Homeland Magazine March 2021 by HOMELAND MAGAZINE

Vol. 10 Number 3 • March 2021

Homeland

Honoring Our Beloved Veterans

Resources Prevent Veteran Suicide

M A G A Z I NE

Women’s

Take Me Home Huey

History Month

Transition to Civilian Life

“Our History is our Strength”

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Resources Support Transition HEALTH INSPIRATION

Homeland Magazine www.HomelandMagazine.com

Voted 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020 BEST resource, support media for veterans, military families & military personnel. 2

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Honor Ride 2021 Honor Ride 2021 will be led by “Battle of the Bulge” machine gunner Vincent J. Speranza who is one of the Honor Flight distinguished veterans highlighted in the Purple Foxes United story. Motorcycle riders throughout our nation will ride to the Vietnam Veterans Wall in Washington, D.C. in May as a tribute to the fallen Vietnam War veterans. Honor Ride 2021 launches on May 15th at Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial.

How can you support? Sponsorship, please contact: cjmachado@LoveAmazinglyProductions.com Purchase a dog tag representing the 1585 POW/MIA from the Vietnam War. To purchase a dog tag in honor or memory of a veteran, or to learn more about Purple Foxes and Honor Ride 2021, go to:

www.purplefoxesunited.com

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EDITOR’S

LETTER

Publisher Editor-In-Chief Mike Miller mikemiller@HomelandMagazine.com

Contributing Writers Holly Shaffner Veteran Advocate

RanDee McLain, LCSW A Different Lens

Jenny Lynne Stroup Real Talk: Mental Health

Vicki Garcia

Enlisted to Entrepreneur

CJ Machado

SD Vets & Homeland Photojournalist

Kelly Bagla, Esq. Legal Eagle

Tana Landau, Esq. Legally Speaking

Joe Molina

Veterans Chamber of Commerce

Eve Nasby

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What’s Next - Transitioning

Amber Robinson Arts & Healing

Eva Stimson Greetings and a warm welcome to Homeland Magazine!

Veteran Advocate

Please take some time to get to know the layout of our magazine. The Magazine focuses on national resources, support, community, and inspiration for our veterans and the military families that keep it together.

Human Resources

Our magazine is driven by passion, vision, reflection and the future. The content is the driving force behind our magazine and the connection it makes with our veterans, service members, military families, and civilians. The magazine is supported by a distinguishing list of national veteran organizations, resource centers, coalitions, veteran advocates, and more. We are honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people. Homeland Magazine is a veterans magazine for veterans by veterans. We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of Homeland Magazine.

Mike Miller

Publisher/Editor mikemiller@HomelandMagazine.com 4

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Paul Falcone

Money Matters VA Lending & Personal Finance

Collaborative Organizations Wounded Warrior Project Rachel Bolles Disabled American Veterans American’s Warrior Partnership * Including National Veteran Organizations, Advocates & Guest Writers

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MARCH

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 7 Shared Hardship 10 Our History is our Strength 13 Stay Strong While Caregiving 14 VetCaregiver Check-In 16 Caregiving In Time of Covid -19 18 Caregivers Benefit From New Initiative 20 Take Me Home Huey 24 All For Doll 28 Resources Prevent Veteran Suicide 30 Gary Sinise Foundation - Launches Network 32 Real Talk: Strong, Confident Under Pressure 34 LENS: The Social Worker 38 What’s Next: What’s in a Name 42 Evangel: Here to serve those who serve 44 Human Resources: Tough Conversations 50 Enlisted to Entrepreneur: Debunking Myths 52 Veterans Chamber: Education 54 Legal Eagle: Minimum Wage CA 56 Money Matters: Credit on Track 58 When a Parent becomes a Caregiver 60 Shelter To Soldier - Graduates

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P R O U D LY S E RV I N G T H O S E

WHO SERVE WHO WE ARE Serving since 2003, Operation Gratitude is the largest and most impactful nonproﬁt in the country for hands-on volunteerism in support of Military, Veterans, and First Responders.

Deployed Troops

First Responders

3,000,000

Military, Veterans and First Responders Impacted

OVER

1 Million VOLUNTEERS

OUR MISSION To forge strong bonds between Americans and their Military and First Responder heroes through volunteer service projects, acts of Veterans

Recruit Graduates

gratitude and meaningful engagements in communities Nationwide.

WE BELIEVE Actions speak louder than words Saying “thank you for your service” is the start of a conversation that leads to a better understanding of service Hands-on volunteerism, acts of gratitude and meaningful engageWounded Heroes and Caregivers

Military Families

ments are the best ways to bridge the civilian-service divide We focus on empathy, resilience, service, and sacriﬁce rather than sympathy, challenges, needs, and pity

operationgratitude.com

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Shared hardship U.S. ARMY SIGNAL CORPS COLLECTION

Over the past century, women veterans have seen their options expand, but have services and respect kept pace? By Rob Lewis and Mary Dever

hen Opha May Johnson became the first woman to enlist in the Marine Corps in 1918, she took the oath to defend a nation that wouldn’t even allow her to vote. Even with the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which finally granted Johnson and all other American women the right to a voice at the ballot box, gaining respect, support and appreciation for their contributions in uniform has been slow. Since the founding of our nation, women have served and sacrificed—first to establish and then to defend our republic. While this service has evolved from roles as nurses, telephone operators and typists to Army Rangers, special forces operators and fighter pilots, recognition and inclusion— including care for those women who have borne the wounds of battle or otherwise suffered disability as a result of their service—has been a persistent issue.

Delphine Metcalf-Foster, an Army veteran of the Persian Gulf War who went on to become DAV’s first woman national commander in 2017, said that being female in a male-dominated military culture strengthened her character and sharpened her fortitude. “It wasn’t easy,” she said in her acceptance speech. “But I’d like to believe I came through with the same fighting spirit that my male counterparts had.” In the years following the first Gulf War, Tammy Duckworth’s generation of women warriors continued to make advancements. She was commissioned in the Army Reserve in 1992 and went on to serve in the Illinois National Guard, where she ultimately became a Blackhawk helicopter pilot. During the Iraq War in 2004, her helicopter was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade—the crash resulting in the loss of both of her legs and partial use of one arm. Such hardship didn’t stop Duckworth from seeing out her military career, and following her retirement as a lieutenant WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

Above: Army nurses arrive in Scotland, 1944. (National Archives). Right: Linda Bryant enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) in May 1977, 17 months before the WAC was disbanded. Bryant was one of the first women to integrate into previously all-male units. (Photo by Spc. David M. Ryder/U.S. Army)

colonel, she went on to first serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and then to become the first double amputee to serve in the U.S. Senate. “I’ve never tried to be a trailblazer. I’ve just tried to do my job,” said Duckworth, who was named DAV’s Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year in 2008. Duckworth said that as women have continued to prove themselves on the battlefield and beyond, their respect and responsibilities have only increased. “We’ve had multiple female four-star [generals] and flag officers, and I think that’s really fantastic,” she said. “You’re seeing even more and more women lead veterans organizations—especially women who have combat time under their belt. “I think this is all good. I think greater diversity at every level is good for veterans organizations and good for our military.” While the population of women in the military has grown and their roles have expanded to include serving in combat operations and experiencing the same war-related injuries suffered by their male peers, women have had to fight for equal access to Department of Veterans Affairs health care services and benefits. Moreover, too many women veterans report they feel as if they don’t belong or that they are not welcome when seeking the care and specialized services they need. More than 60% of women veterans using VA services 8

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have a service-connected condition and are eligible for a lifetime of benefits and care, yet many women who served don’t believe they are eligible for these benefits because of their gender. “I believe the major challenges facing women veterans today are that we are still not being seen as equal to our male counterparts. We are just as much a veteran as men are, but with some unique issues,” said DAV National Service Officer Naomi Mathis, a disabled Air Force veteran who served in Iraq. “I recently was asked, again, if my husband was my sponsor for my TRICARE health benefit. It’s imperative that we are seen to fight right alongside, shoulder to shoulder, with our male counterparts so people can see that we can bring a different perspective as a woman.” Recent legislative victories supported by DAV, including the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020, which included 22 provisions from the Deborah Sampson Act, have started leveling the health care playing field in terms of improving access to care and benefits, increasing VA staff cultural competency, and ending sexual assault and harassment within the VA. Among many other things, this legislation requires the creation of an Office of Women’s Health within the VA, establishment of a VA policy to end sexual assault and harassment, expansion of treatment and counseling for

Left: In 1990, Lt. Cmdr. Darlene Iskra became the first woman assigned to command a U.S. Navy ship—the USS Opportune. (Photo by JO1 Mike O’Shaughnessy/U.S. Navy). Below: From left, Army Capt. Kristen Griest, Army Reserve Maj. Lisa Jaster and Army 1st Lt. Shaye Haver were the first women to gain the coveted Ranger tab. (Paul Abell/AP Images for U.S. Army Reserve)

“I’ve never tried to be a trailblazer. I’ve just tried to do my job.” —Sen. Tammy Duckworth, DAV Outstanding Disabled Veteran of the Year, 2008

members and truly recognizes the service and sacrifice of our nation’s women veterans.” There is still work to do, but as long as women veterans continue to face challenges wrought by inequality, DAV will be there beside them in the battle for change. “DAV draws no line at male or female when it comes to the word ‘veteran,’” Mathis said. “We have led the charge, and remain in the forefront, of making sure the country knows that, man or woman, veterans put their lives on the line for our country.” n

sexual trauma, improvements to the Women Veterans Call Center, child care and legal support services for certain veterans, studies on infertility services, and prioritized retrofitting of VA medical facilities to accommodate women veteran patients. “The passage of this comprehensive bill at the end of the 116th Congress reflects the commitment to ensuring we’re continuing to refine and improve care and support services for women veterans,” said National Legislative Director Joy Ilem. “It represents years of hard work and advocacy by DAV

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Women’s History Month - “Our History is our Strength” By Martha Wheelock, Board Member, BWHA, Filmmaker. March is Women’s History Month, and the National Women’s History Alliance encourages us all to continue the recognition of the Centennial of the 19th Amendment, granting all American women their right to vote. Our current pandemic deferred many events to celebrate the long road for women to win the vote. But the delay in 2020 is in keeping with how the 1918 pandemic nearly derailed the suffrage movement in the middle of their 70-year campaign for their enfranchisement. On the brink of the 19th amendment’s passage by Congress, to go out to the states for ratification, suffragists halted their campaigns to align themselves with the public health mandates of no mass meetings or gatherings. There could be no more parades, no more lobbying, no rallies, no more petitions or speaking tours, or even door to door canvassing. Resourceful suffragists had to call on their perseverance to devise creative ways to demand their right to vote before the public and Congress. With no social media and limited radio, their tools were paper – mailings, ads in newspapers, and even papering trees with their arguments.

Photo’s: Library of Congress www.loc.gov

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The women called upon Americans to recognize their contributions to World War I, which began in April 1917 and was winding down by late 1918. Women had volunteered as nurses, doctors, and train conductors. They took over the work in fields and agricultural processing (“Farmerettes”); they were crucial workers in factories, making bombs and products. Woman’s Right to Vote was certainly a proper reward for their wartime work and sacrifice. The 1918 pandemic also reduced the “troops” of women working for Suffrage; many succumbed to the Flu, including suffrage leader Carrie Chapman Catt, “chained to her bed” by the flu. Suffragists nursed pandemic victims. This “sudden and sweeping epidemic of influenza… is bringing sorrow into many suffrage homes and is presenting a serious new obstacle to our …campaigns, “ (Carrie Chapman Catt, President, National American Suffrage Association, to supporters, 1918)

Suffragists from the National Women’s Party, the liberal branch of the movement, did not turn themselves over to the war effort. Rather, they continued to picket the White House with Banners declaring their demand for the vote here in America, when the US was involved over in Europe protecting Democracy abroad. These silent sentinels sustained the voting issue in front of the Government. Suffragist overcame the epidemic, the flu, the mandates for social distancing, and even attacks against their street demonstrations. They persevered and never gave up. Finally, on August 26, 1920, the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, became constitutional law. Women won against all odds; they persisted in our progress towards full equality for all Americans.

Join Us

The National Women’s History Alliance has resources, information and events for us to celebrate and recognize this important chapter of American History. Take a moment this March to learn more about what women underwent to win your right to vote. There are films, books, and essays, and great suffrage goods to wear and commend this victory. Join us. -www.nwhp.org

Homeland Magazine Voted 2018, 2019 & 2020 BEST resource, support magazine for veterans, transitioning military personnel, active military, military families & veteran organizations

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Photo’s: National Museum of American History Smithsonian Institution - www.americanhistory.si.edu

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5 Ways to Stay Strong While Caregiving in 2021 By Raquel Rivas

In 2020, there were hard days followed by harder days for Christine Schei, caregiver to her son Erik. While deployed in Iraq with the U.S. Army in 2005, a sniper’s bullet hit Erik, causing paralysis and brain injury. Anyone who has known Christine during the past 15 years knows that Christine is strong enough to do it alone. She fearlessly tackled becoming a full-time caregiver for Erik from day one. She quit her job, sold a house to move closer to her son’s doctors, and has fiercely advocated for her son’s health.

With experience, Christine has come to appreciate that she doesn’t have to do it alone.

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Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) gave Christine, her husband Gordon, and Erik’s two siblings a little breathing room through its Independence Program. The program serves nearly 700 warriors and 500 caregivers around the nation, helping those living with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury, or neurological conditions. Christine remains Erik’s primary caregiver and has dedicated herself to learning about brain injury, navigating VA care, and being at Erik’s side 24/7. Still, she takes time to be an advocate for herself and take care of her own well-being.

Christine provided some suggestions to help caregivers manage the stress of a pandemic:

Without constant care and therapy, Erik would lose the range of motion he has gained in his legs, arms, and torso muscles. Leaving him, even for a short while, is nerve-wracking for Christine. And as her parents age, visiting them in Germany and helping to take care of them — and Erik — seems impossible.

1) Talk with other caregivers. In the last year, with scarce networking opportunities, Christine kept in touch with a caregiver friend via phone. “She understands me, and we hope we’ll be able to have a cup of coffee together again soon.”

“I do want to see my parents again,” Christine said. “I might never be able to do the things I thought I was going to do as I approach retirement age,” Christine said. “But this is my child. This is someone who went to fight for our freedom, for my protection. If he wakes up with a smile on his face every morning and doesn’t complain about it, I don’t think I have the right to complain because I can do all of these things for myself.”

2) Prioritize family interactions. “Shut off social media, stop doom-scrolling through the daily news, and enjoy the company of your immediate family,” Christine said firmly. 3) Set boundaries. After 8:30 p.m., and after Erik is settled in for the night, Christine retreats to her space to relax and pursue her own interests. “I close my bedroom door, and I watch what I want to watch on TV.”

The compassion Christine devotes to Erik has had farreaching ripple effects. Christine used her experience to advocate for caregivers, traveling to Washington, DC to lobby for the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act, which gives financial and other assistance to caregivers of severely wounded post-9/11 wounded veterans. She joined 18 other women who spent a day telling their stories to the legislators on Capitol Hill.

4) Find a hobby. Christine adopted online genealogy research as a hobby. The distraction proved fruitful when she was able to identify her husband’s grandfather, who came to the U.S. from Norway. 5) Ask for help when you feel burned out. It is normal to feel this way, and there’s no need to feel guilty. Reach out to organizations that are ready to help. Caregiving Is A Family Affair

The same ripple effects encircled those at home. Erik’s brother Deven enlisted in the Army because he felt he needed to “finish the job Erik started.” He eventually became an advocate for other veterans through WWP.

Christine is the first to tell you that being a military caregiver can be life-changing — and exhausting. In time, Erik learned to use a sip and puff motorized wheelchair and technology to interact with other veterans and play video games. He also participated in adaptive sports and even took part in WWP’s Soldier Ride® with help from his brother, also a veteran, who pulled him on a specially adapted tandem bike.

Erik’s sister was still in elementary school as family members rearranged their lives to care for Erik. Today, Anneka is a third-year nursing student who was inspired by her mother’s devotion to Erik. Support for the Long-Haul WWP offers support for veterans and caregivers through physical and mental health programs, including the Independence Program. WWP recently renewed its commitment to caregivers through individual grants, increased programming, and additional funding for respite hours through the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “It was such a wonderful surprise and shock when I got the call about the grant,” Christine said. “It made my heart smile to know that Wounded Warrior Project has not forgotten the caregivers of severely wounded warriors. During this quarantine, our stress and isolation have increased, and self-care has been difficult.” 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://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us

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Month of the Military Caregiver

HOMELAND / June 2015

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So often as caregivers, we are running so hard,

putting ourselves last, and not realizing we are burnt out until we fall ill. Or, we know we’re overwhelmed, but we accept it without question. What happens when the caregiver is down for the count - the wheels have a tendency to come off, don’t they? Make a promise to yourself to Check-In at least weekly. Better yet, do the same with a trusted caregiver or friend as an “accountability partner” so you don’t neglect to consider your own health. Ask these questions to start: · Am I eating well? Skipping meals, snacking too much? · Do I laugh each day? Red flag if you don’t find something amusing each day, even if you don’t laugh out loud. How many times do we text LOL, but not DO it? · Am I drinking enough water? Do I exist on coffee and soda instead? · Do I spend quiet time, reflective time, prayer, or meditation each day? · Am I sleeping well or enough? · Do I get exercise each day? · Do I interact with others each day? In-person is preferable, but at least by phone to hear a voice or online if all else fails. If you’re aware that you’re not checking in, or struggling when you do, we urge you to talk to someone professionally. Many physicians are only now realizing the strain caregivers carry and how to assist you, but it’s growing. Seek community resources such as faithbased counseling, or call Give An Hour (www. GiveAnHour.org) for cost-free help. Life is so precious and perhaps you cannot change your situation, but you can change aspects of taking care of you. Caregivers are the heartbeat of the family, and make the active choice to care for you. HOMELAND / June 2015 15

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CAREGIVING

Serving as a family caregiver, whether during a health crisis or chronic illness, is a noble, honorable and magnificent act of love. But caregiving can also be relentless, isolating and sometimes scary to have so much responsibility. At CaringBridge, we honor the selflessness of caregiving, and the parents, spouses, siblings, adult children and dear friends thrust into the role, often without warning, when life turns on a dime.

Caregiving in Time of COVID-19 Remains a ‘Crisis on Top of Crises,’ but Hope Shines Through - By Patricia McMorrow

Ana van Koeverden, 15, has lived with brain cancer since she was 3. To protect her from COVID-19 ahead of a successful surgery in July, her whole family, including Calla, her Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, was on lockdown for nearly three months. For every patient whose health is the topic of a CaringBridge site there is a family caregiver. Most times, more than one. And with 1 in 5 Americans now counted as family caregivers—53 million across the country, according to the Caregiving in the U.S. 2020 report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving—it’s likely you are, or were, a caregiver. Or that you know one. Caregiving has always been a hard job. But adding a pandemic to the mix has made sadly true something nearly every family caregiver hears, at one time or another: “I don’t know how you manage.” At CaringBridge, though, where 300,000 people visit daily, we have a broad sense of how family caregivers have been managing. And no one is calling it easy. Facing coronavirus and/or protecting patients from it has been described as “a crisis on top of crises.” 16

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Christin and Paul Gigstad with their son, Carson, showing a 3-D print of his original heart, given as a gift by Mayo Clinic on the first anniversary of Carson’s heart transplant. Research by the national consulting firm Magid, with whom CaringBridge works, shows people struggling with negative emotions related to the pandemic: 40 percent said they feel anxious; 35 percent are stressed and uneasy; 29 percent reported feeling isolated. That’s how many family caregivers likely would have described themselves before “lockdown” became a way of life. Here’s a glimpse of what stress and uneasiness look like for some caregivers using CaringBridge: • A daughter whose mom lives in a memory-care facility hasn’t been able to visit in more than 5 months; • A mother whose son is higher-risk for COVID-19 after a heart transplant said she feels like she sleeps with one eye open in case anything might happen; • Parents are trying to hold onto precious vacation and sick time after their toddler son’s heart surgery was rescheduled for a second time, due to virus protocols.

Worst of all for family caregivers may be isolation, which CaringBridge exists to fight. Like you, we believe no one should go through a health journey alone. And with 7 in 10 sites started by caregivers on behalf of patients—a heartbreaking number created this year for those hospitalized with COVID-19—making the road less lonely for caregivers is always top-of-mind.

Put never-ending quarantine, fear of the unknown and lack of control on top of that, and caring for caregivers through the unknown needs to be a top priority. But moments of grace and hope shine through. On Day 26 of family quarantine before her teenage daughter, Ana, had surgery for brain cancer, Heather van Koeverden of Rochester, MN, wrote, “I don’t understand the ‘why’s’ of COVID-19, cancer, and many other complexities.

If there is a universal truth about family caregivers, it is that asking for help is hard. A pre-pandemic survey of CaringBridge users showed that while 53 percent could have used help with food, chores, transportation and finances, they very seldom asked.

I just know I must be grateful to be home right now, living the moments we have been given.”

Amy Beasley was mom, caregiver and baseball coach for her son, Andre, during his years of treatment for kidney cancer. Now 16, Andre’s health is stable. Also pictured are Andre’s brothers Austin and AJ, at right. Start a CaringBridge Site

And Amy Beasley of Somerset, WI, a CaringBridge author since 2013, when her son, Andre, was treated for cancer, and more recently when her dad had a stroke, has this message for caregivers:

When you’re going through a health journey, you have a lot on your plate. CaringBridge replaces the timeconsuming task of sharing your health news over and over. It’s a free, easy to use online journal for sharing health information with your family and friends.

“You are a lot stronger than you ever thought you were. So many people say, ‘Oh, I could never be as strong as you are going through this.’ But you have no choice. You will find a strength you never knew you had. I did, and you will, too.”

www.caringbridge.org/createwebsite www.caringbridge.org

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Campaign for inclusive

CARE

Dennis and Donna Joyner

Veterans, caregivers benefit from new initiative By Tom Jenkins

welve years ago, Donna Joyner had to make a difficult decision when her husband, Dennis, needed rotator cuff surgery on his shoulder. When his arm was put out of commission, Dennis—a triple amputee who was injured during his Army service in Vietnam— temporarily lost the use of his last remaining limb along with his ability to push his wheelchair. Donna, who worked for the DAV Department of Florida, chose to resign from her full-time position to take on the full-time role as her husband’s caregiver— a role she had already been performing throughout their 40 years of marriage. “It was really tough because that decision was made in about a day and there was no choice,” said Donna. “We

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just dealt with it. And, you know, at first I was furious. I had two years until I actually would get a pension, and everything went out the window. At first I was like, ‘Gee, what else?’ Then I thought of my husband whom I would do anything for. It’s just what you do.” For the next 12 years, the Joyners kept moving forward with no formal medical training and no means of compensation for Donna’s role as a caregiver, including her lost wages and retirement income. Dennis, a member of Chapter 16 in Orlando who served as DAV national commander from 1983 to 1984, not only personally knew the importance of having a family caregiver but also knew the struggle that thousands of others like them faced. The Joyners finally found relief last year. After years of helping DAV’s push for disabled veterans of all eras to be made eligible for the Department of Veterans

The expansion of the comprehensive caregiver program for families like Dennis and Donna Joyner has made a world of difference in their day-to-day lives and provided more peace of mind about the future.” —Joy Ilem, DAV national legislative director

Affairs’ Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers—the program that provides training for caregivers, along with a modest stipend and respite care, among other resources—the expansion of which began Oct. 1. On that date, in accordance with the VA MISSION Act of 2018, the VA began accepting program applications from Phase 1 veterans, those whose injuries or illness was incurred on or before May 7, 1975. For Dennis and Donna, the timeline from submitting their application to receipt of support services was a matter of weeks—and the program has already made a world of difference. “It provides a lot of different resources,” said Dennis. “It provides contact with the caregiver’s office in your area. You can call and talk with someone if you need advice, assistance, or they can help you figure out certain things.” In addition to an extensive training program, caregivers like Donna have answers and support for issues that have loomed over them for decades. “It was quite scary, not knowing what would happen to Dennis should something happen to me,” said Donna. “Thankfully, I did have family backing me up. However, I think of all the people that don’t have that, and where do they go? Now they have a resource to go to. Now, I can turn to the caregiver program and say, OK, we need some help in this direction.” “The expansion of the comprehensive caregiver program for families like Dennis and Donna Joyner has made a world of difference in their day-to-day lives and provided more peace of mind about the future,” said DAV National Legislative Director Joy Ilem. “This program provides needed training, support from VA

staff, and tips that remind caregivers it is important to take care of themselves so they can provide the best care for their veteran or loved one. Dennis can rest assured that if Donna is no longer able to care for him at some point, there are now other options. For Donna, just the acknowledgment and support this benefit brings helps her continue on in this critical role and feel like she is not alone anymore.” Along with the changes to the caregiver program, the Campaign for Inclusive Care, created to actively include caregivers in veterans’ medical care, will now begin to filter across the VA. The campaign, in partnership with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, aims to equip medical professionals with training to better support both veterans—specifically those receiving geriatric, polytrauma and traumatic brain injury care—and their caregivers. Veterans with a 70% or higher single or combined service-connected disability rating are considered eligible within the Campaign for Inclusive Care. For the Joyners, changes like these have been a long time coming, and despite the decades of financial difficulty and emotional strain, the support comes at a crucial time for them and for many veterans of Vietnam, Korea and World War II. “You take on a lot when you’re a caregiver,” said Donna. “I might be getting older, but I’m doing probably more than ever.” n

Learn More Online Learn more about the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers at dav.la/2ls and the Campaign for Inclusive Care at dav.la/2lt. Photo: Courtesy LA Rams (Nov 17, 2019)

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Take Me Home Huey By Holly Shaffner On March 29th, the United States will recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day. On that day in 1973, Hanoi released the last of its acknowledged prisoners of war, and the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, more than 2.7 million American military members served. Of those, 58,000 Americans were killed and 1,585 are still missing. Returning home, many of these service members faced harsh public criticism and were not welcomed as war heroes compare to veterans from previous wars. In addition, they were often left alone with mental health challenges that followed their traumatic war experiences. Artist Steve Maloney created a unique project entitled Take Me Home Huey to honor all Vietnam veterans who served and to heighten awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS). The heart of the four-part project is a stunning 47foot Huey helicopter that the artist sourced from a shattered U.S. Army helicopter - shot down in 1969 during a medevac mission in Vietnam - and transformed into a colorful work of art. The evolution of the artistic creation and the search for the surviving crew members is documented in an Emmy-award winning film and supported by a powerful song.

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By choosing a Huey helicopter, Maloney found a natural magnet for Vietnam veterans who remember the aircraft as a lifeline from combat zones into safety.

The artist wanted to share the transformed Huey helicopter and its mission with as many as possi-ble, so he traveled it for nearly three years around the country to 29 major museums and events in 13 different states. On exhibit, veterans felt an immediate connection with the aircraft and walked up to touch its sides. They recognized their squadron names and the call signs incorporated into the artwork and responded to the symbolic imagery woven into the piece. Many then opened up to share their stories of war and the continuous struggle with PTSD that they often face. “Art can inspire conversation and help those who are struggling with their invisible wounds to start talking about it”, said Maloney. The Take Me Home Huey sculpture has been donated and is on permanent exhibit at the Palm Springs Air Museum in California. However, the Take Me Home Huey project continues to find ways to help Vietnam veterans heal.

“The Take Me Home Huey Project gave me a chance to contribute to the healing of others and reunited me with the surviving member of my crew,” said Eric Berla, Medevac Pilot 15th Medevac Battalion, 1st Calvary, U.S Army. “I like all of us, carried my survivor guilt and other wounds for many years.” The newest part of the project is a 216-page hardcover book containing 180 stunning photos. It will be released on March 29th, in honor of National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

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After touring the country, meeting veterans, veteran families, hearing their feedback and listening to their personal stories, this was the perfect opportunity to memorialize the project and its experiences. Through Maloney’s narrative, the book provides vital context for the entire project through interviews with the surviving medevac crewmen, other veterans, PTSD survivors, doctors, art thera-pists, and historians, including Joe Galloway, the official spokesperson of the national Vietnam War Commemoration. With the addition of personal stories from those touched by the artwork, the book adds a new dimension to the art of the war memorial and is a perfect capstone to the Take Me Home Huey project.

“Inspirational, impactful, and thought-provoking. … An emotional treasure of passion.”

Take Me Home Huey is dedicated to the 2,709,918 Americans who served in Vietnam.

- Robert V. “Bobby” McDonald, U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam War and member, Veteran Advisory Council, Orange County, CA

“I am honored to genuinely say Take Me Home Huey is the Proudest Thing I Have Done!” - Artist Steve Maloney The book can be pre-ordered for $45 and the artist is donating a portion of the book sales to art therapy programs for veterans.

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For questions, comments, or to collaborate, please email: info@takemehomehuey.com To learn more about us, order the book, or film, go to: www.TakeMeHomeHuey.org

TAKE ME HOME HUEY a multi-media project honoring American Heroes through Art

Now the project has been captured in a stunning book. Join us for LIVE STREAMING program hosted by singer & composer Jeanie Cunningham and museum director Fred Bell

VIRTUAL BOOK LAUNCH March 29, 2021 4 PM PST From the Palm Springs Air Museum - Interviews and Q&A is is a free online event. For more info go to: https://takemehomehuey.org/book/ A portion of the proceeds from the book sales will be donated to beneet art therapy programs for veterans.

www.takemehomehuey.org

info@takemehomehuey.org

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All For Doll Xenia, Ohio or Bust!

Skytrooper D-Day Doll never misses an opportunity to honor our beloved veterans, especially those who served during WWII. This April 23-25, the Commemorative Air Force’s (CAF) D-Day Doll Inland Empire Wing (IEW) based out of Riverside, California has committed to travel to Xenia, Ohio to participate in Toccoa Original, Jim “Pee Wee” Martin’s 100th Birthday Jump Fest. D-Day Doll along with the CAF C-47 “That’s All Brother,” will drop WWII paratroop reenactors in honor of Pee Wee. “That’s All Brother” was the lead aircraft of the main group of paratroopers on D-Day, June 6, 1944. The event is expected to be the largest birthday tribute of 2021! Pee Wee’s 100th Birthday Jump Fest is a tribute to a member of the hailed 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles,” who are still adorned as the WWII Liberators of Europe for freeing their citizens from Nazi Germany. “Pee Wee,” nicknamed for his small stature during training, parachuted in Normandy on D-Day, Operation Market Garden in Holland and survived the Battle of the Bulge.

Pee Wee served with G Company, 3rd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR), 101st Airborne Division. “We are honored to be part of Jim “Pee Wee” Martin’s 100th birthday celebration in Ohio this April. Pee Wee and veterans like him are deserving of our respect and gratitude for their war time service to the United States of America,” expressed IEW D-Day Doll’s, CAPT Stephen Rose. The remaining WWII “Screaming Eagles” will be in attendance, including Bob Izumi (97), Tom Rice (99), Dan McBride (97) and Vincent J. Speranza (96). “This may be the last time the WWII “Screaming Eagles” will be together due to COVID travel restrictions and we intend to honor them while they’re still with us,” expressed Dave Krasner, Founder of W and R Vets 501c3 organization which is hosting the event. Continued on next page >

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The Commemorative Air Force’s Inland Empire Wing’s, D-Day Doll is a specialized paratroop variant (C-53D) of the DC-3 aircraft built during WWII to transport troops and cargo. D-Day Doll was built July 6, 1943 by Douglas Aircraft in Santa Monica, California. She was #138 in the production line and out of the 380 C-53 aircraft built, only 159 were D models like Doll. D-Day Doll carried troops and Gliders on D-Day during “Operation Overlord.” D-Day was the largest Allied invasion against Nazi Germany. Seventy-five years later, D-Day Doll was called to service once more; to return to Normandy and take part in the largest living historical event of our lifetime. She crossed the Atlantic and the English Channel led by the D-Day Squadron, an American fleet of 15 vintage DC-3’s/C-47’s to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day. Hundreds of parachutists in WWII period uniform were dropped during the ceremony. D-Day Doll’s amazing journey was documented in the films Libertas (released November 2019, Coronado Island Film Festival) and the highly anticipated D-Day Squadron documentary called Into Flight Once More, which is currently in post-production. Today, Doll continues to serve our community and our veterans in many commemorative ceremonies, dropping parachutists and participating in flyovers all over the world.

In order to help fund Doll’s journey from California to Xenia, Ohio (Pee Wee’s hometown), the “All For Doll” campaign was created by the 100th Birthday Jump Fest organizers. CJ Machado, veteran advocate, Homeland Magazine’s photojournalist, award-winning filmmaker and producer of the Libertas documentary is leading this campaign. “Our hope is to support those organizations that honor our veterans. D-Day Doll has served our country, our veterans and its citizens for over 75 years. We want to make certain she continues her tremendous work in preserving our history for generations to come,” stated CJ Machado. The “All for Doll” campaign will include commemorative watches from “The Lost Watch of D-Day” series honoring Doll’s service and Pee Wee’s 100th birthday, collector pinup art and all things related to D-Day Doll and her contributions to history. You can support the “All For Doll” campaign by shopping online at AllForDoll.shop or Pinups.shop If you would like to register as a parachutist or attend Pee Wee’s 100th Birthday Jump Fest, please visit: www.WandRVets.org This event is FREE to the public. VIP packages and sponsorship are available. We will be following COVID-19 guidelines and all WWII guests have been encouraged to be vaccinated prior to attending.

For the 76th Anniversary of D-Day (June 6, 2020), Doll flew Honor Flight San Diego volunteers and WWII paratrooper Tom Rice over his hometown of Coronado, California. At 97 years of age, Rice parachuted with Tandem Jump Master, Art Shaffer of the Round Canopy Parachuting Team (RCPT) -USA for the 75th anniversary commemoration ceremony in Normandy, France. They landed in the town of Carentan on the same drop zone as Tom did on D-Day, 75 years earlier. His monumental jump received over 20 million views worldwide. “The Lost Watch of D-Day” is a tribute to Tom’s service, based on his D-Day experience. The Praesidus watch makers created an A-11 commemorative time piece, replicating the wristwatch Tom lost as he jumped out the door on D-Day. To learn more about “The Lost Watch of D-Day,” visit www.Praesidus.com

Photo By: Pinup photographer, Greg Siller with www.Active7media.com and D-Day Doll Nose Art artist, Jerri Bergen at www.VictoryGirl.com Contributors: Praesidus, author Bob Lewis, D-Day Experience, Kat Kuehn Designs

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ALL

OLL D OR

“TEAM TOM RICE” Dog Tags www.dday-experience.com

Ladies Evening Gloves Kat Kuehn Designs

WWII Paratrooper Tom Rice’s “The Lost Watch of D-Day” www.Praesidus.com

Parachute Dress by, Ingenieur et chercheur de soie - Robere V. Louis www.LadiesofSkydiving.com

Photographer, Greg Siller “Pin-Up Girl” CJ Machado D-Day Doll pilot, CAPT Stephen Rose

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Community Resources to Prevent Veteran Suicide By Cheree Tham, Co-Founder, Vice President of Programs and Initiatives, America’s Warrior Partnership Military veteran suicide is a public health crisis that affects everyone from veterans to family members, caregivers, friends, and co-workers. Thankfully, a growing number of resources, programs, and initiatives empower communities to combat this crisis. America’s Warrior Partnership has hosted a series of Facebook Live discussions to raise awareness of what communities and individuals can do to support suicide prevention. Here is a recap of best practices that have been shared on these broadcasts. Take an Upstream Approach Dr. Eric Caine of the University of Rochester Medical Center discussed the importance of upstream approaches to suicide prevention. Support services and organizations must engage veterans before they end up in a distressful situation. For example, suppose a veteran begins withdrawing from their social circles because of chronic pain. In that case, we should consider how they can adjust their routine to prevent them from becoming too isolated. Something as simple as a friend or family member taking them out for coffee each week can help the veteran feel connected to their community and empowered to reach out for support. Leverage Hotlines and Connections Jay Town, former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, stressed the need to ensure veterans are aware of available resources from the first day they remove their uniforms. Hotlines such as the Veterans Crisis Line provide invaluable support during a crisis, while local veteran groups can connect individuals and families with resources outside the community. Any veteran experiencing a crisis should immediately contact the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1 or texting 838255. Tap into Local Networks John Boerstler, CEO of Combined Arms, explained the difficulty that can arise in supporting veterans who live in isolated areas. Texas, where Combined Arms is based, contains one of the country’s largest veteran populations, many of whom live in remote rural communities. 28

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Community Resources County veteran service officers and social media groups are a crucial means of distributing information to veterans, and communities can amplify the resources allocated through these networks. Individuals and organizations should tap into resources such as the Texas Veterans Network to get the latest information and share it with the veterans in their networks. Understand Local Issues Steve Yamamori, President and CEO of the Reveille Foundation, shared how local service providers can raise awareness of veterans’ unique challenges in a community, which ultimately ensures local resources have appropriate allocation. In Arizona, where the Reveille Foundation is based, service providers understand that homelessness is a particular issue for veteran communities in the state. Veterans make up 2% of Arizona’s population, yet they also make up 30% of the state’s homeless population. Focusing on the issues specific to a community will help empower veterans to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk factors that can lead to suicide.

Improve our Understanding of Veteran Suicide Each Facebook Live discussion closed with a call for viewers and listeners to support suicide prevention within their communities. One way for individuals to take action is by participating in Operation Deep Dive (OpDD), a community-based veteran suicide prevention study led by America’s Warrior Partnership and researchers from the University of Alabama with support from the Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation. The study is currently looking for interview participants who have lost a veteran or former service member to suicide or a non-natural cause of death. The goal of the interviews is to understand how a deceased veteran engaged within their community and how the community can better support veterans in the future. Interview participants must be 18 years old or older and have known a relative, loved one, friend or co-worker who was a veteran and died by suicide or a non-natural cause of death within the last 24 months. Additionally, both the interviewee and the veteran must have lived in one of the 15 states where the study is active. Those include Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas.

WOUNDS WE CANNOT SEE Post Traumatic Stress Disorder does not always allow the affected to seek help. Lend a hand and provide them with methods of help, listen and be a friend. Homeland Magazine works with nonprofit veteran organizations that help more than 1 million veterans in life-changing ways each year.

To learn more and contact the research team to participate, visit our website at: www.americaswarriorpartnership.org/deep-dive About the Author

Cheree Tham holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). She is the Principal Investigator (PI) with America’s Warrior Partnership for Operation Deep Dive (OpDD). OpDD is a community-based study of veteran suicide, asphyxiation, drowning, death by law enforcement and single driver high-speed car accident.

Resources. Support. Inspiration. At Homneland Magazine you can visit our website for all current and past articles relating to PTSD, symptoms, resources and real stories of inspiration.

About America’s Warrior Partnership America’s Warrior Partnership is a national nonprofit that empowers communities to empower veterans. The organization’s mission starts with connecting community groups with local veterans to understand their unique situations. With this knowledge in mind, America’s Warrior Partnership connects local groups with the appropriate resources to proactively and holistically support veterans at every stage of their lives.

Resources & Articles available at: www.HomelandMagazine.com

FIGHTING PTSD

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THE GARY SINISE FOUNDATION LAUNCHES NATIONAL NETWORK TO COMBAT POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS AND TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY AMONG VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS By Ricardo Chavira, Senior Director of Marketing & Communications, The Gary Sinise Foundation

Last month, actor and philanthropist Gary Sinise and

his namesake foundation launched a cognitive health and mental wellness network providing transformative care to veterans and first responders experiencing posttraumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, and substance abuse: the Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network. The network builds on the work of the Marcus Institute for Brain Health and the Boulder Crest Foundation’s Warrior PATHH (Progressive and Alternative Training for Healing Heroes) program. Twenty treatment sites will be established nationwide serving veterans, first responders, and their families. “When I formed the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011, it was rooted in a personal mission to provide support, raise spirits, and improve the mental wellness of our nation’s heroes and their families,” Gary Sinise said. “Always wanting to do more, as the foundation approaches its 10th anniversary this June, I am proud to announce the launch of the Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network.” Sinise went on to say, “This cognitive health and mental wellness network will further expand our services to veterans and first responders experiencing posttraumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, and substance abuse to help heal the invisible wounds afflicting too many of our veterans and first responders, transforming struggle into strength, and lifelong post-traumatic growth.” The groundwork of the network was laid by philanthropists and co-founders of The Home Depot, Bernie Marcus, and Arthur M. Blank, who each invested $20 million from their personal foundations. “We’ve lost more veterans to suicide than we have on the battlefields of the Global War on Terror,” Bernie Marcus explained. “Our veterans and their families put their lives on the line for us, and they deserve the highest level of care available. The Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network is ready to serve our veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war.” “I couldn’t be more pleased to partner with Bernie Marcus again to support a cause that’s important to both of us, the well-being of the individuals in our armed forces and our first responders,” Arthur Blank said. 30

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“We’ve found the perfect partner in the Gary Sinise Foundation to scale this idea into a national network that will provide cutting-edge care and improve the quality of life for our nation’s heroes in one of the most critical times in our history.” The network’s name comes from Arthurian legend: Avalon was the sanctuary where King Arthur was taken to heal physically and spiritually after being wounded in battle. In that spirit, the Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network is designed to address and help heal the epidemic of “invisible wounds” that afflict veterans and first responders. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress (PTS) affect nearly 1 out of every 3 military personnel deployed to war zones since 2001. An estimated 30% of first responders also experience symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress. “Invisible wounds” and the changes in psychological health that accompany these conditions have visible manifestations including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicide. And this epidemic is not just affecting veterans and first responders but their families too. Unlike physical wounds, invisible wounds can be passed on from one generation to the next. The Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network expands on the Marcus Institute for Brain Health’s and Boulder Crest Foundation’s expertise and successes to create a nationwide, integrative traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress treatment and training network. By leveraging the science of posttraumatic growth — a framework that explains the positive transformation that can occur following trauma — the Gary Sinise Foundation Avalon Network will empower veterans and first responders to cope with and overcome trauma. www.garysinisefoundation.org/avalon-network

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Real Talk: Mental Health By Jenny Lynne Stroup, Outreach Coordinator for the Cohen Clinic at VVSD

Strong. Confident. Really good under pressure. These words describe the female veterans, female service members, and female military spouses in my life. Each of these groups flexes those strengths in different ways on different days, but they are all defining characteristics that each embodies.

While being strong, confident, and really good under pressure took me far in my military life, learning to let my vulnerabilities show- to rely on a tribe of equally strong and confident women is what has made my life richer. Living in the tension of exuding both strength and vulnerability reminds me of a gym incident that left me with a scraped elbow, a bruised ego, and a reminder that I’m not meant to do life alone. At the end of a rather grueling class, the trainer had us do a “fun” exercise: handstands with the assistance of our TRX bands and a partner. Our partner was supposed to act as a spotter and assist the person doing the handstand by guiding her feet and legs into position. Said spotter was also supposed to catch you when you fall. My “fun” exercise ended in a dramatic swinging of the hooked-up leg into the person next to meas I tried desperately and failed to keep myself upright. My partner was not payingattention. Good news, the non-skid caught me. That’s the thing about non-skid, it’s intended to stop things from moving, and it does its job well. I came to a crashing halt on my left elbow. I stood up, brushed myself off, quickly scanning my body for signs of a crash landing, but mostly checking my pride. The ache in my elbow was nothing compared to the embarrassment I felt about not being able to catch myself. 32

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But that’s the thing. I wasn’t supposed to catch myself. No one is. No matter how strong, confident, and really good under pressure someone is, she doesn’t have to catch herself, to do life alone under her own strength and power. I am grateful to work in an environment that is full of strong, confident women, who do not leave their teammates to catch themselves on the non-skid that is life. They are excellent spotters. Not only for those of us who have the privilege of working with and for them, but also for their clients.

Because they are female veterans, military wives, and grown-up military daughters they are intimately familiar with both the frequency and ways military life asks women to flex their strength, confidence, and really good under pressure muscles. But they are most skilled at coming alongside someone who is willing to ask for help, to let her vulnerability show. As clinicians and staff at one of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinics as part of Cohen Veterans Network, they know we cannot do this life alone and they make sure we don’t have to. They turn vulnerability, which can feel like a weakness, into the thing that propels us forward, returning us to our communities stronger, more confident, and better under pressure.

Jenny Lynne Stroup serves as the Outreach Coordinator for the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Veterans Village of San Diego. www.vvsd.net/cohenclinicsandiego The Cohen Clinic at VVSD is one of 19 mental health clinics nationwide under nonprofit Cohen Veterans Network(CVN) which focuses on providing targeted treatmentsfor a variety of mental health challenges facing post-9/11 veterans and military families, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, transition challenges, and more.

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A Different Lens Mental Health Monthly By RanDee McLain, LCSW

Who is a Social Worker? What do they do?

A primary responsibility of Social Workers is to promote the wellbeing of clients we serve.

Do they take children away from unsafe living environments? Do help patients in hospitals get connected to benefits?

• Jeanette Rankin-The first woman elected to the U.S. Congress.

Was it just me or was that the only thing we heard about social workers growing up?

• Frances Perkins, a Social Worker, was the first woman to be appointed to the Cabinet of a U.S President.

I was recently asked what a social worker does. What is a day in the life of a Social Worker like? Today, I negotiated a program move, edited multiple learning agreements for student interns, de-escalated a client, supervised staff, reviewed budget, spoke with court staff and so much more. All of this is aspects of social work. Social work is different every day. We are clinicians, advocates, policy makers, leaders, teachers and many other things. That is why I love the field of social work- it is such a broad field of practice. March is officially National Social Work Appreciation Month is the US. Let’s learn more about the amazing field of social work.

Famous Social Workers:

• Clara Barton- founded the American Red Cross in 1881 at the age of 60 and played a crucial role in shaping the organization. • Harry Hopkins- a close advisor to President Franklin Roosevelt, he helped create crucial New Deal programs like the Works Progress Administration and the Federal Emergency Relief Administration. He authored the official charter for the American Association of Social Workers

Columbia University offered the first class on social work in the summer of 1898. Jane Addams is considered the pioneer of Social Work and is best known for establishing settlement houses in Chicago for immigrants in early 1900’s. She was the first woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and a known community organizer and peace activist.

I do not often share this but I nearly gave up this profession three times in my first year of graduate school. I came from a military and law enforcement background. Additionally, I grew up in a fairly conservative part of the country. I found myself in California and at a very progressive school. I struggled with finding my place in the field and staying true to my values. I specifically recall a time I asked my best friend- what did I get myself into? This is too ‘hippy dippy’ for me. Ok the last part still makes me laugh- but I really struggled to find how I fit into social work.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards for social workers, and to advance sound social policies.

I had an amazing professor who gave me the space to grow and find my place. She also taught me it was important to remain true to myself in the process. She was able to show me that my values were very much in alignment with the principles which social work is founded on.

Social Work has six ethical principles we follow as a profession:

I continue to learn and grow in my field every day. I am an advocate, leader, policy changer, teacher, clinician….I am a Social Worker.

• Service • Social Justice • Dignity and Worth of a person 34

• Importance of Human Relationships • Integrity • Competence

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Take time to appreciate the Social Workers in your life! Happy Social Worker Appreciation Month!!

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BrainLineMilitary / BrainLine

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Are you caring for someone with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer's? Then the REACH2CAREGIVERS program is for you! This series is offered FREE and virtually to family caregivers to better understand memory loss, develop communication skills, learn stress management techniques and how to better care for yourself and your loved one. You don't have to do caregiving alone! Sign up today for our REACH2CAREGIVERS online class at https://bit.ly/REACHprogram. Southern Caregiver Resource Center has been offering services FREE direct services to the community for over 33 years. Our team of highly qualified professional staff supports families through a comprehensive inventory of programs and services.

Southern Caregiver Resource Center (800) 827-1008 or (858) 268-4432 scrc@caregivercenter.org I www.caregivercenter.org

WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

www.HomelandMagazine.com

PTSD COACH PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault. More than half of individuals experience at least one trauma in their lives. The National Center for PTSD offers FREE, confidential mobile apps that provide help, education, and support related to mental health.

Download PTSD Coach to:

Learn about PTSD and available treatments Track your PTSD symptoms over time Practice relaxation, mindfulness, and other stress-management exercises Grow your support network Access crisis resources

bit.ly/PTSDTreatmentWorksHomeland

PTSD Coach is not meant to replace professional care.

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WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

WHAT’S NEXT Transition to Civilian Life By Eve Nasby

What’s in a Name?

Sure God created man before woman, but then again you always make a rough draft before creating the final masterpiece. —Anonymous

Transition is tough, particularly for women. This month we’re honoring our female veterans and sharing Kalem’s experience. Yes, Kalem is a woman. A veteran. And a success story. Up until she was 40, she hated her name. From Navy to Family to Reject Kalem joined the Navy at 17. Her dream was to become an Orthodontist. As a child of a single parent, the money wasn’t there. So, her Dad signed her papers to enlist, and she spent the next 4 years excelling as a logistics specialist in Guam.

The Logistical Problem of a Name Kalem was determined to fit in and enter into the civilian workforce. Given her experience from the Navy, she applied for logistics positions at Home Depot and other warehouses for which she was incredibly qualified. Unfortunately, no one agreed. Feeling rejected again, she took an evening shift at a local Target to get her feet wet in the civilian workforce. She still continued to submit endless applications, but had no success. Then, a lightbulb went off. “What if I left the Male/Female selection box on the application blank?” She did. And then immediately was invited in for an interview at a warehouse role. Kalem stood in the warehouse lobby for 45 minutes with her resume before anyone acknowledged her. They expected Kalem to be a man. Once they realized she wasn’t, they did a cursory interview and politely said they wouldn’t hire her. There weren’t women in their warehouse and she wasn’t going to be their first. No is Not an Option Discouraged but not backing down, she threw her shoulders back, looked them straight in the eye and confidently said, “Look. I’ll work for you for one week for free and I guarantee I’ll tap dance around all of your male employees.” Intrigued by her gutsy approach, and the free labor, they took her up on it. For that week she worked at Target, took care of her 3-year-old, and out-performed the men at the warehouse. They hired her, at an even higher pay rate than the original offer. When she arrived, they asked what her goals were. She looked at the supervisor and said, “I want your job”. Three months later, Kalem became the logistics supervisor.

She got married and had a baby. Then, she made the tough decision to exit the military and focus on being a wife to an active-duty spouse and mom. Sadly, that didn’t work out. She was rejected as a veteran in residency and a simple military spouse. She no longer felt connected to her community and was alone as a new mom.

Kalem displayed strength and courage for 5 years at that job. When she left the company to care for her ailing mother-in-law, they called her weekly for a solid year for help. Kalem now works with ReBoot and helps set up seminars to help those in transition. Dave Grundies

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Here’s Kalem’s advice for women in transition: 1. Getting Help Helps! Kalem is strong on the outside, but like many, struggles with depression. It stems from feeling like she didn’t fit in anywhere. But getting help helps! There is no shame in admitting you need help. If you need counseling, get counseling. If you need medicine, get medicine. If you’re a victim of sexual assault or discrimination, don’t be afraid to get help. She says, “Life was not meant to walk alone. Reach out. Get help. Get healed inside and out. Then you can proceed in transitioning in a healthy state of mind.” 2. Self Esteem Can Be Boosted Confidence is tough when you feel like a fish out of water. Kalem was always embarrassed by her name - mistaken for a man sight-unseen, which impacted her. Then, she was told that she was ugly and disgusting. So sadly, that’s how she felt and still struggles with selfesteem issues. She went to 8 seminars on self-esteem before finally understanding that she wasn’t defined by what others say about her. She learned to combat these negative thoughts with affirmations and by reflecting on her vision board. 3. Make Your Vision Reality A vision board is a physical reflection of your goals. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just create something that helps you keep your eyes on the positive and a positive future for you. Kalem’s has statements like, “I wish to have a home filled with my girls laughing and playing. I wish to have a job where I am appreciated, doing something I love.” When thoughts of depression or discouragement come, she just focuses on her board and it centers her. It’s her “genie in a bottle!” 4. Embrace Looking Like a Lady Transitioning into the civilian world means, no more fatigues as your go-to outfit. It can feel overwhelming and uncomfortable to suddenly have to dress the part. She says, “If you have a teenage fashionista under your roof, you’re in luck. If not, find an honest friend who knows how to create a wardrobe and hit the thrift stores. Wear your clothes for a few days and get used to them, and it will feel more natural and comfortable.” Cosmetics can be overwhelming. If you’re a makeup newbee, Kalem advises to just go to a department store and ask for help on makeup products and tips. You don’t have to buy anything. Or, just search YouTube for simple tutorials. A few small enhancement tweaks will boost selfesteem and help with interviewing and networking. 5. Share Your Story Her final words of wisdom are an encouragement to share your story. She mentions how powerful and empowering it is to share your story. For Kalem it makes her feel proud of where she has been and where she is going, even though she doesn’t know what tomorrow will bring. Her name is Kalem. And she loves her name.

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HIRE THE BEST AT NO RISK Employers LOVE Hiring Veterans! www.bandofhands.com

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Join the Band of Hands Network to Start Hiring Talent at No Risk TODAY! 40

Contact Eve Nasby, President of Band of Hands and passionate military supporter to learn more and get started. eve@bandofhands.com

WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

Evangel University:

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.”

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.”

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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.

“When I first started the VA process, I did not know where to start.” Moore said. “This is why we made easy to follow checklists that give veterans or dependents a step-by-step method to getting their well-deserved education benefits.”

TAKE YOUR BEST NEXT STEP Flexible online degree programs

Affordable and flexible options As a yellow ribbon approved school, Evangel’s goal is to make the process of receiving an education both affordable and flexible. Our online courses maintain the same level of rigor as any classroom-setting course, while providing students with a flexible schedule and setting.

We accept military tuition assistance Yellow ribbon-approved

We accept military tuition assistance, and the Veterans Center coordinator is available for one-on-one customized support to help service members streamline the Veteran’s Administration (VA) and active-duty Tuition Assistance processes.

evangel.edu/goEU

855.700.0785

We have a long history of training military chaplains and providing a wide range of educational degrees to service members. We are here to help you with your education goals. To learn more about Evangel’s military benefits or to apply, visit our website at www.evangel.edu/military.

WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

HUMAN RESOURCES Transition to Business By Paul Falcone

Tough Conversations – Women’s Edition

Now if that title doesn’t grab your attention, I don’t

know what will! March is Women’s History Month in our editorial calendar, and this creates a great opportunity to shed some “corporate light” on an issue that sometimes leaves transitioning veterans wondering, how do I address tough situations in the corporate workplace relative to the military? Likewise, do women really have to change their natural styles to compete in corporate America? Having served in executive level roles in Fortune 500, international, non-profit, and union environments across the entertainment, healthcare/biotech, and financial services industries, I can say with 100% certainty that the Golden Rule we learned in the second grade still holds true: It’s not what you say but how you say it that counts. Following such a simple adage has made for many a great career. First, let’s get one thing clear: Kindness always wins. Most people want to associate themselves with leaders known for their competence, communication, and teambuilding skills. Kindness and respect get you there much quicker than any other path.

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So, don’t believe that you have to be mean or a “shark” to prosper in the corporate world. Be your natural self and practice kindness: all else will fall into place. Second, many leaders—male and female—practice avoidance in the workplace. It’s much easier to avoid problem situations rather than tackle them head on. Of course, you’ll want to choose your battles wisely, but sweeping things under the rug or otherwise hoping they fix themselves will typically only delay the inevitable and allow a problem to linger. When addressing problematic behavior, for example, adopt the words perception and perception management into your message. For example, you might say, “Regardless of your intentions, you may have inadvertently created a perception of being dismissive of other members of the team. I saw it myself today when you abruptly interrupted Sarah in the staff meeting. Perception is reality until proven otherwise. I have to hold you accountable for your own perception management just like I do myself and everyone else on the team. I want you to think about this from her perspective for a moment and let me know how you think she may have been feeling at that moment.”

Further, follow the axiom, What you want for yourself, give to another. A common question in executive coaching circles is, “Would you want to work for you?” Said another way, “If the whole company followed your lead, would you be happy with where you took it?” These types of questions often leave executives momentarily stunned because many haven’t ever reflected on what life must be like on the receiving end of their message or leadership style. And that’s the whole point of the exercise: raise your awareness about how you may be coming across and use this simple executive coaching exercise to think through who you choose to be relative to the concepts of leadership, communication, and team (AKA trust) building. Finally, recognize there are times where you’ll need to “show your teeth” and engage in corporate battle. When doing so, use guilt rather than anger as a human emotion leverage point. Anger is external and places 100% of the blame elsewhere. In comparison, guilt, in its healthiest form, helps people look internally and assume partial responsibility for a situation gone wrong. For example, replace “What were you thinking?” and “Why did you do that?” with “Share with me what you were considering when you were about to make that decision.” Follow up like this: “Diana, I wouldn’t have ever thought of addressing you that way in front of others because I respect you too much. I have to share with you that what you said in front of everyone felt embarrassing and really hurt. Did you really think that those were my intentions? How would you have felt if I spoke to you that way in front of the whole team?” The lesson? When in direct confrontation, give thought to how you can get the other person to respond, “Oh Paul, I didn’t mean any disrespect. I’m sorry if I somehow embarrassed you—that was never my intention.” And there you have it: partial responsibility for a situation gone wrong and a fixed problem without drama, histrionics, raised voices, or the like. These strategies, of course, aren’t gender bound. Which is the whole point of this article: great leaders are neither male nor female—they’re just great leaders. Don’t spend too much time thinking about fitting in as a female leader, be that as a manager or as an individual contributor: just be you, practice selfless leadership, and pay it forward. After all, the sign of a great leader doesn’t lie in the number of followers she has; it lies in her ability to create great leaders in turn.

Paul Falcone (www.PaulFalconeHR.com) is a human resources executive and bestselling author on hiring, performance management, and leadership development.

WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

READY TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CAREER? Talk to our friendly veterans admissions counselor today! admissions@icohs.edu (858)581-9460 www.icohs.edu Become a certified IT professional in 15 weeks with no prior experience necessary!

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The median IT job salary in the US was about $88,000 last year.

Counseling

WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

WHAT’S NEXT?

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BEFORE SERVED HONORABLY.

Workshops for Warriors is a nonprofit school that provides veterans and transitioning service members with hands-on training and nationallyrecognized credentials in CNC machining, CAD/CAM programming, and welding. Our students earn credentials that open doors to jobs anywhere in the U.S. Call us at (619) 550-1620.

AFTER EARNED A CAREER IN JUST 4 MONTHS. ENROLL NOW AT WFW.ORG CAD/CAM Programming CNC Machining Welding DoD SkillBridge Organization

WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

ENLISTED TO ENTREPRENEUR By Vicki Garcia veteransinbiz@gmail.com

Debunking Entrepreneurial Myths There are numbers of misconceptions floating around about business ownership. Often this is the kind of thing your mother says to discourage you from taking the leap to financial independence. Or, they are the little worries that rattle around in your head to stop you from pursuing your destiny as an entrepreneur. Let’s Blow Up Some of Those Myths Right Now. 1. Entrepreneurs Are Following Their Dreams. Sometimes, but frequently not. Often the impulse to start a business comes from the inability to find a job. If you’ve been looking for a job for more than six months, I say dump that ordeal and start your own enterprise. 2. You Need A Lot Of Money To Start A Business. Of course, it depends on the type of business, but if you’re serious, you’ll find the money. Remember, Spike Lee started his first movie on credit cards. I started my business on a $2000 severance check 33 years ago. Today there are online options to find money like nerdwallet.com, snapcap.com, Kabbage. com, and prosper.com. Google “equity crowdfunding,” that enables broad groups of investors to fund startup companies and small businesses in return for equity.

4. You Have to Be Smart To Succeed As A Business Owner. If this were true, there would be no SEO consultants. Just kidding. It doesn’t take brains. It takes confidence, commitment, and persistence. A mentor is really advantageous. Good instincts help. Good decision-making skills are critical. 5. It Only Takes a Few Months to See Success. Well, maybe. It depends on how you define success. If you think you’re going to be rich in six months, think again. If you define success as learning a lot, getting focused, and starting to feel some traction, then that can certainly happen.

6. There’s Too Much Competition. Wrong. There’s enough business for everyone, unless you’re a big baby and want an empty play pen. In fact, no competition should be a red flag. Maybe nobody wants what you’re selling? Study your competition and figuring out how to do it better. Google “how to spy on my competition” for a mind-blowing surprise. 7. Build It and They Will Come. Not. Just because you thought it up, and created a website, they will not necessarily beat a path to your door. Take a couple of marketing courses and learn the ropes. Don’t think you can accomplish all your marketing through social media either. Look up “Lean Startups,” in a past issue to tell you how to build it so they will come. 8. I Have to Wait Until The Time Is Right. This is the procrastinator’s mantra. The time is never perfect. Many successful entrepreneurs started their businesses before they were discharged from the military, or while they still had a job. 9. I Don’t Have Enough Time to Start And Run A Business. Yes, you do. If you love what you’re doing, the time will fly by. Self-discipline in business ownership is very important.

3. It’s Lonely at The Top. Hardly. There are zillions of networking groups, Meetups, classes, and coaches just 10. I Can Hire Someone to Sell For Me. Big mistake. Find out what your customers want first before you itching to support you. Many have moved online due to Sales are the life’s blood of every business. If you hand build a whole company around what you think your the epidemic. Become part of the small business owner that over to someone else, you could be in for a nasty customers community. You’llwant. be amazed at how many friends and surprise. Don’t train your competitor. If you don’t like mentors you will find. 50

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selling, go to my booklet “Selling for People Who Don’t Like Selling” www.tinyurl.com/fg22vnpf 11. I Need A Partner. OMG! A partnership is like a marriage, without the good parts, which I don’t need to explain. You are liable for everything your partner does, which includes if they run over a kid during a business trip. Eighty percent (80%) of partnerships fail. Worst of all, when partnerships go bad, it destroys everything you’ve worked for. When partnerships crash it can get really painful. So, be careful! 12. I’ll Be Able to Write Everything Off. That kind of thinking can get you audited. Deductible expenses are plentiful, but you need the advice of a pro. Check out https://www.entrepreneur.com/topic/taxes on Entrepreneur Magazine’s website. 13. I Will Be Able to Get A Government Grant to Start My Business. MAYBE. Because of the pandemic there are serious amounts of money coming down from the feds and state to jumpstart small businesses.

www.HomelandMagazine.com

Transitioning out of the Military into the Civilian Workforce?

You’ll never get rich working for someone else. This is an entrepreneurial world. Small business is the backbone of our economy. Be smart and you will succeed.

Finding a job in the civilian world may seem easy at first. After all, you have learned skills, practiced leadership and demonstrated initiative that will make you successful wherever you go. The reality, though, is that it can be difficult. In fact, it can be downright depressing, demotivating and you may feel totally disillusioned. Veterans In Transition is dedicated to you and to helping you succeed in your transition. For editorial & monthly columns regarding transitioning to business, career advice, tips, workshops, transition to education, entrepreneurship, straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners and more visit Veterans In Transition at www.tinyurl.com/Veterans-In-Transition

Vicki Garcia is the Co-Founder of Operation Vetrepreneur (under National Veterans Transition Services) & President of Marketing Impressions, a 33-year-old marketing firm. Look for trusted advisors at www.veteransinbiz.com

VETERANS IN TRANSITION

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Veterans Chamber of Commerce By Joseph Molina www.vccsd.org

The Importance of Education Education is important. Schooling is one thing, while education is another. But due to this misconception, some people have abandoned both. Education is fundamental. No one starts knowing or comes into this life already educated. Every successful person went through some form of training that educated them and shaped them for their trade. Education is about learning. What type of education we choose makes a world of difference? The type and or level of education to land a job is going to be different from the level of education needed to have a Career or a profession. Some may choose to have a job while others may choose to have a career or profession. What is the difference? A job is something we do; a career or profession defines who we are. For example, we may choose to become a lawyer that is a career or profession it defines the person, or a Doctor or a Dentist. It is important that we first clearly identify what we are looking for and what we expect as an outcome. We should have a 100% match between what we want and what we are willing to commit to obtain it.

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For example: A bachelor’s degree in Psychology is not enough to be a Psychologist Generally, there is no limit to how educated one can be. We are always learning. The human brain is always learning. That’s how we learn to survive and avoid danger. You can be as educated as you want. Whether you are in school or not. However, because we are social beings, the easiest (and best) way to get educated in an encouraging environment is schooling. The healthy competitive environment, the fun extra-curricular activities, the possibility of forming and developing real meaningful relationships, gaining perspective from professionals and participating in internships are some of the advantages of going to school. All are essential life skills one needs to be useful to society. From exposing you to better opportunities, to empowering you, giving you a chance to live a better life, developing relevant life problem-solving skills, these are some of the benefits of education. Education empowers you to be a better person, to make the most of your potentials, and to live a more fulfilled life.

The Top 5 Universities

The small size is not the only unusual feature about the institution. There is a customary cookie break taken every Thursday by physicists and their students.

2021

1. University of Oxford The University of Oxford has come out on top for the fifth year running and remains one of the most prestigious universities in the UK. It comes as little surprise because it is the UK’s oldest university and one of the best known in the world. Currently, the University of Oxford is home to more than 20,000 students, where the number of undergraduates and postgraduates are almost equal.

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The first architecture classes in the US were taught at MIT. Founded in the mid-19th century and is reputed to always provide financial aid to students on a needed basis. Admission to the university is extremely selective, only 8 per cent of applicants won a place in the graduating class of 2019. Graduates are employed by top companies, including Google, Amazon and Apple.

GOALS

Due to the excellence of education, about 95% of graduates at Oxford are directly employed or in postgraduate studies within 6 months after graduation. Admission into Oxford is very competitive. The university averages five persons for every place. That is, for every one that got admitted, four more persons lost the admission.

Other notable universities where you can get educated include: 6. Princeton University 7. Columbia University 8. John Hopkins University 9. University of Chicago 10. Yale University

The University operates a very inclusive institution which employs staff from just under 100 countries and foreign citizens make up about 40 per cent of the student and academic body.

The goal is to keep learning, to keep getting better. That’s how we grow. By always learning we become better positioned to compete in the job market.

2. Stanford University

One of the best ways to attend a higher education is through the Military. The Military provides a way for service members to attend school while in service and allows for participating Universities to offer College Credit for based on MOS. Every military installation has an Education Center where these participating Universities are housed. The major advantage of using the Military to achieve a higher level of education is that regardless where the service members is the “University of Record” will accept college credit from other institutions. It’s education and training that gives the job knowledge and skills we need to stand out in the job market.

Stanford University is synonymous with Silicon Valley because of its part in the development and it has also produced many entrepreneurs and start-ups. Students who attend Stanford go on to achieve great things (17 Nobel laureates are affiliated with Stanford). The large campus accommodates about 700 university buildings, alongside museums, gardens and recreational centres. The university is home to nearly 18,000 students both undergraduates and postgraduate students. 3. Harvard University Established in 1636, Harvard University is one of the oldest universities in the world, and arguably the most popular. For nine consecutive years, it has topped the Times Higher Education Reputation Ranking and is also part of the Ivy League - a group of eight private universities in the US, which are highly regarded.

In Summary: Education is a critical part of landing a job and an important component of Professional Development. Having a degree will most likely set you apart and it tells HR or the interviewing manager that you have the knowledge to do the job. We understand that having a degree is not a Job-Guarantee, but we also know that having one will increase our chances.

The stats speak for themselves: Harvard University is connected to more than 45 Nobel laureates, at least 30 heads of state and 48 Pulitzer prize-winners. Some our US presidents received honorary degrees from Harvard.

The Veterans Chamber of Commerce Radio Show • Would you like to Nominate a Hero? Let us know and we will announce it on the show.

4. California Institute of Technology California Institute of Technology embodies the axiom that less is more. The most striking features of Caltech is its small size, home to only about 1,000 undergraduates and 1,250 postgraduates. Caltech aims to nurture an interdisciplinary environment where students learn about the most challenging and fundamental scientific or technological problems.

• If you have any ideas or project that you would like to see Developed by the Veterans Chamber send your idea to: veteransccsd@gmail.com • Would you like to share your story? Be our guest on the show – Complete the REQUEST FORM. Request Form - www.vccsd.org/radioshow.html

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legal Eagle Straight-forward legal tips for Military and Veteran Business Owners By Kelly Bagla, Esq.

MINIMUM WAGE LAW IN CALIFORNIA MINIMUM WAGE CANNOT BE WAIVED A California employer must pay the California minimum wage to employees even if an employee agrees to work for less. An employment agreement that attempts to pay an employee at a lower than the minimum wage is unlawful and will not be enforced.

With the new year comes new laws and the one that every employer needs to know is the minimum wage increase in California. The minimum wage is the minimum hourly rate that nearly all California employees must be paid for their work by law. In California, the applicable minimum wage depends on the size of the employer. STATE MINIMUM WAGE California law establishes annual increases in the minimum wage until 2023. The increases are scheduled to take effect on January 1st each year. On January 1, 2021, California’s minimum wage became $13.00 per hour for employees that work for employers with 25 or fewer employees, and $14.00 per hour for larger employers. LOCAL MINIMUM WAGES The California Constitution allows local governments to set a minimum wage, applicable within the government’s jurisdiction, that is higher than the state minimum wage. Several cities and counties have enacted ordinances that set a higher minimum wage for some or all employees who work within the boundaries of the local government. Several of California’s larges cities’ current minimum wage rates range from $14.00 per hour to $16.00 per hour. 54

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MINIMUM WAGE AND INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS California’s minimum wage law applies only to employers and thus only protects employees. It does NOT protect independent contractors.

Importantly, however, the fact that an employer labels a worker as being an independent contractor does not necessarily mean that the worker is not an employee. Whether a worker is an independent contractor or an employee will depend on several factors, including the degree of control that the employer exercises over the work performance.

For more information on how to legally protect your business please pick up a copy of my bestselling book: ‘Second Edition Go Legal Yourself’ on Amazon or visit my website at www.golegalyourself.com

Disclaimer: This information is made available by Bagla Law Firm, APC for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, and not to provide specific legal advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state.

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WWW.HomelandMagazine.com / MARCH 2021

Money Matters

Expert Advice on VA Lending & Personal Finance By Phil Jawny, MIRM, CMP, CSP

Getting Your Credit on the Right Track Question: I’m unsure about how my credit score will impact my ability to get loans in the future. How can I get started repairing my credit and how long will it take to see improvement? Answer: It’s true - a three-digit number can make or break you when it comes to buying a car or home or getting any other line of credit. Your credit score is essentially your financial resume. It summarizes your credit risk for potential lenders, based on a snapshot of your credit report. The good news is, it’s not a fixed mark. There are a lot of ways to impact your credit score and improve your report. And doing so, sooner rather than later, could save you thousands of dollars in interest the next time you apply for a loan. Know Your Score The first place to start is to get a copy of your credit report to see a detailed breakdown of the debts and potential infractions that are affecting your score. There are three credit bureaus that maintain credit records: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. You can access free services and a free copy of your credit report at www.govaloans.com/resources. You should not pay a fee for monitoring your credit. Every lender has a slightly different requirement for credit scores, but here is the breakdown of ranges: