Support Call Notes Quick Reference Guide December 2015

Volunteer Support Call Notes Quick Reference Guide From June 2014 to November 2015 Volunteer Support Calls

Section Index Employment _______________________________________ p. 3-60 Financial __________________________________________ p. 61-86 Housing/Homelessness _______________________________ p. 87-104 Legal _____________________________________________ p. 105-108 Mental Health ______________________________________ p. 109-145 Other _____________________________________________ p. 146-208

*Please note that resources can change quickly. While we try to keep this guide updated, some of the information listed may be out-of-date. Our volunteers are trained to call each resource first before a referral is made.

Copyright Š 2015 by the Regents of the University of Michigan.

All rights reserved. This publication may be distributed only in full, with appropriate credit given to the Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program and the Regents of the University of Michigan.

To request an addition to this guide or to report an error, e-mail buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or write to the authors: Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program 2025 Traverwood Dr., Suite C Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Employment Call Notes American Corporate Partners ___________________________ p. 4-6 Anchor Staff/Acro Service Corporation ___________________ p. 7 Arrow Strategies – Operation Restore Valor ________________ p. 8-9 DVOP ______________________________________________ p. 10-12 Employment Resources ________________________________ p. 13-24 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) _________ p. 25-27 Helmets to Hardhats ___________________________________ p. 28-30 Hero 2 Hired (H2H) ___________________________________ p. 31-32 MDOT Wounded Veterans Internship Programs _____________ p. 33-34 MIARNG Family Programs _____________________________ p. 35-38 Military OneSource ___________________________________ p. 39-43 National Guard Family Programs _________________________p. 44-57 Vocational Rehab ______________________________________p. 58-61

3

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL January 5-6, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

American Corporate Partners Guest Speaker Ms. Emily Bremer ebremer@acp-usa.org (212) 752-0700 www.acp-usa.org Guest Speaker Summary  Mission of ACP: To assist veterans in their transition from the military to the civilian workforce through mentoring, career counseling, and professional development opportunities.  History of ACP o ACP was launched in 2009 by founder Sidney E. Goodfriend with the help of six founding companies. In its initial yeaer, ACP served 300 veterans in six cities. o Since 2008, ACP has grown rapidly. ACP now serves veterans in more than 1,300 towns across the country, offering more than 2,000 mentorships with the aid of more than 60 top corporations. o As of 2014, nearly 5,000 alumni have successfully completed ACP’s Mentoring Program. 96% of these alumni would recommend the program to another veteran.  ACP Mentoring Program o ACP offers veterans a year-long, one-on-one mentorship with a professional from one of ACP’s corporate partners. o Mentorships consist of career coaching discussions with regular monthly meeting tailored to their professional development goals. o ACP’s partners include top companies such as Boeing, Coca-Cola, IBM, Johnson & Johnson, General Electric, Wells Fargo, and John Deere, among many others.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

4

www.buddytobuddy.org







o ACP’s corporate partners come from a wide variety of industries, such as Defense, Finance, Energy, Manufacturing, IT, Healthcare, Operations, Engineering, Marketing, Accounting, Insurance, and Education. o The program is absolutely free to veterans. o These mentorships offer veterans the chance to:  Learn about different career opportunities  Build a network of professionals  Improve resume and interview skills  Translate military experience into civilian terms  Refine civilian career goals and professional ambitions  Better deal with work-life balance issues  Receive assistance finding a job or internship  Learn how to advance at current job Mentorship Program Eligibility o Open to all Post-9/11 veterans who have completed at least 180 days on active duty.  The 180-day requirement is waived if the soldier was injured in active duty service prior to the 180-day mark. o Additionally open to surviving spouses of Post-9/11 fallen soldiers and spouses of Post-9/11 wounded warriors.

Mentorship Program Application Process o Veterans complete an online application through ACP’s website: www.acpusa.org. o Within 24 hours after the application is submitted online, ACP will schedule a brief interview with participants to go over program guidelines and clarify the applicant’s information. o ACP matches Mentors and Protégés within 1-2 weeks based on participants’ career interests and mentoring preferences. o The paired matches are introduced to each other and being scheduling one-on-one activities and meetings.

Other information o Applicants do not have to have a college degree in order to participate in the mentorship program.  15% have a HS Diploma or Associate’s Degree  25% Some college, no degree  35% Bachelor’s Degree  25% Graduate Degree o The program is very accommodating to veterans whether they know their preferred career pathway or not. They need not be sure in order to participate in and benefit from the program. o Although many of the large corporations, and therefore mentors, are based in larger cities and even in other states, this does not exclude veterans in other areas from participating. In fact, a majority of mentorship relationships occur via phone and internet meetings. A priority is placed not on geographic match, but on matching the interest of mentor to protégé.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

5

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Male and female veterans alike benefit from the program – about 15% of the mentees are female, in fact. o Although the formal mentorship program is only available to Post-9/11 veterans, there is an online community available to Pre-9/11 veterans. Veterans can log on to ACP AdvisorNet to post questions to volunteer Advisors regarding employment, career development, and small businesses. Veterans can access AdvisorNet by visiting http://acp-usa.org/ACP_Program/acp-advisornet.

To get more information  Visit www.acp-usa.org  Email info@acp-usa.org

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

6

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 3-4, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Anchor Staffing/Acro Service Corporation Guest Speaker Ms. Kim Gattshall 517-789-8440 kgattshall@acrocorp.com Guest Speaker Summary  Anchor Staffing/Acro Services is an employment agency that has offices throughout the country, but has the most need in Michigan in Jackson and Detroit.  Majority of positions are entry-level light industrial, though some are higher-level positions. o Long-term temporary and temp-to-hire are most common positions. o Necessary skill set is: basic math, ability to follow directions, detail-oriented, ability to stand for long periods of time, basic understanding of production environment.  Usually placement is very quick.  Interested parties can apply to open positions by emailing their resume or applying in person at an Acro Services office (https://www.acrocorp.com/index.php/locations#mi).  The company is now also offering employment services such as resume writing assistance, interview skill building, etc. Interested parties should contact Kim Gattshall at the contact information listed above.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

7

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL April 27-28, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Arrow Strategies – Operation Restore Valor Guest Speaker Mr. Eric Hines Talent Acquisition Specialist, Engineering Arrow Strategies 248-502-2551 erich@arrowstrategies.com www.arrowstrategies.com Guest Speaker Summary  Arrow Strategies Background o Staffing company in Bingham Farms, MI founded in 2002. o Veteran and minority-owned. Owner and founder Jeff Styers was an Active Duty Marine from 1984 to 1987. o Job placement fields: IT, Healthcare, Engineering, Professional Services. o Diamond-level contributor to the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund. o Maintains well-known clients such as: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Palace Sports & Entertainment, Domino’s Pizza, Ford Direct, General Motors, and American Axle & Manufacturing. o Clients and employees are generally in the Metro Detroit/Southeast Michigan region. o Company is consistently rated as a top place to work and in the list of fastest growing companies in the area.  Employment through Arrow Strategies o Arrow Strategies only deals in long-term contract-to-hire and direct hire positions.

All contract positions offered are a minimum of two years.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

8

www.buddytobuddy.org



o All workers receive benefits after 30 days. Benefits include: Medical, prescription, dental, vision, 50% 401k matching, and 20 days of PTO per year. o Referral bonus: If employees refer somebody to Arrow Strategies who ends up becoming an employee themselves, the referring employee is eligible for a bonus of up to $1,000. o Arrow Strategies and their clients are seeking strong candidates at every education level (college degree not required for many positions). o The company uses a 10-step vetting process to ensure the best fit possible for each candidate and employer. They rely on face-to-face interaction to be sure they have an accurate picture of each candidate. o If Arrow Strategies agrees to bring you on as an employee, they are invested in you. They work with each candidate to do extensive position-matching, interview preparation and coaching, and resume work.

Veterans Hiring Initiative – Operation Restore Valor o Operation Restore Valor is the name of Arrow Strategies’ aggressive initiative to hire veterans. The program was launched in 2014 and placed 37 veterans into long-term employment in its first year. o Arrow Strategies’ owner felt strongly that the government initiatives were lacking in their aid to veterans seeking employment. He sought to create a program that would help veterans seeking gainful employment throughout the entire process.  The company assists veterans with resume writing, interview prep, etc. even if the veteran is seeking employment through another agency.  Staff members will host resume workshops and similar events at National Guard Armories and other locations upon request.  Arrow Strategies’ talent specialists speak with clients about the benefits of hiring veterans, including the specific soft skills that veterans bring to the workplace.  The company does not tolerate discrimination against service members or veterans on the part of their client.  Arrow Strategies donates 10% of their Operation Restore Valor profits to the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund. o To refer a veteran to the company: either send an email introduction to Eric, or have the veteran contact Eric themselves and mention Buddy-to-Buddy.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

9

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 18-19, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

DISABLED VETERAN OUTREACH PROGRAM (DVOP) Guest Speaker  Ms. Deborah Hardeman, DVOP Guest Speaker Summary Important Terminology  As of October 2013 – there are no more LVERs (Local Veteran Employment Representative). They have been merged with the DVOP program.  DVOPs are Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program Specialists  DVOPs can also be called “Vet Reps” However, this term can be used for other veteran positions. It is important to see what division a veteran worker is in to make sure they are in the DVOP program, which is part of the Veterans’ Services Division of the State of Michigan’s Workforce Development Agency.

What DVOPs can do: DVOPs can do a lot for a veteran looking for jobs by providing intensive employment assistance services that goes beyond just handing a veteran a list of companies that are hiring. Below are some examples of what they can do:  Comprehensive assessment of education, skills, and abilities  In–depth interviewing and evaluation to identify employment barriers and suitable employment goals  Group and individual career coaching  Short-term pre-vocational services that may include development of learning and communication skills, interviewing skills, personal maintenance skills, and professional conduct to prepare individuals for career goals

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

10

 

Development of an individual employment plan that identifies employment goals, interim objectives, and appropriate services that will enable the veteran to meet his or her employment goals Assist veteran in finding local employment opportunities

Eligibility To be DVOP eligible, a job seeker must meet the Title 38 USC § 4101 or § 4211(4) definition of veteran or spouse and:  Be employable  Have barrier(s) that require intensive services beyond core services to overcome  Be likely to become job ready after receiving intensive services from a DVOP In short: be eligible for and require DVOP services For the purposes of the DVOP, a “veteran” is defined as:  Any person who served in the US military  Received other than a Dishonorable Discharge  Meets at least one of the following requirements: o Served on active duty for at least 181 consecutive days, other than for training o Was awarded a campaign or expeditionary badge o Was medically separated due to an illness or injury incurred in the line of duty o Was separated by reason of a sole survivorship discharge, as defined in 10 USC § 1174 (i) Spouses Spouses can apply for education benefits for Chapter 35 and for employment services. DVOP can get them with county service officers and also help with résumé. For the purposes of the DVOP, an eligible spouse is defined as someone whose veteran partner meets at least one of the following requirements:  Died of a service-connected disability (unless remarried)  Has been listed for a total of more than ninety days as: o Missing in action, or o captured in the line of duty by a hostile force, or o forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power  has a total, permanent service-connected disability How DVOP works Once someone walks into any of the 25 Michigan Works! Agency and ask for a DVOP, they will take the following steps:  Get priority of service – veterans can get to the front of the line if there is a line at a Michigan Works agency  Complete Eligibility Assessment – check to see if they are eligible for DVOP services  Complete a check off list – make sure that veteran  Identify what kind of employment services the veteran needs – identify if the veteran is “job ready” (meaning with a complete resume and up-to-date skills) or if they need intensive employment services that a DVOP can offer.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

11

o If someone is job ready, they can go to the Business Support Team part of Michigan Works instead of using a DVOP.

To get more information  Visit http://www.mitalent.org/veteran/  For more information on veteran-specific employment opportunities, visit the Michigan Talent Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MIVeteransServices

Guest Speaker Contact Information:  Deborah Hardeman o Veterans’ Services Division, Workforce Development Agency, State of Michigan o 5889 E Broadway, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858 o Office: 989.772.5304 x111 o Email: hardemand@michigan.gov

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

12

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL March 23, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Employment Resources for Service Members and Veterans Guest Speaker Ms. Stephanie Zarb Program Manager, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program 734-998-5829 szarb@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Resources for Veterans who meet the federal definition and/or are service-connected o Federal definition of Veteran: for individuals who enlisted after 1980 or commissioned after 1981, they must have served 24 continuous months on Active Duty AND/OR have earned a campaign medal or an Expeditionary Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) medal AND/OR have been injured in the line of duty. o If someone has served on Active Duty, it is very likely that they meet the criteria.

For National Guard soldiers, if the individual has deployed, it is very likely that they meet the criteria. o Michigan Works! DVOP Services  DVOP: Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialists  DVOPs are federal employees that are located in most Michigan Works!

Offices. These employment services professionals are available to assist program eligible veterans and spouses in need of additional help in securing appropriate employment.  Eligibility: Must meet federal definition of veteran as outlined above AND be experiencing at least ONE of the following barriers to employment –  Service-connection  Homelessness  Recently-separated from military (within the last three years) Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

13

www.buddytobuddy.org

 Recently-released offender (within the last three years)  Without a High School Diploma or GED  Low income  Examples of services that DVOPs provide:  Comprehensive assessment of education, skills, and abilities  In-depth interviewing and evaluation to identify employment barriers and suitable employment goals  Group and individual career coaching  Short-term pre-vocational services that may include development of learning and communication skills, interviewing skills, personal maintenance skills, and professional conduct to prepare individuals for career goals  Development of an individual employment plan that identifies employment goals, interim objectives, and appropriate services that will enable the veteran to meet his or her employment goals  For more information: www.mitalent.org/veteran-employment-specialist/ or contact Buddy-to-Buddy volunteers and DVOPs: Jan Ennis, Debby Hardeman, or Scott Hamel. o Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment – VOC Rehab (Chapter 31 benefits through VBA)  Eligibility: Veterans are eligible if they – have received or will receive a discharge other than honorable, have a service-connected disability rating of at least 20% from the VA, and apply for VR&E services.  If VR&E counselor determines that the veteran has a serious employment handicap, eligibility can be extended below 20% or beyond 12 years.  Basic period of eligibility: The basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from the date of notification of one of the following – date of separation from active military service, or date the veteran was first notified by the VA of a service-connected disability rating.  VOC Rehab Services:  Reemployment: VOC Rehab help Veterans return to work with a former employer by supporting the employer’s efforts to provide accommodations that enable the Veteran to continue along the same or similar career path.  Rapid Access to Employment: VR&E helps Veterans who are ready to enter the workforce, find, apply for, and secure suitable jobs. The VA may provide expert career-placement assistance, job accommodations, and other specialized support. o Is it possible for VR&E to pay for schooling, but it is selective – it’s a good idea for the Veteran to be able to prove they have good potential to succeed in school and that they have a history of having a strong work ethic.  Self-employment: Self-employment can be fulfilling and may offer the flexibility a Veteran with a service-connected disability needs.

VOC Rehab can aid Veterans who are interested in working for Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

14

www.buddytobuddy.org

themselves by helping analyze and develop a business plan, and providing training on how to market and operate a small business. o Self-employment assistance is a little more difficult to receive. It helps immensely if the Veteran can show a business plan at the initial appointment, along with being able to prove it will be successful.  Employment through Long-Term Services: For Veterans with service-connected disabilities who require additional skills or training to find competitive employment, VOC Rehab will guide them to what they need, be it education programs and vocational training – including on-the-job training – mentoring programs, work-study programs, or other job preparation programs to help them retrain for a new career. o Under this program, Veterans may be able to receive a stipend while working at an unpaid internship for a period of up to 12 months.  Independent Living: Some Veterans with service-connected disabilities may not be able to return to work, but with support from VR&E they can live fulfilling, independent lives. The VA helps them with access to community-based support services, the use of assistive technologies and accommodations, and independent living skills training.  VR&E services are especially valuable, because everyone who applies has the opportunity to meet with a counselor. Even if they aren’t able to assist a Veteran directly, they will make a referral to an organization that will be able to help.  Application Process: Visit http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-288832-ARE.pdf and print VA form 28-8832. Complete and mail the form to your nearest VA regional office (http://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/offices.asp). You should be contacted within 30-45 days after applying. o The Mission Continues  Requirements for a fellowship:  Fellows must have served in the U.S. Military after September 11, 2001, having attained an honorable discharge after a minimum of 24 months of time in military service (unless serious injury was sustained preventing further service).  Fellows may no longer be serving on Active Duty or serving in the National Guard or Reserve (IRR/ING status is acceptable).  A clean criminal record is also required (individual exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis).  While working as a Mission Continues Fellow, Veterans:  Attend Fellowship orientation  Plan and attend service projects, bringing veterans and civilians together to benefit their community

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

15

www.buddytobuddy.org



Speak on behalf of host organization and The Mission Continues at career fairs, on veteran panels, or through specific media opportunities.  Develop professional skills and network  Translate military-based skills to civilian workforce  Are provided a cost-of-living stipend o Michigan Wounded Veterans Internship Program  The Michigan Wounded Veterans Internship Program, run through the Michigan Department of Transportation, affords Michigan wounded veterans opportunities to enhance current job skills while developing new ones.  Benefits of the program:  Veterans can take advantage of local positions, keeping them close to home or where they receive rehabilitation.  Veterans can compete for MDOT jobs or develop skills for jobs outside the department.  Veterans will be compensated at an hourly rate determined by the skill sets involved and the particular position (usually $13$18/hour).  Veterans will be provided proper training and leadership.  Veterans will be provided reasonable accommodations.  Eligibility Requirements:  Honorably discharged wounded veterans transitioning from military to civilian workplace with physical or psychological wounds are eligible (10% or more service-connected disability rating).  While the program is intended primarily to serve veterans of U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is not limited to veterans of those operations. MDOT is partnering with veteran service-related organizations throughout Michigan to implement this program  For more information: MDOTWoundedVeteranprogram@michigan.gov. o VA Selective Placement Coordinator: For individuals with disability, there is a Selective Placement Coordinator at every VA hospital.  The SPCs can help veterans with their resumes and with translating their military experience into civilian terms.  The SPCs also work with hiring authorities such as Schedule A, which is a hiring authority for people with disabilities that is an exception to the traditional hiring process.  Schedule A is for people with a disability letter from a medical professional or 30% or higher disability rating.  Not the same as a 5 or 10-point Veteran’s preference in hiring.  Persons with disabilities as described above are eligible for direct appointment for federal jobs – their resume will go directly to someone’s desk, they don’t have to apply through USAJobs, and they don’t have to participate in the competitive hiring process.  Contact information: Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

16

www.buddytobuddy.org



 Ann Arbor: 734-769-7100  Detroit: 313-576-1000 ext. 63554  Battle Creek: 269-966-5600 ext. 36164  Saginaw: 989-497-2500 ext. 13085  Iron Mountain: 414-384-2000 ext. 47295 o Quicken Loans  Veteran Hiring Program  The Veteran Hiring Program provides all the resources one needs to transition into a career with Quicken Loans.  Their mission is to create career opportunities for veterans, service members and their families.  Tour of Duty Program  Dedicated military recruiters understand how a military background sets one up for success.  Peer mentors work closely with other veterans to help ease the transition from service life into Quicken Loans’ unique culture.  Who to contact:  John Gardner: JohnGardner@QuickenLoans.com  Justin Mendoza: JustinMendoza@QuickenLoans.com  Rob Ells: RobElls@QuickenLoans.com Resources for National Guard and Reserve Component Service Members o Soldier First (Formerly Army Career Alumni Program – ACAP)  The Michigan National Guard Civilian Employment Office works with employers who want to employ Michigan Army and Air National Guard members.  In addition, they help Guard members increase their employment readiness and secure civilian employment  Resume Assistance is also available through Soldier First  Contat: MINGhire@gmail.com or 517-481-9865 o Helmets to Hardhats  National, non-profit program that connects National Guard, Reserve, retired, and transitioning active-duty military service members with skilled training and quality career opportunities in the skilled trades/construction industry.  The program is designed to help military service members successfully transition back into civilian life by offering them the means to secure a quality career in the construction industry.  Eligibility Criteria:  An individual must have been a member of the Armed Forces in some capacity – National Guard, Reserve, or Active Duty.  A service member or veterans does not have to have deployed or been activated in order to take advantage of Helmets to Hardhats.  Must have received an honorable discharge.  The program:

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

17

www.buddytobuddy.org



Most experienced job seekers understand that utilizing personal networks (networking) is a much more effective way of securing a quality career than simply looking online or going through newspaper ads.  Helmets to Hardhats is a web-based program that requires online registration and provides career postings.  Dedicated volunteers take an active role in connecting veterans to outstanding career and training opportunities.  Service members and veterans CAN use their G.I. Bill benefits with this program. The apprenticeship program is approved for the use of the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill, the Montgomery G.I. Bill, or various state, National Guard, or Reserve educational funding programs. These educational benefits, and some state programs, normally pay qualified apprentices a monthly stipend in addition to their earned wages.  To get started: Visit the program’s website at www.helmetstohardhats.org and click the “Get Started” button. o Hero 2 Hired (H2H)  The H2H initiative provides comprehensive career readiness to support the talent-rich Reserve Component Service members and their spouses by delivering informative training and assisting with key career preparation activities, such as: building a resume, performing effective job searches, interviewing practice, and networking.  In addition, through a combination of high-tech and high-touch applications, H2H Employment Coordinators link service members with military-friendly employers to promote a faster and more effective career development experience.  www.H2H.jobs has transitioned its online website to the Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Employment Center (www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/jobs).  Contact: Beth H. Gillette, H2H Employment Coordinator – Michigan  517-481-9875 (office)  616-304-6317 (cell)  Beth.h.gillette-tusch.ctr@mail.mil. o Job Fairs  Hiring Our Heroes  Website and local job fairs  For an employer to be present (online or in-person), they must be currently hiring and they must send a representative to the job fair with the authority to hire on the spot. o Personal contacts and networking  Many times we can assist with resumes and the job search through Soldier First and Michigan Works!  The job search is as much about networking as it is about applying online.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

18

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL April 14, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Employment Resources for Service Members and Veterans Guest Speaker Ms. Stephanie Zarb Program Manager, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program 734-998-5829 szarb@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Resources for Veterans who meet the federal definition and/or are service-connected o Federal definition of Veteran: for individuals who enlisted after 1980 or commissioned after 1981, they must have served 24 continuous months on Active Duty AND/OR have earned a campaign medal or an Expeditionary Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) medal AND/OR have been injured in the line of duty. o If someone has served on Active Duty, it is very likely that they meet the criteria.

For National Guard soldiers, if the individual has deployed, it is very likely that they meet the criteria. o Michigan Works! DVOP Services  DVOP: Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialists  DVOPs are federal employees that are located in most Michigan Works!

Offices. These employment services professionals are available to assist program eligible veterans and spouses in need of additional help in securing appropriate employment.  Eligibility: Must meet federal definition of veteran as outlined above AND be experiencing at least ONE of the following barriers to employment –  Service-connection  Homelessness  Recently-separated from military (within the last three years) Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

19

www.buddytobuddy.org

 Recently-released offender (within the last three years)  Without a High School Diploma or GED  Low income  Examples of services that DVOPs provide:  Comprehensive assessment of education, skills, and abilities  In-depth interviewing and evaluation to identify employment barriers and suitable employment goals  Group and individual career coaching  Short-term pre-vocational services that may include development of learning and communication skills, interviewing skills, personal maintenance skills, and professional conduct to prepare individuals for career goals  Development of an individual employment plan that identifies employment goals, interim objectives, and appropriate services that will enable the veteran to meet his or her employment goals  For more information: www.mitalent.org/veteran-employment-specialist/ or contact Buddy-to-Buddy volunteers and DVOPs: Jan Ennis, Debby Hardeman, or Scott Hamel. o Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment – VOC Rehab (Chapter 31 benefits through VBA)  Eligibility: Veterans are eligible if they – have received or will receive a discharge other than honorable, have a service-connected disability rating of at least 20% from the VA, and apply for VR&E services.  If VR&E counselor determines that the veteran has a serious employment handicap, eligibility can be extended below 20% or beyond 12 years.  Basic period of eligibility: The basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from the date of notification of one of the following – date of separation from active military service, or date the veteran was first notified by the VA of a service-connected disability rating.  VOC Rehab Services:  Reemployment: VOC Rehab help Veterans return to work with a former employer by supporting the employer’s efforts to provide accommodations that enable the Veteran to continue along the same or similar career path.  Rapid Access to Employment: VR&E helps Veterans who are ready to enter the workforce, find, apply for, and secure suitable jobs. The VA may provide expert career-placement assistance, job accommodations, and other specialized support. o Is it possible for VR&E to pay for schooling, but it is selective – it’s a good idea for the Veteran to be able to prove they have good potential to succeed in school and that they have a history of having a strong work ethic.  Self-employment: Self-employment can be fulfilling and may offer the flexibility a Veteran with a service-connected disability needs.

VOC Rehab can aid Veterans who are interested in working for Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

20

www.buddytobuddy.org

themselves by helping analyze and develop a business plan, and providing training on how to market and operate a small business. o Self-employment assistance is a little more difficult to receive. It helps immensely if the Veteran can show a business plan at the initial appointment, along with being able to prove it will be successful.  Employment through Long-Term Services: For Veterans with service-connected disabilities who require additional skills or training to find competitive employment, VOC Rehab will guide them to what they need, be it education programs and vocational training – including on-the-job training – mentoring programs, work-study programs, or other job preparation programs to help them retrain for a new career. o Under this program, Veterans may be able to receive a stipend while working at an unpaid internship for a period of up to 12 months.  Independent Living: Some Veterans with service-connected disabilities may not be able to return to work, but with support from VR&E they can live fulfilling, independent lives. The VA helps them with access to community-based support services, the use of assistive technologies and accommodations, and independent living skills training.  VR&E services are especially valuable, because everyone who applies has the opportunity to meet with a counselor. Even if they aren’t able to assist a Veteran directly, they will make a referral to an organization that will be able to help.  Application Process: Visit http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-288832-ARE.pdf and print VA form 28-8832. Complete and mail the form to your nearest VA regional office (http://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/offices.asp). You should be contacted within 30-45 days after applying. o The Mission Continues  Requirements for a fellowship:  Fellows must have served in the U.S. Military after September 11, 2001, having attained an honorable discharge after a minimum of 24 months of time in military service (unless serious injury was sustained preventing further service).  Fellows may no longer be serving on Active Duty or serving in the National Guard or Reserve (IRR/ING status is acceptable).  A clean criminal record is also required (individual exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis).  While working as a Mission Continues Fellow, Veterans:  Attend Fellowship orientation  Plan and attend service projects, bringing veterans and civilians together to benefit their community

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

21

www.buddytobuddy.org



Speak on behalf of host organization and The Mission Continues at career fairs, on veteran panels, or through specific media opportunities.  Develop professional skills and network  Translate military-based skills to civilian workforce  Are provided a cost-of-living stipend o Michigan Wounded Veterans Internship Program  The Michigan Wounded Veterans Internship Program, run through the Michigan Department of Transportation, affords Michigan wounded veterans opportunities to enhance current job skills while developing new ones.  Benefits of the program:  Veterans can take advantage of local positions, keeping them close to home or where they receive rehabilitation.  Veterans can compete for MDOT jobs or develop skills for jobs outside the department.  Veterans will be compensated at an hourly rate determined by the skill sets involved and the particular position (usually $13$18/hour).  Veterans will be provided proper training and leadership.  Veterans will be provided reasonable accommodations.  Eligibility Requirements:  Honorably discharged wounded veterans transitioning from military to civilian workplace with physical or psychological wounds are eligible (10% or more service-connected disability rating).  While the program is intended primarily to serve veterans of U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is not limited to veterans of those operations. MDOT is partnering with veteran service-related organizations throughout Michigan to implement this program  For more information: MDOTWoundedVeteranprogram@michigan.gov. o VA Selective Placement Coordinator: For individuals with disability, there is a Selective Placement Coordinator at every VA hospital.  The SPCs can help veterans with their resumes and with translating their military experience into civilian terms.  The SPCs also work with hiring authorities such as Schedule A, which is a hiring authority for people with disabilities that is an exception to the traditional hiring process.  Schedule A is for people with a disability letter from a medical professional or 30% or higher disability rating.  Not the same as a 5 or 10-point Veteran’s preference in hiring.  Persons with disabilities as described above are eligible for direct appointment for federal jobs – their resume will go directly to someone’s desk, they don’t have to apply through USAJobs, and they don’t have to participate in the competitive hiring process.  Contact information: Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

22

www.buddytobuddy.org



 Ann Arbor: 734-769-7100  Detroit: 313-576-1000 ext. 63554  Battle Creek: 269-966-5600 ext. 36164  Saginaw: 989-497-2500 ext. 13085  Iron Mountain: 414-384-2000 ext. 47295 o Quicken Loans  Veteran Hiring Program  The Veteran Hiring Program provides all the resources one needs to transition into a career with Quicken Loans.  Their mission is to create career opportunities for veterans, service members and their families.  Tour of Duty Program  Dedicated military recruiters understand how a military background sets one up for success.  Peer mentors work closely with other veterans to help ease the transition from service life into Quicken Loans’ unique culture.  Who to contact:  John Gardner: JohnGardner@QuickenLoans.com  Justin Mendoza: JustinMendoza@QuickenLoans.com  Rob Ells: RobElls@QuickenLoans.com Resources for National Guard and Reserve Component Service Members o Soldier First (Formerly Army Career Alumni Program – ACAP)  The Michigan National Guard Civilian Employment Office works with employers who want to employ Michigan Army and Air National Guard members.  In addition, they help Guard members increase their employment readiness and secure civilian employment  Resume Assistance is also available through Soldier First  Contat: MINGhire@gmail.com or 517-481-9865 o Helmets to Hardhats  National, non-profit program that connects National Guard, Reserve, retired, and transitioning active-duty military service members with skilled training and quality career opportunities in the skilled trades/construction industry.  The program is designed to help military service members successfully transition back into civilian life by offering them the means to secure a quality career in the construction industry.  Eligibility Criteria:  An individual must have been a member of the Armed Forces in some capacity – National Guard, Reserve, or Active Duty.  A service member or veterans does not have to have deployed or been activated in order to take advantage of Helmets to Hardhats.  Must have received an honorable discharge.  The program:

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

23

www.buddytobuddy.org



Most experienced job seekers understand that utilizing personal networks (networking) is a much more effective way of securing a quality career than simply looking online or going through newspaper ads.  Helmets to Hardhats is a web-based program that requires online registration and provides career postings.  Dedicated volunteers take an active role in connecting veterans to outstanding career and training opportunities.  Service members and veterans CAN use their G.I. Bill benefits with this program. The apprenticeship program is approved for the use of the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill, the Montgomery G.I. Bill, or various state, National Guard, or Reserve educational funding programs. These educational benefits, and some state programs, normally pay qualified apprentices a monthly stipend in addition to their earned wages.  To get started: Visit the program’s website at www.helmetstohardhats.org and click the “Get Started” button. o Hero 2 Hired (H2H)  The H2H initiative provides comprehensive career readiness to support the talent-rich Reserve Component Service members and their spouses by delivering informative training and assisting with key career preparation activities, such as: building a resume, performing effective job searches, interviewing practice, and networking.  In addition, through a combination of high-tech and high-touch applications, H2H Employment Coordinators link service members with military-friendly employers to promote a faster and more effective career development experience.  www.H2H.jobs has transitioned its online website to the Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Employment Center (www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/jobs).  Contact: Beth H. Gillette, H2H Employment Coordinator – Michigan  517-481-9875 (office)  616-304-6317 (cell)  Beth.h.gillette-tusch.ctr@mail.mil. o Job Fairs  Hiring Our Heroes  Website and local job fairs  For an employer to be present (online or in-person), they must be currently hiring and they must send a representative to the job fair with the authority to hire on the spot. o Personal contacts and networking  Many times we can assist with resumes and the job search through Soldier First and Michigan Works!  The job search is as much about networking as it is about applying online.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

24

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL March 16-17, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Guest Speaker Mr. Paul Ryan State Chair Emeritus, Michigan Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve 616-653-5213 Paul.Ryan@53.com Guest Speaker Summary  Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Background o ESGR was founded in 1972 and is chartered by the Department of Defense (DoD). o Reports to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs o There is a National Committee for ESGR in Washington, D.C., and one committee for each state and U.S. territory.  ESGR Mission: Create a culture in which military service is valued by every civilian employer in the United States. o Recognize outstanding support given to Guard/Reserve employees. o Educate employer and Guard/Reserve employee about federal law (USERRA). o Assist in resolving conflict through informal mediation. o Serve as primary advocate for employers within Department of Defense.  ESGR Quick Facts o 4,900 volunteers nationwide; 110 in Michigan. o Leaders in business, government, education, and senior military representatives. o ESGR is seeking diversity in their volunteer base: people of color, women, nonmilitary folks, younger volunteers.  ESGR Programs o Employer Outreach: Education, awards Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

25

www.buddytobuddy.org

 

ESGR volunteers provide USERRA training to civilian employers.

USERRA is the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, which dictates the rights service members have in regards to their civilian employment.  ESGR-provided training teaches civilian employers about their rights and responsibilities under the law, as well as the rights and responsibilities of their employees.  USERRA applies to all service members who are in a federally-funded status and to all employers.  All civilian employers are encouraged to sign and display a statement indicating their support for the Guard and Reserve.  Several different awards may be given to civilian employers based on their accommodating their Guard and Reserve employees.  Patriot Award: Awarded to employers who have been supportive of the Guard and Reserve. An employer can be nominated by their employee.  Above & Beyond Award and Pro Patria Award: Awarded for higher level employer support. These are awarded by the states.  Freedom Award: Given for highest-level support and is awarded by the Secretary of Defense. o Bosslifts  Bosslifts are invitation-only field trips to military installations.  On these in-state day trips, guests are able to observe military personnel in their training environment. o Ombudsmen  Ombudsmen are ESGR volunteers who assist employers and service members to informally resolve conflict.  Ombudsmen are able to provide information and answer questions.  Ombudsmen are required to be neutral mediators. Their services are provided free of charge.  Ombudsmen successfully resolve over 90% of cases received. o Employment Initiative: Hero 2 Hired (H2H)  Begun in response to unprecendented levels of veteran unemployment and under-employment.  ESGR facilitates contact between Guard/Reserve, Active Duty transitioning, veterans, and spouses.  H2H provides comprehensive career readiness to Reserve Component service members and their spouses. They provide training/assistance with key career preparation activities: building a resume, performing effective job searches, interviewing, networking.  Through high-tech applications, H2H Employment Coordinators link service members with military-friendly employers to promote a faster and more effective career development experience.  H2H recently transitioned its website to the Veterans Employment Center’s eBenefits website, to fully support a single online tool for

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

26

www.buddytobuddy.org

connecting veterans and their families with meaningful career opportunities in the public and private sectors.

To get more information  www.esgr.mil  ESGR Headquarters, Washington, D.C.: 800-336-4590  Michigan ESGR, Lansing: Gary Aten o Gary.d.aten.ctr@mail.mil o 517-489-7909

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

27

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL January 12-13, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Helmets to Hardhats Guest Speaker Mr. Bill Mulcrone Helmets to Hardhats Program 708-272-2812 BMulcrone@HelmetstoHardhats.org www.HelmetstoHardhats.org Guest Speaker Summary  What is Helmets to Hardhats? o Helmets to Hardhats is a national, non-profit program that connects National Guard, Reserve, retired, and transitioning active-duty military service members with skilled training and quality career opportunities in the construction industry.

The program is designed to help military service members successfully transition back into civilian life by offering them the means to secure a quality career in the construction industry. o Most career opportunities offered by the program are connected to federallyapproved apprenticeship training programs. Such training is provided by the trade organizations themselves at no cost to the veteran. No prior experience is needed; in fact, most successful placements start with virtually no experience in their chosen field. All participating trade organizations conduct three to five year earnwhile-you-learn apprenticeship training programs that teach service members everything they need to know to become a construction industry professional with a specialization in a particular craft. And, because these apprenticeship programs are regulated and approved at both federal and state levels, veterans can utilize their Montgomery G.I. Bill benefits to supplement their income while they are learning valuable skills and on the job training.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

28

www.buddytobuddy.org











o H2H is not a union-only program but they require employers to participate in proven apprenticeship training programs that are registered and approved by applicable federal and state authorities. In addition, they seek to ensure that transitioning veterans are provided with wages and benefits that allow them to maintain an appropriate standard of living in the community where the career is located.

How does Helmets to Hardhats work? o Most experienced job seekers understand that utilizing personal networks (networking) is a much more effective way of securing a quality career than simply looking online or going through newspaper ads. Although H2H is a Webbased program that requires online registration and provides career postings, what sets it apart from other initiatives is that H2H employees, and the dedicated volunteers that work with them, take an active role in connecting veterans to outstanding career and training opportunities. At the end of the day, having an informed advocate on your side who knows where you need to go, who you need to talk and can help facilitate the hiring process makes all the difference in the world to serious job seekers interested in securing a rewarding career in construction.

What is an apprenticeship? o An apprenticeship is a mixture of classroom instruction and on-the-job training.

Similar to a traditional college, you would spend around four years receiving instruction and then graduate to become a Journeyman. Often times, you can get credit from your military experience to enter at an advanced level. You also get paid apprentice-level wages for your work while you are on the job, which rise as your level of experience and training increases.

What are the eligibility criteria? o In order to utilize Helmets to Hardhats, an individual must be or have been a member of the Armed Forces in some capacity – National Guard, Reserve, or Active Duty. A service member or veteran does not have to have deployed or been activated in order to take advantage of Helmets to Hardhats. However, they must have received an honorable discharge. o Eligibility for apprenticeship programs varies based on the standards set by each individual career provider. You must be at least 18 years of age, have an honorable discharge, have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a drug test and complete a formal interview.

Can a service member or veteran use their GI Bill benefits with this program? o Yes! Federally-recognized joint labor-management apprenticeship programs are high-quality, well-resourced training programs that are accredited by Regional Education Certifying Councils and Boards. This educational certification is what qualifies the apprenticeship program for the use of the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill, the Montgomery G.I. Bill or various state, National Guard or Reserve educational funding programs. These educational benefits, and some state programs, normally pay qualified apprentices a monthly stipend in addition to their earned wages.

How does one get started with Helmets to Hardhats? o To participate in H2H, simply visit the program’s Web site at www.helmetstohardhats.org and click the “Get Started” button to create and

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

29

www.buddytobuddy.org



activate your profile. Once your profile is activated, you can browse hundreds of career and training opportunities and forward your profile to career providers electronically from the H2H site.

Does it work? o Since 2007, Helmets to Hardhats has confirmed the placements of almost 6,000 military veterans into careers in the building and construction trades.

To get more information www.HelmetstoHardhats.org 866-741-6210

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

30

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL July 15, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

HERO 2 HIRED (H2H) Guest Speaker  Melvin Bauman, Employment Transition Coordinator

Guest Speaker Summary  Hero2Hired (H2H) was created to make it easy for Reserve Component service members to connect to and find jobs with military-friendly companies.  Hero 2 Hired (H2H) is a consolidation and network of efforts within the following Reserve Affairs offices (to gain efficiencies and improve effectiveness) o RC Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program has a congressional mandate to provide employment o services o Employer Support for Guard and Reserve (ESGR) o Multiple Reserve Component efforts...Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces (EPAF); NG o Jobs Connection Education Program; Marines Home town Links  H2H is a web-based program focused on helping veterans find employment. They offer the following tools for those looking for jobs: o Job Search Engine – a search engine with jobs specifically from companies looking to hire veterans. o Military Skills Translator – an online tool where you can enter your military occupational code to get a list of career paths that fit with your military training and experience. o Career Assessment Survey – a short skills and interests survey to help you determine what career types fit best with your background.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

31

    

o Advice and Training - tips on job-hunting techniques, interview preparation, and resume building or get information on school offerings, certificate and training programs, apprenticeships, financial aid, and more. o Hiring Events calendar – a calendar with online and in-person job fairs In the last 21 months, over 16,000 veterans nationwide have found employment through the site, including over 900 in Michigan.

When a soldier signs up on the website (which is a requirement for all MI National Guard members), they are contacted within 48 hours by an H2H staff member who will help them search for jobs, build their resume, find information about training, etc.

H2H also co-sponsors virtual jobs fairs and in-person job fairs.

H2H is available via smart phone on their mobile app, and the website offers a QR code for easy download.

There is an H2H co-sponsored job fair in Southfield, MI next Tuesday, July 22. Here is the website for more information, which should very soon contain a list of employers attending the fair: http://www.uschamberfoundation.org/event/southfield-mi-1

To get more information  Visit https://h2h.jobs/  On our website, https://buddytobuddy.org , you can find an H2H presentation that gives more information about the program and the mobile app. That can be found under the General Information tab.

Guest Speaker Contact Information:  Melvin Bauman o melvin.bauman@us.army.mil o US Army Reserve Center 3870 Three Mile Rd. NW, Walker MI 49544 o 616-735-4050 x 110

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

32

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL June 22-23, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Wounded Veterans Internship Program Guest Speaker Mr. Bruce Freimark Project Coordinator, Wounded Veterans Internship Program 517-373-1532 freimarkb@michigan.gov Guest Speaker Summary  The Wounded Veterans Internship Program is grant-funded and run through the Michigan Department of Transportation.  Geared toward veterans who are transitioning from military life to civilian life, the program application is open to any veteran with a 10% or greater service-connected disability.  The program provides veterans with a paid internship for up to 2 years, during which time they are able to bid internally on State of Michigan jobs. o The program does not provide benefits or paid time off, but they are flexible if interns need time off. o Pay ranges from $13.75 to $18 per hour. o Many former interns now have full-time, regular positions within the State of Michigan.  While participating in internship program, veterans will have the opportunity to attend workshops aimed at improving interviewing and resume-writing skills, learning how to effectively complete state job applications, and networking with individuals in other state departments.  The best way to earn one of the limited spots in this program is to ensure that the Program Coordinator has access to your resume when a position comes through. It is best

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

33

www.buddytobuddy.org



to send him the resume of any 10%+ disabled veteran, whether or not a position is immediately available.

Jobs are located throughout the state of Michigan, and may soon be expanding to the Upper Peninsula.

To get more information  http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,4616,7-151-9623_38029_61350---,00.html

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

34

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 17-18, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan National Guard State Family Programs Guest Speaker Ms. Jenna Lee Kirkton, Family Readiness Support Assistant (734) 946-2512 Jenna.l.kirkton.ctr@mail.mil Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for all Service Members, Families, Veterans, and Retirees in recognition of their service to our great state and nation. We are committed to enhancing the readiness and well-being of all military families through information, education, programs, and resources.  Services Provided: o Command Support o Family Readiness o Mobilization and Reintegration Coordinator o Crisis Intervention and Referral o Community Outreach o Volunteer Recruitment o Training and Management o Child and Youth Programs  Family Readiness o Mission: A partnership exists between the Michigan National Guard and its Families to promote readiness, resilience, and retain quality Service Members.

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are the primary communication link between the Commander and Unit Family Members, and are the foundation of the Michigan National Guard Family Program.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

35

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Objectives:  Develop family and support networks  Be a conduit of official command  Training opportunities for volunteers and supporters  Educate families and supporters on benefits and services (within the Michigan Army National Guard and community resources). o What does an FRG do?  Establish a “phone tree” and email distribution list to pass on essential information  Publish a unit family readiness newsletter for unit members and family members  Provide training in a variety of areas that will enhance family member readiness  Assist the Commander in planning and implementing unit family day briefings and activities  Plan and implement fundraising activities  Plan programs that will introduce family members to other family members, thereby enhancing family member rapport and potential support during times of mobilization o Why is Family Readiness important?  Provides information and a support network to our families and unit members during their association with the National Guard, and especially during a deployment  Welcomes and provides a general overview to new family members on the FRG and the unit’s mission through the family orientation sponsorship program  Provides training in a variety of areas (communication, family budget/finance management, parenting, etc.)  Plans programs that will introduce family members to other family members o Programs  Family Assistance Centers (FACs)  Established and maintained to support Service Members, Veterans, and Families of ALL branches of service.  FAC Specialists provide 6 essential services including: crisis, financial, legal, medical, ID card/DEERS and community resource information, referral, and follow-up.  Currently Michigan has 10 FACs throughout the state (Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, Grayling, Wyoming, Grand Ledge, Bay City, Fort Custer, Jackson, Taylor, Lansing).  Child and Youth Programs  Responsible for the development and coordination of Child and Youth Services for National Guard personnel and their families during all phases of the deployment cycle (pre-deployment, deployment, and re-deployment/reunion)

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

36

www.buddytobuddy.org





 











Available to assist with youth activities and programs with your FRG  Operation Military Kids works with Family Readiness Child & Youth staff.

Yellow Ribbon Programs  Plans and coordinates events for deploying units for predeployment, deployment, and post-deployment, and Family Bonds events.

Buddy-to-Buddy  A two-tiered program consisting of Buddy 1s (Soldiers) and Buddy 2s (Volunteer Veterans).

Transition Assistance Advisor  Serves as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits.  Provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources, in addition to pre-separation counseling.

Surge Support Assistance  Military and Family Life Counselor: Provide direct, short-term, non-medical, solution-focused counseling and psycho-educational services to individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Military Personal Finance Counselor: Provide answers to financial questions, avenues to resolve financial problems and help develop plans to reach your financial goals. (Note: This is available to all military service members, regardless of branch of service.)

Military OneSource  Military OneSource Consultant: Collaborate with military and community support services, educate service and family members of all branches and components on the support services available through Military OneSource.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)  Provides support services to survivors of service members and veterans who have fallen in combat and to the survivors of all service members who have passed while on duty.  Provides short and long-term support for surviving family members.

Retirement Services  Provides assistance with retirement benefits counseling, survivor benefit plan, retired pay applications, retirement points corrections, state retired pay applications. Services available for all reserve component service members.  Assists current service members and gray-area retirees with retirement applications.

ID Cards/DEERS Services

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

37

www.buddytobuddy.org



ID Card Services: Issue ID Cards to current service members, retirees, and family members.  Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): Assist current service members, retirees, and family members with verification and enrollment in DEERS. o Service Member, Veteran, and Family Assistance Center  All the above-mentioned programs and housed and available here.  Joint Forces Headquarters: 3243 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lansing, MI 48906

To get more information All contact information available in the directory attached to the original email containing these notes. Ms. Kirkton can also be contacted at any time.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

38

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 2-3, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Military OneSource Guest Speaker Ms. April Clipper Michigan Military OneSource Consultant 989-415-9846 April.clipper@militaryonesource.com Guest Speaker Summary  Military OneSource: Overview o Department of Defense funded program that provides a range of services to service members and their families at no cost. o Information includes, but is not limited to, deployment, reunion and reintegration, relationship, grief, spouse employment and education, parenting, and child care. o Services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by phone and online. o All services are 100% free of charge.  Eligibility for Services o All active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members (regardless of activation) and their immediate family members are eligible.  This includes members of the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR).  “Immediate family members” includes spouses, children, or anyone legally responsible for a service member’s children during a time of separation or deployment. o Separated (through either honorable discharge or retirement) soldiers may receive services for up to 6 months past their date of separation. o An exception to the above rule is that any veteran with a service-related injury or disability (any percentage rating) is eligible for services from the Wounded Warrior Program through Military OneSource at any time.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

39

www.buddytobuddy.org









o Civilian employees of the Department of Defense who are deployed are also eligible.

Privacy & Confidentiality o Personal information will not be shared with the military or chain of command, or family or friends, or released to other agenices. o All contacts with Military OneSource are completely private. o Exceptions to this are in instances of suspected family mistreatment (domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse), threats to harm oneself or others, and illegal activities.

Counseling o Provides free short-term counseling for issues such as relocation, separation, reintegration, relationship issues, parenting skills, communication, anger management, grief, stress, deployment, life skills, coping skills, interpersonal skills, and academic or occupational problems.  Up to 12 sessions, per person, per issue.  Available face-to-face, via telephone, or online, according to the service member’s preference.  In the majority of cases, referrals are made within 72 hours of the initial call.  Is not intended to address sexual assault, abuse, mental health conditions requiring in-patient hospitalization and other behavioral concerns.  Available to children if a parent attends with a child younger than 13, a parent brings a child ages 13-17 to the individual counseling session, or the child is 18 years or older. o Confidential specialty consultations are available over the phone for various topics including adoption, health and wellness coaching, and special needs. o Other services and counseling includes: document translation, financial counseling, tax services, and more.

Financial Services o Financial Counseling is available on issues such as budgeting and general financial management, debt management, and housing management. o Financial Planning is available on topics like investing, retirement planning, planning for college, TSP/401K/pensions, traditional and ROTH IRAs, assistance in selecting a certified financial planner in the local community, tax questions and preparations. o Financial counseling occurs primarily over the phone, though in some locations it is available in person. o All financial counselors are accredited. o Through this free service, affiliates are prohibited from making referrals to themselves or to another network affiliate for fee-based work as a result of a consultation. Sales of products or services to participants is also prohibited.

Tax Services o Tax filing is available mid-January through the end of tax season.  Includes access to free tax preparation software and free electronic filing for state and federal returns.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

40

www.buddytobuddy.org





o Tax consultations are available on a variety of topics, including federal tax filing requirements, allowable deductions, tax exemptions and credits, IRA deductions, W-2 and W-4 form questions, divorce taxation, capital gains questions, and questions related to filing extensions and deployment.  These services are available year-round and are performed by certified public accountants.

Health and Wellness Coaching o Provides expert advice on losing weight, making healthier food choices, learning which exercises best benefit your heart, handling stressful situations, or learning how to relax. o Each individual is assigned a personal coach with whom they will communicate by phone or email. o Online self-directed programs are available for individuals who are highly motivated and self-disciplined. o Four online self-directed health and wellness coaching programs, designed to help individuals in making lasting life changes.  LivingEasy: Resilience and Stress Management  LivingFit: 90-day Walking Program  LivingLean: Weight Management Program  LivingFree: Smoking Cessation Program Career Consultations o Available topics include choosing a career, finding a job, effectiveness at work, and management skills. o Other resources include the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities Center and the Military Spouse Employment Partnership  Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) Program  Counselors help spouses explore the world of work and make careful, well-thought-out career decisions  Offers no-cost assessment tools, job market information, and assistance in developing individual career plans.  SECO offers a full range of Education, Training, and Licensure information and support.  SECO offers specialty consultations, in which counselors help military spouses compare the costs of schools and programs of study, including their potential returns on investment.  Spouses can learn about license portability, the ability to use their current professional licenses in a new state while they work to meet new state requirements.  SECO career counselors help spouses learn how to conduct an effective job search, how to identify themselves to potential employers, how to write resumes and develop interview skills, how to learn about flexible and virtual work opportunities, and how to plan for child care and transportation.  Finally, counselors help spouses connect with mentors who can help them open doors and meet employers who have pledged to recruit, hire, promote, and retain them.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

41

www.buddytobuddy.org











Parenting o Topics: Becoming a parent, parenting skills, adoption o Resources: Toolkits, web links, educational materials, confidential specialty consultations Special Needs o Tools: Navigating resources, advocating at school, medical, financial and legal support, family support, and self-care o Resources: Special needs parent toolkit, special care organizational record for children (or adults) with special health care needs, and confidential specialty consultations, educational materials, and discussion boards o Military OneSource offers 60-minute consultations, up to 12 times per year, with a consultant who specializes in the topic of special needs.

Wounded Warrior Resources o These are resources that work in coordination with branch-specific resources. o Can be accessed by any wounded/injured service member or veteran at any time. o Provides assistance in areas like: military facilities concerns, health care services, information on VA benefits and other entitlements, and everyday issues such as confidential non-medical counseling, dependent care, etc.

Online Library Resources o Electronic library resources are available 24/7, completely free. o Some resources available include (among many more):  Peterson’s Education Resource Center, providing study guides and practice tests for SAT, ACT, CLEP, ASVAB, certifications and more, as well as help with scholarships and the admissions process.  Morningstar Investment Research Centers offers information and advice on mutual funds, stocks, exchange traded funds, and companies.  Career Transitions helps users find job announcements, write a resume, map military experience to civilian jobs, write a cover letter, access career interests, and participate in an interview simulation.  Master File Premier and Academic One Source links to scholarly and informational full-text journal articles, including extensive coverage of the sciences, technology, medicine, the arts, theology, literature, history, and culture.  Auto Repair Reference Center offers complete automotive repair manuals, 1954 to current.  Heritage Quest offers an essential collection of unique materials for both genealogical and historical researchers with coverage dating back to the late 1700s.  Kids InfoBits is designed especially for students in kindergarten through grade five.

Access Military OneSource o Available 24/7/365. o All services and materials are available at no cost to service members and their families. o Can call toll-free number at any time to reach a trained, master’s-level consultant: 800-342-9647.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

42

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Can also access all resources on their website: www.MilitaryOneSource.mil.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

43

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 10-11, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan National Guard State Family Programs Guest Speaker Ms. Sierra Stone Administrative Assistant, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program (734) 998-5825 sierracs@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for all Service Members, Families, Veterans, and Retirees in recognition of their service to our great state and nation. We are committed to enhancing the readiness and well-being of all military families through information, education, programs, and resources.  Services Provided: o Command Support o Family Readiness o Mobilization and Reintegration Coordinator o Crisis Intervention and Referral o Community Outreach o Volunteer Recruitment o Training and Management o Child and Youth Programs  Family Readiness o Mission: A partnership exists between the Michigan National Guard and its Families to promote readiness, resilience, and retain quality Service Members.

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are the primary communication link between

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

44

www.buddytobuddy.org

o

o

o

o

the Commander and Unit Family Members, and are the foundation of the Michigan National Guard Family Program.

Objectives:  Develop family and support networks  Be a conduit of official command  Training opportunities for volunteers and supporters  Educate families and supporters on benefits and services (within the Michigan Army National Guard and community resources).

What does an FRG do?  Establish a “phone tree” and email distribution list to pass on essential information  Publish a unit family readiness newsletter for unit members and family members  Provide training in a variety of areas that will enhance family member readiness  Assist the Commander in planning and implementing unit family day briefings and activities  Plan and implement fundraising activities  Plan programs that will introduce family members to other family members, thereby enhancing family member rapport and potential support during times of mobilization Why is Family Readiness important?  Provides information and a support network to our families and unit members during their association with the National Guard, and especially during a deployment  Welcomes and provides a general overview to new family members on the FRG and the unit’s mission through the family orientation sponsorship program  Provides training in a variety of areas (communication, family budget/finance management, parenting, etc.)  Plans programs that will introduce family members to other family members Programs  Family Assistance Centers (FACs)  Established and maintained to support Service Members, Veterans, and Families of ALL branches of service.  FAC Specialists provide 6 essential services including: crisis, financial, legal, medical, ID card/DEERS and community resource information, referral, and follow-up.  Currently Michigan has 10 FACs throughout the state (Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, Grayling, Wyoming, Grand Ledge, Bay City, Fort Custer, Jackson, Taylor, Lansing).  Child and Youth Programs  Responsible for the development and coordination of Child and Youth Services for National Guard personnel and their families

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

45

www.buddytobuddy.org



 









during all phases of the deployment cycle (pre-deployment, deployment, and re-deployment/reunion)  Available to assist with youth activities and programs with your FRG  Operation Military Kids works with Family Readiness Child & Youth staff.

Yellow Ribbon Programs  Plans and coordinates events for deploying units for predeployment, deployment, and post-deployment, and Family Bonds events.

Buddy-to-Buddy  A two-tiered program consisting of Buddy 1s (Soldiers) and Buddy 2s (Volunteer Veterans).

Transition Assistance Advisor  Serves as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits.  Provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources, in addition to pre-separation counseling.

Surge Support Assistance  Military and Family Life Counselor: Provide direct, short-term, non-medical, solution-focused counseling and psycho-educational services to individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Military Personal Finance Counselor: Provide answers to financial questions, avenues to resolve financial problems and help develop plans to reach your financial goals. (Note: This is available to all military service members, regardless of branch of service.)

Military OneSource  Military OneSource Consultant: Collaborate with military and community support services, educate service and family members of all branches and components on the support services available through Military OneSource.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)  Provides support services to survivors of service members and veterans who have fallen in combat and to the survivors of all service members who have passed while on duty.  Provides short and long-term support for surviving family members.

Retirement Services  Provides assistance with retirement benefits counseling, survivor benefit plan, retired pay applications, retirement points corrections, state retired pay applications. Services available for all reserve component service members.  Assists current service members and gray-area retirees with retirement applications.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

46

www.buddytobuddy.org



ID Cards/DEERS Services  ID Card Services: Issue ID Cards to current service members, retirees, and family members.  Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): Assist current service members, retirees, and family members with verification and enrollment in DEERS.  Michigan National Guard Family Fund  Gives smaller grants, $200-$500  Accessed through Family Programs Staff  All MIARNG soldiers eligible o Service Member, Veteran, and Family Assistance Center  All the above-mentioned programs and housed and available here.  Joint Forces Headquarters: 3243 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lansing, MI 48906

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

47

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Assistance Centers Family Assistance Centers Coordinator: BELINDA IRELAND 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9889 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 974-8844 belinda.r.ireland.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Counties

Ishpeming Armory REGION 1 900 Palms Avenue EVE GIRAUD – PROSSER Ishpeming, MI 49849 eve.a.giraud-prosser.ctr@mail.mil

Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon

Office: (906) 485-2548 Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (906) 203-7676

Sault Ste Marie Armory REGION 2 JERRY MCDONALD gerald.l.mcdonald.ctr@mail.mil

1170 E. Portage Road Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783

Alger, Cheboygan , Chippewa, Emmet, Luce, Mackinac, Presque Isle, Schoolcraft

Office: (906) 632-7861 Fax: (906) 632-4753 Cell: (906) 203-7680 Camp Grayling

REGION 3 BETH AMY bethann.m.amy.ctr@mail.mil

Building #3 Grayling, MI 49739 Office: (989) 344-6144 Fax: (989) 344-6421

Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Crawford, Grand Traverse, Iosco, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Roscommon, Wexford

Cell: (989) 745-1439

Grand Valley Armory REGION 4

1200 44th Street SW

AMY GOULD

Wyoming, MI 49509

amy.s.gould.ctr@mail.mil

Allegan, Kent, Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa

Office: (616) 249-2741 Fax: (616) 249-2671

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

48

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: (616) 485-8966

Grand Ledge/Lansing Armory REGION 5 10600 Eaton Highway STEPHANIE BEALS Grand Ledge, MI 48837 stephanie.g.beals.ctr@mail.mil

Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Mecosta, Montcalm, Shiawassee

Office: (517) 481-8850 Fax: (517) 481-8822 Cell: (517) 395-0840

Bay City Armory REGION 6

2510 Wilder Road

MELISSA ALEX-HALM

Bay City, MI 48706

melissa.s.halm.ctr@mail.mil

Office: (517) 481-7323 Fax: (517) 481-7324

Arenac, Bay, Genesee, Gladwin, Huron, Lapeer, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, St. Clair, Tuscola

Cell: (989) 573-3425 Fort Custer REGION 7

Office: TBD Fax: TBD

VACANT

Cell: 517-898-4144

REGION 8 LORI SPICER lori.a.spicer.ctr@mail.mil

Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, Saint Joseph, Van Buren

Jackson Armory 4850 Cooper Road Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Washtenaw

Jackson, MI 49201 Office: (517) 990-1186 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 395-0839

REGION 9 LAURA CHIRIO

Taylor Armory 12450 Beech Daly Road Macomb, Oakland, Wayne

laura.e.chirio.ctr@mail.mil

Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2553 Fax: (734) 946-2540

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

49

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: 734-558-0217

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

50

www.buddytobuddy.org

Airman and Family Readiness Program (FRP) Managers Airman and FRP Managers

Contact information 17 Phantom Street Building 6930

Robin Rogers 110th Fighter Wing

Battle Creek, MI 49037

robin.rogers@ang.af.mil

Office: (269) 969-3493 Fax: (269) 969-3556 29868 George Ave Bldg 168 Selfridge ANGB, MI 48045

Paulus Obey 127th Family Support Center

Office: (586) 239-5583 paulus.obey@ang.af.mil Fax: (586) 239-5786 5884 A Street MSgt Michael White Alpena, MI 49707 Alpena CRTC Office: (989) 354-6267 michael.white.1@ang.af.mil Fax: (989) 354-6298 Mark Downing Office: (517) 817-8292 ANG Yellow Ribbon Coordinator mark.downing.ctr@ang.af.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

51

www.buddytobuddy.org

ID Card/DEERS/TRICARE/Retired Services

Point of Contact

Contact information

SSG Rex Waterbury ID Cards/DEERS/TRICARE NCOIC

Office: (517) 481-9872

rex.a.waterbury.mil@mail.mil SSG Randy Jackson Human Resources Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9879

randy.jackson3.mil@mail.mil Point of Contact

Contact information

SGT David Saunders Retired Services NCO

Office: (517) 481-9867

david.j.saunders.mil@mail.mil Mr. James Jones Retired Services Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9873

james.e.jones1396.vol@mail.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

52

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Readiness Support Assistants Senior Family Readiness Support Assistant: JEAN WIXSON 3423 N. Martin Luther King JR. Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9892 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 599-5372 jean.m.wixson.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Command/Units

Jackson Armory Jennifer Medina

4850 Cooper Road

jennifer.m.medina14.ctr@mail.mil

Jackson, MI 49201 Office: (517) 990-1122 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 599-7477

272 Regional Support Command, 1225 CSSB (1071 Maintenance Company, 1072, 1073, 464 QM), 246 Transportation BTN (1460, 1461, 1462, 1463, DET 1-1461, DET 11463), 146 Med BN (MMB), 1171 Med Co (ASMB), 3-238 GSAB (all AVN and DET Companies)

Grand Valley Armory Michael Petrie

1200 44th Street SW

michael.j.petrie4.ctr@mail.mil

Wyoming, MI 49509 Office: (616) 249-2641 Fax: (616) 249-2671

63 Troop BDE, Co B BSTS 37 BCT, Co C BSTS 86 BCT, Co F 425 INF 1-126 Squadron (Troops A,B,C,D 237 BSB), 1-119, FA (BTRY A, B, C, FSC), 1-125 INF BN (CO A, B, B (-), C, D, F237 BSN) 1-182 FA,

Cell: (517) 599-5474 Taylor Armory Jenna Kirkton jenna.l.kirkton.ctr@mail.mil

12450 Beech Daly Road Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2512 Fax: (734) 946-2540

177 MP BDE, 777 MP DET, 210 MP BN (1775 MP Co, 1776 MP Co, 144 MP Co. 631 Troop CMD, 46 MP Co, (DET 2, 460 CHEM, 156 SIG Co, 1208 Linguist PLT), 507 ENG BN (1433, 1434, 1436, 1440, 1439, 1442 ENG Co, DET 1 1434, 745 EOD, 126 SIG)

Cell: (517) 599-5690

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

53

www.buddytobuddy.org

JFHQ Denise Gardner denise.m.gardner12.ctr@mail.mil

3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9896 Fax: (517) 481-9886

126 PCH, 46 MP CMD, MEDCOM, MTC Grayling, JFHQ, RTI, OD Training Co, 1BN 177th RTI, 2BN RTI, DET 15 OSA, 1999 SPT DET, DET 1 JAG 505, 1146 JAG, 51 CST, 126 Army Band, RRB, FCTC

Cell: (517) 599-6456 Ishpeming Armory Stephanie Barshaw Stephaniel.barshaw.ctr@mail.mil

900 Palms Avenue Ishpeming, MI 49849 Office: (906) 485-2524

107 ENG BTN ) 1430, 1431, 1432, 1437, 1430 DET 1, 1431 DET 1, 1432 DET 1, 1430)

Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (517) 599-7022

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

54

www.buddytobuddy.org

Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP)

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Maritza Rodriguez-Arsenau

Eastern Michigan Location

Specialization in Child & Youth

Cell: (517) 599-2719

maritza.rodriguez-arseneau@ahsg.us

Sheryl Richard

Western Michigan Location

Military Family Life Consultant

Cell: (269) 832-8202

sheryl.richard@ahsg.us

April Clipper State-Wide Location Cell: (989) 415-9846

Michigan Military OneSource Consultant april.clipper@militaryonesource.com

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

55

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Programs Point of Contact

Contact Information

Position

jessica.s.ulrey.mil@mail.mil State Family Programs Director

CW3 Jessica Ulrey

Office: (517) 481-9899 Cell: (517) 993-7892 heaven.n.sharon.mil@mail.mil

SGT Heaven Sharon

Office: (517) 481-9860 Yellow Ribbon Coordinator Cell: (517) 899-6313

michiko.d.alvarenga.mil@mail.mil Family Program Assistant

SGT Michiko Alvarenga

Office: (517) 481-9874 nicholas.a.anderson36.mil@mail.mil Buddy To Buddy OIC

CPT Nicholas Anderson

Office: (517) 481-9898 Cell: (517) 977-5925 ronald.b.hatchew.mil@mail.mil Family Programs Specialist

CW2 Ronald Hatchew

Office: (517) 481-9877 Cell: (517) 993-7782 angela.s.spina.ctr@mail.mil

Angela Spina

Office: (517) 481-9894

Lead State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 977-8312 traci.m.osterman.ctr@mail.mil

Traci Osterman-Pierce

Office: (517) 481-9890

State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 582-9280

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

56

www.buddytobuddy.org

raymond.d.ladd.ctr@mail.mil Jackson Armory Office: (517) 990-1111

Transition Assistance Advisor

Raymond Ladd Lansing Office: (517) 481-9895 thomas.w.foster.ctr@mail.mil

Tom Foster

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Office: (517) 481-9887 Cell: (989) 372-1126 wendy.j.day2.ctr@mail.mil

Wendy Day

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Cell: (517) 672-0918

michael.d.wilson110.ctr@mail.mil

Michael Wilson Cell: (269) 689-5711

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

FAMILY PROGRAMS OFFICE JFHQ-Family Programs Office 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Bldg 31 Lansing, MI 48906 Phone: (517) 481-9893

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

57

Fax: (517) 481-9886

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL May 11-12, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation and Education Guest Speaker Mr. Michael Poyma Employment Specialist, VA Michael.poyma@va.gob 517-203-0947 Guest Speaker Summary  Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation and Education (VR&E) benefits are for employment and training, similar to the Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bills. o The benefits can help veterans with their educational pursuits. o The veteran must have a service-connected condition that has impacted their life, quality of life, ability to find employment, and/or ability to be successful with employment.  Generally, a 20% or higher rating is necessary to qualify, but even veterans with a 0 or 10% rating are encouraged to apply – they may qualify. o As a general rule, the veteran needs to have separated from the military within the last 12 years. However, there is also flexibility with this rule. o Veterans do not necessarily have to be unemployed to use the program.  Specific VR&E Benefits o Track 1: Re-employment  For individual separating from active duty, National Guard, or Reserves  Focus is on returning to previous employers  Services may include  Job accommodations  Job modifications Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

58

www.buddytobuddy.org

o

o

o

o

 Work adjustment assistance  Consultation with employer  Personalized case management support Track 2: Rapid Access to Employment  For individuals seeking employment soon after separation or who already have the necessary skills to be competitive in the job market  Services may include:  Resume writing  Interview skills training  Job accommodations  Refresher courses  Licensure and certification  Job search assistance  Employment adjustment services  Personalized case management services Track 3: Employment Through Long-Term Services  For individuals needing specialized training and/or education to obtain and maintain suitable employment.  Services may include:  Apprenticeships and internships  On-the-job training  Higher education or vocational training  Tuition/fees/books/tools/supplies  Tutoring  Subsistence allowance  Personalized case management support Track 4: Self-employment  For individuals who, because of their disabilities:  Have limited access to traditional employment  Need flexible work schedules  Need a more accommodating work environment  Services may include:  Analysis of viability of business concept  Assistance with development of a business plan  Training in small business operations  Guidance on obtaining resources  Personalized case management support Track 5: Independent Living  For individuals who are not able to work at the current time and need rehabilitation services to live more independently  Services may also include:  Comprehensive in-home assessment  Assistive technologies  Independent living skills training  Connection to community-based support services

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

59

www.buddytobuddy.org

  



Personalized case management services Coordinator with VA’s Specially Adapted Housing Program and/or VA’s Home Improvement Structure Assistance Program Personalized Case Management Support

How to Apply o Visit the online application at http://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/application_roadmap.asp o Within 30-45 days of your application, you will be contacted be a counselor with the VR&E program who will meet with you to go over you application and tell you whether or not you are accepted into the program.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

60

www.buddytobuddy.org

Financial Call Notes American Legion Funds ________________________________ p. 62-63 Department of Human Services (DHS) ____________________ p. 64-65 Financial Resources for Veterans and Service Members _______ p. 66-68 Michigan National Guard Family Programs ________________ p. 69-86

61

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL January 19, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan American Legion – Reconnect Committee Financial Resources Guest Speaker Mr. Gary Tanner, Chair of American Legion Reconnect Committee 313-550-4289 Gtanner364@gmail.com Guest Speaker Summary  The American Legion Reconnect Committee is an all-volunteer committee dedicated to assisting returning veterans and their families. One way they fulfill that commitment is through assistance funds.  Patriot Fund (State of Michigan-only program) o The Patriot Fund is maintained entirely through private donations and was created specifically to assist veterans who do not qualify for other assistance programs. o To qualify for assistance, individual must be currently serving or have an Honorable or General under Honorable discharge. o An individual may receive assistance once per year. Awards have a soft limit of $500 each. 96-97% of applicants receive the assistance requested – in 2014, the Patriot Fund awarded around $50,000 to service members and veterans in need. o The fund will cover many expenses that others may not. The only real limitations are: credit card bills, legal fees, and luxury expenses (i.e. cable TV). o The Patriot Fund writes the assistance check directly to the debtor, not to the individual soldier. They will not pay partial balances, only “in full” amounts.

Checks usually take 1-2 weeks to receive from the time an individual submits an application.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

62

www.buddytobuddy.org





o To Apply for the Patriot Fund: An individual must fill out the application (attached to this email and also available online at http://www.michiganlegion.org/assets/tfa_reconnect.pdf). They should then email the application to Gary Tanner, along with a copy of their DD 214 and a copy of the bill for which they are requesting assistance. Mr. Tanner’s email address is gtanner364@gmail.com.

Michigan Wounded and Returning Warrior Program (State of Michigan-only program) o Provides many services to wounded and returning warriors that may not be otherwise accessible. o Aimed specifically toward Post-9/11 soldiers, though the program is not closed to veterans of other eras. o Some services include:  Individual and family retreats to Wilwin Lodge, Mackinac Island and other Michigan Resort Locations.  Group PTSD retreats at Wilwin Lodge.  Adaptive golf clinics and therapeutic lessons  Home adaptation  Emergency financial assistance o For more information or to request assistance, contact Gary Tanner, whose contact information is listed above.

Heroes to Hometowns Program (National program) o Transition program for service members returning from the Post-9/11 conflicts who are at least 30% service-connected disabled through the VA. o Heroes to Hometowns is designed to establish a support network and ensure that the returning service member is connected to the resources they need. o Heroes to Hometowns can provide:  A Welcome-Home celebration  Temporary financial assistance  Pro-bono financial planning  Housing assistance  Home and vehicle adaptation  Government claims assistance  Family support o To request assistance through the Heroes to Hometowns Program, a service member should complete the application found at: http://www.legion.org/heroes/assistance.

To get more information  http://www.michiganlegion.org/assets/patriotfundflyer1.pdf  http://www.michiganlegion.org/assets/themichiganwoundedandreturningwarriorflyer9_2 013.pdf  http://www.legion.org/heroes/about

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

63

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL September 23, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Department of Human Services (DHS) – An Overview Guest Speaker Ms. Denise Payton (313) 852-2092 paytond@michigan.gov Guest Speaker Summary The Department of Human Services offers many programs to assist low-income individuals and families. Some programs vary by county, though most of them are run state-wide. These are not veteran-specific initiatives, though veterans are certainly eligible if they meet the other eligibility guidelines. • Healthy Michigan o This is the recently expanded healthcare coverage program offered through the State of Michigan. Both medical and dental costs are included in coverage and covered individuals may choose from a variety of vendors for their health insurance. o Eligibility is based on income and the guidelines vary based on the type of household. Single adults must earn below 133% of the federal poverty line, children ages 1-19 must fall below 160% of the federal poverty line, and pregnant women must make less than 195% of the federal poverty line. o Healthy Michigan Information: http://1.usa.gov/1ptK7ew o Healthy Michigan Handbook: http://1.usa.gov/ZeuQsQ o Healthy Michigan Frequently Asked Questions: http://1.usa.gov/1uJkHxv o Information on child healthcare programs Healthy Kids & MIChild: http://1.usa.gov/1DytLM2 o Information on healthcare for pregnant women programs Healthy Kids for Pregnant Women and Group 2 Pregnant Women: http://1.usa.gov/1sts6Vh Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

64

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

• •

•

•

o Information on family programs, Low Income Families and Transitional Medical Assistance: http://1.usa.gov/1usqXgO State Emergency Relief o Immediate help may be available if you are facing conditions of extreme hardship or emergencies threatening your health and safety. o This program can provide assistance with things like home repair, weatherization, heat & utilities, and home ownership. o Wayne County DHS is currently able to provide assistance for individuals who had home damage during the recent flooding, storms, and power outages. If you need assistance with damages related to these recent occurrences, contact your local DHS office as soon as possible. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1msSfRp for more information on this program.

Food Assistance o Temporary food assistance is available for low-income families and individuals. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1uJmGlA for more information.

Cash Assistance o Temporary cash assistance is available for low-income pregnant women and lowincome families with minor children. o Learn more here: http://1.usa.gov/1wMqNio Child Care Assistance o Payment assistance may be available for individuals who cannot afford their child care needs. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1wMqOTn to learn more about this program How to Apply o Visit https://www.mibridges.michigan.gov/access/ to start an application. This can be accessed from any home or public computer. Additionally, all DHS offices have kiosks that individuals can use to apply for assistance. o If someone would rather not apply online, they can call 1-855-789-5610. When calling, some programs (including Healthy Michigan) will yield an immediate eligibility decision.

Family Size

Poverty Line 133% 160% (100%) $11,670 $15,521.10 $18,672 1 $15,730 $20,920.90 $25,168 2 $19,790 $26,320.70 $31,664 3 $23,850 $31,720.50 $38,160 4 $27,910 $37,120.30 $44,656 5 $31,970 $42,520.10 $51,152 6 $36,030 $47,919.90 $57,648 7 $40,090 $53,319.70 $64,144 8 For more information • http://www.michigan.gov/dhs/ • 1-855-275-6424 • To find the DHS office nearest you, visit: http://1.usa.gov/1hGLXaE.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

65

195% $22,759.50 $30,673.50 $38,590.50 $46,507.50 $54,424.50 $62,341.50 $70,258.50 $78,175.50

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 24, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Financial Resources for Veterans and Service Members Guest Speaker Ms. Stephanie Zarb Buddy-to-Buddy Program Manager szarb@umich.edu 734-998-5829 Guest Speaker Summary  Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF) o This program is for use when an unforeseen situation has caused a temporary financial emergency or hardship that a grant would resolve.  The applicant must be able to show that they can meet future financial obligations. o Eligibility:  Honorable discharge  180 days during a period of war  180 days of active duty with award of Armed Forces/Navy Expeditionary Medal  Less than 180 days of wartime, if due to service-connected disability  Dependents can apply if veteran is eligible under certain circumstances o How to apply:  Must apply through County Veteran Counselor in county where you reside (a list of CVCs can be found here: http://bit.ly/1vmEWEV).  Can call and make appointment with CVC to ensure you bring all required documents and information to complete the application. o What is needed:  Military discharge document (DD214 or other) Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

66

www.buddytobuddy.org





 



 Proof of residence  Documents for dependents  Proof of income and expenses  Other documents depending on types of assistance o MVTF Contact Information:  P.O. Box 30104 Lansing, MI 48909  517-284-5299 o Key Points:  Will give grants up to $2,000  The MVTF committee typically wants to see that the applicant has attempted to resolve the issue on their own, before applying for the grant.  They will not pay for security deposits for housing.  Will only pay $500 toward medical bills  MVTF does not give money to the soldier or veteran themselves, but to the organization/company to whom the money is owed.  MVTF will not pay for legal expenses. However, it is possible for them to pick up other expenses (such as a utility bill), so the applicant’s own money can be used for the legal expense.

Veterans’ Relief Fund/Soldiers & Sailors Relief o Funded by county taxes; Also accessed through County Veterans Counselors. o Available for chronic problems, such as paying rent or utility bills. o No monetary cap on what can be spent.

Michigan National Guard Family Fund o Gives smaller grants, $200-$500 o Accessed through Family Programs Staff o All MIARNG soldiers eligible, regardless of deployment Michigan Military Family Relief Program o For deployed service members and their families o Online application: http://1.usa.gov/1zMaEdN Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund o This fund is designed to help bridge the gap between when a service member files for service-connected disability and when a rating decision is made. o For more information, contact Lynn Philips: 734-929-4765 (Office); 734-9046645 (Cell) VFW Unmet Needs Fund o Helps meet unanticipated financial demands on service members’ families that can’t be remedied through existing means. o Service member or veteran must have been honorably discharged within past 36 months or been active duty within past 36 months. Applicant must be the service member or eligible dependent listed under DEERS. o Hardship must be due to: deployment, military pay issue, and/or military illness or injury. o Hardship cannot be cause by: civil, legal, or domestic issues, misconduct, or any issues that are a result of spousal separation or divorce, or financial mismanagement by self or others or due to bankruptcy.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

67

www.buddytobuddy.org





  

o Applicants can receive funds only once every 18 months, and only twice total.

Second requests must be caused by a new situation or deployment. o All funds are paid directly to the creditor. o Eligible expenses: Housing expenses (mortgage, rent, repairs, insurance); vehicle expenses (payment, insurance, repairs); utilities and primary phone; food and incidentals; children’s clothing, diapers, formula, necessary school or childcare expenses; medical bills, prescriptions, and eyeglasses (patient’s portion for necessary or emergency medical care only). o Ineligible expenses: Credit cards, military charge cards, or retail store cards; personal, student, and payday loans; negative bank accounts (overdraft fees and charges, etc.); cable, internet, or secondary phone; investigational or cosmetic medical procedures and expenses; taxes; child support, alimony, or legal expenses; military debt, or debt owed to a friend/family members; furniture, electronic equipment, or vehicle rentals; down payments on homes or vehicles; reimbursements for items already paid for; and bills obviously due to excessive use or mismanagement. o For more information, contact Unmet Needs at 1-866-789-6333 or visit http://bit.ly/1vdNwAM. American Legion Patriot Fund o The Patriot Fund is a Michigan-specific program that is specifically intended to help veterans who do not qualify for other existing financial relief programs. o Typically provides grants of $500-$750. o Available to non-wartime veterans. o Available to National Guard Soldiers who have never deployed. o Contact: Gary Tanner, 313-550-4289 Local Service Organizations o Examples include: VFW, DAV, American Legion, AmVets, Ladies Auxiliary. o We recommend finding a local chapter that is very active and getting to know the folks there. These organizations are often able to provide small amounts of financial assistance.

Local Community Action Agencies o Many of these agencies have veteran-specific programs o Find your local agency here: http://bit.ly/1tJ3D8O. Local Food Pantry o Use this database to find food pantries in your area: http://bit.ly/1pOCg1O. Financial Counseling o Military OneSource provides free financial counseling, call 800-342-9647. o Military Family Life Consultants provide financial planning, call 248-246-1580.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

68

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 17-18, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan National Guard State Family Programs Guest Speaker Ms. Jenna Lee Kirkton, Family Readiness Support Assistant (734) 946-2512 Jenna.l.kirkton.ctr@mail.mil Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for all Service Members, Families, Veterans, and Retirees in recognition of their service to our great state and nation. We are committed to enhancing the readiness and well-being of all military families through information, education, programs, and resources.  Services Provided: o Command Support o Family Readiness o Mobilization and Reintegration Coordinator o Crisis Intervention and Referral o Community Outreach o Volunteer Recruitment o Training and Management o Child and Youth Programs  Family Readiness o Mission: A partnership exists between the Michigan National Guard and its Families to promote readiness, resilience, and retain quality Service Members.

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are the primary communication link between the Commander and Unit Family Members, and are the foundation of the Michigan National Guard Family Program.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

69

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Objectives:  Develop family and support networks  Be a conduit of official command  Training opportunities for volunteers and supporters  Educate families and supporters on benefits and services (within the Michigan Army National Guard and community resources). o What does an FRG do?  Establish a “phone tree” and email distribution list to pass on essential information  Publish a unit family readiness newsletter for unit members and family members  Provide training in a variety of areas that will enhance family member readiness  Assist the Commander in planning and implementing unit family day briefings and activities  Plan and implement fundraising activities  Plan programs that will introduce family members to other family members, thereby enhancing family member rapport and potential support during times of mobilization o Why is Family Readiness important?  Provides information and a support network to our families and unit members during their association with the National Guard, and especially during a deployment  Welcomes and provides a general overview to new family members on the FRG and the unit’s mission through the family orientation sponsorship program  Provides training in a variety of areas (communication, family budget/finance management, parenting, etc.)  Plans programs that will introduce family members to other family members o Programs  Family Assistance Centers (FACs)  Established and maintained to support Service Members, Veterans, and Families of ALL branches of service.  FAC Specialists provide 6 essential services including: crisis, financial, legal, medical, ID card/DEERS and community resource information, referral, and follow-up.  Currently Michigan has 10 FACs throughout the state (Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, Grayling, Wyoming, Grand Ledge, Bay City, Fort Custer, Jackson, Taylor, Lansing).  Child and Youth Programs  Responsible for the development and coordination of Child and Youth Services for National Guard personnel and their families during all phases of the deployment cycle (pre-deployment, deployment, and re-deployment/reunion)

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

70

www.buddytobuddy.org





 











Available to assist with youth activities and programs with your FRG  Operation Military Kids works with Family Readiness Child & Youth staff.

Yellow Ribbon Programs  Plans and coordinates events for deploying units for predeployment, deployment, and post-deployment, and Family Bonds events.

Buddy-to-Buddy  A two-tiered program consisting of Buddy 1s (Soldiers) and Buddy 2s (Volunteer Veterans).

Transition Assistance Advisor  Serves as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits.  Provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources, in addition to pre-separation counseling.

Surge Support Assistance  Military and Family Life Counselor: Provide direct, short-term, non-medical, solution-focused counseling and psycho-educational services to individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Military Personal Finance Counselor: Provide answers to financial questions, avenues to resolve financial problems and help develop plans to reach your financial goals. (Note: This is available to all military service members, regardless of branch of service.)

Military OneSource  Military OneSource Consultant: Collaborate with military and community support services, educate service and family members of all branches and components on the support services available through Military OneSource.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)  Provides support services to survivors of service members and veterans who have fallen in combat and to the survivors of all service members who have passed while on duty.  Provides short and long-term support for surviving family members.

Retirement Services  Provides assistance with retirement benefits counseling, survivor benefit plan, retired pay applications, retirement points corrections, state retired pay applications. Services available for all reserve component service members.  Assists current service members and gray-area retirees with retirement applications.

ID Cards/DEERS Services

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

71

www.buddytobuddy.org



ID Card Services: Issue ID Cards to current service members, retirees, and family members.  Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): Assist current service members, retirees, and family members with verification and enrollment in DEERS. o Service Member, Veteran, and Family Assistance Center  All the above-mentioned programs and housed and available here.  Joint Forces Headquarters: 3243 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lansing, MI 48906

To get more information All contact information available in the directory attached to the original email containing these notes. Ms. Kirkton can also be contacted at any time.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

72

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 10-11, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan National Guard State Family Programs Guest Speaker Ms. Sierra Stone Administrative Assistant, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program (734) 998-5825 sierracs@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for all Service Members, Families, Veterans, and Retirees in recognition of their service to our great state and nation. We are committed to enhancing the readiness and well-being of all military families through information, education, programs, and resources.  Services Provided: o Command Support o Family Readiness o Mobilization and Reintegration Coordinator o Crisis Intervention and Referral o Community Outreach o Volunteer Recruitment o Training and Management o Child and Youth Programs  Family Readiness o Mission: A partnership exists between the Michigan National Guard and its Families to promote readiness, resilience, and retain quality Service Members.

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are the primary communication link between

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

73

www.buddytobuddy.org

o

o

o

o

the Commander and Unit Family Members, and are the foundation of the Michigan National Guard Family Program.

Objectives:  Develop family and support networks  Be a conduit of official command  Training opportunities for volunteers and supporters  Educate families and supporters on benefits and services (within the Michigan Army National Guard and community resources).

What does an FRG do?  Establish a “phone tree” and email distribution list to pass on essential information  Publish a unit family readiness newsletter for unit members and family members  Provide training in a variety of areas that will enhance family member readiness  Assist the Commander in planning and implementing unit family day briefings and activities  Plan and implement fundraising activities  Plan programs that will introduce family members to other family members, thereby enhancing family member rapport and potential support during times of mobilization Why is Family Readiness important?  Provides information and a support network to our families and unit members during their association with the National Guard, and especially during a deployment  Welcomes and provides a general overview to new family members on the FRG and the unit’s mission through the family orientation sponsorship program  Provides training in a variety of areas (communication, family budget/finance management, parenting, etc.)  Plans programs that will introduce family members to other family members Programs  Family Assistance Centers (FACs)  Established and maintained to support Service Members, Veterans, and Families of ALL branches of service.  FAC Specialists provide 6 essential services including: crisis, financial, legal, medical, ID card/DEERS and community resource information, referral, and follow-up.  Currently Michigan has 10 FACs throughout the state (Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, Grayling, Wyoming, Grand Ledge, Bay City, Fort Custer, Jackson, Taylor, Lansing).  Child and Youth Programs  Responsible for the development and coordination of Child and Youth Services for National Guard personnel and their families

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

74

www.buddytobuddy.org



 









during all phases of the deployment cycle (pre-deployment, deployment, and re-deployment/reunion)  Available to assist with youth activities and programs with your FRG  Operation Military Kids works with Family Readiness Child & Youth staff.

Yellow Ribbon Programs  Plans and coordinates events for deploying units for predeployment, deployment, and post-deployment, and Family Bonds events.

Buddy-to-Buddy  A two-tiered program consisting of Buddy 1s (Soldiers) and Buddy 2s (Volunteer Veterans).

Transition Assistance Advisor  Serves as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits.  Provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources, in addition to pre-separation counseling.

Surge Support Assistance  Military and Family Life Counselor: Provide direct, short-term, non-medical, solution-focused counseling and psycho-educational services to individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Military Personal Finance Counselor: Provide answers to financial questions, avenues to resolve financial problems and help develop plans to reach your financial goals. (Note: This is available to all military service members, regardless of branch of service.)

Military OneSource  Military OneSource Consultant: Collaborate with military and community support services, educate service and family members of all branches and components on the support services available through Military OneSource.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)  Provides support services to survivors of service members and veterans who have fallen in combat and to the survivors of all service members who have passed while on duty.  Provides short and long-term support for surviving family members.

Retirement Services  Provides assistance with retirement benefits counseling, survivor benefit plan, retired pay applications, retirement points corrections, state retired pay applications. Services available for all reserve component service members.  Assists current service members and gray-area retirees with retirement applications.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

75

www.buddytobuddy.org



ID Cards/DEERS Services  ID Card Services: Issue ID Cards to current service members, retirees, and family members.  Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): Assist current service members, retirees, and family members with verification and enrollment in DEERS.  Michigan National Guard Family Fund  Gives smaller grants, $200-$500  Accessed through Family Programs Staff  All MIARNG soldiers eligible o Service Member, Veteran, and Family Assistance Center  All the above-mentioned programs and housed and available here.  Joint Forces Headquarters: 3243 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lansing, MI 48906

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

76

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Assistance Centers Family Assistance Centers Coordinator: BELINDA IRELAND 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9889 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 974-8844 belinda.r.ireland.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Counties

Ishpeming Armory REGION 1 900 Palms Avenue EVE GIRAUD – PROSSER Ishpeming, MI 49849 eve.a.giraud-prosser.ctr@mail.mil

Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon

Office: (906) 485-2548 Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (906) 203-7676

Sault Ste Marie Armory REGION 2 JERRY MCDONALD gerald.l.mcdonald.ctr@mail.mil

1170 E. Portage Road Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783

Alger, Cheboygan , Chippewa, Emmet, Luce, Mackinac, Presque Isle, Schoolcraft

Office: (906) 632-7861 Fax: (906) 632-4753 Cell: (906) 203-7680 Camp Grayling

REGION 3 BETH AMY bethann.m.amy.ctr@mail.mil

Building #3 Grayling, MI 49739 Office: (989) 344-6144 Fax: (989) 344-6421

Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Crawford, Grand Traverse, Iosco, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Roscommon, Wexford

Cell: (989) 745-1439

Grand Valley Armory REGION 4

1200 44th Street SW

AMY GOULD

Wyoming, MI 49509

amy.s.gould.ctr@mail.mil

Allegan, Kent, Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa

Office: (616) 249-2741 Fax: (616) 249-2671

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

77

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: (616) 485-8966

Grand Ledge/Lansing Armory REGION 5 10600 Eaton Highway STEPHANIE BEALS Grand Ledge, MI 48837 stephanie.g.beals.ctr@mail.mil

Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Mecosta, Montcalm, Shiawassee

Office: (517) 481-8850 Fax: (517) 481-8822 Cell: (517) 395-0840

Bay City Armory REGION 6

2510 Wilder Road

MELISSA ALEX-HALM

Bay City, MI 48706

melissa.s.halm.ctr@mail.mil

Office: (517) 481-7323 Fax: (517) 481-7324

Arenac, Bay, Genesee, Gladwin, Huron, Lapeer, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, St. Clair, Tuscola

Cell: (989) 573-3425 Fort Custer REGION 7

Office: TBD Fax: TBD

VACANT

Cell: 517-898-4144

REGION 8 LORI SPICER lori.a.spicer.ctr@mail.mil

Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, Saint Joseph, Van Buren

Jackson Armory 4850 Cooper Road Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Washtenaw

Jackson, MI 49201 Office: (517) 990-1186 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 395-0839

REGION 9 LAURA CHIRIO

Taylor Armory 12450 Beech Daly Road Macomb, Oakland, Wayne

laura.e.chirio.ctr@mail.mil

Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2553 Fax: (734) 946-2540

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

78

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: 734-558-0217

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

79

www.buddytobuddy.org

Airman and Family Readiness Program (FRP) Managers Airman and FRP Managers

Contact information 17 Phantom Street Building 6930

Robin Rogers 110th Fighter Wing

Battle Creek, MI 49037

robin.rogers@ang.af.mil

Office: (269) 969-3493 Fax: (269) 969-3556 29868 George Ave Bldg 168 Selfridge ANGB, MI 48045

Paulus Obey 127th Family Support Center

Office: (586) 239-5583 paulus.obey@ang.af.mil Fax: (586) 239-5786 5884 A Street MSgt Michael White Alpena, MI 49707 Alpena CRTC Office: (989) 354-6267 michael.white.1@ang.af.mil Fax: (989) 354-6298 Mark Downing Office: (517) 817-8292 ANG Yellow Ribbon Coordinator mark.downing.ctr@ang.af.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

80

www.buddytobuddy.org

ID Card/DEERS/TRICARE/Retired Services

Point of Contact

Contact information

SSG Rex Waterbury ID Cards/DEERS/TRICARE NCOIC

Office: (517) 481-9872

rex.a.waterbury.mil@mail.mil SSG Randy Jackson Human Resources Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9879

randy.jackson3.mil@mail.mil Point of Contact

Contact information

SGT David Saunders Retired Services NCO

Office: (517) 481-9867

david.j.saunders.mil@mail.mil Mr. James Jones Retired Services Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9873

james.e.jones1396.vol@mail.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

81

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Readiness Support Assistants Senior Family Readiness Support Assistant: JEAN WIXSON 3423 N. Martin Luther King JR. Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9892 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 599-5372 jean.m.wixson.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Command/Units

Jackson Armory Jennifer Medina

4850 Cooper Road

jennifer.m.medina14.ctr@mail.mil

Jackson, MI 49201 Office: (517) 990-1122 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 599-7477

272 Regional Support Command, 1225 CSSB (1071 Maintenance Company, 1072, 1073, 464 QM), 246 Transportation BTN (1460, 1461, 1462, 1463, DET 1-1461, DET 11463), 146 Med BN (MMB), 1171 Med Co (ASMB), 3-238 GSAB (all AVN and DET Companies)

Grand Valley Armory Michael Petrie

1200 44th Street SW

michael.j.petrie4.ctr@mail.mil

Wyoming, MI 49509 Office: (616) 249-2641 Fax: (616) 249-2671

63 Troop BDE, Co B BSTS 37 BCT, Co C BSTS 86 BCT, Co F 425 INF 1-126 Squadron (Troops A,B,C,D 237 BSB), 1-119, FA (BTRY A, B, C, FSC), 1-125 INF BN (CO A, B, B (-), C, D, F237 BSN) 1-182 FA,

Cell: (517) 599-5474 Taylor Armory Jenna Kirkton jenna.l.kirkton.ctr@mail.mil

12450 Beech Daly Road Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2512 Fax: (734) 946-2540

177 MP BDE, 777 MP DET, 210 MP BN (1775 MP Co, 1776 MP Co, 144 MP Co. 631 Troop CMD, 46 MP Co, (DET 2, 460 CHEM, 156 SIG Co, 1208 Linguist PLT), 507 ENG BN (1433, 1434, 1436, 1440, 1439, 1442 ENG Co, DET 1 1434, 745 EOD, 126 SIG)

Cell: (517) 599-5690

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

82

www.buddytobuddy.org

JFHQ Denise Gardner denise.m.gardner12.ctr@mail.mil

3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9896 Fax: (517) 481-9886

126 PCH, 46 MP CMD, MEDCOM, MTC Grayling, JFHQ, RTI, OD Training Co, 1BN 177th RTI, 2BN RTI, DET 15 OSA, 1999 SPT DET, DET 1 JAG 505, 1146 JAG, 51 CST, 126 Army Band, RRB, FCTC

Cell: (517) 599-6456 Ishpeming Armory Stephanie Barshaw Stephaniel.barshaw.ctr@mail.mil

900 Palms Avenue Ishpeming, MI 49849 Office: (906) 485-2524

107 ENG BTN ) 1430, 1431, 1432, 1437, 1430 DET 1, 1431 DET 1, 1432 DET 1, 1430)

Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (517) 599-7022

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

83

www.buddytobuddy.org

Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP)

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Maritza Rodriguez-Arsenau

Eastern Michigan Location

Specialization in Child & Youth

Cell: (517) 599-2719

maritza.rodriguez-arseneau@ahsg.us

Sheryl Richard

Western Michigan Location

Military Family Life Consultant

Cell: (269) 832-8202

sheryl.richard@ahsg.us

April Clipper State-Wide Location Cell: (989) 415-9846

Michigan Military OneSource Consultant april.clipper@militaryonesource.com

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

84

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Programs Point of Contact

Contact Information

Position

jessica.s.ulrey.mil@mail.mil State Family Programs Director

CW3 Jessica Ulrey

Office: (517) 481-9899 Cell: (517) 993-7892 heaven.n.sharon.mil@mail.mil

SGT Heaven Sharon

Office: (517) 481-9860 Yellow Ribbon Coordinator Cell: (517) 899-6313

michiko.d.alvarenga.mil@mail.mil Family Program Assistant

SGT Michiko Alvarenga

Office: (517) 481-9874 nicholas.a.anderson36.mil@mail.mil Buddy To Buddy OIC

CPT Nicholas Anderson

Office: (517) 481-9898 Cell: (517) 977-5925 ronald.b.hatchew.mil@mail.mil Family Programs Specialist

CW2 Ronald Hatchew

Office: (517) 481-9877 Cell: (517) 993-7782 angela.s.spina.ctr@mail.mil

Angela Spina

Office: (517) 481-9894

Lead State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 977-8312 traci.m.osterman.ctr@mail.mil

Traci Osterman-Pierce

Office: (517) 481-9890

State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 582-9280

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

85

www.buddytobuddy.org

raymond.d.ladd.ctr@mail.mil Jackson Armory Office: (517) 990-1111

Transition Assistance Advisor

Raymond Ladd Lansing Office: (517) 481-9895 thomas.w.foster.ctr@mail.mil

Tom Foster

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Office: (517) 481-9887 Cell: (989) 372-1126 wendy.j.day2.ctr@mail.mil

Wendy Day

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Cell: (517) 672-0918

michael.d.wilson110.ctr@mail.mil

Michael Wilson Cell: (269) 689-5711

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

FAMILY PROGRAMS OFFICE JFHQ-Family Programs Office 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Bldg 31 Lansing, MI 48906 Phone: (517) 481-9893

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

86

Fax: (517) 481-9886

www.buddytobuddy.org

Housing/Homelessness Call Notes Department of Human Services (DHS) _________________ p. 88-89 Volunteers of America Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) __________________________ p. 90-96 VA Homeless Programs ______________________________ p. 97-100 VFW National Home for Children ______________________ p. 101-104

87

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL September 23, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Department of Human Services (DHS) – An Overview Guest Speaker Ms. Denise Payton (313) 852-2092 paytond@michigan.gov Guest Speaker Summary The Department of Human Services offers many programs to assist low-income individuals and families. Some programs vary by county, though most of them are run state-wide. These are not veteran-specific initiatives, though veterans are certainly eligible if they meet the other eligibility guidelines. • Healthy Michigan o This is the recently expanded healthcare coverage program offered through the State of Michigan. Both medical and dental costs are included in coverage and covered individuals may choose from a variety of vendors for their health insurance. o Eligibility is based on income and the guidelines vary based on the type of household. Single adults must earn below 133% of the federal poverty line, children ages 1-19 must fall below 160% of the federal poverty line, and pregnant women must make less than 195% of the federal poverty line. o Healthy Michigan Information: http://1.usa.gov/1ptK7ew o Healthy Michigan Handbook: http://1.usa.gov/ZeuQsQ o Healthy Michigan Frequently Asked Questions: http://1.usa.gov/1uJkHxv o Information on child healthcare programs Healthy Kids & MIChild: http://1.usa.gov/1DytLM2 o Information on healthcare for pregnant women programs Healthy Kids for Pregnant Women and Group 2 Pregnant Women: http://1.usa.gov/1sts6Vh Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

88

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

• •

•

•

o Information on family programs, Low Income Families and Transitional Medical Assistance: http://1.usa.gov/1usqXgO State Emergency Relief o Immediate help may be available if you are facing conditions of extreme hardship or emergencies threatening your health and safety. o This program can provide assistance with things like home repair, weatherization, heat & utilities, and home ownership. o Wayne County DHS is currently able to provide assistance for individuals who had home damage during the recent flooding, storms, and power outages. If you need assistance with damages related to these recent occurrences, contact your local DHS office as soon as possible. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1msSfRp for more information on this program.

Food Assistance o Temporary food assistance is available for low-income families and individuals. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1uJmGlA for more information.

Cash Assistance o Temporary cash assistance is available for low-income pregnant women and lowincome families with minor children. o Learn more here: http://1.usa.gov/1wMqNio Child Care Assistance o Payment assistance may be available for individuals who cannot afford their child care needs. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1wMqOTn to learn more about this program How to Apply o Visit https://www.mibridges.michigan.gov/access/ to start an application. This can be accessed from any home or public computer. Additionally, all DHS offices have kiosks that individuals can use to apply for assistance. o If someone would rather not apply online, they can call 1-855-789-5610. When calling, some programs (including Healthy Michigan) will yield an immediate eligibility decision.

Family Size

Poverty Line 133% 160% (100%) $11,670 $15,521.10 $18,672 1 $15,730 $20,920.90 $25,168 2 $19,790 $26,320.70 $31,664 3 $23,850 $31,720.50 $38,160 4 $27,910 $37,120.30 $44,656 5 $31,970 $42,520.10 $51,152 6 $36,030 $47,919.90 $57,648 7 $40,090 $53,319.70 $64,144 8 For more information • http://www.michigan.gov/dhs/ • 1-855-275-6424 • To find the DHS office nearest you, visit: http://1.usa.gov/1hGLXaE.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

89

195% $22,759.50 $30,673.50 $38,590.50 $46,507.50 $54,424.50 $62,341.50 $70,258.50 $78,175.50

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL September 15-16, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Volunteers of America Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Guest Speakers • Heather Nystrom, LMSW Senior Manager of Social Services VOAMI • Robert Nelsen, SSVF Program Manager VOAMI Guest Speaker Presentation Summary The VA has a goal of ending veteran homelessness by the end of 2015. The Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program is essential to accomplishing this goal. The VA has announced the award of approximately $300 million to 301 community agencies to provide grants to low income veteran families that are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless. VOA has received one of the SSVF program grants as it aligns with its mission of serving the underserved, including military veterans and their families.

VOA is a national organization, a faith based organization and 30 affiliates across the state. Have veteran programs in the Lower Peninsula from border to border.

In General, the SSVF program has the following guidelines: • SSVF grantees provide supportive services to very low-income Veterans and their families who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness. Required services provided by grantees include outreach, case management, assistance in obtaining VA benefits, and providing or coordinating efforts to obtain needed entitlements and other community services.

• SSVF grantees secure a broad range of other services for participants: legal assistance, credit counseling, housing counseling, assisting participants in understanding leases, securing utilities, coordinating moving arrangements, employment, training leading to Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

90

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

employment, providing representative payee services concerning rent and utilities when needed, and serving as an advocate for the Veteran when mediating with property owners on issues related to locating or retaining housing.

Grantees also offer temporary financial assistance that provide short-term assistance with rent, moving expenses, security and utility deposits, child care, transportation, utility costs, and emergency expenses.

In particular, the VOA has begun SSVF programs to serve veterans and families in Michigan.

What is a “Veteran” according to VOA programs: • Not all Veterans consider themselves Veterans.

• Trauma in service may effect ones desire to be associated with military.

• Military Sexual Trauma (MST) • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Other military related trauma • Stigmatisms of rank, sex, type of service, entitlement, etc. may effect ones self-evaluation of Veteran status.

• Many men or women who served in the military are unaware of service related benefits/assistance(s).

• Veterans are wired to adapt and overcome without asking for help.

It’s important to think before asking certain questions to veterans: • Never ask “Are you a Veteran?”

• Ask “Did you serve in the military?”

• Let the VA (Veterans Affairs) or other local Veterans Service Experts help to pursue/explain available resources for his/her level of service.

The veteran population is increasing, and the data supports that: • OIF/OEF/OND Veterans: o Over 2.3 million American are OEF/OIF/OND Veterans o 20% of OEF/OIF/OND Veterans have PTSD and/or Depression o OEF/OIF/OND and women Veterans are more likely to experience homelessness then their non-OIF/OEF/OND and male counterparts o Source: http://www.veteransandptsd.com/index.html http://www.va.gov/oig/pubs/VAOIG-11-03428-173.pdf • Female Veteran in particular: o Female Veterans face challenges when making the transition back into civilian life that are different from their male counterparts, including being single parents and coping with military sexual trauma. o 11.6 percent of OEF/OIF/OND Veterans are women o 1 in 5 women seen through the VA report MST o Source: http://www.womenshealth.va.gov/WOMENSHEALTH/latestinformation/facts.as p VOAMI Programs for Veterans: Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

91

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

•

•

Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program (HVRP) - employment assistance o Department of Labor program, serving in three major areas:  Kent county, Niles, battle creek, Kalamazoo  Jackson, Lansing  Macomb , Wayne, and Oakland o What can this program offer?  Connection to resources to overcome barriers  Skill translation for resumes and interviews  Weekly Job Club & Job Readiness workshop  Interview clothes & footwear  Work tools, boots, & clothes  Transportation assistance (bus passes or gas cards)  Case management with encouragement and community support! o Eligibility (must meet all below):  Risk of “Homelessness”  Discharge other than dishonorable  Actively seeking employment Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program (SSVF) – independent housing assistance o Goal is to help to prevent evictions or to rapidly re-house a veteran. This is housing-related assistance o What can this program offer?  Rapid Rehousing Assistance  Homelessness Prevention Assistance  Housing Stability & Family Case Management  Legal Services for Housing Stability  Rapid Re-Housing  Homelessness Prevention  Security Deposit Assistance  Rental Assistance  Utility Assistance  Child Care Costs  Moving Costs  Housing Stability Assistance  Paid Legal Services  Case Management Services o Eligibility (must meet all below):  1 Day of Active Military Duty  Below 50% Median Income  A Discharge Status of Honorable, Other Than Honorable, Medical, or General Veteran Housing Program (VHP) – transitional housing assistance o What can this program offer:  Short-term temporary housing for homeless Veterans  Case management aimed at improving self-sufficiency related to housing  Referral(s) to various VA resources

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

92

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

 Collaboration with VA Healthcare o Eligibility (must meet all below):  24 Months of Active Military Duty  Eligibility for VA benefits  Active participation in housing program  Not exceeded maximum stays Save Haven (Warren, MI) – transitional housing with for Veterans with disabilities o What can this program offer:  Short-term temporary housing for homeless Veterans  Case management aimed at improving self-sufficiency related to housing  Referral(s) to various VA resources  Collaboration with VA Healthcare o Eligibility (must meet all below):  24 Months of Active Military Duty  Eligibility for VA benefits  Active participation in housing program

Other VOAMI Programming – assisting Veterans and other non-Veteran clients: • Housing Assessment and Resource Agencies (HARA) o Designated contact for Lansing housing needs • New Hope Day Center o City designated warming/cooling center for Lansing o Place where people first request assistance(s) • Community Kitchen o Free meals for men, women, and children who are in need o Serves 3 meals each day • Emergency Shelter o Short term shelter for men, women, and children under 5 • Hotel Motel Program o Short term sheltering program for families in the community • Emergency Shelter Clothing Voucher o Emergency seasonal clothing for individuals and families • Permanent Housing Programs o Disabled and/or senior housing o *Coventry Place Apartments 1 & 2, *Oak Village Square Apartments, *McDonald Senior Apartments, *Sumby Senior Housing, *Buena Vista Senior Community, *Country View Apt/Townhouses, *Liberty Commons • Behavior Health Program o Counseling and therapy for individuals in need of therapy services • Adopt A Family o Providing Christmas gifts to families in need • Holiday Meal Program o Meals delivered to homebound individuals • Annual VOAMI Veteran Stand Down o Serving all local homeless Veterans o Organized by VOAMI since 2004 Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

93

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

Annual VOAMI Female Stand Down o Customized toward the specific needs of female Veterans o Organized by VOAMI since 2011

VOA does provide transportation to veterans living outside of their service area. However this service is limited to those who will participate in a VOA program. VOA has a central intake coordinator who will connect anyone who calls in Michigan to a VOA program or to give them a warm hand-off to a non-VOA service.

For certain VOA programs, participants have to meet certain income requirements that are based on county and number of household members to be eligible for programs: • Below 50% median income = low income • Below 30 % median income = very low income Other non-VOA Community services that might be of service: • Various Lead Community Contacts –starting points for every Veteran with needs o Veterans Affairs (VA) Offices o Call local office o Visit website: www.va.gov • Michigan Works Veteran Service Dept. o Call local office o Visit website: www.michiganworks.org • 211 o Call local office o Visit website: www.211.org • Volunteers of America Michigan o Call 1-877-509-VETS o Visit website: www.voami.org • Trauma-Informed Care for Women Veterans Experiencing Homelessness: A Guide for Service Providers o Visit website: http://www.dol.gov/wb/trauma/ To get more information • Call 1-877-509-VETS • Visit www.voami.org Guest Speaker Contact Information • Heather Nystrom, LMSW Senior Manager of Social Services VOAMI o Cell: 248-971-4328 o hnystrom@voami.org • Robert Nelsen, SSVF Program Manager VOAMI o Cell: 517-899-9419 o rnelsen@voami.org

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

94

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL April 20-21, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Guest Speaker Mr. Lonny Bourque 906-250-0931 lbourque@clmcaa.org Guest Speaker Summary  SSVF – An Overview o The VA has been authorized to provide grants to select non-profit organizations and community agencies for the purpose of assisting very low-income Veteran families residing in or transitioning to permanent housing. These organizations will provide supportive services to eligible Veteran families that are designed to promote housing stability. o These supportive services may include:  Vocational and rehabilitation counseling  Employment and training service  Educational assistance  Health care services  Daily living services  Personal financial planning services  Transportation services  Income support services  Fiduciary and representative payee services  Legal services  Child care services  Housing counseling services

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

95

www.buddytobuddy.org







Other supportive services, including time-limited payments to third parties (e.g., temporary financial assistance payments on behalf of Veteran families to landlords, utility companies, moving companies, eligible child care provides, and home repair companies). o The overall focus of SSVF is to provide rapid re-housing to homeless Veteran families and to support Veteran families who are at-risk of becoming homeless by engaging in preventative services.

Eligibility o Veteran (DD-214 that reads something other than “Dishonorable”) – “bonus points” awarded for having deployed in support of OEF/OIF/OND. o Very low-income – income must not exceed 50% of the area median income for the family size (see attached document). “Bonus points” for income falling below 30% of the area median income. o Be currently residing in permanent housing or be able to reside in permanent housing if permanent housing is found. o Other factors that make it more likely a Veteran will receive assistance: having dependent children, particularly under the age of 6; having a disability; and being recently released from an institution.

Getting Started o To get started with SSVF, an individual must contact their local SSVF grantee – the organization that funds the grant for their county. o To find the SSVF grantee for a county in the Lower Peninsula, contact Alison Thierbach at 248-535-9791. Ms. Thierbach is a former M-SPAN intern who now works for Volunteers of America and has quick access to this information. o To find the SSVF grantee for a county in the Upper Peninsula, contact Lonny Bourque at 906-250-0931.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

96

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL December 8-9, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Health Care for Homeless Veterans Guest Speaker Mr. Matt Newman Supported Housing Clincian Battle Creek VA Medical Center 269-966-5600 ext. 31303 Matthew.Newman@va.gov Guest Speaker Summary  Program Background o In 2009, President Obama and U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki pledged to end veteran homelessness by 2015. o Through this homeless Veteran’s Initiative, the VA committed $800 million in FY 2011 to programs addressing this issue. These programs provide health care, housing, job training, and education to veterans. o There are 6 pillars to the initiative:  Community Partnerships: consists of almost 2500 community partners that provide services to veterans.  Income/Employee Benefits: the VA has Vocational Rehabilitation Specialists who help about 40,000 veterans find employment annually.  Housing/Supportive Services: The VA has partnered with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide veterans with Section 8 “Housing Choice Vouchers” and case management services.  Outreach/Education: The VA is also working to raise awareness and support.  Prevention: The VA also provides grants to programs helping veterans at risk of becoming homeless.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

97

www.buddytobuddy.org











Treatment: The Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans treats veterans with mental illness, health, or substance abuse issues.

Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) o HCHV is an essential and critical part of the VHA, providing a gateway to VA and community supportive services for eligible Veterans who are homeless. o HCHV programs provide outreach, case management and Contracted Residential Services in community locations to engage homeless veterans who have been underserved and disenfranchised. o The central goal is to reduce homelessness among veterans by conducting outreach to those who are the most vulnerable and are not currently receiving services and engaging them in treatment and rehabilitative programs.

HCHV Program: Homeless Patient Aligned Care Team (H-PACT) o H-PACT provides a coordinated “medical home” specifically tailored to the needs of homeless veterans that integrate clinical care with delivery of social services with enhanced access and community coordination. o The objectives of H-PACT are:  To reduce emergency department use and hospitalization  Improved chronic disease management  Decrease barriers to accessing health care services and affordable housing o In the Battle Creek catchment area, H-PACT is available in Grand Rapids and Lansing HCHV Program: Jesse House o The Jesse House Program is a recovery focused transitional housing collaborative between the Battle Creek Housing Commission (BCHC), the City of Battle Creek, and the Battle Creek VA Medical Center. o The program is designed to building upon the foundation of recovery skills participants have developed, and help them be successful in an independent living environment. Services are provided to enhance continued recovery from drug/alcohol dependency and/or mental health disorders; employability; consumer skills; money management; community involvement; continued personal and interpersonal development; and physical and mental health. o Admission criteria: Eligible for VA healthcare services; enrolled in care at BCVAMC; capable of self-care and able to self-manage medication; have a mental health and/or substance abuse related diagnosis; have income; and be committed to personal recovery. o There is a $220/month program fee. Participants must have income beyond the program fee to cover food, transportation, and other living expenses. o In the Battle Creek catchment area, there are two houses for males and one house for females, all located in Battle Creek.

HCHV Program: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) o SUD is an addiction recovery program that is available to veterans who are enrolled in another HCHV program. o The SUD program offers individual and group therapy to veterans who struggle with addiction issues past or present. Veterans should be motivated to make a change in their lives regarding substance use.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

98

www.buddytobuddy.org











o All veterans will be assessed for services and then appropriate referrals made depending on level of care determined by the SUD specialist.

HCHV Program: Housing and Urban Development – Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) o HUD-VASH is a collaborative partnership between the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. o The vouchers are distributed through the local Public Housing Authorities. The HUD-VASH voucher is similar to the Section 8 Program, but is unique in that it requires a veteran recipient to participate in VA case management for mental health, substance abuse and primary health concerns and/or other disability. o In the Battle Creek catchment area, there are currently HUD-VASH vouchers allocated to Battle Creek, Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Muskegon, and there should be some in Benton Harbor soon.

HCHV Program: Veterans Justice Outreach (VJO) o VJO is designed to collaborate with local justice system partners to identify veterans that enter the criminal justice system and are in need of treatment services rather than incarceration. o VJO works with Justice-Involved veterans, which is any veteran who has contact with the judicial system, law enforcement, or jail system. o The purpose of the VJO initiative is to avoid unnecessary criminalization of mental illness and extended incarceration among veterans by ensuring that eligible veterans in contact with the criminal justice system have access to: VHA mental health and substance abuse services when clinically indicated, and other VA services and benefits as appropriate.

HCHV Program: Homeless Veterans Dental Initiative o Homeless veterans who have been in designated Homeless Programs for 60 or more consecutive days may be eligible for specified dental services. o A Dental Consult form the Primary Care Provider is required. o The Homeless Program Coordinator determines eligibility. o This dental work given through this program may be used to rectify existing dental problems – it is not used for standard preventative care.

HCHV Program: Homeless Veteran Supported Employment Program (HVSEP) o HVSEP is a system of support for veterans in regards to gaining and maintaining employment by job coaching, job retention, employment search assistance, resume assistance and interviewing skills. o HVSEP is dedicated to helping veterans obtain and maintain competitive employment by providing quality vocational and rehabilitative services.

HCHV Program: Grant Per Diem (GPD) and Contract Programming o GPD and Contract programs are VA-funded services with community agencies to address the causes and effects of homelessness in a community-based setting that provides direct services in a safe environment, supports recovery, and meets the needs of homeless veterans. o Selected GPD programs offer services such as case management, education, crisis intervention, counseling, and services targeted towards specialized populations including homeless women veterans, etc.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

99

www.buddytobuddy.org



o In the Battle Creek catchment area, the GPD and contract programming facilities are located in Lansing, Niles, Battle Creek, and Grand Rapids.

HCHV Outreach o Staff members provide outreach, assessments, referrals and case management services to homeless veterans identified at the medical center and in the community. o Services are also provided to homeless veterans receiving treatment in Contract Residential Treatment and Supportive Housing Homeless Programs. o Staff members can be a liaison between community partners and the VA medical center such as: local homeless shelters, local veteran affairs offices, and Homeless Continuums of Care. o Stand Downs are events designed to link homeless or at-risk veterans to assistive services such as food, shelter, clothing, health screenings, VA and Social Security benefits, counseling, employment, and substance abuse treatments.  Stand Downs are collaborative events, coordinated between a local “host” community agency, local Vas, other government agencies, and community agencies who serve the homeless or at-risk populations.  Buddy-to-Buddy staff and/or volunteers attend nearly every Stand Down that takes place across the state of Michigan.

To get more information  http://www.va.gov/homeless/hchv.asp  General National Line: 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838)  Ann Arbor HCHV Program: 734-845-5058  Battle Creek HCHV Program: 269-966-5600 ext. 31648  Detroit HCHV Program: 313-576-1000 ext. 64602  Iron Mountain HCHV Program: 906-774-3300 ext. 32541  Saginaw HCHV Program: 989-497-2500 ext. 11773

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

100

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL July 22, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

VFW National Home for Children Guest Speakers  Sue Alverson, Associate Development Director  Tammy Foster, Helping Specialist/Case Manager

Guest Speaker Summary  VFW National Home for Children was founded in 1925  Their mission is to serve as a living memorial to America’s veterans by helping our nation’s veteran and military families.  Eligibility: o Families of active-duty military personnel, veterans, and descendants of members of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary. o The adult(s) seeking assistance must have one or more children living with them the majority of the time. Families living on site are expected to demonstrate consistent progress toward family goals set with the staff. o For the purpose of the VFW National Home for Children program, a “veteran” is defined as anybody who has served in any capacity in any branch of the military, and no deployment is necessary.  The National Home’s Military and Veteran Family Program offers: o Help with setting and meeting goals o On-site licensed child care o Tutoring and other educational services o Life skills training for teens and adults o Recreation and community service opportunities  The National Home offers both residential and non-residential services

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

101

www.buddytobuddy.org



o If a family is receiving residential services, they will stay in one of the 40+ homes on the site and receive assistance in every facet of their lives, including child care, job seeking, tutoring/mentoring, and more, all at no cost to the family. A family can live on site for a maximum of 4 years. o If a family is receiving non-residential services, they may be connected with resources in their area, and/or they may receive case management services from National Home staff.

The National Home offers a Helpline that anybody can call: 1-800-313-4200. They can call with questions about: o Assistance connecting with local services and resources o Long-term case management services wherever they live o Instructions for applying to live at the National Home

To get more information  Visit www.vfwnationalhome.org  Business Line: 800-424-8360  Mailing address: 3573 S. Waverly Rd. Eaton Rapids, MI 48827  VFW Home for Children Facebook page: www.facebook.com/vfwnationalhome  VFW Home for Children blog: www.vfwnationalhome.wordpress.com

Guest Speaker Contact Information:  Sue Alverson: salverson@vfwnationalhome.org  Tammy Foster: tfoster@vfwnationalhome.org

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

102

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL September 22, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

VFW National Home for Children Guest Speaker Sue Alverson Associate Development Director 517-663-7983 salverson@vfwnationalhome.org Tammy Foster Helping Specialist/Case Manager tfoster@vfwnationalhome.org Guest Speaker Summary  VFW National Home for Children was founded in 1925 o The National Home operates solely on private grants (no government funding) and provides all of its services free of charge.  Their mission is to serve as a living memorial to America’s veterans by helping our nation’s veteran and military families.  Eligibility: o Families of active-duty military personnel, veterans, OR descendants of members of the VFW OR descendants of/members of the VFW’s Ladies Auxiliary. o The adult(s) seeking assistance must have one or more children (under 18 years of age) living with them the majority of the time. Families living on site are expected to demonstrate consistent progress toward family goals set with the staff.  If parents are divorced, the parent applying to live at the National Home needs to have custody of the child(ren) involved.  If a couple is merely separated, the National Home would strongly prefer that the couple make a final decision (to reconcile or divorce) before applying to live at the National Home.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

103

www.buddytobuddy.org







o For the purpose of the VFW National Home for Children program, a “veteran” is defined as anybody who has served in any capacity in any branch of the military, and no deployment is necessary. o Current employment is not a requirement to stay at the home. However, it is a requirement of continued eligibility for adults to be productive in some way – working, schooling, or both. Case managers and other staff are available to assist adults in job searching.

The National Home’s Military and Veteran Family Program offers: o A 629-acre campus that features 42 single family homes and 3 duplexes. o A recreation area that includes space for hiking, fishing, camping, etc. o A large gymnasium, work-out center, and recreation center. o Help with setting and meeting goals o On-site licensed child care o Tutoring and other educational services o Life skills training for teens and adults  Kids, beginning at age 14, can apply and work on the campus work crew.

If employed, they also volunteer one day per week at the VA medical center.  Classes for teens and adults include: job seeking, job retention, housekeeping, finances, parenting, etc. o Recreation and community service opportunities The National Home offers both residential and non-residential services o If a family is receiving residential services, they will stay in one of the 40+ homes on the site and receive assistance in every facet of their lives, including child care, job seeking, tutoring/mentoring, and more, all at no cost to the family. A family can live on site for a maximum of 4 years. The average stay is 2.5 years. o If a family is receiving non-residential services, they may be connected with resources in their area, and/or they may receive case management services from National Home staff.

The National Home offers a Helpline that anybody can call: 1-800-313-4200. This is not a crisis line. It is answered 8 AM – 4:30 PM Monday through Friday. If a call comes in after hours and the caller leaves a message, their call will be returned the following business line. They can answer questions about: o Assistance connecting with local services and resources o Long-term case management services wherever they live o Instructions for applying to live at the National Home  Process is begun by calling the above number.  Once a written application is completed and submitted by a family, the rest of the process will ensue: 2-4 interviews (in-person preferred; overthe-phone possible) and a lengthy assessment to ensure the National Home is a good fit for the family.

For more information  www.vfwnationalhome.org

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

104

www.buddytobuddy.org

Legal Call Notes Veterans Treatment Courts ____________________________ p. 106-108

105

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL July 20-21, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Veterans Treatment Courts Guest Speaker Mr. Dan Broyles 616-717-3233 williamdbroyles@gmail.com Guest Speaker Summary  Veterans Treatment Courts use a hybrid of drug court and mental health court principles to serve military veterans who have legal trouble as a result of a service-connected disability or injury.  Veterans Treatment Courts work to promote sobriety, recovery, and stability through a coordinated response that involves collaboration with the traditional partners found in drug courts and mental health courts, as well as the Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare networks.  These courts attempt to coordinate legal and treatment programs to address the individual’s core issues and promote successful reintegration with a reduced or removed charge.  Eligibility Criteria o Veteran, discharged from the military on other than dishonorable conditions. o Amount of service may vary by county, but the state requirement is one day of uniformed service in any era. o Current criminal charge must be able to be related to a service-connected condition. o Current criminal charge may not be: criminal sexual conduct; child abuse; or a form of great bodily harm to another individual (attempted murder, murder, or others at the judge’s discretion).

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

106

www.buddytobuddy.org





Program Requirements o The program typically lasts 18-24 months. o Participant may not acquire any additional felony charges while in the program. o Mandatory mental health services and random, frequent drug tests (even when charge is unrelated to drugs). o Frequent court dates and face-to-face meetings with court case managers and other individuals are required. o Participation in community service is required for all individuals. o Each participant must partner with a volunteer mentor who works with them throughout the course of the program. o Each individual must also participate in some sort of peer support program.

Locations of Veterans Treatment Courts o Michigan has more Veterans Treatment Courts than any other state. o A veteran’s criminal case must be located in one of the following counties in order to participate in the Veterans Treatment Courts. Veterans with cases originating outside these counties may request that their case be transferred to another location in order to utilize the Veterans Treatment Court services.  Allegan County  Calhoun County  Dickinson County  Eaton County  Genesee County  Ingham County  Ionia County  Kent County  Livingston County  Macomb County  Monroe County  Muskegon county  Oakland County  Saginaw County  Van Buren County  Washtenaw County  Wayne County o To enroll in the Veterans Treatment Courts, an individual should speak with their attorney, or a representative of the court. Individuals may also contact Dan Broyles directly with any questions.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

107

www.buddytobuddy.org

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

108

www.buddytobuddy.org

Mental Health Call Notes Military OneSource _________________________________ p. 110-114 Military Sexual Trauma (MST) ________________________ p. 115-120 Michigan National Guard State Family Programs __________ p. 121-134 SeRV (Serving Returning Veterans) Mental Health/Seamless Transition Program ______________ p.135-140 VA Programs for Women Veterans ______________________ p. 141-143 Vet Centers ________________________________________ p. 144-145

109

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 2-3, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Military OneSource Guest Speaker Ms. April Clipper Michigan Military OneSource Consultant 989-415-9846 April.clipper@militaryonesource.com Guest Speaker Summary  Military OneSource: Overview o Department of Defense funded program that provides a range of services to service members and their families at no cost. o Information includes, but is not limited to, deployment, reunion and reintegration, relationship, grief, spouse employment and education, parenting, and child care. o Services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by phone and online. o All services are 100% free of charge.  Eligibility for Services o All active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members (regardless of activation) and their immediate family members are eligible.  This includes members of the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR).  “Immediate family members” includes spouses, children, or anyone legally responsible for a service member’s children during a time of separation or deployment. o Separated (through either honorable discharge or retirement) soldiers may receive services for up to 6 months past their date of separation. o An exception to the above rule is that any veteran with a service-related injury or disability (any percentage rating) is eligible for services from the Wounded Warrior Program through Military OneSource at any time.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

110

www.buddytobuddy.org









o Civilian employees of the Department of Defense who are deployed are also eligible.

Privacy & Confidentiality o Personal information will not be shared with the military or chain of command, or family or friends, or released to other agenices. o All contacts with Military OneSource are completely private. o Exceptions to this are in instances of suspected family mistreatment (domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse), threats to harm oneself or others, and illegal activities.

Counseling o Provides free short-term counseling for issues such as relocation, separation, reintegration, relationship issues, parenting skills, communication, anger management, grief, stress, deployment, life skills, coping skills, interpersonal skills, and academic or occupational problems.  Up to 12 sessions, per person, per issue.  Available face-to-face, via telephone, or online, according to the service member’s preference.  In the majority of cases, referrals are made within 72 hours of the initial call.  Is not intended to address sexual assault, abuse, mental health conditions requiring in-patient hospitalization and other behavioral concerns.  Available to children if a parent attends with a child younger than 13, a parent brings a child ages 13-17 to the individual counseling session, or the child is 18 years or older. o Confidential specialty consultations are available over the phone for various topics including adoption, health and wellness coaching, and special needs. o Other services and counseling includes: document translation, financial counseling, tax services, and more.

Financial Services o Financial Counseling is available on issues such as budgeting and general financial management, debt management, and housing management. o Financial Planning is available on topics like investing, retirement planning, planning for college, TSP/401K/pensions, traditional and ROTH IRAs, assistance in selecting a certified financial planner in the local community, tax questions and preparations. o Financial counseling occurs primarily over the phone, though in some locations it is available in person. o All financial counselors are accredited. o Through this free service, affiliates are prohibited from making referrals to themselves or to another network affiliate for fee-based work as a result of a consultation. Sales of products or services to participants is also prohibited.

Tax Services o Tax filing is available mid-January through the end of tax season.  Includes access to free tax preparation software and free electronic filing for state and federal returns.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

111

www.buddytobuddy.org





o Tax consultations are available on a variety of topics, including federal tax filing requirements, allowable deductions, tax exemptions and credits, IRA deductions, W-2 and W-4 form questions, divorce taxation, capital gains questions, and questions related to filing extensions and deployment.  These services are available year-round and are performed by certified public accountants.

Health and Wellness Coaching o Provides expert advice on losing weight, making healthier food choices, learning which exercises best benefit your heart, handling stressful situations, or learning how to relax. o Each individual is assigned a personal coach with whom they will communicate by phone or email. o Online self-directed programs are available for individuals who are highly motivated and self-disciplined. o Four online self-directed health and wellness coaching programs, designed to help individuals in making lasting life changes.  LivingEasy: Resilience and Stress Management  LivingFit: 90-day Walking Program  LivingLean: Weight Management Program  LivingFree: Smoking Cessation Program Career Consultations o Available topics include choosing a career, finding a job, effectiveness at work, and management skills. o Other resources include the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities Center and the Military Spouse Employment Partnership  Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) Program  Counselors help spouses explore the world of work and make careful, well-thought-out career decisions  Offers no-cost assessment tools, job market information, and assistance in developing individual career plans.  SECO offers a full range of Education, Training, and Licensure information and support.  SECO offers specialty consultations, in which counselors help military spouses compare the costs of schools and programs of study, including their potential returns on investment.  Spouses can learn about license portability, the ability to use their current professional licenses in a new state while they work to meet new state requirements.  SECO career counselors help spouses learn how to conduct an effective job search, how to identify themselves to potential employers, how to write resumes and develop interview skills, how to learn about flexible and virtual work opportunities, and how to plan for child care and transportation.  Finally, counselors help spouses connect with mentors who can help them open doors and meet employers who have pledged to recruit, hire, promote, and retain them.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

112

www.buddytobuddy.org











Parenting o Topics: Becoming a parent, parenting skills, adoption o Resources: Toolkits, web links, educational materials, confidential specialty consultations Special Needs o Tools: Navigating resources, advocating at school, medical, financial and legal support, family support, and self-care o Resources: Special needs parent toolkit, special care organizational record for children (or adults) with special health care needs, and confidential specialty consultations, educational materials, and discussion boards o Military OneSource offers 60-minute consultations, up to 12 times per year, with a consultant who specializes in the topic of special needs.

Wounded Warrior Resources o These are resources that work in coordination with branch-specific resources. o Can be accessed by any wounded/injured service member or veteran at any time. o Provides assistance in areas like: military facilities concerns, health care services, information on VA benefits and other entitlements, and everyday issues such as confidential non-medical counseling, dependent care, etc.

Online Library Resources o Electronic library resources are available 24/7, completely free. o Some resources available include (among many more):  Peterson’s Education Resource Center, providing study guides and practice tests for SAT, ACT, CLEP, ASVAB, certifications and more, as well as help with scholarships and the admissions process.  Morningstar Investment Research Centers offers information and advice on mutual funds, stocks, exchange traded funds, and companies.  Career Transitions helps users find job announcements, write a resume, map military experience to civilian jobs, write a cover letter, access career interests, and participate in an interview simulation.  Master File Premier and Academic One Source links to scholarly and informational full-text journal articles, including extensive coverage of the sciences, technology, medicine, the arts, theology, literature, history, and culture.  Auto Repair Reference Center offers complete automotive repair manuals, 1954 to current.  Heritage Quest offers an essential collection of unique materials for both genealogical and historical researchers with coverage dating back to the late 1700s.  Kids InfoBits is designed especially for students in kindergarten through grade five.

Access Military OneSource o Available 24/7/365. o All services and materials are available at no cost to service members and their families. o Can call toll-free number at any time to reach a trained, master’s-level consultant: 800-342-9647.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

113

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Can also access all resources on their website: www.MilitaryOneSource.mil.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

114

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL June 24th and 25th, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 100+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Presentation Guest Speaker:  Dr. Rita Kenyon-Jump, MST Coordinator at the Battle Creek VA Presentation Summary: Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Basic Information  Battle Creek is one of the 7 medical centers in VISN 11. Each one of those has a MST Coordinator.

Dr. Kenyon-Jump is the point of contact for all of those groups in VISN 11 and the problem solver if they encounter any problems.  Military sexual trauma (MST) is the term that the Department of Veterans Affairs uses to refer to sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurred while the Veteran was in the military. o It includes any sexual activity where someone is involved against his or her will – he or she may have been pressured into sexual activities (for example, with threats of negative consequences for refusing to be sexually cooperative or with implied faster promotions or better treatment in exchange for sex), may have been unable to consent to sexual activities (for example, when intoxicated), or may have been physically forced into sexual activities. o Other experiences that fall into the category of MST include unwanted sexual touching or grabbing; threatening, offensive remarks about a person’s body or sexual activities; and/or threatening or unwelcome sexual advances.  MST is not a diagnosis. It is an event or experience.  It’s a VA mandate that every veteran who comes in a VA healthcare facility be asked if they were sexually assaulted or encountered unwanted sexual advances during their time of service at least once.  In the past fiscal year, 78,000 female veterans and 58,000 male veterans reported some form of MST (harassment, assault, and others).  The majority of assaults are not reported because of the fear of retaliation or fear that they won’t be believed. Survivors may also feel that they are to be blamed.  MST can have severe mental and physical consequences:

www.buddytobuddy.org

115

o





Can result in many different diagnoses, such as panic disorders, anxiety, and many others, not just PTSD. It can lead to problems with concentration, aggression, and survivors may develop substance abuse problems to avoid their feelings. o Avoidance is a major problem with this population. Want to avoid any situations that can remind them of the harassment or assault, which can lead to isolation. o Another problem is the extreme betrayal that survivors feel. They come into the military with the vision that they will be part of a team, and that trust is broken with an assault. o It is important to treat MST as a health issue as well. Untreated MST can lead to more visits to primary care. It makes health problems worse, including chronic pain problems. Once they get mental health treatment, the physical problems subside.

Men and women react differently to MST: o Men tend to struggle more with coming forward and telling others of the assault. They may feel more stigmatized because of gender roles in our society. The assault may lead them to question their own sexuality, feel that they are outside of what being a man is, and feel weak. There is a notion that they are warriors and warriors can’t be victims. They need to maintain the self-image of being a warrior and therefore don’t ask for help. o Female survivors usually have either one of two extreme reactions following the assault.

They may shut down and not have normal sexual relationships with others or they may go the extreme and become promiscuous, which comes from belief that they are “damaged goods”. They may believe that all men are potential perpetrators and, in order to protect themselves, engage in sexual behavior without wanting to as a way to be in control of the situation.

Not everyone who experiences trauma needs sexual trauma. Most people recover on their own.

Those that don’t may seek treatment options within the VA or in the community.

Treatment options within the VA If a service member or veteran has MST – VA will provide them with care, even if they are not eligible for other VA services. 



VA Outpatient Care o Every VA health care facility has providers knowledgeable about treatment for problems related to MST. Because MST is associated with a range of mental health problems, VA’s general services for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and others are important resources for MST survivors. o Many VA facilities have specialized outpatient mental health services focusing specifically on sexual trauma. o Many Vet Centers also have specially trained sexual trauma counselors. More information is available at: http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Military_Sexual_Trauma.asp Residential Inpatient Care o VA has programs that offer specialized MST treatment in a residential or inpatient setting.

These programs are for Veterans who need more intense treatment and support. o Because some Veterans do not feel comfortable in mixed-gender treatment settings, some facilities have separate programs for men and women. All residential and inpatient MST programs have separate sleeping areas for men and women.

www.buddytobuddy.org

116

MST services for Guard and Reserve soldiers  If a person had their sexual assault while they were on active duty, be it boot camp, school, or deployment, then they qualify for care at the VA for MST. They do not qualify if it occurred within a drill weekend. No active duty, then no federal service. Would get the person in contact with a community program. Most counties have sexual assault programs where they don’t charge people and have support groups as well. Harder to get medication, but the community program can help.

For community mental health, only if they qualify financially. First place are the sexual assault programs. In larger counties, they have programs that are staffed with professionals and volunteers.  The National Guard itself has a Sexual Assault Response Coordinator to deal with MST situations.

Contact: Gabriel Beelen, Director of MI VTF, (517)449-0384 Cell, gbeelen@mivettaskforce.com.

To get more information  Knowing that MST survivors may have special needs and concerns, every VA health care facility has an MST Coordinator who serves as a contact person for MST-related issues. He or she can help Veterans find and access VA services and programs.  You can also contact your local Vet Center or speak to your existing VA health care provider.  A list of VA and Vet Center facilities can be found online by using the VA Facility Locator or Vet Center Locator. Veterans should feel free to ask to meet with a clinician of a particular gender if it would make them feel more comfortable.  Veterans can also call VA’s general information hotline at 1-800-827-1000.

Guest Speaker Contact Information:  VISN 11: Dr. Rita Kenyon-Jump, MST Coordinator at the Battle Creek VA, (269) 966-5600 ext. 31182 or Rita.Kenyon-Jump@va.gov. o For the Michigan Upper Peninsula, use the VISN 12 contact: Maryam Basmenji, MST Coordinator at the Hines VA, 708-202-8387 ext. 24905

www.buddytobuddy.org

117

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL February 9-10, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Challenges and Treatment Related to Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Guest Speaker Mr. Edward Thomas MST Coordinator Ann Arbor VA Edward.thomas7@va.gov 734-769-7100, ext. 55278 Guest Speaker Summary  Military Sexual Trauma – MST o MST is a term used by the VA to refer to sexual assault or repeated threatening sexual harassment that a veteran experienced during his or her military service.

The following things fall under the definition of MST:  Assault of a sexual nature  Battery of a sexual nature  Sexual harassment o Sexual Assault: Any sort of sexual activity in which someone is involved against his or her will. This occurs when someone is:  Coerced into participation (e.g., with threats).  Not capable of consenting to participation (e.g., when intoxicated).  Physically forced into participation.  Includes unwanted touching or grabbing, oral sex, and sexual penetration with an object. o Sexual Harassment: Repeated, unsolicited and threatening verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

118

www.buddytobuddy.org

   







Unwanted sexual touching or grabbing.

Threatening, offensive remarks about a person’s body or sexual activities.

Threatening and unwelcome sexual advances Also include gender harassment (putting someone down because of his/her gender) and sexual coercion (implying special treatment in return for sexual cooperation). o MST definition as it relates to National Guard soldiers: In order to meet the definition of MST, the incident must have occurred while the survivor was on orders, so on a drill weekend or at Annual Training for our National Guard members.

Frequency of MST o VA’s national MST surveillance data indicates that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 100 men respond “yes” to having experienced MST. o Even though MST is known to occur at a higher frequency in women, by the raw numbers there are more men who are survivors of MST.  Men who screen positive for MST are more likely to be diagnosed with mental health and physical health problems.

Perceived Barriers to Care o Perceived Barriers to Care for Men  Stigma-Related: Not wanting to talk about it, feeling shame/embarrassment, not wanting to relinquish a sense of privacy, concern about the reaction of the provider, fear of not being believed.  Gender-Related: Occurs as an interaction of stigma and stereotypical gender role beliefs. Ideas include: “A tough man could not be sexually assaulted,” “Only gay men are sexually assaulted,” or that MST is a women’s issue.  Knowledge: Many individuals are unaware of treatment services available through the VA, and may express concern about cost and availability. o Perceived Barriers to Care for Women  Negative Reactions: Concerned about negative reactions from supervisors and peers, including disbelief, placing blame on the victim, criticizing the victim’s character, and a lack of support.  Concerns about Confidentiality: This stems from there being generally low numbers of women within units and Restricted Reporting feeling only theoretically confidential.  Stigma  Statement of “Zero Tolerance”: Some female service members have reported that their superiors would issue “Zero Tolerance” policies in regard to sexual assault, which was meant to include having no tolerance for reports of sexual assault.  Unit Cohesion: Survivors of MST do not want to be seen as having broken up the unit.

Medical Concerns Associated with MST o Men:  Nightmares/Sleep disturbances  Chronic somatic symptoms

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

119

www.buddytobuddy.org





 Eating disorders  Self-abuse  Self-blame  Addictive behaviors  PTSD  Sexual compulsions  Interpersonal difficulties o Women:  Headache  Chronic abdominal and pelvic pain  Sexual dysfunction  Insomnia  Dizziness and weakness  Obesity  Generalized anxiety  Depression  Eating disorders Ways to Encourage Care o Ensure inclusivity when discussing MST or offering support to survivors. o Take information given about trauma at face value o Be sensitive when asking questions VA-Provided Services o For any service member or veteran who served at any time in any capacity, if they are a survivor of MST, they are eligible to receive free VA care for the MST and any related conditions. o This eligibility is true regardless of whether the survivor is otherwise eligible for other VA care and regardless of any disability rating they may or may not hold. o Even veterans with a dishonorable discharge may be eligible for VA-based MSTrelated care. o Generally, the VA hospital will be able to accommodate gender preferences in physicians and other staff. o The best way to receive care for MST is to contact the MST Coordinator directly.

Each VA hospital has an MST Coordinator that is responsible for that hospital as well as all clinics in its catchment area.

To get more information  For more information on MST, visit http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp.  To refer somebody to VA care for MST, contact Mr. Edward Thomas, MST Coordinator at the Ann Arbor VA, at the contact information listed above. He will be able to put you in touch with the appropriate contact at another VA center.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

120

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 10-11, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan National Guard State Family Programs Guest Speaker Ms. Sierra Stone Administrative Assistant, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program (734) 998-5825 sierracs@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for all Service Members, Families, Veterans, and Retirees in recognition of their service to our great state and nation. We are committed to enhancing the readiness and well-being of all military families through information, education, programs, and resources.  Services Provided: o Command Support o Family Readiness o Mobilization and Reintegration Coordinator o Crisis Intervention and Referral o Community Outreach o Volunteer Recruitment o Training and Management o Child and Youth Programs  Family Readiness o Mission: A partnership exists between the Michigan National Guard and its Families to promote readiness, resilience, and retain quality Service Members.

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are the primary communication link between

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

121

www.buddytobuddy.org

o

o

o

o

the Commander and Unit Family Members, and are the foundation of the Michigan National Guard Family Program.

Objectives:  Develop family and support networks  Be a conduit of official command  Training opportunities for volunteers and supporters  Educate families and supporters on benefits and services (within the Michigan Army National Guard and community resources).

What does an FRG do?  Establish a “phone tree” and email distribution list to pass on essential information  Publish a unit family readiness newsletter for unit members and family members  Provide training in a variety of areas that will enhance family member readiness  Assist the Commander in planning and implementing unit family day briefings and activities  Plan and implement fundraising activities  Plan programs that will introduce family members to other family members, thereby enhancing family member rapport and potential support during times of mobilization Why is Family Readiness important?  Provides information and a support network to our families and unit members during their association with the National Guard, and especially during a deployment  Welcomes and provides a general overview to new family members on the FRG and the unit’s mission through the family orientation sponsorship program  Provides training in a variety of areas (communication, family budget/finance management, parenting, etc.)  Plans programs that will introduce family members to other family members Programs  Family Assistance Centers (FACs)  Established and maintained to support Service Members, Veterans, and Families of ALL branches of service.  FAC Specialists provide 6 essential services including: crisis, financial, legal, medical, ID card/DEERS and community resource information, referral, and follow-up.  Currently Michigan has 10 FACs throughout the state (Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, Grayling, Wyoming, Grand Ledge, Bay City, Fort Custer, Jackson, Taylor, Lansing).  Child and Youth Programs  Responsible for the development and coordination of Child and Youth Services for National Guard personnel and their families

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

122

www.buddytobuddy.org



 









during all phases of the deployment cycle (pre-deployment, deployment, and re-deployment/reunion)  Available to assist with youth activities and programs with your FRG  Operation Military Kids works with Family Readiness Child & Youth staff.

Yellow Ribbon Programs  Plans and coordinates events for deploying units for predeployment, deployment, and post-deployment, and Family Bonds events.

Buddy-to-Buddy  A two-tiered program consisting of Buddy 1s (Soldiers) and Buddy 2s (Volunteer Veterans).

Transition Assistance Advisor  Serves as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits.  Provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources, in addition to pre-separation counseling.

Surge Support Assistance  Military and Family Life Counselor: Provide direct, short-term, non-medical, solution-focused counseling and psycho-educational services to individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Military Personal Finance Counselor: Provide answers to financial questions, avenues to resolve financial problems and help develop plans to reach your financial goals. (Note: This is available to all military service members, regardless of branch of service.)

Military OneSource  Military OneSource Consultant: Collaborate with military and community support services, educate service and family members of all branches and components on the support services available through Military OneSource.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)  Provides support services to survivors of service members and veterans who have fallen in combat and to the survivors of all service members who have passed while on duty.  Provides short and long-term support for surviving family members.

Retirement Services  Provides assistance with retirement benefits counseling, survivor benefit plan, retired pay applications, retirement points corrections, state retired pay applications. Services available for all reserve component service members.  Assists current service members and gray-area retirees with retirement applications.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

123

www.buddytobuddy.org



ID Cards/DEERS Services  ID Card Services: Issue ID Cards to current service members, retirees, and family members.  Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): Assist current service members, retirees, and family members with verification and enrollment in DEERS.  Michigan National Guard Family Fund  Gives smaller grants, $200-$500  Accessed through Family Programs Staff  All MIARNG soldiers eligible o Service Member, Veteran, and Family Assistance Center  All the above-mentioned programs and housed and available here.  Joint Forces Headquarters: 3243 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lansing, MI 48906

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

124

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Assistance Centers Family Assistance Centers Coordinator: BELINDA IRELAND 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9889 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 974-8844 belinda.r.ireland.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Counties

Ishpeming Armory REGION 1 900 Palms Avenue EVE GIRAUD – PROSSER Ishpeming, MI 49849 eve.a.giraud-prosser.ctr@mail.mil

Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon

Office: (906) 485-2548 Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (906) 203-7676

Sault Ste Marie Armory REGION 2 JERRY MCDONALD gerald.l.mcdonald.ctr@mail.mil

1170 E. Portage Road Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783

Alger, Cheboygan , Chippewa, Emmet, Luce, Mackinac, Presque Isle, Schoolcraft

Office: (906) 632-7861 Fax: (906) 632-4753 Cell: (906) 203-7680 Camp Grayling

REGION 3 BETH AMY bethann.m.amy.ctr@mail.mil

Building #3 Grayling, MI 49739 Office: (989) 344-6144 Fax: (989) 344-6421

Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Crawford, Grand Traverse, Iosco, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Roscommon, Wexford

Cell: (989) 745-1439

Grand Valley Armory REGION 4

1200 44th Street SW

AMY GOULD

Wyoming, MI 49509

amy.s.gould.ctr@mail.mil

Allegan, Kent, Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa

Office: (616) 249-2741 Fax: (616) 249-2671

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

125

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: (616) 485-8966

Grand Ledge/Lansing Armory REGION 5 10600 Eaton Highway STEPHANIE BEALS Grand Ledge, MI 48837 stephanie.g.beals.ctr@mail.mil

Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Mecosta, Montcalm, Shiawassee

Office: (517) 481-8850 Fax: (517) 481-8822 Cell: (517) 395-0840

Bay City Armory REGION 6

2510 Wilder Road

MELISSA ALEX-HALM

Bay City, MI 48706

melissa.s.halm.ctr@mail.mil

Office: (517) 481-7323 Fax: (517) 481-7324

Arenac, Bay, Genesee, Gladwin, Huron, Lapeer, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, St. Clair, Tuscola

Cell: (989) 573-3425 Fort Custer REGION 7

Office: TBD Fax: TBD

VACANT

Cell: 517-898-4144

REGION 8 LORI SPICER lori.a.spicer.ctr@mail.mil

Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, Saint Joseph, Van Buren

Jackson Armory 4850 Cooper Road Jackson, MI 49201

Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Washtenaw

Office: (517) 990-1186 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 395-0839

REGION 9 LAURA CHIRIO

Taylor Armory 12450 Beech Daly Road Macomb, Oakland, Wayne

laura.e.chirio.ctr@mail.mil

Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2553 Fax: (734) 946-2540

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

126

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: 734-558-0217

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

127

www.buddytobuddy.org

Airman and Family Readiness Program (FRP) Managers Airman and FRP Managers

Contact information 17 Phantom Street Building 6930

Robin Rogers 110th Fighter Wing

Battle Creek, MI 49037

robin.rogers@ang.af.mil

Office: (269) 969-3493 Fax: (269) 969-3556 29868 George Ave Bldg 168 Selfridge ANGB, MI 48045

Paulus Obey 127th Family Support Center

Office: (586) 239-5583 paulus.obey@ang.af.mil Fax: (586) 239-5786 5884 A Street MSgt Michael White Alpena, MI 49707 Alpena CRTC Office: (989) 354-6267 michael.white.1@ang.af.mil Fax: (989) 354-6298 Mark Downing Office: (517) 817-8292 ANG Yellow Ribbon Coordinator mark.downing.ctr@ang.af.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

128

www.buddytobuddy.org

ID Card/DEERS/TRICARE/Retired Services

Point of Contact

Contact information

SSG Rex Waterbury ID Cards/DEERS/TRICARE NCOIC

Office: (517) 481-9872

rex.a.waterbury.mil@mail.mil SSG Randy Jackson Human Resources Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9879

randy.jackson3.mil@mail.mil Point of Contact

Contact information

SGT David Saunders Retired Services NCO

Office: (517) 481-9867

david.j.saunders.mil@mail.mil Mr. James Jones Retired Services Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9873

james.e.jones1396.vol@mail.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

129

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Readiness Support Assistants Senior Family Readiness Support Assistant: JEAN WIXSON 3423 N. Martin Luther King JR. Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9892 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 599-5372 jean.m.wixson.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Command/Units

Jackson Armory Jennifer Medina

4850 Cooper Road

jennifer.m.medina14.ctr@mail.mil

Jackson, MI 49201 Office: (517) 990-1122 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 599-7477

272 Regional Support Command, 1225 CSSB (1071 Maintenance Company, 1072, 1073, 464 QM), 246 Transportation BTN (1460, 1461, 1462, 1463, DET 1-1461, DET 11463), 146 Med BN (MMB), 1171 Med Co (ASMB), 3-238 GSAB (all AVN and DET Companies)

Grand Valley Armory Michael Petrie

1200 44th Street SW

michael.j.petrie4.ctr@mail.mil

Wyoming, MI 49509 Office: (616) 249-2641 Fax: (616) 249-2671

63 Troop BDE, Co B BSTS 37 BCT, Co C BSTS 86 BCT, Co F 425 INF 1-126 Squadron (Troops A,B,C,D 237 BSB), 1-119, FA (BTRY A, B, C, FSC), 1-125 INF BN (CO A, B, B (-), C, D, F237 BSN) 1-182 FA,

Cell: (517) 599-5474 Taylor Armory Jenna Kirkton jenna.l.kirkton.ctr@mail.mil

12450 Beech Daly Road Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2512 Fax: (734) 946-2540

177 MP BDE, 777 MP DET, 210 MP BN (1775 MP Co, 1776 MP Co, 144 MP Co. 631 Troop CMD, 46 MP Co, (DET 2, 460 CHEM, 156 SIG Co, 1208 Linguist PLT), 507 ENG BN (1433, 1434, 1436, 1440, 1439, 1442 ENG Co, DET 1 1434, 745 EOD, 126 SIG)

Cell: (517) 599-5690

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

130

www.buddytobuddy.org

JFHQ Denise Gardner denise.m.gardner12.ctr@mail.mil

3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9896 Fax: (517) 481-9886

126 PCH, 46 MP CMD, MEDCOM, MTC Grayling, JFHQ, RTI, OD Training Co, 1BN 177th RTI, 2BN RTI, DET 15 OSA, 1999 SPT DET, DET 1 JAG 505, 1146 JAG, 51 CST, 126 Army Band, RRB, FCTC

Cell: (517) 599-6456 Ishpeming Armory Stephanie Barshaw Stephaniel.barshaw.ctr@mail.mil

900 Palms Avenue Ishpeming, MI 49849 Office: (906) 485-2524

107 ENG BTN ) 1430, 1431, 1432, 1437, 1430 DET 1, 1431 DET 1, 1432 DET 1, 1430)

Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (517) 599-7022

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

131

www.buddytobuddy.org

Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP)

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Maritza Rodriguez-Arsenau

Eastern Michigan Location

Specialization in Child & Youth

Cell: (517) 599-2719

maritza.rodriguez-arseneau@ahsg.us

Sheryl Richard

Western Michigan Location

Military Family Life Consultant

Cell: (269) 832-8202

sheryl.richard@ahsg.us

April Clipper State-Wide Location Cell: (989) 415-9846

Michigan Military OneSource Consultant april.clipper@militaryonesource.com

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

132

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Programs Point of Contact

Contact Information

Position

jessica.s.ulrey.mil@mail.mil State Family Programs Director

CW3 Jessica Ulrey

Office: (517) 481-9899 Cell: (517) 993-7892 heaven.n.sharon.mil@mail.mil

SGT Heaven Sharon

Office: (517) 481-9860 Yellow Ribbon Coordinator Cell: (517) 899-6313

michiko.d.alvarenga.mil@mail.mil Family Program Assistant

SGT Michiko Alvarenga

Office: (517) 481-9874 nicholas.a.anderson36.mil@mail.mil Buddy To Buddy OIC

CPT Nicholas Anderson

Office: (517) 481-9898 Cell: (517) 977-5925 ronald.b.hatchew.mil@mail.mil Family Programs Specialist

CW2 Ronald Hatchew

Office: (517) 481-9877 Cell: (517) 993-7782 angela.s.spina.ctr@mail.mil

Angela Spina

Office: (517) 481-9894

Lead State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 977-8312 traci.m.osterman.ctr@mail.mil

Traci Osterman-Pierce

Office: (517) 481-9890

State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 582-9280

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

133

www.buddytobuddy.org

raymond.d.ladd.ctr@mail.mil Jackson Armory Office: (517) 990-1111

Transition Assistance Advisor

Raymond Ladd Lansing Office: (517) 481-9895 thomas.w.foster.ctr@mail.mil

Tom Foster

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Office: (517) 481-9887 Cell: (989) 372-1126 wendy.j.day2.ctr@mail.mil

Wendy Day

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Cell: (517) 672-0918

michael.d.wilson110.ctr@mail.mil

Michael Wilson Cell: (269) 689-5711

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

FAMILY PROGRAMS OFFICE JFHQ-Family Programs Office 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Bldg 31 Lansing, MI 48906 Phone: (517) 481-9893

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

134

Fax: (517) 481-9886

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL July 29, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

SeRV (Serving Returning Veterans) Mental Health / Seamless Transition Program Guest Speaker  Sarah Richards, LMSW, Mental Health Case Manager Guest Speaker Summary  The VA offers specialized transition services for OEF/OIF/OND veterans. This is called the Seamless Transition Program, and one facet of it is the SeRV Mental Health program.  The Seamless Transition Program qualified OEF/OIF/OND veterans as: o Military combat operations on the ground, in nearby coastal waters, or in the air above after September 11, 2001 o OEF- Afghanistan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Philippines, and others o OIF- Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, others o OND- Operation New Dawn o Transition of OIF to OND as of 9/1/2010 marking end of OIF and combat operations of US in Iraq. Remaining troops in Iraq focus on training, advising and assisting Iraqi Security Forces.  Who is eligible? o All who are honorably (or general) discharged from active duty military who served in OEF/OIF/OND are eligible for 5 years of VA healthcare independent of their standard eligibility category o Only about 56% of eligible OEF/OIF/OND veterans have received VA care since fiscal year 2002.  The Seamless Transition program has existed in the VA since 2003 o Evolving program under VA Care Management office at VA Central Office (DC)

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

135









o Initial mandate for Seamless Transition Point of Contact at each VA in 2007 o Current mandates of Seamless Transition Program Manager and comprehensive case management (SW/RN) teams The Seamless Transition/SeRV programs offer care such as: screening for mental health concerns, substance abuse, sexual trauma, TBI, and more; case management services such as assistance with housing, transportation, legal issues, and more; establishing goals for treatment and more broadly. Based on the results of screenings, treatment and referrals will be provided.

Case Management o Service is offered to all OEF/OIF/OND veterans o Established goals, frequency and intensity with assigned case manager o Weekly case management team meeting to assign/review cases (Medical, Mental Health, TBI) o Nationally required tracking tool for accountability and measurements o Requirements prior to discharging case o Severely Injured Category Who to refer to the Seamless Transition Team o If OEF/OIF/OND Veteran is not yet registered with VHA o If OEF/OIF/OND Veteran is registered, but is not receiving needed services, has questions, concerns o If OEF/OIF/OND Veteran has indications of untreated mental health / readjustment problems (family/marital problems, anger, irritability, social withdrawal, “low motivation”) Important things to remember: o Veterans can get crisis care while filling out/submitting/waiting for their 10-10EZ by presenting at their local ER or closest VA ER o Many individuals will qualify for services under the geographic means test. This could be a good option for low-income veterans who are outside their 5-year window, not service connected, and/or non-combat. o If a veteran has experienced a recent hardship, they can fill out VA form 10-10HR to ask for their current income to be considered rather than their income from the previous year.

To get more information  Visit http://www.oefoif.va.gov/map.asp#Michigan to locate the OEF/OIF/OND team nearest you, or for more information about the available programs in general.  Seamless Transition VA Conctacts in Michigan: o Ann Arbor  Sarah Nowitzke, LMSW  734-845-3787 o Detroit  Melva Coleman, LMSW  313-576-1347 o Saginaw  Anne Milko-Delpier, LMSW

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

136

 989-497-2500, Ext 11794 o Battle Creek  Peggy Shaull-Norman, NP, MSN  269-966-5600, Ext 35232

Guest Speaker Contact Information:  Sarah Richards, LMSW o 2215 Fuller Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48105 o 734/222-7477 o Sarah.richards5@va.gov

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

137

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL September 15, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

SeRV (Serving Returning Veterans) Mental Health / Seamless Transition Program Guest Speaker Sarah Richards, LMSW, Mental Health Case Manager 2215 Fuller Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 222-7477 Sarah.richards5@va.gov Guest Speaker Summary  The VA offers specialized transition services for OEF/OIF/OND veterans. This is called the Seamless Transition Program, and one facet of it is the SeRV Mental Health program.  The Seamless Transition Program qualified OEF/OIF/OND veterans as: o Military combat operations on the ground, in nearby coastal waters, or in the air above after September 11, 2001 o OEF- Afghanistan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Philippines, and others o OIF- Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, others o OND- Operation New Dawn o Transition of OIF to OND as of 9/1/2010 marking end of OIF and combat operations of US in Iraq. Remaining troops in Iraq focus on training, advising and assisting Iraqi Security Forces.  Who is eligible? o All who are honorably (or general) discharged from active duty military who served in OEF/OIF/OND are eligible for 5 years of VA healthcare independent of their standard eligibility category

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

138

www.buddytobuddy.org











o Only about 56% of eligible OEF/OIF/OND veterans have received VA care since fiscal year 2002.

The Seamless Transition program has existed in the VA since 2003 o Evolving program under VA Care Management office at VA Central Office (DC) o Initial mandate for Seamless Transition Point of Contact at each VA in 2007 o Current mandates of Seamless Transition Program Manager and comprehensive case management (SW/RN) teams The Seamless Transition/SeRV programs offer care such as: screening for mental health concerns, substance abuse, sexual trauma, TBI, and more; case management services such as assistance with housing, transportation, legal issues, and more; establishing goals for treatment and more broadly. Based on the results of screenings, treatment and referrals will be provided.

Case Management o Service is offered to all OEF/OIF/OND veterans o Established goals, frequency and intensity with assigned case manager o Weekly case management team meeting to assign/review cases (Medical, Mental Health, TBI) o Nationally required tracking tool for accountability and measurements o Requirements prior to discharging case o Severely Injured Category Who to refer to the Seamless Transition Team o If OEF/OIF/OND Veteran is not yet registered with VHA o If OEF/OIF/OND Veteran is registered, but is not receiving needed services, has questions, concerns o If OEF/OIF/OND Veteran has indications of untreated mental health / readjustment problems (family/marital problems, anger, irritability, social withdrawal, “low motivation”) Important things to remember: o Veterans can get crisis care while filling out/submitting/waiting for their 10-10EZ by presenting at their local ER or closest VA ER o Many individuals will qualify for services under the geographic means test. This could be a good option for low-income veterans who are outside their 5-year window, not service connected, and/or non-combat. o If a veteran has experienced a recent hardship, they can fill out VA form 10-10HR to ask for their current income to be considered rather than their income from the previous year.

To get more information  Visit http://www.oefoif.va.gov/map.asp#Michigan to locate the OEF/OIF/OND team nearest you, or for more information about the available programs in general.  Seamless Transition VA Contacts in Michigan: o Ann Arbor  Martina Wells, LCSW  734-845-3787

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

139

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Detroit  Kimberly Kemler, LMSW  313-576-1347 o Saginaw  Anne Milko-Delpier, LMSW  989-497-2500, Ext 11794 o Battle Creek  Jo Weth  269-966-5600, Ext 36162

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

140

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL December 1-2, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

VA Programs for Women Veterans Guest Speaker Ms. Laura Williams, MS, ANP-BC Women Veterans Program Manager, Battle Creek VA Laura.Williams10@va.gov (269) 223-5705 Guest Speaker Summary  Some statistics on women veterans: o Among women returning from the OEF/OIF/OND conflicts, 81.1% are aged 44 or younger and 54.6% are aged 34 or younger. o The number of female veterans is rising all the time and will continue to do so, particularly since women are now allowed on the front lines.  Women comprise 14.5% of all active duty, 18% of all National Guard and Reserves, and 6% of VA health care users.  43% of these female VA healthcare users are ages 18-44. o Women Veterans of Vietnam & Gulf War 1 Era  Women Veterans ages 45-64 are the largest subpopulation of women VA healthcare users.  Growth of this group has outpaced that of younger women Vetearns.  These Veterans may require more intensive care as they get older, so it’s important that the VA is able to accommodate their needs. o There are 50,121 female Veterans in the state of Michigan alone.  Facts about women veterans: o Women have served in the U.S. Military since 1901. o Women veterans older than 35 outnumber non-veteran women in percentage who have a college degree.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

141

www.buddytobuddy.org



o Female veterans who work year-round and full-time earn about $6,000 more per year than their non-veteran counterparts. o There are over 2.2 million women veterans in the United States today. o 18.9 percent of female veterans have a service-connected disability, which is higher than the percentage of men who have a service-connected disability.

Women and the VA o 43% of female VA users are younger than 45; 45% are ages 45-65; 12% are 65 or older. o Women don’t use the VA as frequently as men do – just 15% of eligible women use the VA, whereas 22% of eligible men use the VA. o The total number of women using VA services is expected to double in the next 5 years. o Moving women’s health forward:  Focus on expanding our view of women’s health – beyond pap smears and mammograms – to comprehensive view of health.  Expand focus on quality, including gender neutral health measures.  Making VA culture more female-friendly o Services offered:  Pap smears  Mammograms  Bone density testing  Menopause counseling  Contraception  Pregnancy care and referral  Fertility care  Comprehensive primary care  Mental health services  Military sexual trauma  Homeless services o Each VA has several individuals of note: Women Veterans Program Manager; MST Coordinator; and Homeless Veteran Coordinator. Their contact information will be provided at the end of these notes. o Women’s Wellness Clinic:  Exist so that women may see a specialist in women’s health if that’s what they’re most comfortable doing. o The VA is committed to serving women veterans as well as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender veterans.

Further Contact Information  VA Ann Arbor Health System o Women Veteran’s Program: Cheryl Allen, 734-845-3660 o Homeless Services: 734-845-5058 o Military Sexual Trauma Program: Edward Thomas, 734-769-7100 x. 55278  Battle Creek VA Medical Center o Women Veteran’s Program: Laura Williams, 269-223-5705

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

142

www.buddytobuddy.org







o Homeless Services: Daleth Jules-Jones, 269-966-5600 x. 21648 o Military Sexual Trauma Program: Rita Kenyon-Jump, 269-966-5600 x. 31182 John D. Dingell VA Medical Center (Detroit) o Women Veteran’s Program: Brenda Finney, 313-576-1000 x. 56955 o Homeless Services: Sheila Williams 313-576-1000 x. 64602 o Military Sexual Trauma Program: Renee Turnbell, 313-576-1000 x. 63872 Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center (Saginaw) o Women Veteran’s Program: Marie Johansen, 989-497-2500 x. 11468 o Homeless Services: 989-497-2500 x. 11773 o Military Sexual Trauma Program: 989-497-2500 x. 15713 Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center (Iron Mountain) o Women Veteran’s Program: Barb Robinson, 800-215-8262 x. 32388 o Homeless Services: 906-774-3300 x. 32541 o Military Sexual Trauma Program: 906-774-3300 x. 32531

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

143

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL October 7, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Vet Centers Guest Speaker Mr. Joseph A. Martinez, MS, LLPC Grand Rapids Vet Center 2050 Breton Rd. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 285-5795 Guest Speaker Summary  What are Vet Centers? o Provided for through a different funding stream, Vet Centers are separate from the VA. o With over 300 locations across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Guam, Vet Centers provide free readjustment services to combat veterans and/or survivors of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and their families.  Locations in Michigan include Clinton Township, Dearborn, Detroit, Escanaba, Grand Rapids, Pontiac, Saginaw, and Traverse City. o Vet Centers aim to always be centrally located within their home cities and easily accessible via public transportation. They also always hold non-traditional hours in order to accommodate the schedules of veterans and their families.  Types of Services: o Individual and group counseling for veterans and their families o Family counseling for military related issues o Bereavement counseling for families who experience an active duty death o Military sexual trauma counseling and referral o Substance abuse assessment and referral o Employment assessment & referral Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

144

www.buddytobuddy.org



o VBA benefits explanation & referral o Screening & referral for medical issues including TBI, depression, etc.

Eligibility for services: o If a veteran served in any combat zone and received a military campaign ribbon, then they are their family are eligible for Vet Center services. o If an individual does not meet the above eligibility standard but is a survivor of Military Sexual Trauma, then they are additionally eligible for Vet Center services.

To get more information  http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/  To find a location near you: http://www.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter_flsh.asp  To obtain any of the above-mentioned services, all free of charge, contact the Vet Center nearest you.  To talk to someone someone who’s been there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, call 1-877WAR-VETS. Your call will be kept completely confidential and you can talk about your military experience, or any issues you may be facing in readjusting to civilian life.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

145

www.buddytobuddy.org

Other Call Notes Clear Captions _____________________________________ p. 147 County Veteran Counselors ___________________________ p. 148-149 Department of Human Services (DHS) __________________ p. 150-151 Tips for Finding Resources ___________________________ p. 152-154 HomeFront Strong __________________________________ p. 155-156 National Guard Family Programs ______________________ p. 157-170 Military OneSource _________________________________ p. 171-175 Mission STRONG __________________________________ p. 176-179 Non-VA Resources for Female Veterans _________________ p. 180-181 Presumptive Conditions for Post-9/11 Veterans ___________ p. 182-183 Refresher on Logging _______________________________ p. 184-185 Reserve Component Retirement _______________________ p. 186-188 Service Connection and Presumptive Conditions __________ p. 189-191 MIARNG Transition Assistance Program ________________ p. 192-193 VA Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants ____ p. 194-195 VA Choice Card ____________________________________ p. 196-197 VA EEO Office, The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention Act, the Veterans Choice Act, and Employment at the VA _______ p. 198-201 Veteran Community Action Teams (VCATs) ______________ p. 202-203 Veteran Service Organizations _________________________ p. 204-206 Veteran’s Service Officers ____________________________ p. 207-208 146

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 24-25, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Clear Captions Guest Speaker Ms. Tracy Dunk-Salisbury Clear Captions, Regional Manager (Michigan) (810) 360-9364 Tracy.dunk-salisbury@clearcaptions.com Guest Speaker Summary  Clear Captions is a company that provides a federally funded service for hearing impaired individuals in the form of a telephone that is both able to be amplified and that also provides captioning for the hearing impaired individual as their conversation partner speaks.  This service is 100% free to all individuals with any degree of hearing loss. It is federally funded, paid for by a tax we all pay on our monthly phone bills. o Eligibility not contingent on income, insurance, etc. o No doctor’s note/paperwork required  Program Requirements: o Hearing loss (any degree) o Home phone connection o High-speed internet connection (no dial-up)  To take advantage of this program, individuals should contact Ms. Dunk-Salisbury, who will begin fulfilling the request. o The time from the initial request to the phone being installed is usually 7 days or less. o A technician comes to the home to install the device and teach the individual how to use it.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

147

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL July 27-28, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

County Veteran Resources Guest Speaker Mr. Michael Smith Director, Washtenaw County Department of Veterans Affairs P.O. Box 8645 Ann Arbor, MI 48107-8645 (734) 973-4541 smithmg@ewashtenaw.org Guest Speaker Summary  Veterans Relief Fund o By Michigan statute, each county is supposed to levy 1/40 of a mill for the purposes of caring for indigent veterans and their spouses and dependents. o As of 2015, only about 14 counties are in compliance with this statute, though many other counties do provide funds for assistance for veterans and their families. o There are very few restrictions on these funds – counties may decide who qualifies, what qualifying expenses are, and what limits (if any) to impose on assistance. o Applied for through County Veterans Counselor: http://www.macvc.net/michigan_county_veterans_counselors_search.php  Funeral Costs o By mandate, each Michigan county must pay the family of each veteran or veteran’s spouse $300 toward the cost of the deceased’s funeral.  Michigan Veterans Trust Fund o Emergency grant program for veterans that is run using the interest from a designated $50 billion trust.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

148

www.buddytobuddy.org

 

o County Veteran Counselors are the gateway to this fund.

County Veteran Counselors o When processing applications for different assistance programs, County Veteran Counselors are able to access a veteran’s VA claims records.

MVAA o In 2013, the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency was created by executive order to serve as the central coordinating point for Michigan’s veterans in order to connect them to benefits throughout the state. o MVAA created 1-800-MICH-VET, a 24-hour phone line that can connect veterans to resources. o Allocated grants to counties throughout the state of Michigan to create or expand county veterans service offices. o Created Veterans Coalition Action Teams (VCATs) in each of the 10 prosperity regions throughout the state in order to facilitate interaction and networking between service providers in those regions. o www.michiganveterans.com

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

149

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL September 23, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Department of Human Services (DHS) – An Overview Guest Speaker Ms. Denise Payton (313) 852-2092 paytond@michigan.gov Guest Speaker Summary The Department of Human Services offers many programs to assist low-income individuals and families. Some programs vary by county, though most of them are run state-wide. These are not veteran-specific initiatives, though veterans are certainly eligible if they meet the other eligibility guidelines. • Healthy Michigan o This is the recently expanded healthcare coverage program offered through the State of Michigan. Both medical and dental costs are included in coverage and covered individuals may choose from a variety of vendors for their health insurance. o Eligibility is based on income and the guidelines vary based on the type of household. Single adults must earn below 133% of the federal poverty line, children ages 1-19 must fall below 160% of the federal poverty line, and pregnant women must make less than 195% of the federal poverty line. o Healthy Michigan Information: http://1.usa.gov/1ptK7ew o Healthy Michigan Handbook: http://1.usa.gov/ZeuQsQ o Healthy Michigan Frequently Asked Questions: http://1.usa.gov/1uJkHxv o Information on child healthcare programs Healthy Kids & MIChild: http://1.usa.gov/1DytLM2 o Information on healthcare for pregnant women programs Healthy Kids for Pregnant Women and Group 2 Pregnant Women: http://1.usa.gov/1sts6Vh Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

150

www.buddytobuddy.org

•

• •

•

•

o Information on family programs, Low Income Families and Transitional Medical Assistance: http://1.usa.gov/1usqXgO State Emergency Relief o Immediate help may be available if you are facing conditions of extreme hardship or emergencies threatening your health and safety. o This program can provide assistance with things like home repair, weatherization, heat & utilities, and home ownership. o Wayne County DHS is currently able to provide assistance for individuals who had home damage during the recent flooding, storms, and power outages. If you need assistance with damages related to these recent occurrences, contact your local DHS office as soon as possible. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1msSfRp for more information on this program.

Food Assistance o Temporary food assistance is available for low-income families and individuals. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1uJmGlA for more information.

Cash Assistance o Temporary cash assistance is available for low-income pregnant women and lowincome families with minor children. o Learn more here: http://1.usa.gov/1wMqNio Child Care Assistance o Payment assistance may be available for individuals who cannot afford their child care needs. o Visit http://1.usa.gov/1wMqOTn to learn more about this program How to Apply o Visit https://www.mibridges.michigan.gov/access/ to start an application. This can be accessed from any home or public computer. Additionally, all DHS offices have kiosks that individuals can use to apply for assistance. o If someone would rather not apply online, they can call 1-855-789-5610. When calling, some programs (including Healthy Michigan) will yield an immediate eligibility decision.

Family Size

Poverty Line 133% 160% (100%) $11,670 $15,521.10 $18,672 1 $15,730 $20,920.90 $25,168 2 $19,790 $26,320.70 $31,664 3 $23,850 $31,720.50 $38,160 4 $27,910 $37,120.30 $44,656 5 $31,970 $42,520.10 $51,152 6 $36,030 $47,919.90 $57,648 7 $40,090 $53,319.70 $64,144 8 For more information • http://www.michigan.gov/dhs/ • 1-855-275-6424 • To find the DHS office nearest you, visit: http://1.usa.gov/1hGLXaE.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

151

195% $22,759.50 $30,673.50 $38,590.50 $46,507.50 $54,424.50 $62,341.50 $70,258.50 $78,175.50

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL June 8-9, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Tips for Finding Resources Guest Speaker Ms. Stephanie Zarb Program Manager, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program 734-998-5829 szarb@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Interaction Logs o Recording an interaction log is the fastest way to get an individualized response with resource advice from a Buddy-to-Buddy staff member. o If your situation is very urgent, it is wise to record the interaction log and then call a staff member to alert them to the urgency of the situation.  Support Calls o The weekly support calls are an ideal place to bring up an issue or request for a resource that you may have. o Allows you to use knowledge of several staff members and many volunteers simultaneously.  Volunteer Website o On your dashboard, you can click on the “General Information” tab, which will navigate you to a host of valuable resources.  Heading 1: Program Information – This section contains general program information such as regional maps, contact lists, brochures, flyers, and newsletters.  Heading 2: Notes & Guest Speakers – This program contains the guest speaker and topic call notes that are distributed by email each week.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

152

www.buddytobuddy.org





Heading 3: Resources & Miscellaneous – A compilation of useful resources. This section is added to regularly as Program Staff encounters new resources. o M-SPAN eDirectory – Under the “Resources” heading at the top of the page, you will find a button that says “eDirectory.” Clicking this will take you to www.directory.m-span.org, the Michigan Veteran Resource eDirectory.  The eDirectory contains less in-depth information on a very wide range of resources (mostly addresses and phone numbers).  You can look for organizations/agencies within your local area by searching by zip code or city (you cannot search by county).  Things can be added to this at any time, so please let Program Staff know if you come across anything that you think should be added. Please also let us know if you find any errors – we will correct them ASAP. Local Resources o County Veteran Counselors  Because many resources and their eligibility criteria vary from county to county, it is highly suggested that each volunteer take time to learn a little about the resources in their area.  This can be done by meeting with your county’s County Veteran Counselor. You can find your county veteran counselor here: http://www.macvc.net/michigan_county_veterans_counselors_search.php. o Service Organizations  Local posts of service organizations like the VFW, American Legion, DAV, AmVets, and Marine Corps League are often available to provide assistance to service members and veterans in need.  Service organizations are usually the best place to call in a very urgent situation. For example, if there is a household in need of food tonight, the local service organization post will often be willing to help.  The Buddy-to-Buddy Program recommends that each volunteer seek out an active post in their local area that they can call on in these times of need.  For more information on finding an active post, and on service organizations in general, see the call notes from May 4-5, 2015, posted on the Buddy-to-Buddy website. o OEF/OIF Transition Assistance Coordinators  Each VA Health Center and many CBOCs have a Transition Assistance Coordinator.  The Coordinator can help individuals sign up for VA healthcare.  Contact information for all Transition Assistance teams can be found on the volunteer website under the heading “Resources & Miscellaneous.” It is also listed below.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

153

www.buddytobuddy.org

VA Center

City

Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor

Battle Creek

Battle Creek

Battle Creek

Battle Creek

Battle Creek

Battle Creek

John D. Dingell John D. Dingell John D. Dingell Oscar G. Johnson Oscar G. Johnson Oscar G. Johnson Aleda E. Lutz Aleda E. Lutz Aleda E. Lutz

Detroit Detroit Detroit Iron Mountain Iron Mountain Iron Mountain Saginaw Saginaw Saginaw

Contact Name Sarah Nowitzke Nereida Senkbeil Mignon Sizemore Peggy ShaullNorman Debra FordRice Beverly Glaza

Email Address Sarah.nowitzke@va.gov

Phone Number 734-845-3787

Nereida.Senkbeil@va.gov

734-845-5798

Emanuel Dines Emily Schindler Dan Kummer

Emanuel.dines@va.gov

Kathleen Truax Susan Kerr

Kathleen.truax1@va.gov

Mignon.sizemore@va.gov 734-845-3429 Peggy.shaullnorman2@va.gov Debra.Ford@va.gov Beverly.glaza@va.gov

Emily.schindler@va.gov Daniel.kummer@va.gov

Susan.kerr@va.gov

Becky Cronick Anne MilkoDelpier James Adamski Mary Richards

Anne.milkodelpier@va.gov James.adamski@va.gov Mary.richards3@va.gov

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

154

269-966-5600 x35232 269-966-5600 x36175 269-966-5600 x36066 313-576-1000 x61249 313-576-1000 x65741 313-576-1000 x65446 906-774-3300 x32708 906-774-3300 x32537 906-774-3300 x32706 989-497-2500 x11794 989-497-2500 x11897 989-497-2500 x11898

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL April 6-7, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

HomeFront Strong Guest Speaker Ms. Jodi Bachrach 734-998-5849 jbachrac@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  What is HomeFront Strong? o HomeFront Strong is an 8-week resiliency group for military spouses/partners, developed by the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and the Michigan Army National Guard. o The program is entirely free of charge. Because research is being conducted, participants have the chance to earn up to $100 for their participation in the group. o When military partners/spouses were asked what they needed, they indicated a need for programs that focus specifically on the partner/spouse, programs that provide support across the deployment cycle, and programs that are not pathology-focused. o HomeFront Strong focuses on a different topic for each of the eight weeks the group meets. Some topics include increasing optimism, managing stress, and learning coping strategies. o The goals of HomeFront Strong include reducing stress, providing coping strategies, and increasing resiliency.  Who Can Participate? o All spouses or partners of post 9/11 service members/veterans are eligible to participate, as long as that service member or veteran has experienced at least one deployment.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

155

www.buddytobuddy.org





o Individuals both with and without children are welcome to participate. If the participant would like, they may bring their children, who will participate in a parallel and age-appropriate group while the parent participates in the adult group.  Children learn skills such as relaxation, positive thinking, managing stress, and identifying emotions through a series of age-appropriate activities and crafts. They will also have the opportunity to interact with other military children.

Does it Work? o Initial data results have been very positive:  Show an increase in knowledge of the skills focused on in group.  Show a decrease in symptoms of depression and anxiety for participants.

How Can a Spouse/Partner get involved? o There will be a group starting in April in Walled Lake, MI in Oakland County. If you have individuals who are interested, please have them contact our guest speaker, Ms. Jodi Bachrach, at 734-998-5849 for more information and to sign up! o There will also be a summer group in Mt. Clemens, MI, if that is more convenient for participants.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

156

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 10-11, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan National Guard State Family Programs Guest Speaker Ms. Sierra Stone Administrative Assistant, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program (734) 998-5825 sierracs@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for all Service Members, Families, Veterans, and Retirees in recognition of their service to our great state and nation. We are committed to enhancing the readiness and well-being of all military families through information, education, programs, and resources.  Services Provided: o Command Support o Family Readiness o Mobilization and Reintegration Coordinator o Crisis Intervention and Referral o Community Outreach o Volunteer Recruitment o Training and Management o Child and Youth Programs  Family Readiness o Mission: A partnership exists between the Michigan National Guard and its Families to promote readiness, resilience, and retain quality Service Members.

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are the primary communication link between

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

157

www.buddytobuddy.org

o

o

o

o

the Commander and Unit Family Members, and are the foundation of the Michigan National Guard Family Program.

Objectives:  Develop family and support networks  Be a conduit of official command  Training opportunities for volunteers and supporters  Educate families and supporters on benefits and services (within the Michigan Army National Guard and community resources).

What does an FRG do?  Establish a “phone tree” and email distribution list to pass on essential information  Publish a unit family readiness newsletter for unit members and family members  Provide training in a variety of areas that will enhance family member readiness  Assist the Commander in planning and implementing unit family day briefings and activities  Plan and implement fundraising activities  Plan programs that will introduce family members to other family members, thereby enhancing family member rapport and potential support during times of mobilization Why is Family Readiness important?  Provides information and a support network to our families and unit members during their association with the National Guard, and especially during a deployment  Welcomes and provides a general overview to new family members on the FRG and the unit’s mission through the family orientation sponsorship program  Provides training in a variety of areas (communication, family budget/finance management, parenting, etc.)  Plans programs that will introduce family members to other family members Programs  Family Assistance Centers (FACs)  Established and maintained to support Service Members, Veterans, and Families of ALL branches of service.  FAC Specialists provide 6 essential services including: crisis, financial, legal, medical, ID card/DEERS and community resource information, referral, and follow-up.  Currently Michigan has 10 FACs throughout the state (Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, Grayling, Wyoming, Grand Ledge, Bay City, Fort Custer, Jackson, Taylor, Lansing).  Child and Youth Programs  Responsible for the development and coordination of Child and Youth Services for National Guard personnel and their families

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

158

www.buddytobuddy.org



 









during all phases of the deployment cycle (pre-deployment, deployment, and re-deployment/reunion)  Available to assist with youth activities and programs with your FRG  Operation Military Kids works with Family Readiness Child & Youth staff.

Yellow Ribbon Programs  Plans and coordinates events for deploying units for predeployment, deployment, and post-deployment, and Family Bonds events.

Buddy-to-Buddy  A two-tiered program consisting of Buddy 1s (Soldiers) and Buddy 2s (Volunteer Veterans).

Transition Assistance Advisor  Serves as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits.  Provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources, in addition to pre-separation counseling.

Surge Support Assistance  Military and Family Life Counselor: Provide direct, short-term, non-medical, solution-focused counseling and psycho-educational services to individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Military Personal Finance Counselor: Provide answers to financial questions, avenues to resolve financial problems and help develop plans to reach your financial goals. (Note: This is available to all military service members, regardless of branch of service.)

Military OneSource  Military OneSource Consultant: Collaborate with military and community support services, educate service and family members of all branches and components on the support services available through Military OneSource.

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS)  Provides support services to survivors of service members and veterans who have fallen in combat and to the survivors of all service members who have passed while on duty.  Provides short and long-term support for surviving family members.

Retirement Services  Provides assistance with retirement benefits counseling, survivor benefit plan, retired pay applications, retirement points corrections, state retired pay applications. Services available for all reserve component service members.  Assists current service members and gray-area retirees with retirement applications.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

159

www.buddytobuddy.org



ID Cards/DEERS Services  ID Card Services: Issue ID Cards to current service members, retirees, and family members.  Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS): Assist current service members, retirees, and family members with verification and enrollment in DEERS.  Michigan National Guard Family Fund  Gives smaller grants, $200-$500  Accessed through Family Programs Staff  All MIARNG soldiers eligible o Service Member, Veteran, and Family Assistance Center  All the above-mentioned programs and housed and available here.  Joint Forces Headquarters: 3243 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lansing, MI 48906

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

160

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Assistance Centers Family Assistance Centers Coordinator: BELINDA IRELAND 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9889 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 974-8844 belinda.r.ireland.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Counties

Ishpeming Armory REGION 1 900 Palms Avenue EVE GIRAUD – PROSSER Ishpeming, MI 49849 eve.a.giraud-prosser.ctr@mail.mil

Baraga, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon

Office: (906) 485-2548 Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (906) 203-7676

Sault Ste Marie Armory REGION 2 JERRY MCDONALD gerald.l.mcdonald.ctr@mail.mil

1170 E. Portage Road Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783

Alger, Cheboygan , Chippewa, Emmet, Luce, Mackinac, Presque Isle, Schoolcraft

Office: (906) 632-7861 Fax: (906) 632-4753 Cell: (906) 203-7680 Camp Grayling

REGION 3 BETH AMY bethann.m.amy.ctr@mail.mil

Building #3 Grayling, MI 49739 Office: (989) 344-6144 Fax: (989) 344-6421

Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Clare, Crawford, Grand Traverse, Iosco, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Roscommon, Wexford

Cell: (989) 745-1439

Grand Valley Armory REGION 4

1200 44th Street SW

AMY GOULD

Wyoming, MI 49509

amy.s.gould.ctr@mail.mil

Allegan, Kent, Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa

Office: (616) 249-2741 Fax: (616) 249-2671

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

161

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: (616) 485-8966

Grand Ledge/Lansing Armory REGION 5 10600 Eaton Highway STEPHANIE BEALS Grand Ledge, MI 48837 stephanie.g.beals.ctr@mail.mil

Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Mecosta, Montcalm, Shiawassee

Office: (517) 481-8850 Fax: (517) 481-8822 Cell: (517) 395-0840

Bay City Armory REGION 6

2510 Wilder Road

MELISSA ALEX-HALM

Bay City, MI 48706

melissa.s.halm.ctr@mail.mil

Office: (517) 481-7323 Fax: (517) 481-7324

Arenac, Bay, Genesee, Gladwin, Huron, Lapeer, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, St. Clair, Tuscola

Cell: (989) 573-3425 Fort Custer REGION 7

Office: TBD Fax: TBD

VACANT

Cell: 517-898-4144

REGION 8 LORI SPICER lori.a.spicer.ctr@mail.mil

Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, Saint Joseph, Van Buren

Jackson Armory 4850 Cooper Road Jackson, MI 49201

Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Washtenaw

Office: (517) 990-1186 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 395-0839

REGION 9 LAURA CHIRIO

Taylor Armory 12450 Beech Daly Road Macomb, Oakland, Wayne

laura.e.chirio.ctr@mail.mil

Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2553 Fax: (734) 946-2540

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

162

www.buddytobuddy.org

Cell: 734-558-0217

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

163

www.buddytobuddy.org

Airman and Family Readiness Program (FRP) Managers Airman and FRP Managers

Contact information 17 Phantom Street Building 6930

Robin Rogers 110th Fighter Wing

Battle Creek, MI 49037

robin.rogers@ang.af.mil

Office: (269) 969-3493 Fax: (269) 969-3556 29868 George Ave Bldg 168 Selfridge ANGB, MI 48045

Paulus Obey 127th Family Support Center

Office: (586) 239-5583 paulus.obey@ang.af.mil Fax: (586) 239-5786 5884 A Street MSgt Michael White Alpena, MI 49707 Alpena CRTC Office: (989) 354-6267 michael.white.1@ang.af.mil Fax: (989) 354-6298 Mark Downing Office: (517) 817-8292 ANG Yellow Ribbon Coordinator mark.downing.ctr@ang.af.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

164

www.buddytobuddy.org

ID Card/DEERS/TRICARE/Retired Services

Point of Contact

Contact information

SSG Rex Waterbury ID Cards/DEERS/TRICARE NCOIC

Office: (517) 481-9872

rex.a.waterbury.mil@mail.mil SSG Randy Jackson Human Resources Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9879

randy.jackson3.mil@mail.mil Point of Contact

Contact information

SGT David Saunders Retired Services NCO

Office: (517) 481-9867

david.j.saunders.mil@mail.mil Mr. James Jones Retired Services Assistant

Office: (517) 481-9873

james.e.jones1396.vol@mail.mil

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

165

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Readiness Support Assistants Senior Family Readiness Support Assistant: JEAN WIXSON 3423 N. Martin Luther King JR. Blvd, Building 31, Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9892 Fax: (517) 481-9886 Cell: (517) 599-5372 jean.m.wixson.ctr@mail.mil

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Command/Units

Jackson Armory Jennifer Medina

4850 Cooper Road

jennifer.m.medina14.ctr@mail.mil

Jackson, MI 49201 Office: (517) 990-1122 Fax: (517) 990-1108 Cell: (517) 599-7477

272 Regional Support Command, 1225 CSSB (1071 Maintenance Company, 1072, 1073, 464 QM), 246 Transportation BTN (1460, 1461, 1462, 1463, DET 1-1461, DET 11463), 146 Med BN (MMB), 1171 Med Co (ASMB), 3-238 GSAB (all AVN and DET Companies)

Grand Valley Armory Michael Petrie

1200 44th Street SW

michael.j.petrie4.ctr@mail.mil

Wyoming, MI 49509 Office: (616) 249-2641 Fax: (616) 249-2671

63 Troop BDE, Co B BSTS 37 BCT, Co C BSTS 86 BCT, Co F 425 INF 1-126 Squadron (Troops A,B,C,D 237 BSB), 1-119, FA (BTRY A, B, C, FSC), 1-125 INF BN (CO A, B, B (-), C, D, F237 BSN) 1-182 FA,

Cell: (517) 599-5474 Taylor Armory Jenna Kirkton jenna.l.kirkton.ctr@mail.mil

12450 Beech Daly Road Taylor, MI 48180 Office: (734) 946-2512 Fax: (734) 946-2540

177 MP BDE, 777 MP DET, 210 MP BN (1775 MP Co, 1776 MP Co, 144 MP Co. 631 Troop CMD, 46 MP Co, (DET 2, 460 CHEM, 156 SIG Co, 1208 Linguist PLT), 507 ENG BN (1433, 1434, 1436, 1440, 1439, 1442 ENG Co, DET 1 1434, 745 EOD, 126 SIG)

Cell: (517) 599-5690

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

166

www.buddytobuddy.org

JFHQ Denise Gardner denise.m.gardner12.ctr@mail.mil

3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Lansing, MI 48906 Office: (517) 481-9896 Fax: (517) 481-9886

126 PCH, 46 MP CMD, MEDCOM, MTC Grayling, JFHQ, RTI, OD Training Co, 1BN 177th RTI, 2BN RTI, DET 15 OSA, 1999 SPT DET, DET 1 JAG 505, 1146 JAG, 51 CST, 126 Army Band, RRB, FCTC

Cell: (517) 599-6456 Ishpeming Armory Stephanie Barshaw Stephaniel.barshaw.ctr@mail.mil

900 Palms Avenue Ishpeming, MI 49849 Office: (906) 485-2524

107 ENG BTN ) 1430, 1431, 1432, 1437, 1430 DET 1, 1431 DET 1, 1432 DET 1, 1430)

Fax: (906) 486-4946 Cell: (517) 599-7022

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

167

www.buddytobuddy.org

Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP)

Point of Contact

Contact Information

Maritza Rodriguez-Arsenau

Eastern Michigan Location

Specialization in Child & Youth

Cell: (517) 599-2719

maritza.rodriguez-arseneau@ahsg.us

Sheryl Richard

Western Michigan Location

Military Family Life Consultant

Cell: (269) 832-8202

sheryl.richard@ahsg.us

April Clipper State-Wide Location Cell: (989) 415-9846

Michigan Military OneSource Consultant april.clipper@militaryonesource.com

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

168

www.buddytobuddy.org

Family Programs Point of Contact

Contact Information

Position

jessica.s.ulrey.mil@mail.mil State Family Programs Director

CW3 Jessica Ulrey

Office: (517) 481-9899 Cell: (517) 993-7892 heaven.n.sharon.mil@mail.mil

SGT Heaven Sharon

Office: (517) 481-9860 Yellow Ribbon Coordinator Cell: (517) 899-6313

michiko.d.alvarenga.mil@mail.mil Family Program Assistant

SGT Michiko Alvarenga

Office: (517) 481-9874 nicholas.a.anderson36.mil@mail.mil Buddy To Buddy OIC

CPT Nicholas Anderson

Office: (517) 481-9898 Cell: (517) 977-5925 ronald.b.hatchew.mil@mail.mil Family Programs Specialist

CW2 Ronald Hatchew

Office: (517) 481-9877 Cell: (517) 993-7782 angela.s.spina.ctr@mail.mil

Angela Spina

Office: (517) 481-9894

Lead State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 977-8312 traci.m.osterman.ctr@mail.mil

Traci Osterman-Pierce

Office: (517) 481-9890

State Child and Youth Coordinator

Cell: (517) 582-9280

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

169

www.buddytobuddy.org

raymond.d.ladd.ctr@mail.mil Jackson Armory Office: (517) 990-1111

Transition Assistance Advisor

Raymond Ladd Lansing Office: (517) 481-9895 thomas.w.foster.ctr@mail.mil

Tom Foster

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Office: (517) 481-9887 Cell: (989) 372-1126 wendy.j.day2.ctr@mail.mil

Wendy Day

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

Cell: (517) 672-0918

michael.d.wilson110.ctr@mail.mil

Michael Wilson Cell: (269) 689-5711

Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) Coordinator

FAMILY PROGRAMS OFFICE JFHQ-Family Programs Office 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Bldg 31 Lansing, MI 48906 Phone: (517) 481-9893

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

170

Fax: (517) 481-9886

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 2-3, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Military OneSource Guest Speaker Ms. April Clipper Michigan Military OneSource Consultant 989-415-9846 April.clipper@militaryonesource.com Guest Speaker Summary  Military OneSource: Overview o Department of Defense funded program that provides a range of services to service members and their families at no cost. o Information includes, but is not limited to, deployment, reunion and reintegration, relationship, grief, spouse employment and education, parenting, and child care. o Services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by phone and online. o All services are 100% free of charge.  Eligibility for Services o All active duty, National Guard, and Reserve Component service members (regardless of activation) and their immediate family members are eligible.  This includes members of the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR).  “Immediate family members” includes spouses, children, or anyone legally responsible for a service member’s children during a time of separation or deployment. o Separated (through either honorable discharge or retirement) soldiers may receive services for up to 6 months past their date of separation. o An exception to the above rule is that any veteran with a service-related injury or disability (any percentage rating) is eligible for services from the Wounded Warrior Program through Military OneSource at any time.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

171

www.buddytobuddy.org









o Civilian employees of the Department of Defense who are deployed are also eligible.

Privacy & Confidentiality o Personal information will not be shared with the military or chain of command, or family or friends, or released to other agenices. o All contacts with Military OneSource are completely private. o Exceptions to this are in instances of suspected family mistreatment (domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse), threats to harm oneself or others, and illegal activities.

Counseling o Provides free short-term counseling for issues such as relocation, separation, reintegration, relationship issues, parenting skills, communication, anger management, grief, stress, deployment, life skills, coping skills, interpersonal skills, and academic or occupational problems.  Up to 12 sessions, per person, per issue.  Available face-to-face, via telephone, or online, according to the service member’s preference.  In the majority of cases, referrals are made within 72 hours of the initial call.  Is not intended to address sexual assault, abuse, mental health conditions requiring in-patient hospitalization and other behavioral concerns.  Available to children if a parent attends with a child younger than 13, a parent brings a child ages 13-17 to the individual counseling session, or the child is 18 years or older. o Confidential specialty consultations are available over the phone for various topics including adoption, health and wellness coaching, and special needs. o Other services and counseling includes: document translation, financial counseling, tax services, and more.

Financial Services o Financial Counseling is available on issues such as budgeting and general financial management, debt management, and housing management. o Financial Planning is available on topics like investing, retirement planning, planning for college, TSP/401K/pensions, traditional and ROTH IRAs, assistance in selecting a certified financial planner in the local community, tax questions and preparations. o Financial counseling occurs primarily over the phone, though in some locations it is available in person. o All financial counselors are accredited. o Through this free service, affiliates are prohibited from making referrals to themselves or to another network affiliate for fee-based work as a result of a consultation. Sales of products or services to participants is also prohibited.

Tax Services o Tax filing is available mid-January through the end of tax season.  Includes access to free tax preparation software and free electronic filing for state and federal returns.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

172

www.buddytobuddy.org





o Tax consultations are available on a variety of topics, including federal tax filing requirements, allowable deductions, tax exemptions and credits, IRA deductions, W-2 and W-4 form questions, divorce taxation, capital gains questions, and questions related to filing extensions and deployment.  These services are available year-round and are performed by certified public accountants.

Health and Wellness Coaching o Provides expert advice on losing weight, making healthier food choices, learning which exercises best benefit your heart, handling stressful situations, or learning how to relax. o Each individual is assigned a personal coach with whom they will communicate by phone or email. o Online self-directed programs are available for individuals who are highly motivated and self-disciplined. o Four online self-directed health and wellness coaching programs, designed to help individuals in making lasting life changes.  LivingEasy: Resilience and Stress Management  LivingFit: 90-day Walking Program  LivingLean: Weight Management Program  LivingFree: Smoking Cessation Program Career Consultations o Available topics include choosing a career, finding a job, effectiveness at work, and management skills. o Other resources include the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities Center and the Military Spouse Employment Partnership  Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) Program  Counselors help spouses explore the world of work and make careful, well-thought-out career decisions  Offers no-cost assessment tools, job market information, and assistance in developing individual career plans.  SECO offers a full range of Education, Training, and Licensure information and support.  SECO offers specialty consultations, in which counselors help military spouses compare the costs of schools and programs of study, including their potential returns on investment.  Spouses can learn about license portability, the ability to use their current professional licenses in a new state while they work to meet new state requirements.  SECO career counselors help spouses learn how to conduct an effective job search, how to identify themselves to potential employers, how to write resumes and develop interview skills, how to learn about flexible and virtual work opportunities, and how to plan for child care and transportation.  Finally, counselors help spouses connect with mentors who can help them open doors and meet employers who have pledged to recruit, hire, promote, and retain them.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

173

www.buddytobuddy.org











Parenting o Topics: Becoming a parent, parenting skills, adoption o Resources: Toolkits, web links, educational materials, confidential specialty consultations Special Needs o Tools: Navigating resources, advocating at school, medical, financial and legal support, family support, and self-care o Resources: Special needs parent toolkit, special care organizational record for children (or adults) with special health care needs, and confidential specialty consultations, educational materials, and discussion boards o Military OneSource offers 60-minute consultations, up to 12 times per year, with a consultant who specializes in the topic of special needs.

Wounded Warrior Resources o These are resources that work in coordination with branch-specific resources. o Can be accessed by any wounded/injured service member or veteran at any time. o Provides assistance in areas like: military facilities concerns, health care services, information on VA benefits and other entitlements, and everyday issues such as confidential non-medical counseling, dependent care, etc.

Online Library Resources o Electronic library resources are available 24/7, completely free. o Some resources available include (among many more):  Peterson’s Education Resource Center, providing study guides and practice tests for SAT, ACT, CLEP, ASVAB, certifications and more, as well as help with scholarships and the admissions process.  Morningstar Investment Research Centers offers information and advice on mutual funds, stocks, exchange traded funds, and companies.  Career Transitions helps users find job announcements, write a resume, map military experience to civilian jobs, write a cover letter, access career interests, and participate in an interview simulation.  Master File Premier and Academic One Source links to scholarly and informational full-text journal articles, including extensive coverage of the sciences, technology, medicine, the arts, theology, literature, history, and culture.  Auto Repair Reference Center offers complete automotive repair manuals, 1954 to current.  Heritage Quest offers an essential collection of unique materials for both genealogical and historical researchers with coverage dating back to the late 1700s.  Kids InfoBits is designed especially for students in kindergarten through grade five.

Access Military OneSource o Available 24/7/365. o All services and materials are available at no cost to service members and their families. o Can call toll-free number at any time to reach a trained, master’s-level consultant: 800-342-9647.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

174

www.buddytobuddy.org

o Can also access all resources on their website: www.MilitaryOneSource.mil.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

175

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL March 9-10, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Mission STRONG Guest Speakers Dr. Fred Blow Director, UM Addiction Research Center – Mental Health Services Outcomes & Translation Phone: 734-845-5046 Email: fredblow@umich.edu Ms. Heather Walters Program Manager Phone: 734-845-3650 Email: heawalte@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Mission STRONG Background o Mission STRONG is a grant-funded research project aimed at reducing alcohol and prescription drug misuse within the Michigan Army National Guard. o Funding agency: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism o World Health Organizations Drinking Definitions:  Harmful drinking: Use of alcohol that causes complications  Hazardous or At-Risk drinking: Use of alcohol that increases risk for complications (This is the group on which the Mission STRONG interventions focus.)  Non-hazardous drinking: Use of alcohol without clear risk of complications o Recommended drinking limits:  Drinking Limits: No more than two drinks per day on average or one drink per day on average for women.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

176

www.buddytobuddy.org



o

o

o

o

It is important to note that one cannot “save up” their drinks (until the weekend, for example) and then drink many drinks in one day. This would qualify as a binge-drinking episode and it can be very dangerous, especially when done frequently.  Binge Drinking: Drinking four or more drinks during a single occasion (drinking day) for men or three or more drinks during a single occasion for women.  Binge drinking increases the risk for many things, including accident/injury, and alcohol and prescription drug interactions.

Many conditions may be cause or worsened by alcohol use:  1 or more drinks per day: gastritis, ulcers, liver and pancreas problems  2 or more drinks per day: depression, gout, GERD, breast cancer, insomnia, memory problems, falls  3 or more drinks per day: hypertension, stroke, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, cancer of many varieties What counts as a drink? Each of the following counts as one drink:  1 can (12 oz.) of ordinary beer or ale (This includes standard American beer only. Imported beer, microbrews, etc. usually contain more alcohol and, therefore, “count” as more than one drink.)  1 shot (1.5 oz.) of spirits (whiskey, gin, vodka, etc.)  1 glass (5 oz.) of wine  1 small glass (4 oz.) of sherry  1 small glass (4 oz.) of liqueur or aperitif.

Prescription Medication  Multiple deployments, and the resulting physical injuries, have led to a large increase in prescriptions for controlled substances that carry the risk of misuse.  The most commonly prescribed medications are sedative-hypnotics and opioids (pain medications).  Opioids are most appropriate and can be very beneficial when used short-term to lessen acute pain. Often, however, they are used for chronic pain, and/or to relax, sleep, or lighten a negative mood.

This can lead to an increased risk for misuse.  Short-acting pills are the most easily and widely available. Even extended release pills can have their extended release mechanism defeated by crushing or otherwise breaking open the pill.  Misuse is present when individuals take more of the drug than is prescribed, or take it more often than directed. Additionally, the borrowing and sharing of medications between individuals constitutes misuse.  Misusing opioids can lead to problems such as sedation, confusion, and respiratory depression.

Alcohol and Prescription Drug Misuse within the Michigan Army National Guard  National Guard members, especially those who have been combatdeployed, have high rates of hazardous alcohol use.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

177

www.buddytobuddy.org





Data from a post-deployment survey shows rates of alcohol misuse at 49% at six months post-deployment and at 45% at twelve months post-deployment.  Prescription drug misuse is now the second most common form of drug misuse, following marijuana.  Service members with alcohol and prescription drug misuse are at risk for poor outcomes such as injuries, decreased readiness, unemployment, reduced job performance, mental health problems, and suicide.

Mission STRONG Intervention o Mission STRONG is based on the SBIRT Model of treatment:  Screening  Brief Intervention  Referral to Treatment  Mission STRONG will focus mainly on the first two points, Screening and Brief Intervention. o The program was developed in collaboration with an advisory board consisting of MIARNG Soldiers from various backgrounds.  Each unit’s participation in Mission STRONG has been mandated by MIARNG leadership.  All information collected in relation to this project will be kept 100% confidential.  Mission STRONG does not replace the military’s substance abuse intervention and does NOT count as a way for soldier’s to identify themselves as seek help with potential substance abuse concerns. o Over a period of 30 months, approximately 4300 MIARNG Soldiers in 40 units will be screened for alcohol and prescription drug misuse.  Of the soldiers who meet the criteria for at-risk drinking and/or prescription medication misuse, 750 will be randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups.  Group 1: These soldiers will receive a brochure recommending they seek services based on their alcohol and/or prescription drug use and that lists local resources that may be of interest.  Group 2: These soldiers will receive an initial web-based intervention, then will receive a web-based “booster session” once per month for the next three months.  Group 3: These soldiers will receive an initial web-based intervention, then will receive a peer-based “booster session” once per month for the next three months. o These peer-based interventions will be conducted by Buddy 2 Volunteer Veterans who are specifically trained for participation in Mission STRONG. This will not necessarily be the same Buddy 2 that is regularly assigned to a given unit. The volunteer will provide support and additional information on issues related to substance abuse.

They will also refer all non-substance use concerns back to

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

178

www.buddytobuddy.org



unit volunteer. The once monthly follow-up will be conducted either at drill or by telephone. o Potential Outcomes and Benefits  Demonstrated caring for Soldiers  Lower levels of hazardous alcohol and/or prescription drug misuse resulting in: increased soldier readiness, increased retention of soldiers, decrease in legal issues (i.e. DUI)  Early identification of and assistance for a potential problem. o The program seeks to identify whether a peer-based intervention yields more positive results in curbing the use of alcohol and prescription drugs within the Michigan Army National Guard.

What this means for Buddy 2 Volunteer Veterans: o Mission STRONG is seeking volunteers to additionally serve in the Mission STRONG role. o A Mission STRONG volunteer will visit their assigned unit(s) each month for 3 months to check in with Mission STRONG Soldiers (approximately 5-10 in each unit).  Attend additional training (~4 hours, in your geographic area)  Mail in logs of contacts with Mission STRONG Soldiers  Refer all non-substance use issues back to the unit Buddy 2 Volunteer Veteran.  Mission STRONG volunteers will receive $25 for participating in the training, and $30 for each unit in which they complete the Mission STRONG program. o If you are interested in volunteering with Mission STRONG, please contact Heather Walters at 734-845-3650 or heawalte@umich.edu. All questions may be directed to Heather as well.

Relationship Between Alcohol Use and Alcohol Problems.

Green areas are areas in which MiSSION STRONG is the most focused.

• No use/no risk

Low Risk

• Light use/small risk

At Risk

Problem

Dependent

• Moderate use/moderate problem • Heavy use/severe problem

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

179

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL December 16, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Non-VA Resources for Female Veterans Guest Speaker Ms. Sierra Stone Buddy-to-Buddy Administrative Assistant sierracs@umich.edu 734-998-5825 Guest Speaker Summary  Our Home Transitional o Provides transitional housing for homeless, single, female veterans. Cannot currently accommodate children. o Provides other types of assistance through partnerships with varying agencies: job training and placement, educational training, home placement assistance, mental & physical healthcare. o Located in Flint, MI o Point of Contact: Carrie Miller, Executive Director  810-309-9822  executivedirector@ourhometransitional.org o www.ourhometransitional.org  Women Supporting Women Veterans o Their goal is to assist women that have returned from serving their country in resuming an active, successful, productive, and satisfying life in society with their family and friends. o WSWVets offers hope and healing, through peer-to-peer support, education, and sharing. o Have partnered with another organization to provide Equine Assisted Therapy to veterans with PTSD, MST, and/or TBI. Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

180

www.buddytobuddy.org









o Based in South Lyon, MI o Contact information:  810-599-6014  wswvets@gmail.com o www.wswvets.org Joining Forces for Women Veterans and Military Spouses Mentoring Plus o This is a national organization that offers free, unlimited personal coaching and professional guidance to help them successfully identify, outline, and pursue civilian careers. o Open to female veterans of all ranks and eras, military/veteran spouses, caregivers of wounded warriors, and survivors of fallen soldiers. o www.joiningforcesmentoringplus.org Piquette Square Housing, Southwest Housing Solutions o Detroit, MI o Housing is the primary need they serve, although tenants are able to choose from an array of other services, such as mental health, rehabilitation, recreational, and social programs. Regulars classes and special events are also held. o Tenants are required to pay part of the cost, but it is based on income and could be as low as $50. o Men and women are both welcome, and married couples can be accommodated, though children cannot. o To apply, contact Terri Lopez, at 313-841-3727, extension 325.

Silver Star Housing o Battle Creek, MI o Low-income housing initiative for veterans, similar to that offered at Piquette Square in Detroit. o Located on the VA campus to ensure residents are able to attend their medical appointments there. o Visit www.medallionmgmt.com/propertyindex.aspx for more information.

VFW National Home for Children o Open to families of active-duty military personnel, veterans, and descendants of members of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary. o Provides up to 4 years of cost-free housing, professional case management, life skills training, and more for families in need. o Located in Eaton Rapids, MI o For more information, call their Help Line at 800-313-4200 or visit www.vfwnationalhome.org.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

181

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL June 1-2, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Presumptive Conditions for Post-9/11 Service Members and Veterans Guest Speaker Mr. Phil Presnell Northern Michigan and U.P. Regional Coordinator, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program (231) 735-2641 ppresnel@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Post-9/11 service members and veterans, also referred to as OEF/OIF/OND (Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn), fall into the VA’s “Gulf War” period, which extends from August 2, 1990 to the present.  For any of the following symptoms or conditions, the best course of action is for a service member or veteran to seek the assistance of an accredited service officer and a physician. To find the accredited service officer closest to you, visit: http://www.michiganveterans.com/Home/Benefit-Counselors to search by county. o A service officer will assist a veteran in filing a claim for a service-connected disability. Their services are always free.  Presumptive conditions for all veterans: o Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) – If this disease presents itself it someone who served a minimum of 90 consecutive days of active service, no matter when the disease presents, the veteran may be entitled to compensation. o Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – If this disease presents itself in a veteran within 7 years of their date of separation, they may be entitled to compensation.  Presumptive conditions for Gulf War Veterans:

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

182

www.buddytobuddy.org



o Some veterans may receive disability compensation for chronic disabilities resulting from undiagnosed illnesses and/or medically unexplained chronic multisymptom illnesses defined by a cluster of signs or symptoms. A disability is considered chronic if it has existed for at least six months. o The undiagnosed illness must have appeared either during active service in the Southwest Asia theater of operations during the Gulf War period of August 2, 1990 to July 31, 1991, or to a degree of at least 10 percent at any time since then through December 31, 2016.  This theater of operations includes Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the neutral zone between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, the Red Sea, and the airspace above these locations. o Examples of symptoms of an undiagnosed illness and medically unexplained chronic multi-symptom illness defined by a cluster of signs and symptoms include: chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, functional gastrointestinal disorders, fatigue, signs or symptoms involving the skin, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, neurological signs or symptoms, neuropsychological signs or symptoms, signs or symptoms involving the respiratory system (upper or lower), sleep disturbances, gastrointestinal signs or symptoms, cardiovascular signs or symptoms, abnormal weight loss, and menstrual disorders. o Presumptive service connection may be granted for the following infectious diseases if found compensable within a specific time period: Brucellosis, Campylobacter jejuni, Coxiella burnetti (Q fever), Malaria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, non-typhoid Salmonella, Shigella, Visceral leishmaniasis, and West Nile virus.  Qualifying periods of service for these infectious diseases include active military, naval, or air service in the above stated Southwest Asia theater of operations during the Gulf War period of August 2, 1990 to the present and/or active military, naval, or air service on or after September 19, 2001 in Afghanistan.

Important Points/Tips: o Always, always, always hang on to your medical records. If you need a new copy of them, contact the National Personnel Records Centers (http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/). This process of requesting new documents could take several months, so allow yourself plenty of time. o When seeking a service officer, always be sure that you’re working with somebody who is accredited. They are best equipped to advise you and file your claims. o Spouses can also be entitled to benefits in the case of a service-connected death.

They should also contact a service officer. Sometimes, claims can be paid that will provide compensation even many years after the death of the veteran. So, when there is a possibility, the spouse or other dependent should contact an accredited service officer for assistance.

To get more information  http://www.benefits.va.gov/COMPENSATION/types-compensation.asp

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

183

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL June 15-16, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

A Guide to the Buddy-to-Buddy Logging System Guest Speaker Mr. Cliff Tholen West Michigan Regional Coordinator Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program 269-615-0806 ctholen@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  The Importance of Logging o With a corps of 120+ volunteers, it is impossible for Buddy-to-Buddy staff to speak with each of you via phone or email after every interaction you have with a soldier. However, we are dedicated to providing support to all of you. o You logging allows us to help you make strong referrals, so that you do the absolute best work you can for each soldier you meet. o Communicating through the logging system allows for the easy sharing of information. Contact people, phone numbers, and eligibility requirements are ever-changing, and using the website allows us to quickly communicate these changes to you as they arise. o The information you log allows us to let the National Guard know what the most pressing issues are for their soldiers, which then influences the assistance programs they choose to develop and implement. o The information you log allows us to identify gaps in services, which then may be leveraged in other situations for the development of new types of assistance for service members and veterans.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

184

www.buddytobuddy.org











o Your logs allow us to demonstrate to our program funders that the Buddy-toBuddy program is useful and worthwhile, which greatly increases the likelihood that the program will continue to be funded.

Contact Logs o This type of log is used to add a service member/veteran into the system. You are identifying them as a person with whom you’ve had contact. o Use the button labeled “Add Contact (New)” on the Volunteer Dashboard of the Buddy-to-Buddy website. o Enter the information requested and click “Submit First Interaction Log.” o The system will generate a contact ID for this person that you’ll see on the next screen (i.e. “Z0031”). It is very important that you keep track of this Contact ID and the person to whom it corresponds. If you lose or forget it, Buddy-to-Buddy staff has no way to recover this information.

Interaction Logs o For a new contact, you will get to the Interaction Logs screen automatically, by following the steps above. o For an existing contact, use the button labeled “Add Interaction Log (Follow-up)” on the Volunteer Dashboard. o Fill in the requested information completely –  Use the city in which the individual resides  Select all concerns that apply  Use the button labeled “Add New Resource” you referred this individual to more than one resource – please list them all.  Don’t forget to check the box indicated if you referred this person to be enrolled in the VA for the first time.  Please be as detailed as possible in the interaction description and followup plan. DO NOT use the name of the service member or veteran in these boxes. It is important that logs remain completely anonymous. o Click “Submit” – and you’re done!

Drill/Event Visit Logs o These logs indicate when you’ve gone somewhere representing the program – this could be drill, or it could be a community or other type of event. o Click the button that says “Add Drill/Event Visit Log” on the Volunteer Dashboard. o Enter all the information asked for, including detailed notes for the drill or event.

No Activity Logs o No Activity Logs let staff members know that you did not have any Buddy-toBuddy related activity in a given month, but that you’re still engaged and want to participate in the program. o Click the button that says “Record No Activity” on the Volunteer Dashboard. o Indicate the month and year during which you had no activity and click “Submit.”

Problems with Logging? o Contact Sierra Stone at 734-998-5825 or sierracs@umich.edu. She can reset your website password, walk you through the logging process, and even submit your logs for you over the phone.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

185

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL August 31-September 1, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Reserve Component Retirement Guest Speaker SGT David J. Saunders Retirement Services NCOIC David.j.saunders.mil@mail.mil 3423 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Lansing, MI 48906 Guest Speaker Summary  A service member can earn a military retirement from the following components: o Active Component: Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, Public Health Service (Commissioned Corps), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Commissioned Corps). o Reserve Component: Army Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Navy Reserve, Army National Guard, Air National Guard, Coast Guard Reserve  Retirement Points o An individual’s retired pay is based on rank and creditable retirement points. o Two types of point: Active Duty (ADT) points and Inactive Duty (IDT) points. o Retirement points accrue over the course of a year – this is not a fiscal or calendar year, but is based on the service member’s anniversary date. o For a year to qualify towards retirement, at least 50 points must have been earned.  If a year does not qualify based on points, those points are still used to calculate retired pay. o Except for medical reasons, an individual must earn at least 20 qualifying years in order to receive a notice of eligibility (NOE) for retired pay.  If a member is medically unfit for retention and has at least 15 but less than 20 qualifying years, they can still receive an NOE. Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

186

www.buddytobuddy.org









o Earning points:  ADT points: Earned through Annual Training; Temporary Tour of Active Duty; Active Duty Operational Support; Active Guard/Reserve  IDT points: Earned through Drills/Battle Assemblies/Unit Training Assemblies; Membership Points; Correspondence Courses/Distance Learning; Military Funeral Honors.  Up to 130 IDT points may be earned per year.

Proof of Retirement Points Earned o Keep all important documents, as errors can negatively impact your retired pay or eligibility for retirement. These include: DD 214/DD 215; DA 1380; Leave and Earnings Statements or Master Military Pay Account (MMPA) statements; Correspondence course completion certificates; Retirement Points Capture Sheets; Orders. o Guides to reading Leave and Earnings Statements (LESs) are available on MyPay website (https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.aspx).

Notice of Eligibility for Retired Pay o Notice should be received within one year of completing 20th qualifying anniversary year. o If not received, contact HR personnel. o THE NOE IS GOLD. Do not lose it. Do not give it away. Replacing the NOE is not an easy task. o Once NOE is received, there is a short window of time in which to make decisions.

Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan o “Insurance” for retired pay o SBP is the only way to pass part of retired pay onto spouse or children. o Elected when 20-year letter is received. o Have 90 days from receipt of NOE to make election. o After 90 days, default selection is made based on records. o Beneficiaries can only be changed in the case of a significant life event: Marriage, Divorce, Death of beneficiary. o Three options:  A: Upon death of service member, no one will receive the member’s retired pay if death occurs before age 60.  B: Member’s spouse and/or children receives annuity beginning when member would have turned 60.  C: Upon death of member, spouse and/or children receive annuity immediately. o Only those that would have depended on the member’s retired pay are eligible to receive the annuity – spouse, former spouse, children up to age 18 (or 22 if FT student). o Single service members can only elect option A. o If a married service member chooses anything but option C and full retired pay, the spouse must concur and the form must be witnessed and notarized.

Time in Grade for Retirement Purposes: For each grade, a service member must have held this grade for a specified period of time before retirement can occur

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

187

www.buddytobuddy.org



o E5 and E6: 1 year o E7 through E9: 3 years o W1 through W5: 31 days o O1 through O4: 6 months o O5 and O6: 3 years o O7 and up: See IAW 10 USC 1370(b)(3) Tricare o Regardless of when retired pay starts, Tricare always begins at age 60 for traditional reservists. o Tricare is always secondary to other health insurance (including Medicare).

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

188

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL October 26-27, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Service Connection for Veterans Guest Speaker Phil Presnell Northern Michigan Regional Coordinator, Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program VFW, VA Accredited Veterans Service Officer 231-735-2641 ppresnel@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Service Connected Disability: An injury or disease suffered in the line of duty. This designation is available to individuals who are discharged with a character other than dishonorable. No compensation shall be paid if the injury/disease is the result of the veteran’s own willful misconduct or alcohol or drug abuse. o Service Connection can lead to compensation from the VA. It does not necessarily lead to enrollment in VA healthcare.  What types of conditions can be considered service connected? o Presumptive Conditions: Presumptive conditions vary based on service era, but are those conditions that, if present, are automatically presumed to be serviceconnected.  For veterans within one year of release from Active Duty: Veterans diagnosed with chronic diseases (such as arthritis, diabetes, or hypertension) are encouraged to apply for disability compensation.  For veterans who have served 90+ days of continuous service: Veterans diagnosed with ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease at any time after discharge or release from qualifying active service is sufficient to establish service connection for the disease.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

189

www.buddytobuddy.org



Former Prisoners of War (imprisoned for any length of time & presenting at least 10% disability): Psychosis; any of the anxiety states; dysthymic disorder; organic residuals of frostbite; post-traumatic osteoarthritis; heart disease or hypertensive vascular disease and their complications; stroke and its residuals.  Former Prisoners of War (imprisoned for at least 30 days & presenting at least 10% disability): Avitaminosis; beriberi; chronic dysentery; helminthiasis; malnutrition (including optic atrophy); pellagra; any other nutritional deficiency; irritable bowel syndrome; peptic ulcer disease; peripheral neuropathy; cirrhosis of the liver.  Vietnam Veterans (Exposed to Agent Orange – Served in the Republic of Vietnam between 1/9/62 and 5/7/75): Acute and subacute peripheral neuropathy; AL amyloidosis; B-cell leukemias; Chloracne or other acneform disease similar to chloracne; chronic lymphocytic leukemia; diabetes type 2; Hodgkin’s disease; ischemic heart disease; multiple myeloma; non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; Parkinson’s disease; porphyria cutanea tarda; prostate cancer; respiratory cancers (lung, bronchus, larynx, trachea); soft-tissue sarcoma (other than osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Kaposi’s sarcoma or mesothelioma).  Atomic Veterans (Exposed to Ionizing Radiation – Participated in atmospheric nuclear testing; occupied or was a POW in Hiroshima or Nagasaki; service before 2/1/92 at a diffusion plant in Paducah, KY, Portsmouth, OH, or Oak Ridge, TN; or service before 1/1/74 at Amchitka Island, AK): All forms of leukemia (except for chronic lymphocytic leukemia); cancer of the thyroid, breast, pharynx, esophagus; stomach; small intestine; pancreas; bile ducts; gall bladder; salivary gland; urinary tract; brain; bone; lung; colon; ovary; bronchiolo-alveolar carcinoma; multiple myeloma; lymphomas (other than Hodgkin’s disease); primary liver cancer (except if cirrhosis or Hepatitis B is indicated.  Gulf War Veterans – Served in the Southwest Asia Theater of Operations during the Gulf War with condition at least 10% disabling by 12/31/11: Included are medically unexplained chronic multi-symptom illnesses defined by a cluster of signs or symptoms that have existed for six months or more, such as: chronic fatigue syndrome; fibromyalgia; irritable bowel syndrome; any diagnosed or undiagnosed illness that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs determines warrants a presumption of service connection.  Signs or symptoms of an undiagnosed illness include: fatigue, skin symptoms, headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, neurological symptoms, respiratory symptoms, sleep disturbance, GI symptoms, cardiovascular symptoms, weight loss, menstrual disorders. o Secondary Conditions: Conditions that occur as a result of a previously determined service-connected condition.  Example: If a veteran’s Type 2 Diabetes has been determined to be service-connected, when they develop Neuropathy as a result of the Diabetes, the Neuropathy would also be considered service connected.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

190

www.buddytobuddy.org



o Aggravation: If a veteran entered the service with a documented, chronic disability that became measurably worse (was aggravated) while serving, this aggravation can be determined to be service-connected. o Direct Service Connection: Service connection may be granted on a direct basis for a disease or disability that is chronic and that was diagnosed while on active duty.

To get service connected or for more information, visit a VA-Accredited Service Officer.

To find an Accredited Service Officer near you, visit http://www.michiganveterans.com/Home/Benefit-Counselors.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

191

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL June 29, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Michigan Army National Guard Transition Assistance Program Guest Speaker Mr. Raymond Ladd Transition Assistance Advisor Michigan Army National Guard 517-481-9895 Raymond.d.ladd.ctr@mail.mil Guest Speaker Summary  Mission: The purpose of the Transition Assistance Advisor Program is to provide a professional in each state/territory to serve as the statewide point of contact to assist Service Members in accessing Department of Veterans Affairs’ health care services and benefits. Each TAA also provides assistance in obtaining entitlements through the Military Health System and access to community resources.  Services – The Transition Assistance Program can help National Guard soldiers with the following: o Guard entitlements and access for health care in both the DoD and VA medical facilities. o TRICARE benefits while you are on active duty and when you return as an OIF/OEF veteran. o Important deadlines that require your action while still on active duty and as a veteran so you do not miss these time-sensitive opportunities. o VA dental care programs. o Referral for counseling services for you and your family that will not affect your career. o Referral for possible compensation for injuries or illness sustained in OEF, OIF, and OND. Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

192

www.buddytobuddy.org

o o o o



Insurance information such as SGLI, TSGLI, and FSGLI. Rehabilitative care management needed to help you return to a normal lifestyle.

Assistance with job search and connection with ESGR for rights of employment.

Assistance in connecting you to the Veterans Benefits Administration and Veterans Services Organizations to file disability/compensation claims. o Assistance in the event of financial hardship, health care issues, or unemployment needs. o Assistance with locating your medical records and DD-214. o Pre-separation counseling.

As PTSD becomes a more commonly understood condition, the Army would like to offer a chance for soldiers discharged other than honorably for PTSD-related reasons to upgrade their discharge. More information on this program can be found at http://arba.army.pentagon.mil.

To get more information  http://fp.minationalguard.com/transition-assistance/  http://www.taapmo.com/Links.htm

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

193

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL October 13-14, 2014 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

VA Automobile and Special Adaptive Equipment Grants Guest Speaker Mr. Phil Presnell, North MI/UP Regional Coordinator (231) 735-2641 ppresnel@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Automobile Purchasing Assistance o One-time grant in the amount of up to $19,505 to purchase a vehicle. This benefit is paid directly to the seller of the vehicle. o Available to veterans and service members who have one of the following conditions that was incurred or aggravated during active military service or if disabilities are a result of medical treatment, examination, vocational rehabilitation, or compensated work therapy provided by the VA. Eligible conditions are:  Loos, or permanent loss of use, of one or both feet  Loss, or permanent loss of use, of one or both hands  Permanent impairment of vision in both eyes to a certain degree  Severe burn injury  Special Adaptive Equipment Purchasing Assistance o Also paid in grant form and may be paid to either the veteran/service member or to the seller. May be paid more than once. o Available to individuals who qualify for the Automobile Grant and those who have ankylosis (immobility of the joint) of one or both knees or hips resulting from an injury or disease incurred or aggravated by active military service.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

194

www.buddytobuddy.org



o Adaptive equipment includes, but is not limited to: power steering, power windows, power seats, and special equipment necessary to assist the eligible person into or out of the vehicle.

How to Apply o To apply for both grants simultaneously, complete VA Form 21-4502, Application or Other Conveyance and Adaptive Equipment, and submit it to your local VA office. o To apply for the adaptive equipment grant only, complete VA Form 10-1394, Application for Adaptive Equipment – Motor Vehicle. o The Buddy-to-Buddy Program always suggests seeing a VA-Accredited Service Officer when applying for benefits such as these. A service officer can assist an individual in determining their eligibility for programs and benefits.

To get more information http://benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/factsheets/serviceconnected/Auto.pdf

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

195

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL February 16, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

VA Choice Card Program Guest Speaker Mr. Phil Presnell Regional Coordinator, Buddy-to-Buddy ppresnel@umich.edu 231-735-2641 Guest Speaker Summary Background On August 7, 2014, President Obama signed into law the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-146) (“VACAA”). Technical revisions to VACAA were made on September 26, 2014, when the President signed into law the Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-175). The Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) goal continues to be to provide timely, high-quality health care for Veterans. Section 101 of VACAA requires VA to establish a temporary program (“the Choice Program”) to improve Veterans’ access to health care by allowing eligible Veterans to use eligible health care providers outside of the VA system (non-VA care).

Eligibility and Use Basically, many Veterans will now have the option to receive non-VA health care rather than waiting for a VA appointment or traveling to a VA facility through using their VA Choice Card.

Beginning November 5, 2014, the new Choice Program will begin to cover non-VA care for eligible Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare. Veterans are eligible if any of these situations apply to you:

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

196

www.buddytobuddy.org

   

You have been told by your local VA medical facility that you will need to wait more than 30 days from your preferred date or the date medically determined by your physician Your current residence is more than 40 miles from the closest VA health care facility You need to travel by plane or boat to the VA medical facility closest to your home You face an unusual or excessive burden in traveling to a VA medical facility based on the presence of a body of water (including moving water and still water) or a geologic formation that cannot be crossed by road

Every Veteran should have already received a letter and a Choice Card in the mail with details about the program. If you did not receive yours, contact the VA immediately.

To set up an appointment with a non-VA provider, call the VA at 866-606-8198 and the VA will work with you to ensure you are approved for care in your community.

How to Get Started Using Your VA Choice Card Steps to Getting an Appointment 1. Decide which non-VA health care provider you would like to use.

2. Search the list of approved care providers in your community. Make sure you have information on hand about any other health insurance coverage you may have.

3. Call 1-866-606-8198 to make sure you qualify and to schedule an appointment.  When you call, the VA will walk you through the following steps: o You will be asked to enter your ZIP code, and first and last name. o VA will check to make sure you are eligible for this program. o VA will check which of your needs are covered by the VA. o You will be asked for your address and the name of your preferred non-VA provider. Unfortunately, not all providers will be covered so if your preferred provider is not available, we will recommend other providers in your area. o VA will then work with you to schedule an appointment.

This hotline is exclusively for making sure you are eligible for the Choice Program and setting up a non-VA care appointment. If you have questions about other aspects of your VA medical care or want to learn more about enrolling in VA health services, please call 1-877-222-VETS or visit www.va.gov/health.

To get more information  For eligibility and general information, call 1-866-606-8198  General information may also be found at http://www.va.gov/opa/choiceact/index.asp.  Ann Arbor VA – Contact Care Choice Champions at vhaannchoicechampions@va.gov for more specific information or assistance.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

197

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL February 24, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

VA’s EEO Office, The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention Act, the Veterans Choice Act, and Employment at the VA Guest Speaker Ms. Diana Cass EEO/Special Emphasis Programs Manager and Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator Ann Arbor VA 734-845-5190 (direct line) diana.cass@va.gov Guest Speaker Summary EEO & SPECIAL EMPHASIS PROGRAMS Diana Cass is the Equal Employment Opportunity Specialist as well as the Special Emphasis Programs Manager at the Ann Arbor VA. She is also the Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator. Ms. Cass reports directly to the Director of the Ann Arbor VA. In her position, Ms. Cass deals with all discrimination concerns regarding current employees and Ann Arbor VA applicants. All complaints from candidates that feel they were not hired due to discrimination are fielded through her office. In addition, she also handles discrimination complaints regarding VA services. If a veteran goes to the Ann Arbor VA and feel they have been treated differently due to their race, gender, or any other criteria, a complaint can be filled with the EEO office. As the Special Emphasis Programs Manager, Ms. Cass manages the Ann Arbor’s VA seven Special Emphasis Programs: African Americans Program, Women’s Program, LGBT Program, Asian/ Pacific Islander Program, Native American Program, Hispanic Program, and the Disabilities Awareness Program. She also conducts diversity trainings for VA staff and does outreach to minority veterans.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

198

www.buddytobuddy.org

The EEO office does not deal with non-VA-specific discrimination complaints that involve veterans. For example, if a VA patient feels s/he has been discriminated by their landlord, they would not be able to file a claim with the EEO office. Instead, Miss Cass is able to refer these cases to the Michigan State Department of Civil Rights.

The EEO office also monitors upcoming legislature to see how they will affect minority veterans.

CLAY HUNT SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR AMERICA VETERANS (SAV) ACT What is the Clay Hunt (SAV) Act? On February 12, 2015, President Obama signed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention Act into law.

Sgt. Clay Hunt left Active Duty service with the U.S. Marine Corps in 2008. Following his discharge, he struggled with depression, panic attacks and post-traumatic stress but threw himself into Veterans advocacy and humanitarian work. In 2011, he died by suicide at the age of 28.

Mental health care and suicide prevention are already among the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) highest priorities. This Act will give VA additional authority to address these priorities.

Anticipated Improvements to Mental Health Care due to the SAV Act:  VA will have an independent third party conduct annual evaluations of the mental health care and suicide prevention programs that are carried out by the Department.  VA will publish an Internet website that serves as a centralized source to provide Veterans with information regarding all of the mental health care services provided by VA. The information on the website will be updated at least every 90 days, and VA will include information about the website in outreach efforts.  VA will conduct a pilot program for the repayment of educational loans for certain psychiatrists in VA. The pilot will pay up to $30,000 of educational loan expenses per year and would require a service obligation period. Eligible individuals would include those licensed or eligible for licensure to practice psychiatric medicine in VA or those who are enrolled in the final year of a residency program leading to a specialty qualification in psychiatric medicine. VA will provide an initial and a final report addressing the results of the pilot program.  VA will establish a three-year pilot program focused on assisting Veterans transitioning from active duty and improve the access of Veterans to mental health services. The pilot program will be established in at least 5 Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) and will establish a community-oriented peer support network and a community outreach team for each medical center in those VISNs.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

199

www.buddytobuddy.org

VETERANS CHOICE ACT What is the Veterans Choice Act?  The Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 was the start of a new program to provide better access to care and to meet the short-term health care needs of our nation’s Veterans. This is a new, temporary benefit currently effective until 2017 allowing eligible Veterans to receive health care in their communities rather than waiting for a VA appointment or traveling to a VA facility.  VA began giving a Veterans Choice Card to every Veteran enrolled in VA health care on August 1, 2014, or recently discharged combat Veterans within 5 years of separation who are eligible to enroll. The Veterans Choice Card has a unique membership ID number that must be used when calling the Third Party Administration (TPA).  If you are not eligible at this time, you can still receive your care at the VA if you are enrolled in VA health care.

How do I know if I am eligible for this program?

If you are a Veteran enrolled in VA health care on or before August 1, 2014, or are eligible to enroll as a recently discharged combat Veteran within 5 years of separation, you must also meet at least one of the following criteria: 1. You were told by your local VA medical facility that you would need to wait more than 30 days from the clinically indicated date (which is determined by your medical provider) for an appointment; or 2. Your current residence is more than 40 miles from the closest VA health care facility which includes VA Medical Centers or Community Based Outpatient Clinics whether the specialty care you require is offered, or not.

You may use the eligibility tool located at http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apps/choice/ to determine if you may be eligible for care under the Veterans Choice Act. This tool is the best way to determine eligibility. If the tool indicates that you may be eligible, you must contact the Third Party Administration (TPA) at (866) 606-8198. They will then determine if you are eligible or not. If you are eligible, the TPA will schedule an appointment for you with your TPA registered provider of choice.

Veterans will be required to report any insurance coverage they may have and they will be responsible for paying any non-VA insurance co-pays or deductibles for non-serviced connected care that they receive in the community. Veterans will not be responsible for deductibles or copays to their insurance company for any service-connected episodes of care. For additional copayment questions please contact the Health Benefits Center at (877) 222-8387.

If I am eligible for VA travel pay, will I receive travel pay to authorized non-VA appointments?

If you are a Veteran who currently receives travel pay for your VA appointments, you will receive travel pay for appointments offered under The Choice Act. To receive travel pay, you will need to provide proof that you were seen for the specific appointment to the VA Beneficiary Travel Office. Adequate proof is a letter on medical facility or provider letterhead with the specific appointment information and a provider’s signature. Eligible Veterans will be paid mileage from their address of record to the provider’s location.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

200

www.buddytobuddy.org

EMPLOYMENT AT THE VA There are a lot of hiring appointments that veterans can have at the VA. Ms. Cass has some tips for those looking to get start:  There is only one website that connects candidates with federal jobs, and that is www.usajobs.gov. The first step for looking into a VA position is to complete a profile at USA jobs. The process may take several hours.  When it comes to a resume for a federal job, it is important to thoroughly list all your previous positions duties. It is okay to have long resumes on USA jobs, as the HR specialists from the VA that analyze candidate’s posting will be looking for the details of what you have accomplished and see if that matches the position they are trying to fill.  Another resume tip is to not use standard, generic resumes, and make your resume reflect the position you want. For example, if you are looking for a manager position, make sure your resume reflects any supervision and leadership experiences you may have had first and foremost.  For individuals with disability, there is a Selective Placement Coordinator at the Ann Arbor VA (there should be a similar position in other VAs) who may assist. o The SPCs can help veterans with their resumes and with translating their military experience into civilian terms. o The SPCs also work with hiring authorities such as Schedule A, which is a hiring authority for people with disabilities that is an exception to the traditional hiring process. Schedule A can help streamline the hiring process, allowing one to apply non-competitively for a position if they have a disability letter. A disability letter can be a letter from your doctor stating that you have a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and it does not have to specify what disability you may have. Positions may not always be available even if one uses Schedule A.

To get more information  For more information on the Clay Hunt SAV Act, visit http://castor.house.gov/uploadedfiles/clay_hunt_suicide_prevention_for_american_vetera ns_act.pdf  For more information on the Veterans Choice Act, visit http://www.va.gov/opa/choiceact/  For more information on employment at the VA, visit http://www.va.gov/jobs/

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

201

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL November 9-10, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Veteran Community Action Teams (VCATs) Guest Speaker Mike Bachand Buddy 2 Volunteer Veteran & MVAA Region 1 Regional Coordinator Michigan2012@hotmail.com Brad Blanchard Buddy 2 Volunteer Veteran & Direction of Region 5 (Great Lakes Bay) VCAT bpblanchard@dow.com David Thomas Buddy 2 Volunteer Veteran & MVAA Region 10 Regional Coordinator Usmcdave_b2b@yahoo.com Guest Speaker Summary  Creation of VCAT o The State of Michigan had been ranked near the bottom in terms of providing services to veterans. o Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency was created, who in turn conducted research and decided to form the Veteran Community Action Teams – one in each of the 10 MVAA-drawn Prosperity Regions. o The first VCAT was created in Region 4 (Grand Rapids area), from the alreadyexisting West Michigan Veterans Coalition. Then, the Region 10 (Wayne, Oakland, Macomb counties) VCAT was created.  Functions of VCAT o Each VCAT is supposed to bring together service providers in the region for the purpose of working together to serve veterans.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

202

www.buddytobuddy.org







o There are four pillars/sub-committees to each VCAT:  Healthcare & Benefits  Quality of Life  Education  Employment o The web system Podio is being used to help the service providers communicate amongst one another to share resources, etc.

Region 1 VCAT o The Region 1 VCAT is in its beginning stages – kick-off meetings were held in October/November. Though the Region is very large (the entire U.P. is Region 1), there will be one VCAT. Region 5 VCAT o The Region 5 VCAT is established, but still working to fine tune their processes. o Rather than focusing heavily on using Podio, the VCAT has partnered with 2-1-1 of Northeast Michigan, and is counting on them to manage resources as an already-established entity.  2-1-1 vets the resources to ensure their legitimacy and also re-checks them every year to make sure they are still operational. VCAT is happy to let them serve this function so as not to reinvent the help. o Region 5, in addition to serving as the home for networking among service providers, has a major goal of community involvement/engagement.  They have formed a leadership group of proven community leaders & an advisory committee of 24 veterans to ensure that veterans’ voices are being heard.

Region 10 VCAT o Longest-running of the VCATs (except for Region 4). Pretty well-established at this point. o Extensive use of Podio. o Toying with the idea of a separate VCAT for Oakland County – seen that perhaps the three counties are too large to effectively come together. This idea is still in the stages of infancy.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

203

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL May 4-5, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Veteran Service Organizations Guest Speaker Mr. David Thomas East Michigan Regional Coordinator Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program 734-827-4378 thomasdl@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  Background o Michigan has about 700,000 veterans, which makes up around 7% of the total population. About 250,000 of these are Vietnam-era veterans, and about 150,000 have served since 1990. o There are many service organizations dedicated to assisting veterans as needed.

The “Big Three” are the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the American Legion, and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). o The Buddy-to-Buddy program encourages all volunteers to locate an active post of one or more of these organizations in their area. Active posts will often assist service members and veterans financially and in other ways. Neither the service member/veteran nor the volunteer would be required to be a member of the post to receive assistance.  To find an active post, take note in your community. Which posts have representatives in local parades? Which are hosting events, like fish fries, euchre tournaments, and car shows? These are likely the most active posts. o The state and regional offices of each of these organizations provide VAAccredited Veteran Service Officers free of charge.  American Legion Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

204

www.buddytobuddy.org





o The American Legion is the largest of the big three, as they accept individuals from any wartime period. o The American Legion runs the Wilwin Lodge in the Upper Peninsula. There, veterans and their families are provided with free getaways. Some are familyfocused, some are PTSD-focused, etc. (http://www.wilwin.org/) o The American Legion Michigan Reconnect Committee provides assistance to service members and veterans in several ways. (http://www.michiganlegion.org/reconnect.html)  Reintegration assistance offered through attendance at Yellow Ribbon and other events.  VA claims assistance through VA-accredited service officers.  Temporary financial assistance, administered through local posts.  Returning Warrior/Wounded Warrior Fund: Runs Wilwin Lodge and also provides for sports and other recreational activities for disabled veterans.  Patriot Fund: Available for veterans of all eras (including peacetime) and provides financial assistance in the form of a grant paid directly to the veteran’s debtor/account holder.  Angel Food Ministries: This food bank allows veterans who wish to maintain independence the chance to stretch their dollar further. For $30, a veteran can receive $65 worth of quality food.

VFW o The VFW accepts as members individuals who have been in a combat zone and/or earned an expeditionary medal. o The VFW runs an “adopt-a-unit” program, in which a local chapter will support a unit throughout all stages of the deployment cycle by providing for events, assistance, etc.( http://bit.ly/1EoY44O) o The VFW has partnered with the Student Veterans of America (SVA) to offer peer support to student veterans. (https://www.vfw.org/SVA/) o The VFW Unmet Needs Fund can be used for veterans or service members who have a financial hardship as a result of their military service or a specific deployment. (http://www.vfw.org/UnmetNeeds/) o The VFW National Home for Children, located in Michigan, provides housing, case management, employment and educational help, and child care for veterans and their families. All services are completely free and may be accessed for up to four years. (http://www.vfwnationalhome.org/) DAV o The DAV accepts individuals of any disability rating that have been injured/disabled as a result of their military service. o The DAV offers transportation assistance for veterans and service members that need assistance navigating between their home and medical appointments.( http://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride/) o DAV partners with employers such as Whirlpool, GM, and Quicken Loans to encourage the hiring of veterans. (http://www.dav.org/veterans/employmentresources/job-search-events/)

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

205

www.buddytobuddy.org

o The DAV’s National Mobile Service Office brings service offices to small, rural communities. The dates that the Service Office will be in Michigan can be found below.

To get more information  http://www.michiganlegion.org/  http://myvfw.org/michigan/  http://www.davmembersportal.org/mi/Web_Pages/about_us.aspx

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

206

www.buddytobuddy.org

BUDDY-TO-BUDDY VOLUNTEER SUPPORT CALL April 13, 2015 Buddy-to-Buddy is a peer-to-peer outreach program that trains veterans to provide peer support and linkage to needed resources for Michigan Post-9/11 service members and veterans. Visit us at www.buddytobuddy.org or reach us at buddytobuddyvvp@umich.edu or 1-888-82-BUDDY. Every week, Buddy-to-Buddy holds Support Calls for its 120+ volunteers, sharing resources and bringing guest speakers to provide information on topics of interest and available services.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Veteran’s Service Officers Guest Speaker Mr. Phil Presnell North MI & UP Regional Coordinator VA-Accredited Veteran’s Service Officer 231-735-2641 ppresnel@umich.edu Guest Speaker Summary  What is a Veterans Service Officer? o A Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is an individual who is trained to provide services related to filing claims for VA compensation and pension (“comp & pen”). o VSOs provide their services free of charge. In fact, it is illegal for VSOs to taken payment of any kind for their services. o VSOs will help veterans understand if they have a valid claim and, if so, help them file the claim with the VA.  Some veterans may not have a valid claim, but they may have a claim and not realize it. For this reason, Buddy-to-Buddy encourages Buddy 2s to always refer an unsure veteran to a VSO. The VSO will help them determine, with certainty, whether or not they have a valid claim.  Accreditation for VSOs o The VA provides accreditation training for VSOs. In order to be accredited, VSOs must be stringent standards and complete initial and ongoing training. o Using a VA-accredited Service Officer is the recommendation of the Buddy-toBuddy Program. This ensures that the VSO will have the knowledge necessary to properly determine the validity of a claim and file accordingly.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

207

www.buddytobuddy.org



o If a veteran is unsure if a VSO is accredited, they can ask. Every VA-accredited VSO will have a paper credential they should be able to produce.

How to find a VSO o A veteran can find a VSO in their area by visiting www.michiganveterans.com/Home/Benefit-Counselors. There is an online tool to search for VSOs by county. o A veteran can also find a VSO by asking their County Veteran Counselor (CVC).

Local CVCs can be found at http://www.macvc.net/michigan_county_veterans_counselors_search.php. o Finally, a veteran can locate a VSO by contacting their local service organization – VFW, DAV, American Legion, etc. VSOs are paid by these organizations to help veterans free of charge, so each organization will have a list of local VSOs that are employed through their organization.

Buddy-to-Buddy Volunteer Veteran Program

208

www.buddytobuddy.org