DVS Commissioner James Hendon on Memorial Day
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Dear NYC Veteran Community,
Today we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country, many of whom began their lives right here in New York City. They are true heroes who put the well-being of American citizens before themselves. We are forever in their debt for protecting our nation’s ideals of freedom and equality.
As we reflect on their remarkable acts of bravery, let us also not forget the suffering that is currently unfolding in other parts of our world. On this Memorial Day, we also pray for global peace, for it is the only true solution to ensuring our men and women return home safely.
General Colin Powell once said, “Do not hasten through Memorial Day. Take the time to remember the good souls whose memories are a blessing to you and your family.”
I extend my utmost gratitude to every fallen service member and their families for all they have given.
Have a meaningful and safe Memorial Day.
Respectfully,
James Hendon
Commissioner
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The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has announced that Memorial Day commemoration ceremonies at VA national cemeteries will be open to the public, with no limits on entry for visitors. Learn more here.
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You're Invited: Got Your Six Summit
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DVS has partnered with the Bob Woodruff Foundation and Craig Newmark Philanthropies to host the Got Your 6 Summit on June 15th. It will be a day of networking and problem solving with public, private, and nonprofit sector representatives all focused on how to best support veterans in New York City.
Click here to register. Please feel free to share with your colleagues and other veteran advocates.
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DVS Programs and Initiatives
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Get the Benefits You Deserve
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DVS represents NYC veterans in claims for benefits from the VA. During a time of economic crisis and high unemployment, we wanted to ensure that every veteran got the financial benefits they earned. To file a claim, fill out the VetConnectNYC.org form (select "Benefits Navigation" as your preferred service).
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VetConnectPro: A New Employment Tool for NYC Veterans
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This past Veterans Day, the NYC Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) officially launched VetConnectPro - a new employment tool designed to help veterans find employment, professional mentorship, and resources to advance their careers. Get started by creating or uploading your resume today: nyc.gov/vetconnectpro.
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Mission: VetCheck volunteers make check-in calls to veterans across NYC. Through these calls, volunteers provide veterans with information regarding vital public services, including free meals, information on COVID-19 testing and vaccination sites, and mental health resources. To volunteer with Mission: VetCheck or request a check-in call, click here.
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Fighting Veteran Homelessness
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Over the past five years, our housing team has moved over 1,000 veterans from shelters and into permanent housing. Learn more about DVS's efforts to end veteran homelessness in NYC here.
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VetBizNYC: NYC's Veteran-Owned Business Map
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The Veteran Voices Project (VVP) is an oral history initiative designed to preserve the stories of NYC's Veterans. For more information, visit nyc.gov/vetvoices.
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How DVS Responded to the Pandemic
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Making supportive calls. Distributing face masks. Preparing meal kits. Housing the homeless. Processing VA benefit claims. Watch this video to learn how DVS responded to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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SITREP NYC: NYC's Official Veteran Podcast
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Listen to SITREP NYC, NYC's official veteran-focused podcast, to hear stories from veterans who are often ignored and underserved. Hear the complete season here or see below for a list of episodes:
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Stories of Transition
The Black Veteran Experience
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LGBT Veteran Stories
The Health of Women Veterans
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