending the nation, supporting a demanding operations tempo and training to maintain their mission readiness.

In this environment, civilian employers play a critical role in the defense of the nation by complying with existing employment laws protecting the rights of workers who serve in the Reserve component.

ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. It is the lead DoD organization for this mission under DoD Directive 1250.1.

Today, ESGR operates through a network of thousands of volunteers throughout the nation and Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

G.I. Jobs: Your Guide to Post-Military Success
http://www.gijobs.com/

G.I. Jobs magazine is the premier publication for transitioning military members. It provides education, transition assistance, and job opportunities for military members and veterans.

Helmets to Hardhats
http://helmetstohardhats.com/

Making a successful transition from the military into the civilian workforce can be difficult. Transitioning military veterans face the same challenges as any other job hunter – getting their résumé to the right people, learning how to sell themselves, tracking down promising leads, following-up with employers, headhunters, job placement agencies... etc. Not many people are comfortable with this process and veterans have the added stress of trying to translate the skills they learned in the military into language that civilian employers can understand. The process can feel overwhelming, especially if it seems like meaningful help is unavailable.

Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) was formed for this reason and is dedicated to helping National Guard, Reserve, retired and transitioning active-duty military members connect to quality career and training opportunities in one of America's most challenging and rewarding industries – the construction industry.

Hire a Hero: Your Military Community Job Center
http://www.hireahero.org/

In 2006 the In 2006 the Armed Forces Support Foundation (501(c)(3) was created, along with Hire A Hero, to provide free employment services to returning service members and their families. Hire A Hero was created as an online professional networking site that provides employment services specifically geared towards meeting the employment needs of returning military members and their families. Our research and experience suggests that conventional job boards fail to identify the specific needs of returning veterans and did not effectively connect them with the wider military community. Hire A Hero is a national program that was created to address this gap. (501(c)(3) was created, along with Hire A Hero, to provide free employment services to returning service members and their families. Hire A Hero was created as an online professional networking site that provides employment services specifically geared towards meeting the employment needs of returning military members and their families. Our research and experience suggests that conventional job boards fail to identify the specific needs of returning veterans and did not effectively connect them with the wider military community. Hire A Hero is a national program that was created to address this gap.

Hire Veterans: Jobs for America’s Best
http://www.hireveterans.com/

The site is free for ALL U.S. Veterans who seek jobs. There is NEVER a charge for anything on this site that is for the Jobseeker.

Military to Medicine: Healthcare Workforce at the Ready
http://www.militarytomedicine.org/index.html

The Military to Medicine program began as a recruitment initiative for Inova Health System and was formalized when historic agreements with the United States Army Reserve and the Office of the Secretary of Defense were signed. Inova Health System is the largest healthcare system in Northern Virginia employing more than 16,000 in a variety of healthcare positions ranging from direct patient care to more administrative and technology positions.

Military to Medicine's online training provided in partnership with The Claude Moore Health Education Program provides students with real-life job standards and role expectations. Both students and healthcare employers can feel confident that Military to Medicine course work demonstrates realistic, healthcare workplace skills. Unique to Military to Medicine is our commitment to our participants' long-term career success. Before specific career courses begin, Military to Medicine assesses each student's interests and abilities, this information helps students set career goals and select career courses.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Employment
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/employment

Find a job, hire a Veteran and learn about employment laws and workplace supports and accommodations.

USAJOBS.GOV
http://www.usajobs.gov/

Employment resources for veterans and student veterans.

Vet Jobs: Veterans Make the Best Employees
http://vetjobs.com/

VetJobs makes it easy to reach transitioning military, National Guard, Reserve Component Members and veterans that have separated over the last several decades and are now productive members of the civilian work force in all disciplines, and their family members.

WorkOne
http://www.in.gov/dwd/WorkOne/index.html

The WorkOne center is the heart of the workforce development system. It's where service delivery partners connect with customers, and with each other. WorkOne helps people find a new or better job, choose a career, find a good employee, access training, or get the information needed to succeed in today's ever-evolving workplace.

WorkOne is a partner agency of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. The professional employees at the WorkOne offices are here to help Indiana citizens access their skills, improve their skills, and find the job to match those skills.

Family

Family

American Association of School Administrators Toolkit: Supporting the Military Child
http://www.aasa.org/MilitaryChild.aspx

Guidance for school leaders on meeting the unique educational needs of children whose parents are deployed or in transition. Letter (PDF) from AASA President Mark Bielang and AASA Executive Director Dan Domenech

Armed Forces Crossroads: Education Scholarships for Military/Veteran Family Members
http://www.afcrossroads.com/education/coll_scholar.cfm

Commissaries have a long tradition of supporting the military community through good will programs such as vendor-sponsored educational and charitable promotions, cooperative efforts with community quality of life programs, and employee involvement in a wide range of installation activities. The focus is on education this fall at the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA). A new program offers a scholarship to a college-bound military child at installations served by a commissary. The scholarships are open to qualified sons and daughters of U.S. military ID card holders to include active duty members, Reserve and Guard members, and retirees.

Armed Forces Crossroads: Casualty & Loss
http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/physician-resources/public-health/promoting-healthy-lifestyles/geriatric-health/caregiver-health/caregiver-self-assessment.shtml

The Casualty and Loss section of Armed Forces Crossroads contains links that provide a wealth of information on loss, while acting as a support network for those in need.

Center for Deployment Psychology
http://deploymentpsych.org/

Child Welfare Information Gateway: Adoption for Military Families
http://www.childwelfare.gov/adoption/types/families/military.cfm

Addresses common questions about adoption of children by military personnel and their families.

Courage to Care for Me
http://www.couragetocareforme.org/offline/

Courage to Care for Me is a project of the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress. This initiative provides support and information for new families already dealing with the effects of PTSD or other symptoms of Traumatic Stress.

Department of Defense: Military Family Support
http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2011/0211_familysupport/

The site organized by the DoD, developed to provide news, information, and resources supporting the needs of Military Families.

Department of Defense: Strengthening Our Military Families
http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2011/0111_initiative/

Multiple deployments, combat injuries, and the challenges of reintegration can have
far-reaching effects on not only the troops and their families, but also upon America’s communities. These challenges should be at the forefront of the national discourse.

Families of the Wounded Fund
http://www.familiesofthewoundedfund.org/default.asp

Mission Statement: To provide financial resources in support of family members/caregivers of military service men and women who have either been wounded in combat operations or injured as the result of line-of-duty activities in support of combat operations. This assistance is available while these patients are receiving prescribed medical treatment.

Our support may be used for lodging, meals, transportation, healthcare, child care, long-distance phone calls, and a variety of miscellaneous needs experienced by these family members/caregivers while they are attending to their loved ones.

Hooah 4 Health: Deployment, what Families Should Expect
http://www.hooah4health.com/deployment/Familymatters

The U.S. Army health promotion and wellness web site. Unlike other health-related web sites, this one is specifically targeted for the Reserve Components. Citizen Soldiers juggle many different balls every day...but they cannot afford to drop the one ball that allows them to live a healthier, less stressful life. Hooah 4 Health is a health promotion partnership that allows individuals to assume the responsibility to explore options and take charge of their health and well-being.

Military SOS: Military Significant Other & Spouse Support
http://www.militarysos.com/

Military Significant Other and Spouse support provides information and support for all aspects of the military life, from basic and boot camp to relocation and retirement. You'll find friends in your area, deployment support groups, people who understand this life and your feelings, ideas for care packages, support for post deployment reintegration, advice on helping kids cope with the military lifestyle and much more.

Nat’l Assoc. of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies: Child Care Fee Assistance Programs
http://www.naccrra.org/MilitaryPrograms/army/fee-assistance-programs/give-army-parents-a-break.php

The United States Army Child, Youth & School Services (CYSS) is making Respite Child Care services available for you. Give Army Parents a Break Respite Child Care will provide your family with up to 16 hours of free child care* each month for each of your eligible children. You can use this time to run errands, attend appointments, or just take some well-deserved time out for yourself. NACCRRA will reimburse your provider for eligible care at the Army approved hourly rate. Eligible childcare providers will be reimbursed at a maximum of $10/hour for the first child and $5 for each additional child, not to exceed $20/hour per family.

The Army recognizes the challenges and extraordinary stress you and your family may be experiencing. The Army wants to help support you in meeting your unique child care needs.

Nat’l Military Family Association
http://www.militaryfamily.org/

The National Military Family Association is an organization with strong grassroots support balanced with professionalism that makes us a leader in the field. Not only do we support military families – we are military families. Spouses, parents, and family members make up our staff and board positions. We speak up on behalf of military families and empower husbands, wives, and children to understand and access their benefits. Based on what we hear from our members, we meet the needs of service members and their families with insightful recommendations, innovative programs, and grassroots efforts to better the quality of life for military families.

Moving:
http://www.militaryfamily.org/get-info/support-family/moving/

Deployment:
http://www.militaryfamily.org/get-info/deployment/preparing-and-managing/

Spouses Guide to Military Culture:
http://www.militaryfamily.org/get-info/new-to-military/military-culture/

Support for Parents:
http://www.militaryfamily.org/get-info/mental-health-care/support-for-parents/

Preparing Children for Parent’s Deployment -
http://www.militaryfamily.org/get-info/deployment/preparing-and-managing/talking-to-kids.html

Nat’l Resource Directory: Family & Care Giver Support
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/family_and_caregiver_support

Learn about programs to support families of Service Members and Veterans, and how to access emotional, financial and community assistance.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Pet Services https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/pet_services

Information on pet foster care and adoption. Find a new member of your family or make sure your other family member is taken care of during your deployment.

Ohio Legal Rights Service: Veterans with Disabilities: Family Support Resources (Columbus, OH)
http://www.olrs.ohio.gov/topic-vets-family-support

Family support resources help families that are struggling with family stability, such as dealing with the emotional impact of deployment, and assist families that provide care to a child or other family member with a disability. The following are family support resources for veterans and their families.

Operation Military Kids
http://www.operationmilitarykids.org/public/home.aspx

The U.S. Army's collaborative effort with America's communities to support children and youth impacted by deployment. Regardless of whether Families are experiencing deployment for the first time, the second time or another in a series of multiple deployments, OMK’s goal is to connect military children and youth with local resources in order to achieve a sense of community support and enhance their well-being.

Purple Star Veterans and Families Coming Home
http://www.veteransandfamilies.org/home.html

A community of spouses, children, parents, grandparents, extended family members and friends of homecoming Veterans, created to insure successful transitions from military to civilian life. Our Mission: To Strengthen the Safety Net of Support for Veterans and Their Families Through the Trials of Homecoming Both on-line and in the community, we connect families and bring attention to existing organizations and services to facilitate a more cohesive network of resources to families in need.

Real Warriors: Family Resilience
http://www.realwarriors.net/family/change/familyresilience.php

The Department of Defense offers service-specific resources to help military families build resilience. Programs may vary by branch and location, and may include referrals to local community resources, outreach programs for families new to the military, classes in parenting or stress management, or help for relocating families.

Real Warriors: Teens & Deployment
http://www.realwarriors.net/family/children/preparingteens.php

Teens may be anxious, proud, sad or even confused about their parent’s upcoming deployment. Since your teen is already undergoing so many physical, emotional and social changes, taking steps to prepare him or her before you leave can be a helpful way to maintain stability in your family. Take some proactive steps to prepare your teen for your departure by trying to understand his or her reactions, offering your support and helping to establish healthy coping skills and behaviors. These steps can better equip your family to handle your extended absence and help things run more smoothly while you’re gone. Outreach programs for families new to the military, classes in parenting or stress management, or help for relocating families.

Sesame Workshop (Sesame Street): Talk, Listen, Connect
http://archive.sesameworkshop.org/tlc/

Deployments, Homecomings, Changes – In recognition of the contributions made by the United States Armed Forces, Sesame Workshop presents this bilingual educational outreach initiative designed for military families and their young children to share. We are proud to offer support to help military families as they face challenging transitions.

Sierra Club: Military Families Outdoors Program
http://www.sierraclub.org/military/default.aspx

Sierra Club's MFO program provides positive outdoor experiences for Armed Forces personnel and their families by: Increasing opportunities for military personnel and/or their families to have quality outdoor experiences, Providing quality outdoor environmental education during these experiences, Networking with a diverse set of coalition partners to showcase that outdoor experiences are critical in helping heal and empower military veterans and their families, Engaging public officials about the challenges military personnel and their families face as well as the healthful benefits of the natural world.

US Army (MWR) – Fort Campbell: Child, Youth & School Services (CYSS)
http://www.fortcampbellmwr.com/CYS/

This site provides a “one-stop-shop” for resources and services provided for the children and families of military persons stationed at Fort Campbell, KY.

US Army (MWR) – Fort Campbell: Survivor Outreach Services
http://www.fortcampbellmwr.com/acs/sos/index.html

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) demonstrates the Army's commitment to Families of the Fallen. The mission of SOS is to provide enhanced services to these Families. SOS utilizes a holistic and multi-agency approach to delivering services to Survivors by providing services to the Garrison and communities closest to where Families live. SOS will allow the Army to better identify the needs of others touched by the loss of a Soldier.

US Army – Ft. Meade, MD: Child Care Resources
http://www.ftmeade.army.mil/pages/cdc/cdc.html

Fort Meade offers three child development centers as well as the Family Child Care Provider program. Active duty military personnel, Department of Defense civilians, Reservists and National Guard soldiers on active duty status and Fort Meade DoD contractors are eligible for the childcare services offered.

USDA: Extension/4-H Support for Military Youth and Family Programs
http://www.csrees.usda.gov/nea/family/cyfar/military.html

NIFA has developed partnerships with the Army, Air Force and Navy to support youth and family programs on installations around the world. With the support of 4-H extension professionals, military staff provides strong educational programs so that military men and women can pursue their critical, high-risk assignments knowing that their children are in safe and nurturing environments.

USSOCOM Family Readiness Group (FRG) Information
http://www.socom.mil/family_readiness/pages/default.aspx

The purpose of the Headquarters United States Special Operations Command (HQ USSOCOM) Family Readiness Group (FRG) is to support the mission of the command by enhancing the well being of its families.

Yellow Ribbon Program
http://www.yellowribbon.mil/

The Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP) is a DoD-wide effort to help National Guard and Reserve Service members and their families connect with local resources before, during, and after deployments, especially during the reintegration phase that occurs months after Service members return home. Commanders and leaders play a critical role in assuring that Reserve Service members and their families attend Yellow Ribbon events where they can access information on health care, education/training opportunities, financial, and legal benefits. The DoD works in conjunction with Federal partners, including the Small Business Administration and Departments of Labor and Veterans Affairs, to provide up-to-date and relevant information to the members of the all-volunteer force and their families

Financial

Financial

DoD: Defense Finance & Accounting Service (DFAS)
http://www.dfas.mil/dfas.html

The people of the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) take pride in serving the men and women who defend America. We take our contribution to national defense seriously. We work hard to fulfill the important fiscal responsibilities entrusted to us by the American taxpayers. We ensure the resources they provide are accounted for properly.

Military Members:
http://www.dfas.mil/dfas/militarymembers.html

Wounded Warrior Pay:
http://www.dfas.mil/dfas/militarymembers/woundedwarrior/woundedwarriorpay.html

Retired & Annuitants:
http://www.dfas.mil/dfas/retiredmilitary.html

MyMoney.gov: Your Trusted source for financial information
http://www.mymoney.gov/

MyMoney.gov is the U.S. government's website dedicated to teaching all Americans the basics about financial education. Whether you are buying a home, balancing your checkbook, or investing in your 401(k), the resources on MyMoney.gov can help you maximize your financial decisions. Throughout the site, you will find important information from 20 Federal agencies and Bureaus designed to help you make smart financial choices.

List of financial resources and organizations that provide assistance and support for assuring financial readiness of military members and their families:
http://www.mymoney.gov/category/topic1/military.html

Nat’l Resource Directory: Emergency Relief
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/financial_information_and_assistance/emergency_relief

Find financial resources that provide relief for military members and veterans that are in financial distress.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Gov’t Resources
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/financial_information_and_assistance/government_resources

Find financial resources provided by the various agencies of the US government.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Money Management & Financial Counseling
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/financial_information_and_assistance/government_resources

Find financial resources provided by the various agencies of the US government.

Health & Healthcare

Health & Healthcare

afterdeployment.org
http://afterdeployment.org/

Air Combat Command: Comprehensive Airman Fitness Program
http://www.acc.af.mil/library/acccomprehensiveairmanfitness/index.asp

Health resource page for the USAF Comprehensive Airman Fitness Program. Includes resources regarding mental health, medical health, and overall fitness for Airmen.

American Medical Association: Caregiver Self-Assessment
http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/physician-resources/public-health/promoting-healthy-lifestyles/geriatric-health/caregiver-health/caregiver-self-assessment.shtml

The Caregiver Health Self-assessment Questionnaire will help caregivers analyze their own behavior and health risks and, with their physician's help, make decisions that will benefit both the caregiver and the patient. The Caregiver Self-assessment Questionnaire will enable physicians to identify and provide preventive services to an at-risk but hidden population and improve communication and enhance the physician-family caregiver health partnership.

The Angel Bus
http://www.angel-bus.org/

Angel Bus is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to providing compassionate, non-emergency long-distance ground transportation to patients in need. Angel Bus, which utilizes motor coaches and their volunteer drivers as well as commercial buses was founded by Mr. William L. (Bill) Connor in May 2000. The inspiration for founding Angel Bus was derived when Bill’s son, Jaran, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. His treatment required routine travel, hours away from home.

Center for Deployment Psychology
http://deploymentpsych.org/

Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress
http://centerforthestudyoftraumaticstress.org/index.php

The Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (CSTS) is one of the nation’s oldest and most highly regarded, academic-based organizations dedicated to advancing trauma-informed knowledge, leadership and methodologies. The Center’s work addresses a wide scope of trauma exposure from the consequences of combat, operations other than war, terrorism, natural and human-made disasters, and public health threats. CSTS is a part of our nation’s federal medical school, Uniformed Services University (USU), and its Department of Psychiatry, as well as a partnering center of the newly established Defense Centers of Excellence (DCoE) for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury. These affiliations represent the Center’s history, mission and future directions as a major contributor to our country’s understanding of the impact of trauma and the advancement of trauma-informed care.

Good Samaritan Hospital – Dayton, OH: Homeless Clinic
https://www.goodsamdayton.org/gshservices.aspx?id=12410

Homeless people rarely receive the medical care they need. Good Samaritan Hospital (GSH) has long recognized this, and with a $50,000 grant from an anonymous donor, the hospital started the Samaritan Homeless Clinic in 1992 as a partnership with the Combined Health Department and Standard Register. Organized around the idea of caring for the whole person, the Samaritan Homeless Clinic serves several thousand homeless patients in Dayton every year. The clinic is unique in that it provides a wide range of health and wellness services in a one-stop-shop environment.

Nat’l Alliance for Caregiving
http://caregiving.org/

Established in 1996, The National Alliance for Caregiving is a non-profit coalition of national organizations focusing on issues of family caregiving. Alliance members include grassroots organizations, professional associations, service organizations, disease-specific organizations, a government agency, and corporations.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Health
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/health

Learn about health-related issues, treatment options, the locations of medical facilities, insurance programs and tips on staying healthy.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Service Animals
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/service_animals

Access information about service animals that are trained to assist people with disabilities..

Nat’l Resource Directory: Wounded Warrior Programs
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/wounded_warrior_programs

Education, health care and family support for Service Members wounded while serving their country.

PTSD Help Network, The
http://www.ptsdhelp.net/

For the first time since Vietnam, more than two million Americans have served in overseas combat zones. Studies reveal that one in three of the men and women who return from Iraq and Afghanistan will suffer emotional problems. This site is devoted to helping them and their families recognize and adjust to the lingering trauma of their war experiences.

Real Warriors: Disability Evaluation System
http://www.realwarriors.net/active/disability/disability.php

Each of the military services is responsible for assuring the fitness of its service members and separating or retiring those who are unable to continue military service. Eligible service members whose military service is cut short due to a service-related disability incurred in the line of duty receive benefits. Federal laws as well as Department of Defense (DoD) and service regulations require a thorough review of each service member’s case to determine the level of disability and entitlement to disability retirement. Military services conduct this review process based on the steps of each services’ Disability Evaluation System…

TRICARE^®
http://www.tricare.mil

TRICARE^® is the health care program serving Uniformed Service members, retirees and their families worldwide.

Strikeouts For Troops
http://www.strikeoutsfortroops.org/

This year marks the 5th anniversary of Strikeouts For Troops®, a non-profit organization founded by Barry Zito of the San Francisco Giants. Strikeouts For Troops provides comforts of home and lifts the spirits and morale of wounded troops during treatment at military hospitals nationwide.

Since its inception, Strikeouts For Troops has raised nearly 2 million dollars through contributions made by more than 60 professional baseball players, fundraising events, fan donations and corporate partnerships.

US Army – Ft. Knox: Ireland Army Community Hospital
http://www.iach.knox.amedd.army.mil/

Our mission is to optimize wellness and military readiness by providing high quality, multi-disciplinary, evidenced based healthcare services in support of our Warriors and their Families; past, present and future.

Ireland Army Community Hospital embraces the principles of e-government and encourages use of the this Web site to promote the electronic dissemination of information to our beneficiaries under the authority of the United States Army, MEDCOM, and the North Atlantic Region Medical Command.

The dedicated health care professionals of the United States Army Medical Activity (MEDDAC) at Fort Knox, Kentucky, are working together to provide our patients quality health care and preventive services throughout six states. We are proud of our health care system and proud to serve our nation's Soldiers and Families.

Appointments:
http://www.iach.knox.amedd.army.mil/body.asp?M=0&PI=21&HS=False&HL=False

Behavioral Health:
http://www.iach.knox.amedd.army.mil/body.asp?M=0&PI=111&HS=False&HL=False

Pediatrics:
http://www.iach.knox.amedd.army.mil/body.asp?M=0&PI=159&HS=False&HL=False

US Army: Suicide Prevention (Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1)
http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp

MISSION: Improve readiness through the development and enhancement of the Army Suicide Prevention Program policies designed to minimize suicide behavior; thereby preserving mission effectiveness through individual readiness for Soldiers, their Families, and Department of the Army civilians.

The US Army’s website for resources focusing upon the issue of suicide and depression provided by the office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4. This site provides information including: Prevention Best Practices, ACE training, Counseling resources, list of other organizations and programs, informative Documentary Videos, US Army Policies, etc.

US Navy & USMC: Public Health Center
http://www-nmcphc.med.navy.mil/

Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) is the Navy and Marine Corps center for public health services. We provide leadership and expertise to ensure mission readiness through disease prevention and health promotion in support of the National Military Strategy.

Veterans Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/Veterans/

The Veterans Crisis Line is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) resource that connects Veterans in crisis or their families and friends with qualified, caring VA professionals. Assistance is available through a confidential, toll-free hotline or via online chat. The Veterans Crisis Line is staffed by caring VA responders, many who are Veterans themselves. Each responder understands the unique Veteran experience and is trained to handle any crisis. Veterans and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or chat online to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Volunteers of America: Veterans
http://voa.org/services/veterans

Volunteers of America proudly serves veterans who are experiencing homelessness and substance abuse issues. Our services link veterans with employment training, affordable housing, and other resources that help them reintegrate into their communities.

Indiana:
http://voain.org/services/veterans

Kentucky:
http://voaky.org/Services/Kentucky/Veterans

Housing

Housing

Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority
(Toledo, OH)
http://www.lucasmha.org/

Through its programs and partnerships, the Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority is committed to building better neighborhoods by providing comprehensive housing opportunities for qualified individuals and families through creative and professional services in partnership with the greater community.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Homeless Assistance
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/homeless_assistance

Find information on programs and benefits to help homeless Veterans and Service Members.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Homeless Information by State
http://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/state/index

Choose a state or territory to find information and resources in that state for preventing and helping homelessness.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Housing
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/housing

Locate resources on homelessness, accessible housing, temporary housing, Military relocation, housing locators and more.

Operation Coming Home: Building Homes to Honor the Sacrifice of Our Nation’s Heroes
http://www.operationcominghome.com/

The Triangle Real Estate and Construction Veterans (TREACV) is a group of military veterans with representatives of all five military branches working in the real estate or construction profession in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill ("Triangle") area of North Carolina. Seeking to give back to our returning warriors from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, in early 2007 the group decided to embark upon a meaningful community service project: Building a "free home" for a severely wounded Veteran from the Middle East conflict.

US Dept. of Housing & Urban Development:
Veteran Information
http://portal.hud.gov:80/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/veteran_information

This site houses information and news updates about programs, services and resources available to US Veterans and Military Personnel.

Volunteers of America: Veterans
http://voa.org/services/veterans

Indiana:
http://voain.org/services/veterans

Kentucky:
http://voaky.org/Services/Kentucky/Veterans

Installation Guides

Installation Guides

US Army – Fort Campbell
http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=MI:CONTENT:1472207263630080::NO::P4_INST_ID:2695

This website contains resources for military personnel and their families that are that are stationed at or planning to relocate to Fort Campbell, KY.

US Army – Fort Meade
http://www.ftmeademwr.com/acs.php

This website contains resources for military personnel and their families that are stationed at or planning to relocate to Fort Meade, MD.

US Army – Fort Knox
http://www.knox.army.mil/

This website contains resources for military personnel and their families that are stationed at or planning to relocate to Fort Knox, KY.

US Navy – NSWC Crane
http://www.navsea.navy.mil/nswc/crane/default.aspx

The Crane Division (NSWC Crane), located in Crane, Indiana is a shore command of the U.S. Navy.
NSWC Crane is under the Naval Sea Systems Command headquartered in Washington DC.

Legal Rights & Assistance

Legal Rights & Assistance

Nat’l Resource Directory: Legal Rights & Assistance
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/legal_rights_and_assistance

Research legal services and laws that protect the rights of Veterans, Service Members, families and caregivers..

Publications, Articles & Media

Publications, Articles & Media

Articles

“Nancy Pelosi talks to student veterans”:
http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/local/san_francisco&id=7647484

“Seeking To Heal, Wounded Warriors Return To Iraq”:
http://www.npr.org/2010/12/24/132086790/seeking-to-heal-wounded-warriors-return-to-iraq?sc=17&f=1001

“Student veterans make difficult transition, bring perspectives to campus”:
http://www.news.wisc.edu/17837

“Student veterans adjust to life back in college”:
http://www.lsureveille.com/news/student-veterans-adjust-to-life-back-in-college-1.2321797

Media

A Video from the Cause: …Thanks to World War II Vets…
http://media.causes.com/1060527?p_id=175378540

This story is incredible. Send this touching two-minute video about World War II veterans to FIVE friends and family to remind them that every day alive in this great, free country is truly a bonus. Let’s get 50,000 views for the video by Memorial Day (May 30th) to show these living heroes, one last time, just how grateful we are for their unbelievable sacrifice. The video is a trailer to a documentary that will come out in November. The more we can show interest in the trailer (i.e. views), the more Americans will get to see the film. Time is running out: 1,000 WWII vets die every day. We are free today because of these men and women. The least we can do is watch a web video and send it to five people. Let’s get this mission done!

Nat’l Resource Directory: Video Library
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/video_library

View video clips from the VA, DoD and other federal government agencies.

Operation: In Their Boots
http://www.intheirboots.com/itb/

In Their Boots is a documentary series about the impact the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are having on people here at home. Every episode features a documentary about how America’s servicemen and women, their families, and our communities have been profoundly changed by our nation's campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. Shot on location throughout the country, these stories stress the courage of our participants, and the valor of the people and organizations that help our heroes on their journey.

US Army: “Home Front, The” (Video)
http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/videos/HomeFront_New/the-home-front/index.html

These real Soldier stories for Army Suicide Prevention you participate in interactive stories following the stories of soldiers going through post deployment scenarios, situations showing warning signs of depression and thoughts of suicide. This interface was created to raise situational awareness of others in peril and to test your knowledge of the US Army Policies.

US Army: “Shoulder to Shoulder: I will never quit on life” (Video)
https://www.goodsamdayton.org/gshservices.aspx?id=12410

These real Soldier stories for Army Suicide Prevention can reduce the stigma associated with personal distress.

Publications

Nat’l Resource Directory: Military & Veteran Publications
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/other_services_and_resources/military_and_veteran_publications

Stay informed with news articles from military, government and non-profit sources relating to Veterans and military affairs..

Southern Indiana Resource Directory
2008_resource_guide.pdf

A PDF document that contains a listing of local resources and their contact information that assist military members, veterans, and their families.

Veteran Journal
http://www.veteranjournal.com

The Veteran Journal is dedicated to providing timely and relevant news and information on veteran issues for veterans, active military personnel and their supporters.

The Veteran Journal publishes articles on six primary topics: Military News, Veteran Benefits, Military Life, Community, Education, and Careers.

Warrior Care Blog
http://warriorcare.dodlive.mil/

The web log of the Office Of Wounded Warrior Care and Transition Policy.

Service & Volunteer Organizations

Service & Volunteer Organizations

American Red Cross: Clark County, Indiana Chapter
http://www.clarkredcross.org

The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, will provide relief to victims of disaster and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.

AMVETS
http://www.amvets.org/

AMVETS is one of the nation's foremost veterans service organizations (VSOs). It stands as a strong and influential advocate for America's veterans on important issues such as employment and training, mandatory funding for government-provided health care and other benefits to which they are entitled. AMVETS is a 501(c) 19 organization.

Army Women’s Foundation
http://www.awfdn.org/

The U.S. Army Women’s Foundation is the premier center for educational excellence, the national network for today’s Army women and a dynamic advocate for telling the history of Army women.

Coalition for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans (CIAV)
http://coalitionforveterans.org/ciav/home/

The Coalition for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans (CIAV) is a national non-partisan partnership of organizations committed to working with and on behalf of all military, veterans, families, survivors and providers to strengthen the existing system of care and support for all those affected by the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Heroes at Home (Sears)
http://www.sears.com/heroesathome

Heroes at Home strives to uplift, assist and honor America's military families. Join us as we celebrate their stories, salute their communities and say thank you to our soldiers for their selfless service. Sears' Heroes at Home program provides support to military service members, veterans, and their families through joint efforts with various non-profit organizations as well as through the Heroes at Home Wish Registry.

Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)
http://iava.org/

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America is the nation's first and largest group dedicated to the Troops and Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the civilian supporters of those Troops and Veterans.

National Association of Veterans’ Program (NAVPA)
http://www.navpa.org/

The National Association of Veteran Program Administrators (NAVPA) is an organization of institutions and individuals who are involved or interested in the operation of veterans affairs programs and/or the delivery of services to veterans as school certifying officials across the country. An annually elected Board of Directors governs NAVPA. The purpose of NAVPA is to promote professional competency and efficiency through an association of members and others associated with, and involved in, veterans educational programs; to promote the development, improvement and extension of opportunities to any veteran or dependent of a veteran for his or her personal growth and development to its fullest potential. This is achieved through assisting with the assessment and attainment of individual needs, communicating and cooperating with communities, schools, agencies and organizations at the local, state, regional and federal levels; developing productive relations with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), Department of Education, Department of Defense, and other federal or national Veterans Service Organization or agency serving veterans; participate in efforts to facilitate the education and/or training of educationally or otherwise disadvantaged veterans; and promote cooperative studies, research, evaluation, workshops, seminars, conferences, and other activities as may be desired or required to fulfill the purposes of NAVPA.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Veteran Service Organizations
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/

Find Veteran Service Organizations that are either chartered or non-chartered.

Nat’l Resource Directory: Volunteer Organizations
https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/

Find Volunteer Organizations that are providing various services of support, advocacy, and more.

Veterans for Common Sense
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/

Veterans for Common Sense (VCS) was formed in August 2002 as a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization by war veterans who believe that we, the people of the United States of America, are most secure when our country is free, strong, and responsibly engaged with the world. Our mission, based on the pragmatic ideals of the American patriot Thomas Paine, is to raise the unique and powerful voices of veterans so that our military, veterans, freedom, and national security are protected and enhanced, for ourselves and for future generations.

Veterans for Common Sense is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charitable organization. We are supported primarily by individual donations from our members, with additional funding from:

Vets4Vets
http://vets4vets.us/

Our primary goal is to help Iraq and Afghanistan-era veterans understand the value of peer support and to regularly use peer support to express their emotions, manage their challenges and ease their reintegration into society. Our vision is that anytime a veteran needs to talk with someone who really understands, a local Vets4Vets peer support group is available at no cost. We envision Vets4Vets being a common name in the minds of all veterans as a place where they, and their comrades, can go to heal.

Vietnam Veterans of America
http://vva.org/

Founded in 1978, Vietnam Veterans of America is the only national Vietnam veterans organization congressionally chartered and exclusively dedicated to Vietnam-era veterans and their families. VVA is organized as a not-for-profit corporation and is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Service Code. V.V.A.'s goals are to promote and support the full range of issues important to Vietnam veterans, to create a new identity for this generation of veterans, and to change public perception of Vietnam veterans. .

Volunteers of America: Veterans
http://voa.org/services/veterans

Indiana:
http://voain.org/services/veterans

Kentucky:
http://voaky.org/Services/Kentucky/Veterans

Wounded Warrior Project
http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Wounded Warrior Project began when several individuals took small, inspired actions to help others in need. One night while watching the evening news, a group of veterans and brothers were moved by the difficult stories of the first wounded service members returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq. They realized then and there that something needed to be done for these brave individuals beyond the brass bands and ticker tape parades. The resulting objective was to provide tangible support for the severely wounded and help them on the road to healing, both physically and mentally. What had been initially viewed as a small contribution (compared with what the warriors had sacrificed while serving our country) has become WWP's signature program: "WWP backpacks delivered bedside to wounded warriors." Wounded Warrior Project is a nonprofit organization.

Student Organizations

Student Organizations

IU Campuses

Indiana Student Veterans (Blog)
http://www.indianastudentveterans.org/

Indiana Student Veterans (ISV) is a project of veterans’ education consultant Russell Silver. A ten-year veteran of the U.S. Army, Russell has been deeply involved in the emerging student veterans’ movement at the grassroots and national levels. He founded and successfully led his student veterans group at Indiana University Indianapolis during which time he spearheaded a campaign that resulted in the establishment of a Veterans Affairs Office on campus. In 2008 and 2009 his work was recognized by his peers and he was selected as the National Secretary and member of the Board of Directors for Student Veterans of America (SV). Russell graduated with a degree in Public Affairs having concentrated his studies on the veterans’ service community. He recently completed work for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and available for work supporting veterans’ education. More information on his education and experience is available at www.russell-silver.com. He may be contacted through the contact form on this website or www.russell-silver.com.

Other Campuses

Butte College: Veteran’s Resource Center/Vet. Services
http://www.butte.edu/services/veterans/vrc.html

The VRC was established spring 2008 to serve Butte College's Student Veterans by offering them the support and assistance they need to navigate the often-murky waters of transition into the civilian world. As the number of Veterans returning from the overseas conflicts continues to increase, our goal is to help them complete their education or continue on to additional levels of academia. To this end, and to assist the Veteran in his or her daily life, the VRC staff connects Veterans with existing community services and advocates for the development of new services to meet the growing need.

Central Lakes College: Veteran’s Resource Center
http://www.clcmn.edu/veterans/

The CLC Veterans Resource Center (VRC) provides information and support to Veterans, military members, and their families and community members. The goal of the Center is to provide a welcoming environment for all who visit. The Center has, or can locate, information about veterans’ services, financial resources, military education benefits, scholarships, veteran and family support activities. The Center refers individuals to appropriate campus and community service providers. The Center also serves as an advocate for veterans and their families who are students and as a training and education resource.

Central Virginia Community College: Vet Benefits FAQs
http://www.cv.cc.va.us/student services/Veterans/FAQ.asp

College of Staten Island (CSI)
http://www.csi.cuny.edu/veterans/faqs.html

Longwood University
http://www.longwoodstudentveterans.org/

Louisiana State University: Veterans Affairs FAQs
http://appl003.lsu.edu/slas/vetaffairs.nsf/$Content/FAQs?OpenDocument

Northern Illinois University: Military Student Services FAQs
http://www.niu.edu/fa/vetresources/faq/index.shtml

University of Arkansas: Division of Student Affairs Veterans Resource & Information Center
http://veteranscenter.uark.edu/2394.php

Website containing: University News and Events, Educational Benefits and other Resources.

University of CA, Berkeley: Transfer Re-entry & Student Parent Center – Veterans Page
http://trsp.berkeley.edu/veterans.htm

The Transfer, Re-entry, and Student Parent Center functions as the student services hub for veterans on the Berkeley campus. Serving those who served, we work to connect prospective, new, and continuing Cal student veterans to our campus-wide network of advocates to enrich the Berkeley experience. Through our Cal Veterans Programs and Services, we fortify educational and career goals through maximizing benefits and funding, creating community among student vets, and providing additional links with our many community-based organizations.

University of CA, Los Angeles: Registrar’s FAQs Veterans Affairs
http://www.registrar.ucla.edu/faq/veteranfaq.htm

University of Houston: Veterans Collegiate Society
http://www.uh.edu/veterans/veterans-collegiate-society/index.php

The Veterans Collegiate Society (VCS) at the University of Houston represents the 1,000-plus-student veterans, active duty military students, Reserve and National Guard students, their spouses and dependents and any University of Houston student interested in bettering the campus experience of veterans.

University of Kentucky: Veterans Resource Center
http://www.uky.edu/Veterans/

The Veterans Resource Center was established to continue that tradition of support by providing UK's military and veteran populations with the service and assistance they deserve. Our goal is to ensure that your transition to college is as smooth as possible. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring from another school, or returning after a deployment, the Wildcat community welcomes you home.

University of Louisville
http://louisville.edu/veterans

University of Michigan: Counseling & Psychological Services
http://www.umich.edu/~caps/veterans.html

University of Minnesota: Supporting Student Veterans
http://onestop.umn.edu/staff/supporting_student_veterans/index.html

University of Missouri-Kansas City: Student Veterans Virtual Resource Center
http://www.umkc.edu/veterans/

UMKC salutes and supports our student Service-members and Veterans. This site is dedicated to providing you with tools and resources to be successful students. The Registration Quick Guide contains steps that all students should take to get enrolled at UMKC.

Thank you for your service!

University of NJ, Rutgers: Veterans Services
http://veterans.rutgers.edu/

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is recognized as a center of excellence for veteran students among the nation's military services, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and institutions of higher education nationwide. The Office of Veterans Services ensures that veteran students are fully integrated into campus life and are able to take full advantage of the broad range of intellectual and cultural activities offered by Rutgers while sharing their diverse experiences with the university community. The Office of Veterans Services coordinates the research of issues most relevant to not only veteran students but broader issues, which face our nation's veterans.

University of New Mexico: Veterans Resource Center
http://vrc.unm.edu/

The Veterans Resource Center (VRC) department at UNM is run by Veterans for Veterans. The UNM VRC is a centralized resource hub, easily accessible and widely available to all veterans and their families. We will help you navigate through the challenges of transitioning from the military to a civilian/academic environment.

University of Washington

Veteran Services
http://www.uwb.edu/studentservices/veterans

Student Veteran Association (SVA)
http://students.washington.edu/svauwb/GI Bill.html

Transportation

Transportation

Nat’l Resource Directory: Transportation https://www.nationalresourcedirectory.gov/transportation_and_travel

Provides information on military travel pay, free transportation, modifying your vehicle for a disability and off-duty travel resources.