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VETERANSSAN DIEGO Homeland

FREE Editorial Spotlight with FREE Half-Page Ad

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NONPROFIT VETERANS INITIATIVE PROGRAM

San Diego Veterans Magazine & Homeland Magazine through the Nonprofit Veterans Initiative Program offer a 2-page FREE editorial spotlight & FREE half-page ad to Nonprofit & Military-Veteran Organizations.

San Diego Veterans Magazine & Homeland Magazine contain a full range of dynamic content, including award-winning columns, resource & support articles & more...

There is an ethos in the military known as No Man Left Behind. It represents a bond, a brotherhood, and the determination to bring your comrades home, no matter what. When our nation’s troops become ill or injured, a new battle begins. At this life-changing juncture, Warrior Foundation Freedom Station lives out this ethos in service to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Warrior Foundation Freedom Station was founded in 2004, as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom were underway. War raged in Iraq and Afghanistan, sending battle-injured soldiers, sailors and Marines back to Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) in devastating numbers. Sandy Lehmkuhler, a Navy wife volunteering at the hospital, witnessed the hardships endured by these warriors and their families. She founded this nonprofit with the mission of assisting, honoring and supporting the military men and women who bravely served and sacrificed for our country.

Now in its 17th year, Warrior Foundation Freedom Station is one of the most respected foundations in the region and serves four groups of warriors: the seriously ill and injured; those suffering from post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury; those undergoing physical or occupational therapy; and transitioning warriors who have medically retired and remain in our community.

One of the foundation’s most innovative programs is Freedom Station – transitional housing residences that provide injured warriors with the acclimation time, guidance and resources to successfully transition from military service to civilian life.

Freedom Station I, a 12-unit property in Golden Hill, and Freedom Station II, a nine-unit property in South Park, are designed to shift injured warriors to independent living while still providing that all-important camaraderie.

Active duty service members and veterans recover among peers, enroll in college or trade schools, establish new careers, gain financial independence, and discover new pursuits.

Sergeant Povas Miknaitis, U.S. Marine Corps (ret.) was one of Freedom Station I’s first residents. During a 2009 deployment to Afghanistan, his team was running a reconnaissance mission when an IED exploded beneath the floor of the house they entered. Although severely injured himself, Povas treated his teammates first to keep them alive and maintained perimeter security until the QRF arrived. He eventually ended up at NMCSD for treatment and recovery.

“When I was medically retiring from the Marine Corps, it was suggested that I move into Freedom Station as a transitionary process,” said Povas. “This model works –it helped me transition in a positive way, with a caring and compassionate support system. I’ve often thought about where I might be if I hadn’t come to Freedom Station. Sometimes I wonder if I would have been that person on the street corner asking for money, because I’ve been in some pretty dark places. Being at Freedom Station helped me with the different battles I’ve faced in my life.”

Povas since graduated from the University of San Diego and is now a proud homeowner. He has a flourishing banking career and was named San Diego County Veteran of the Year for 2019-2020.

Petty Officer First Class Junior Rodriguez, U.S. Navy (ret.) currently lives at Freedom Station II. As a Corpsman, he provided lifesaving medical care to Marines during 13 combat deployments. Yet Junior would end up sustaining serious injuries of his own in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was introduced to Warrior Foundation Freedom Station while recovering at NMCSD.

Since 2014 and over 400 focus groups with veterans, active military service members, & military-veteran families we are on the pulse of what really matters to veterans, military personnel and their families.

Every issue covers transition (careers & education), mental health, healthcare, military-veteran resources, assistance, support and more...

It let us know we were not forgotten. When it was time to transition, I moved into Freedom Station, and little did I know what a blessing it would be. They gave me opportunity. They gave me hope. They gave me tools and resources and people like myself - my Marines, my Army guys, and my Navy guys. Warrior Foundation Freedom Station has given me a chance to be me again, and I want to show other veterans that if I can do it, so can they.”

Junior now also serves as Assistant Program Director for the Wolfpack, the championship-winning wheelchair basketball team supported in part by the foundation.

Colonel Greg Martin, U.S. Marine Corps (ret.) joined the foundation as president in 2019, after 30 years in uniform. He previously commanded Wounded Warrior Battalion-West at Camp Pendleton.

“We understand what drives service members, how they overcome challenges, and the support systems they need to thrive,” said Greg. “That’s why we focus on equipping America’s post-9/11 ill and injured warriors to live purposeful and self-sufficient lives through programs that promote recovery, independence and passion for the future.”

In addition to transitional housing, Warrior Foundation Freedom Station offers programs such as adaptive sports, outdoor therapy, mentorship, education and career assistance, vocational projects, and more.

To donate, please visit www.warriorfoundation.org

Warrior Foundation Freedom Station also participates in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), the workplace giving program for federal civilian and military employees.

Reference CFC #40485 when making a pledge.

Warrior Foundation Freedom Station proudly holds the distinguished four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the nation’s largest evaluator of charities.

Junior says, “Every Christmas, the foundation decorated the barracks, left goody bags by our beds, and provided us with flights home for the holidays.

Proudly Serving Our Local San Diego Warriors

FREE Editorial Spotlight with FREE Half-Page Ad THE NONPROFIT VETERANS INITIATIVE PROGRAM

San Diego Veterans Magazine & Homeland Magazine through the Nonprofit Veterans Initiative Program offers a FREE Editorial Spotlight & FREE half-page ad for Nonprofit & Veteran Organizations.

• FREE Editorial Spotlight How Does It Work?

The first thing to do is contact us at (858) 275-4281 or by email mikemiller@homelandmagazine.com mikemiller@sdvetsmagazine.com

You can place your editorial spotlight and free half-page any month of the year. Please review the editorial calendar and submission details of how to prepare your editorial spotlight.

The editorial spotlight is a FREE 2-page editorial spread with images and LIVE URL links, plus an attached FREE half-page ad.

This is your editorial spotlight, it can include your mission, services, events, programs, donation opportunities, memberships, etc.

The Nonprofit Veteran Initiative Program through San Diego Veterans Magazine & Homeland Magazine offer assistance to those qualified nonprofit - veteran organizations who need affordable marketing assistance and impactful exposure in order to reach veterans, military personnel and their families.

The Nonprofit Veteran Initiative Program is funded by a Nonprofit Military-Veteran Consortium Foundation. The Foundation is comprised of local-national veteran advocates, retired military personnel, for-purpose sponsors and nonprofit veteran-military private philanthropist.

Editorial Spotlight - Details

• Deadline: (TBD)

(*We would need all material by the 24th or sooner prior to the month of publishing)

• Word Count: The word count should be between 700-850 words. Please email us in a Word Doc, edited and ready to go. (no need to format)

• Images: Include 3 to 5 Images with captions (if possible) and logo. (Please send images & logo separately – hi-res if possible and make sure they are your copyright images (or) that you have permission to use images to place for publishing in our magazines.

Details

(Half Page Ad)

• FREE Half-Page Ad.

The Ad can be Vertical or Horizontal (Your choice)

Ad Specs

Vertical Ad - 3.916" (W) X 10.3125" (H)

Horizontal Ad - 8" (W) X 5.0625" (H)

No need for crop marks or bleed, and send halfpage ad separately as a (PDF or JPEG)

*If you don’t have the resources to make an ad, let us know when you contact us. (we may be able to assist you)

*You can also use URLs in your article, just make sure you spell the URL out, as embed links in text will not work. (Well will create the instant link when we lay out the article. (You can also use a UR Code (just send that separately as well)

The following pages are a few examples of editorial spotlights. Remember, this will be your editorial spotlight, the content & message is up to you. This is a great opportunity to promote your organization, your mission, your services, programs, events, donations etc.

Samples

Operation Gratitude’s mission is to forge strong bonds between Americans and their Military and First Responder Heroes through volunteer service projects, acts of gratitude, and meaningful engagements in communities nationwide. This is primarily accomplished by bringing communities together for the assembly and delivery of a tangible symbol of gratitude -- the signature Operation Gratitude Care Package.

More than 17 years ago, Operation Gratitude sent its first four Care Packages to deployed Service Members in Iraq. Since then, the nonprofit has allowed millions of Americans to express appreciation through hands-on volunteerism and has lifted the spirits of more than 1.8 million deployed troops, also evolving to impact another 1.2 million recruit graduates, veterans, military families, first responders, and healthcare heroes.

Multiple programs exist at Operation Gratitude, allowing grateful Americans everywhere to show appreciation for and connect with all those who serve in a meaningful way.

Deployed troops

Each year, Operation Gratitude sends hundreds of thousands of Care Packages to troops deployed around the world. Generous citizens and corporate partners donate high quality “wish list” items, “handmade with love” items, and letters of support to fill the care packages.

A sailor aboard the USS San Jacinto was a recent recipient of an Operation Gratitude care package. He shared, “This little ray of sunshine was much needed, as the unfortunate spread of the Coronavirus has stopped all of our possible port visits. Right now, we have been underway for 61 consecutive days and are expecting another 50+ before we get a break.

We are all so thankful for your generosity. What you do makes what we do a little easier, and it means a lot to every one of us.”

Recruit graduates

Operation Gratitude welcomes the nation’s newest service members with the help of devoted community volunteers by delivering Care Pouches at Boot Camp graduations across the country. During the pandemic, volunteers continue to give through virtual volunteerism opportunities.

Military families

Operation Gratitude sends trademarked “Battalion Buddy” bears to the children of deployed service members. These comfort items are hand stuffed by volunteers at events nationwide. The Operation Gratitude team and volunteers are often invited to handdeliver these bears, where they have the opportunity to show these brave young warriors and their parents that a grateful nation stands with them during difficult times.

Veterans

Operation Gratitude coordinates with VA hospitals, Veteran and nursing homes, Veterans Services Organizations, and other best-in-class nonprofits to provide care packages to Veterans of all generations. Receiving a Care Package shows veterans, often for the first time, that their service and sacrifices are appreciated and never forgotten.

Wounded Heroes and Caregivers

To honor the service and sacrifice of Wounded Heroes from all eras and their often unseen Caregivers, Operation Gratitude provides custom Care Packages to acknowledge and thank each of them in a unique way. These Care Packages are delivered directly to their homes or given out at group events.

First Responders

The delivery of Care Packages to hundreds of departments across the U.S. allows Operation Gratitude team members, volunteers, donors, and corporate partners to thank the local First Responders who honorably protect and serve their communities.

Operation Gratitude began as a grassroots movement to provide every American with the opportunity to say “thank you” to all who serve. Now a national nonprofit, Operation Gratitude has grown significantly to meet the military’s evolving needs, first responder, and healthcare heroes at the core of its mission. Volunteers remain the heart and soul of the organization. The millions of volunteers nationwide who take the time to contribute to a Care Package make a connection and an impact, as expressed in an email from a deployed soldier with the 82nd airborne last year, upon receiving Operation Gratitude Care Packages for his entire unit: “Thank you to all the Men, Women, and children for your hard work and words of encouragement. We appreciate you and will continue to keep our patriotic citizens safe and keep our spirits high. With this kind of support and appreciation, we can never fail to know that you all have our back when times get tough.”

COVID-19 Response

On March 22, 2020, Operation Gratitude launched one of the most extensive coordinated efforts in the country to support the brave men and women on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the form of critically needed items and handwritten letters of appreciation, this support directly impacts their ability to serve and protect our communities and the citizens who rely on them. “As we have all seen recently, the world can turn upside down in a matter of days.

One thing that we can always count on during a crisis is our military and first responders on the frontlines,” said the CEO of Operation Gratitude, retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Schmiegel. “While they continue to serve, we will continue to support them. Together, we will deliver millions of critically needed items and letters of appreciation globally to those who need it most.”

CONVERSATIONS ABOUT

Solidarity of Service, a new podcast hosted by Operation Gratitude CEO and Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Schmiegel and the Chief Strategy and Operations Oﬃcer for NAMI, Retired Marine Chief Warrant Oﬃcer-2 Sherman Gillums, Jr is now available.

The show explores inspiring stories about community, connection, and service, featuring true American patriots from all walks of life. The inspiration for the Solidarity of Service came from the two friends’ conversations about their desire to help heal a divided nation and the power of service in uniting communities.

For more information, please visit us at www.operationgratitude.com www.operationgratitude.com

facebook.com/OperationGratitude twitter.com/OpGratitude linkedin.com/companies/operation-gratitude Instagram.com/opgratitude

Visit www.operationgratitude.com or Search “Solidarity of Service” on your favorite Podcast App.

Junior now also serves as Assistant Program Director for the Wolfpack, the championship-winning wheelchair basketball team supported in part by the foundation.

Colonel Greg Martin, U.S. Marine Corps (ret.) joined the foundation as president in 2019, after 30 years in uniform. He previously commanded Wounded Warrior Battalion-West at Camp Pendleton.

To donate, please visit www.warriorfoundation.org. Warrior Foundation Freedom Station also participates in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), the workplace giving program for federal civilian and military employees.

Reference CFC #40485 when making a pledge.

Warrior Foundation Freedom Station proudly holds the distinguished four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the nation’s largest evaluator of charities.

Proudly Serving Our Local San Diego Warriors

Please consider donating today to provide San Diego’s injured military men and women with hope, a home and a chance to start the next chapter of their lives with the honor and dignity befitting the world’s finest fighting forces.

Transitional Housing Residences at Freedom Station I and II

Education & Career Guidance

Vocational Projects

Adaptive Sports and Wheelchair Basketball

Outdoor Therapy Programs

Post-Traumatic Stress Treatment

Quality of Life Items and much more…

Support The Enlisted Project (STEP)

Few other jobs, if any, require greater risk, personal sacrifice, family disruption, emotional distress, time demands, and psychological impact than the job of a Coast Guardsman, Marine, a Sailor, an Airman, or a Soldier in today’s military.

In 2012, Support The Enlisted Project (STEP) started as an organization that wanted to support the most vulnerable in the military – young, junior enlisted service members who are asked to do dangerous, important jobs, with some of the lowest incomes in the country. They wanted to ensure everyone had their basic needs met in order to always be mission-ready.

Since then, STEP has evolved from supporting basic, urgent needs, to include working one-on-one with families to find their own path to financial self-sufficiency. They help navigate an imminent financial crisis, ensure no basic need is lost, while simultaneously work on an individualized plan for their overall financial well-being.

Founded by Veterans, STEP understands the demands of the job both on the service member, and their family. They know many getting into the military do not have financial literacy skills to navigate the low-pay and financial demands of the job: frequent moves without 100% reimbursements, high-cost-of-living areas, lack of childcare options, low spousal employment or under employed. The program is designed to set up these families for success, even when living paycheck-topaycheck.

For the service member and Veteran to succeed, they must be ready for change and willing to make the sacrifices needed to prepare for the future, even when circumstances are outside their control.

In April, as the pandemic continued to shut down much of our world, a Marine family was struggling to pay rent when his wife was let go from her $15.50 hour job. Now rent was not the biggest concern but ensuring food on the table was. They came to STEP for help and a social worker, certified in financial counseling, worked with them to develop a plan they could survive on until she was able to find work again.

“We were pretty good with money. There wasn’t a lot of it, so we lived month-to-month with a small savings. When my wife lost her job that all changed, and I went to STEP for help. After paying two months of our rent and getting us groceries, we were able to breath and focus on what came next. And by February 2021 we’ll be able to start saving money again, even with my wife’s new part-time job. It’s a good feeling to be back in control.” – Marco, E4

Evictions, utility disconnects, food insecurity, and other financial crises are on the rise among our military community as the COVID-19 crisis exposes and deepens their everyday challenges. The team at STEP shifted gears quickly in March and have since served over 9,000 individuals through their no-contact food distributions through San Diego and Orange County. Many of the families have been quarantining since the beginning with spouses deployed and little to no support network. To-date over 110,000 pounds of food, 150,000 diapers and other hygiene products have been distributed. All thanks to strong partnerships, generous donors, and hard-working volunteers.

The long-term effects of COVID-19 on our service members and Veterans has yet to be seen and STEP is preparing for the long-haul toward recovery. Applications for support increased 30% in November as the increase in COVID-19 cases are on the rise, even within our active duty community.

“What we learned this year is that our program is designed for a crisis like this. With the community’s support, we have been able to answer the call for these critical needs, but also plant the seeds of prudent financial management along the way,” shared Tony Teravainen, CEO & C0-Founder of STEP and recent recipient of San Diego County’s Veteran of the Year award. “I am really proud of my team as they manage our clients needs and their own during this time. And, I am always grateful for the generosity of our community.”

STEP is a privately funded, 4-Star Charity Navigator rated non-profit that serves all E1-E6 active duty and transitioning Veterans in Southern California. In January 2021 they will be formally expanding to serve the same population in Washington State.

To learn how you can assist their programs through advocacy, volunteering or financial support, go to: www.stepsocal.org and follow them at @stepsocal.

PsychArmor, and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). The campaign aims to not only bring awareness to suicide prevention resources, but also to bridge the gap between recognition and intervention within the military-connected community.

Driving change:

If there’s one thing we’ve realized in the last 15 years, it’s that we cannot do this work alone. To see real change for military and Veteran families, we are developing solutions and clear pathways for everyone to Do Your Part to ensure the future and sustainability of the AllVolunteer Force. Join the Blue Star Families Chapter of San Diego to grow in the community, feel a better sense of belonging, and learn more about ways to get involved.

Join the San Diego Community, neighborhood. bluestarfam.org/topics/29308/feed

Interested in local partnerships?

Email sandiego@bluestarfam.org

Learn more about Blue Star Families, bluestarfam.org

Combat the Silence or Blue Star Support Circles, bluestarfam.org/blue-star-support-circles

Military Family Lifestyle Survey bluestarfam.org/research/mfls-survey-release-2024/

About Maggie Meza

Maggie Meza is a marine spouse and mother of three who leads community efforts in the Blue Star Families Chapter of San Diego. She has over twenty five years of experience volunteering, advising, holding numerous executive board member positions, and fundraising for numerous organizations that advocate for military families. Maggie also has served as an Advisor for the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society Camp Pendleton and the Exceptional Family Member Program for Marine Corps Community Services.

Across Southern California, she facilitates engagement opportunities that create cross-sectoral dialogue between military and civilian communities. Maggie connects military and Veteran families to beautiful Southern California parks and beaches through the Outdoor Explorer for All Program, provides Caregivers an opportunity to connect with one another through Caregivers Encouraging Caregivers events, brings awareness of local resources to military spouses through monthly Coffee Connections, and encourages families to enjoy the Arts through the Blue Star Museum Program.

Blue Star Families is Military Families

Continuing the Fight: How Walking The Talk Keeps This Warrior Going

By Kaitlyn McCue, Wounded Warrior Project

Melvin Gatewood is no stranger to service or sacrifice. He grew up knowing the importance of both words, with strong influences and family members leading by example for as long as he can remember.

Although they were in different platoons, Melvin said they each had their fair share of missions and action. They were always worried about each other, wondering if someone would come back injured.

For Melvin, that happened in 2005 when he was severely burned and injured in a Humvee explosion. He vividly remembers the explosion and the instincts that kicked in after. He focused solely on ensuring everyone else got out and then kept going to finish the mission. His own pain and injuries were the furthest thing from his mind.

“We just wrapped my arm up and I continued the mission,” he said. “I remember they kept trying to put me in the last vehicle when we were heading back out, but I just kept saying no, put me in the front. I want to be in the first vehicle.”

Forging a New Path Through Continued Service

Not only did many of his uncles and cousins serve in the military, but his grandmother also frequently took him to nursing homes to check in and be a friendly face for residents.

“The military was just something that was very embedded into my family,” Melvin said. “But the sense of service was as well.”

He knew early on that he wanted to join the military and ultimately enlisted in the National Guard before graduating from high school.

Melvin eventually deployed to Iraq where he landed alongside his brother and cousin, all serving in the region simultaneously. While the familial support overseas was a gift, he regularly thought about his mother back home in rural Mississippi and how she was doing without her only two children.

This sense of service is what Melvin lives by every day.

When the military medically discharged him, Melvin didn’t know what his next mission would be.

But what he did know was he wasn’t done serving.

He wanted to find ways to continue on that path.

Melvin registered with Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) in 2013. Since then, he’s participated a broad mix of events and programs, including the Carry Forward 5K, Soldier Ride®, Peer Support Group events, WWP Talk, and Project Odyssey®. He found a renewed sense of belonging with fellow warriors, and never turned back.

“It was just like, ‘this is what I needed,’” said Melvin. “I haven’t felt this since I was in the military … they were speaking my language.”

But even after such strong personal involvement in WWP, he found himself still longing to serve others.

Now, Melvin serves as a Peer Support Group leader, and volunteers to share his story through WWP to ensure other warriors know help is available.

These roles empower Melvin to help other veterans persevere through adversity, reach out for help, and take advantage of available resources.

“You continue to fight. The battle was on the battlefield when we were over in Iraq,” he said. “But we brought a battle back with us, and a lot of times we replay those battles when we go to sleep at night. Sometimes they’ll show up with the smell of diesel at the gas pump. It may show up with a loud bang when you don’t know where it came from. But to just still be here, and to tell a brother and a sister that I still have your six.”

Healing Himself, Helping Others

He’s continuing his own mental health journey as well. Even through being a resource and a leader for others, Melvin continues to participate in WWP Talk and reach out for help himself.

“Just because I carry it well doesn’t mean that it’s not heavy,” he said.

Now that Melvin is helping lead others in their own healing journeys, he finds it critical to practice what he preaches and ensure he’s always taking care of himself, too.

“Just because you completed a program doesn’t mean that you are finished with your recovery,” Melvin said. “It’s a road to recovery. It’s an everyday process.”

“Recovery requires belonging, and Wounded Warrior Project is making that a reality for veterans.”

— WOUNDED WARRIOR TIM APONTE

FIND CONNECTION AND CAMARADERIE

★ Small, warrior-led support groups

★ Connection with other veterans in your area

★ Support and encouragement from wounded warriors like yourself

★ A safe, judgement-free place to share your experiences with others

★ Virtual and in-person event options

★ Information about free programs and services Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) offers

★ Help in beginning your healing journey

A listening ear. A helping hand. A community that champions your success. That’s what you gain when you connect with WWP.

Contact: Kaitlyn McCue, Public Relations, kmccue@woundedwarriorproject.org 904.870.1964

About Wounded Warrior Project

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Scan here to register and learn more or visit woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/peer-support

Cohen Veterans Network’s Mental Health Services

Now Available to More Veterans, Active-Duty Service Members and Military Families in California

“There’s no shame in asking for help.”

– Laura, Iraq War Veteran

“My hopes for the future are very high.”

– Darcel, Army National Guard

“I am better equipped to cope.”

– Matt, Air National Guard Veteran

“I am happier.”

– Rebecca, Military Spouse and Caregiver

Cohen Veterans Network’s (CVN) mission is to help veterans, active-duty service members and their families through their unique challenges, including transitioning from active military service back to civilian life, and beyond. With high-quality, accessible care available, regardless of discharge status or role in service, CVN’s Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics provide specialized therapy for depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other challenges. They also provide relationship counseling and help with children’s behavioral issues to support the entire military family.

To meet the increasing mental health needs of the veteran and military community, CVN will open two additional clinics in California, one in Oceanside and another in Los Angeles. These will be the second and third Cohen Clinics in the state; a San Diego clinic opened in 2019.

This effort is another step toward CVN meeting the $275M commitment set forth by financier philanthropist Steven A. Cohen to help reduce veteran suicide and increase care for active-duty service members and military families throughout the country. More than 33,000 post-9/11 veterans, nearly 40,000 active-duty service members, and more than 31,000 military family members will be eligible for care at the Cohen Clinic in Oceanside. Greater than 52,000 post-9/11 veterans, 6,000 active-duty service members, and 10,000 military family members will be eligible for care at the Cohen Clinic in Los Angeles.

CVN’s partner for these clinics is Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD), which is its current partner at the Cohen Clinic in San Diego, located in Mission Valley.

VVSD has served veterans since 1981 and is dedicated to “Leave No One Behind.” Each year, VVSD provides services to more than 3,000 military veterans throughout San Diego County.

“There are many factors in play these days which are negatively impacting our mental health, including the continued challenges of COVID-19 and the possibilities of future deployments. We are here to serve veterans, active duty and families throughout the entire state of California,” said Dr. Anthony Hassan, President & CEO of CVN. “We are expanding on our proven success in San Diego and scaling up to the meet the additional need.”

In addition to providing care to those within reach of the Oceanside and Los Angeles locations, the new Cohen Clinics will also offer telehealth services statewide to more than 655,000 potential clients. CVN Telehealth is face-to-face video therapy where the client can receive treatment from the privacy and comfort of their own home.

“The ability to provide telehealth services is critical and a game changer, especially in southern California

where we have seen the number of COVID-19 cases rise significantly in recent months,” said Akilah Templeton, CEO of VVSD. “Telehealth provides a great option for veterans, service members and their families who want to stay connected to a trusted provider, regardless of location. Our partnership with CVN has helped to expand our reach and build out VVSD’s continuum of care so that the entire military family has access to high-quality outpatient mental health services and supports for years to come.”

The Oceanside Cohen Clinic is located at: 3609 Ocean Ranch Blvd, Suite 120, while the Los Angeles location will be unveiled in the coming months.

Each location has begun hiring staff members, with open positions available. www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/our-team/ careers

Since its inception in April 2016, CVN has built 21 Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics across the country and has treated more than 30,000 clients.

Your generous tax-deductible donation to the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at VVSD enables our mental health clinics to make the lives of veterans and military families better. Your support will sustain and advance our Cohen Clinics now and into the future, and as we reach additional clients in rural areas via CVN Telehealth.

www.cohenveteransnetwork.org/telehealth

Here are some examples of what your gift will allow us to do:

• Family or Couple Therapy Session: $500

• Individual Therapy Session: $250

• Local Referral Support: $100

• Youth Therapy Supplies: $50

• Providing Childcare: $25

To donate, visit www.vvsd.net/cohenclinics

RUN FOR THE WALL

(We

Ride For Those Who Can’t)

Run For The Wall® (also known as RFTW) is an organized cross-country motorcycle ride to honor our veterans and their families and friends and to raise awareness of those still missing - Prisoners of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA). The ride, or “run” as many motorcyclists call it, starts in Ontario, California and ten days later ends at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

It all began back in 1989 as an effort by a couple of Vietnam Veterans who traveled across the heartland of America on motorcycles, talking to local radio, television, and newspapers about the fact that we had thousands of men and women still unaccounted for from all our wars.

The need for this awareness continues, so RFTW riders maintain this tradition every May by riding their motorcycles from “coast to coast”, and since 2022 from “wall to wall”. RFTW does not give political speeches or stage demonstrations. Run For The Wall emphasizes its

message by traveling through the United States in a safe and orderly manner, obeying traffic laws and treating all citizens with respect. Their motto is, “We Ride For Those Who Can’t”.

But raising public awareness is only part of the Mission of Run For The Wall. RFTW also gives veterans (from Vietnam and all wars and conflicts) the opportunity to receive the Welcome Home they so richly deserve, and an encouraging environment where they can further their healing process.

Many who have served our country, especially in combat, return with issues that may be unresolved. This can also extend to friends and families who have experienced the range of emotion and trauma associated with having a loved one go off to serve. RFTW riders find healing and comradery in the Run For The Wall family. They can finally start settling issues that have been put away for years.

There is a nominal charge register for the run (https://rftw.us/rftw-registration). And while most of the fuel and most of the meals are provided free of charge to the riders through the generosity of many donors and volunteer organizations, lodging accommodations and other expenses are the responsibility of each individual rider.

Three “coast to coast” routes, Central Route, Midway Route, and Southern Route depart Ontario, California in mid-May and take 10 days to ride across the United States, arriving at our nation’s Capital on Friday night of the Memorial holiday weekend. Events scheduled for the weekend include visiting the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery, the annual RFTW participants’ photo at the Lincoln Memorial, and the walk together to the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial. Some RFTW riders participate in the Rolling to Remember parade in Washington, D.C. on Sunday.

In 2022, RFTW established a fourth route to go from “wall to wall”. Following the ten days ride from coast to coast, the Sandbox Route departs Washington, D.C. on Sunday of the Memorial Holiday weekend and continues the Mission to the Middle East Conflicts Wall in Marseilles, Illinois.

Along the way, from coast to coast and from wall to wall, RFTW riders visit VA Medical Centers, Veterans’ Memorials, Veterans’ Outreach Facilities, VFW Posts, American Legion Posts, and community centers, and schools. Riders enjoy parades,

escorts, and welcome-home receptions from multitudes of patriotic townspeople across this great nation.

The ages of the participants range from eight to eighty. These include mothers, fathers, grandfathers, and grandmothers (some of whom ride their own bikes!)

Among the ridership you will find veterans, active-duty military, patriots, supporters, friends, and family. Everyone is welcome and you do not need to be a veteran to ride. The main rule is NO ATTITUDES.

Some people join Run For The Wall and think of it as just another vacation or motorcycle event. After one or two days, though, they realize this is something very special, much more than just another motorcycle run. It is unlike anything else they have experienced, and it becomes a MISSION! They become part of the Run For The Wall family whose members come from all over the United States, Canada, Australia, and the world. Together riders bond around the RFTW Mission, make many new friends,

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The Run For The Wall Mission:

• To promote healing among ALL veterans;

• To call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA);

• To honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from ALL wars; and

• To support our military personnel all over the world.

Yellow Ribbon Fund is a military family charity that serves post-9/11 injured service members, caregivers and loved ones from hospital to hometown. The services and programs offered by the nonprofit enable families to stay together during critical recuperation phases and are designed to support its recipients, which leads to better outcomes.

Its two primary programs include the Crossroads Program, which provides logistical support to military families while their loved ones are treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital and the Keystone Program, which provides military caregiver support, advice and education.

Since 2005, the organization has served an average of 15 families each month at Walter Reed and Fort Belvoir and more than 1,600 caregivers across the US.

Crossroads Program

When a military service member returns home injured, their family’s world instantly changes, and the consequences can be profound. When admitted to a military hospital for treatment, each family must drop everything to be with them. Unfortunately, not all families have the resources to uproot and relocate temporarily.

Filling this gap through its Crossroads Program, Yellow Ribbon Fund provides essential services, such as short-term and long-term housing and transportation for the injured service members’ families at no cost. The goal is to keep families together during recovery, eliminating the stress of travel and housing logistics so they can focus on what matters most.

Executive Director, Gina Harrow has walked in these shoes. She explains, “My husband Ben, U.S. Army Special Forces Captain, West Point graduate and double amputee, was injured by an improvised explosive device (IED) in May 2012. I immediately booked my airfare and rushed to his side at Walter Reed, leaving our 14-month-old son with my parents. I was alone, scared and lost. I literally slept in a chair in my husband’s room.”

Keystone Program

When a service member is hospitalized, typically, caregivers have a plethora of support; however, when they return home, most support dwindles. Not only has the service member’s life changed instantaneously, but so has the caregivers, most often a spouse. Many times, the caregiver is forced into the role unprepared, and the responsibilities of caring for their loved one become a full-time job. Many face job/income loss and substantial financial, physical and emotional distress.

Because of this, Yellow Ribbon Fund’s Keystone Program offers resources that complement each caregiver’s journey. Instead of their needs being secondary, the program ensures they don’t walk alone and fills the much need gap to provide respite and transitional services geared specifically for the military caregiver.

Yellow Ribbon Fund’s Keystone Program has eight chapters nationwide and, as of 2020, a virtual chapter offering military caregiver support. The program, focused on empowering caregivers, includes career retraining opportunities, health and wellness services, respite, family trips and wellness retreats, training and education. These military caregiver resources boost morale, promote self-care and resilience, and foster deep friendships and family bonding.

Marites Roberts began her caregiving journey in 2016 after her husband, JD, lost his right leg. JD retired from service in 2018 following his injury and relocated his family from Arizona to Texas.

Give an Hour Proudly Serves Service Members, Veterans and Families by Making Mental Health a Priority

While Veterans Day is a great opportunity to publicly acknowledge the service and sacrifice given to the United States by brave men and women, Give an Hour appreciates our military, veterans and their loved ones every single day of the year. November is also Men’s Mental Health month and with an active duty military force made up of roughly 82% men, it‘s a good reminder that mental health is equally as important as physical health.

Is My Family Eligible?

If a family member or loved one is suffering due to the military member or veteran’s service (or consequences of) and is in need of care, they are eligible for one-onone counseling, as well.

Finding a Provider: Next Steps

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Who is Give an Hour?

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Give an Hour® is a nonprofit organization that provides no-cost counseling through a network of licensed, volunteer, mental health professionals. Founded in 2005 to address the gap in mental health care available to military service members, veterans

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What happens next is up to you. Are you ready to receive help? Before beginning your search for the right provider for you, we encourage you to visit the Frequently Asked Questions on our website to familiarize yourself with our process and what you can expect.

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Providers in our network agree to offer one hour per week of service, per Give an Hour client until it’s

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As one might expect, the pandemic has caused more people to seek out the services of mental health professionals so, as with any specialist, there may be some wait time.

It’s also important to note that care is not one-size-fitsall. Not everyone needs to see a counselor and there are other resources available such as Emotional Life Skills courses and peer support and Give an Hour will help you navigate what is appropriate for you.

How You Can Help

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1. Key to helping yourself, a friend or loved one who may be experiencing distress is making yourself familiar with Give an Hour’s Five Signs of Emotional Suffering. Recognizing early that someone may be in pain could make all the difference in getting them help.

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2. Peer support is also an important tool for service members, veterans and their families or loved ones. Reach out to a battle buddy and let him know he matters. Staying connected and feeling supported benefits both of you. Become a Give an Hour Wellness Ambassador and be the person in your community who is willing to advocate for mental health.

University of San Diego: A Better Way to Your MBA

USD’s MBA is more flexible than ever — and tuition is fully covered for most military-connected students.

For both active duty service members and those transitioning out of the military, an MBA degree can be a powerful next step. The right program can help you take the skills you’ve already developed — discipline, teamwork and problem-solving — and add the business acumen required to make you a confident business leader. While a traditional MBA program can seem out of reach for a variety of reasons, the University of San Diego’s Knauss School of Business offers a newly revamped Flex MBA program that’s perfect for active duty service members and veterans.

Tuition Fully Covered for Most Military-Connected Students

For veterans considering an MBA, one major factor is being able to afford a highly ranked program. To address this, the University of San Diego took steps this year to ensure tuition is fully covered for most militaryconnected students. As a 100% Yellow Ribbon School, USD contributes funds towards tuition that the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill doesn’t cover.

“This additional investment in the Yellow Ribbon Program deepens our commitment to our active-duty

military, veterans and other military-connected students,” says Charlotte Johnson, JD, vice president for student affairs at USD. “The University of San Diego honors the sacrifice of these students and their families and I am so pleased we are able to support their education in this way.”

Ideal MBA Format for Military Members and Veterans

The time commitment to pursue an MBA can seem daunting for active duty or post-military members, especially for those who have families, don’t live near a reputable university, or aren’t able to make school a fulltime commitment. And while fully online MBA programs are available, they often can’t offer the same in-depth experience that an in-person program offers.

The Flex MBA at USD’s Knauss School of Business offers the best of both worlds. It is a part-time program with outstanding faculty that only requires students to come to campus in San Diego one weekend per month. The remaining coursework takes place online. The program begins spring semester and takes just 20-24 months to complete.

Being deployed or required to change duty stations in the middle of a semester is another common fear for active duty service members. USD’s Flex MBA offers practical accommodations for this situation, providing an option to finish classes fully online if the need arises.

Military-Friendly Campus

As a military-friendly campus, USD offers the supportive environment and resources that military-connected students need to succeed personally and academically. Currently, there are over 800 military-connected students studying at USD including active-duty, veterans, spouses, dependents and Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) members. (Plus, USD has served as headquarters for the San Diego NROTC program since 1982!)

Along with meeting like-minded peers at USD, veterans can find dedicated resources and military student support at the university’s Military and Veterans Program. The center serves as a welcoming space for students to study, mingle with peers or get some R&R between classes. In addition, those enrolled in the Flex MBA program at the Knauss School of Business are assigned a student professional development manager who will offer industry-specific career guidance and networking insights to find your perfect next step after graduation.

Military Transition Conference on November 12

Active duty and veterans who are looking to transition into civilian careers should consider attending USD’s upcoming Military Transition Conference on November 12. The event will be held on campus at the University of San Diego, and include resume and LinkedIn reviews, interview prep and a presentation on military benefits. Plus, learn more about the Flex MBA program and apply for Spring 2023. Register at www.sandiego.edu/flexmba

www.sandiego.edu/flexmba

National University Proudly Supports the U.S. Military

National University (NU) has nurtured strong ties to the San Diego community and the military since its founding in 1971 by U.S. Navy Captain David Chigos. He understood that military-affiliated students had a need for a quality, flexible, and accessible approach to education. Since its inception, NU has proudly served active-duty and veteran students from all military branches as they have earned their college degrees at home, on base, and abroad.

Today NU provides relevant education to 40,000+ students nationwide of which one in four are servicemembers or veterans. With credential-rich pathways and a holistic approach to student support, well-being, and success, NU delivers world-class student experiences and has prepared its 220,000+ graduates for the next chapter of their lives.

Supporting the Whole You

National University’s innovative approach to education is about supporting the whole student. This approach includes providing the financial, academic, emotional, career, and family support needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced world. “We understand how to meet students where they are and help them get on the pathway to be successful,” said Dr. Mark D. Milliron, president and CEO of National University. “We are committed to helping them change their lives, improve the future of their families, and impact their communities.”

Financial Support

As a top 10 percent Military Friendly and Yellow Ribbon school, National University is committed to delivering exceptional services and offering financial benefits and resources to assist with educational expenses. NU accepts the post 9/11 “Forever” GI Bill, which reduces education costs for veterans and active-duty students. NU also offers military-specific scholarships for activeduty service members and their dependents and for eligible veterans, their spouses, and dependents. Our Veterans Affairs office can help you navigate the many affordable options available to use your benefits with purpose and make your career goals a reality.

Academic Support

As San Diego’s largest private nonprofit university, NU has designed bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs specifically for military-affiliated students. NU’s flexible four-week and eight-week class formats are ideal for the deployment cycle of military personnel and help students reach their goals faster. NU offers transfer-friendly undergraduate and graduate degree programs to maximize as many previously earned credits as possible, including college credits from other accredited institutions, professional or technical certifications, and military training and experience.

Social & Emotional Support

National University is proud to create a culture that fosters success for student veterans and servicemembers. NU provides a comprehensive virtual and onsite Veterans Center staffed by military-affiliated employees to assist with the transition to campus life and an online learning format, as well as aid in the completion of educational and career goals. Further, our dedicated student wellness staff are trained to help military students address a variety of needs and provide a 360-degree supportive environment.

Career Pathways

National University offers more than 190 online and oncampus programs, including these programs popular among the military community:

• Vets to BSN: Accelerated track to pursue a career in nursing.

• Cybersecurity/Criminal Justice/Homeland Security and Emergency Management

• MBA and Organizational Leadership program

• Education/teaching degrees and credentials

Family & Community Support

A few of the ways that National University provides support to family members and the community include:

• Member of the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) to help military spouses advance their careers and educational opportunities.

• Commitment as a First Responder in Veteran Employment to support employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.

• Facilitating an Employee Resource Group for military spouse employees to build rapport and share remote employee best practices.

This month, Joel Riley, a Marine Corps Veteran, and NU student, was one of two recipients of the American Council on Education Students of the Year Award. While in the Marine Corps, Riley enrolled at National University and was able to apply 135 Joint Services Credits gained from technical and leadership schools toward his degree. Riley remained in school while embarking on two combat deployments. “It was a true challenge, but my professors were gracious and understanding when factors out of my control presented challenges,” he said.

“Joel Riley exemplifies National University’s mission of providing an accessible, world-class student experience that ensures student success through meaningful learning,” President Milliron said. “We are very proud of the good work that Joel is doing, and he serves as a role model to us all.”

National University is committed to continuing our legacy of nationally recognized support for our military.

Reach out today and find out what makes National University one of the most trusted and respected top military-friendly colleges. (NU.edu/veteran)

NU is proud to serve those who have served, and we have been proudly serving our military and veteran community for more than 50 years.

Evangel University: Here to serve those who serve

We believe that the sacrifice and commitment of our nation’s service members should be recognized and rewarded. Evangel University has a connection with the military dating back to World War II. In fact, the very grounds upon which Evangel is built served as the O’Reilly General Hospital, an Army facility that opened in 1941 and treated more than 50,000 wounded soldiers. Serving our nation’s military members is a proud part of our heritage and a privilege we continue today.

Educational

opportunities designed with you in mind

We are dedicated to thoughtfully supporting service members in their academic pursuits. Convenient fully online degrees are available, with multiple start dates throughout the year. Courses are delivered in five-week block formats with one course offered at a time. This flexible schedule is great for working adults with a busy life schedule.

Graduate and seminary degrees are also available, including the premier Chaplaincy program offered through a Master of Divinity degree at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), embedded at Evangel University. This popular program has provided chaplaincy training to over 200 active duty service members.

“AGTS is committed to preparing students for the next stage of their careers or ministries,” said Chaplain J.P. Smith, a 2016 AGTS graduate. “As a chaplain candidate at AGTS, I had the opportunity to conduct practical military training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, West Point, New York, and Fort Gordon, Georgia while gaining elective credits toward my degree program.”

Smith reflects, “I have spoken with countless chaplain candidates who attended other seminaries, and one thing is evident – AGTS chaplain candidates were significantly ahead of their peers from other seminaries. AGTS provides the best training, support, and education.”

Customized support

We also recognize the extensive training that active and veteran service members have received and as such, we award credit for armed services education and training from the Joint Services Transcript (JST), according to the recommendations of the American Council on Education. Our driving focus is to provide for the needs of service members as they pursue education in their area of choosing.

The Admiral Vern Clark Veterans Center provides focused support to military families, including help with keeping track of required federal paperwork, connecting them with peers and mentors, and offering a comfortable place in which they can relax.

The center provides a wide-open door for service members and their families to feel at-home and cared for while pursuing their educational goals.

The Veteran’s Center Coordinator, Dane Moore, is a retired Master Sergeant and has used both Tuition Assistance and VA GI Bill benefits for many years.

Employment Focused Workshops to Help You Reach Your Goals

Author:

Tim Winter, Director, Transition Assistance Program, Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service

Perhaps you’re trudging back and forth to the same office or signing on for a day of work in a job that shows no sign of changing or improving: the long hours, the ongoing meetings, the lack of fulfillment. The job itself is mind-numbing; your talents forgotten and the potential you had in abundance when you first transitioned out of the military feels like it has been sucked out of you.

If you’re reading this and thinking, yeah, that is me, then the Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (DOL VETS) has just the thing for you.

DOL VETS has a new pilot program to help veterans, veterans currently serving in the National Guard and Reserve, and their spouses to take control of their careers.

The Off-Base Transition Training (OBTT) pilot program consists of ten two-hour workshops designed to help you to prepare to meet your employment goals. These no-cost workshops, both in-person and virtual offerings, will fit any schedule and can give you an advantage over your civilian counterparts.

The Workshops

Your Next Move: Your Next Move is designed to help anyone unsure of what they want to do next with their career. This workshop explores interest profiling, skills matching and general labor market information. It is designed to introduce the basic tools needed for career exploration and identification of high-demand occupations.

Marketing Yourself and Other Job Search

Tactics: Marketing Yourself and Other Job Search Tactics explains how essential it is to present skills, knowledge and abilities that meet the employer’s needs. This workshop provides proven tactics to help job seekers get noticed and hired.

Understanding Resume Essentials: Understanding Resume Essentials explains the importance of a wellstructured resume that highlights relevant skills and experience to potential employers. This workshop covers the elements of a resume and provides job seekers with techniques to create an effective document that employers will notice.

Creating Your Resume – Writing Workshop: Creating Your Resume – Writing Workshop builds on the Understanding Resume Essentials. During this workshop attendees will have time to craft an initial resume or revise a current one.

Interview Skills (virtual only): Interview Skills aims to provide attendees with the tools and confidence they need to ace a job interview. Learning how to prepare for an interview and practice answering questions will give attendees an advantage in landing a job. During this workshop, interview basics, potential questions and interview techniques are presented.

Federal Hiring (virtual only): Federal Hiring covers the basics of gaining federal employment. Veterans have a distinct advantage when applying for federal positions with veterans’ preference.

During this workshop, the basics of civil service, USAJobs, special hiring authorities and other resources for attendees’ federal job search are discussed.

LinkedIn Profiles (virtual only): This workshop walks attendees through how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile that can be used to build a professional brand and highlight experience.

LinkedIn Job Search (virtual only): This workshop explains how to proactively use LinkedIn for job searches and pulls back the curtain to show how recruiters use LinkedIn to find potential employees, which you can use in your employment opportunities.

Salary Negotiations (virtual only): Salary Negotiations explores the tools and techniques to handle salary negotiations. This workshop is designed to take the mystery out of salary negotiation and walks attendees through how to conduct salary research to position yourself effectively during negotiation.

Employment Rights (virtual only): Employment Rights cover basic employment protections as well as those protections specific to veterans. It provides essential information on the American Disabilities Act, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. Information on reasonable accommodations and selfadvocacy will also be presented.

Thinking about changing careers? It’s time to find your passion and make that your priority.

OBTT will help you reach your employment and career goals. You served, you earned it; find your next victory with OBTT.

Explore and register for OBTT in-person or virtual workshops online at: www.dol.gov/obttworkshops