Wmvc pres 5.13.2014

V e t e r a n C o m m u n i t y A c t i o n T e a m
West Michigan Veterans
Coalition Meeting
May 13, 2014

Agenda
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Announcements
3. Speed Networking
4. Presentations:
 Education: Military Education Benefits
Presenting: Janice Holten, Amy Gould, Amy Kline, Eli Fox, Jonathan Highman
 Employment: Brandi McBride, Co-Chair Employment Subcommittee
 Healthcare: E- Benefits Site Brief
Presenting: Brent Haddow, MA , VetSuccess On Campus Counselor, WMU
 Quality of Life: Helping veterans find their way home.
Presenting: Tiyanna S. Whitt, LMSW, ACSW, HCHV Northern-Tier Supervisor

Announcements
• Kent County Veteran Treatment Court Update
• AmeriCorps Volunteers for West Michigan
• West Michigan Veteran Coalition – next steps
• Kent County Dedicated Veterans Services Millage
Proposal.

Kent County –
Dedicated Veteran Services Millage
FACTS:
• 34,640 Veterans in Kent County*, number reflects
veterans that have used VA benefits within the County.
• Michigan is 11th largest in veteran population in the
country.*
• Kent County is the fourth-largest veterans population of
any county in Michigan.
• Kent County is 50 out of 83 Counties.*
*(VA GDX 2013)
The GDX (Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures) is an annual report that shows estimated VA expenditures for major programmatic areas by
geographic area (state, county, and congressional district). The major programmatic areas are: Compensation and Pension; Readjustment (Education)
and Vocational Rehabilitation; Insurance; Construction; and, Medical and Administrative. The GDX also shows the estimated veteran population for each
state, county, and congressional district.

Kent County - Dedicated Veteran
Services Millage Request
• Request .05 millage on the ballot for November 2014 to
fund dedicated veteran support services in Kent County
• The average property owner pays $5.00 per year based off
$100,000 taxable value of a home.
• The millage would generate approximately $1,000,000.
• The funding generated by the millage would be utilized for
the purpose of providing support and assistance to
veterans of active United States military service and their
dependents.
• Services will be funded in the following categories:
1) Emergency Services; 2) Outreach 3) Claims Assistance
4) Transportation 5) Burial Services 6) Transitional Assistance.

Kent County - Dedicated Veteran
Services Millage Request
• The Kent County Veterans’ Affairs Committee
• United Veterans Council of Kent County
May 8, 2014 Submitted proposal to Kent County Millage
Subcommittee.
• May 20, 2014 – Recommendation of the Finance Standing
Committee. 8:30AM, 300 Monroe NW
• May 27, 2014 – Recommendation of the Legislative Standing
Committee. 8:30 AM, 300 Monroe NW
• June 12, 2014 - Resolution of Board of Commissioners
approving proposal to authorize a Veteran Millage ballot
question for November 2014 election.
8:30AM, 300 Monroe NW

Interested in supporting proposal
• Dan Ophoff - dophoff@yahoo.com
• Paul Potter - syndeco1@hotmail.com
• Theresa Robinson - theresarobinson920@gmail.com
• Mel Bauman - artelb@sbcglobal.net

Efficient Speed Networking
Method
O Based on the concept of speed dating
O Each participant gets 2 minutes to present
O Name
O Title
O Company
O Services
O How do you help veterans

Efficient Speed
Networking Method
O Participants are paired together in two
lines
O One line presents their 2 minute
commercial to the person sitting opposite
them.
O The other line then presents their
commercial
O Then everyone moves, except for one
participant…The Fixed Position
Participant, or FPP.

First Rotation
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10
Top Row Presents
Commercial

First Rotation
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10
Bottom Row Presents
Commercial

Move to Second Rotation
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10
Fixed Position

1 2 3 4 5
6
7 8 9 10
Fixed Position

1 2 3 4
56
7 8 9 10
Fixed Position

Second Rotation
1 2 3 4
5
6
7 8 9 10
Top Row Presents
CommercialFixed Position

Second Rotation
1 2 3 4
5
6
7 8 9 10
Bottom Row Presents
Commercial
Fixed Position

EDUCATION
Military Education Benefits
WMVC Education Subcommittee

Military Education Benefits
An overview of education benefits available
to military members and their families
WMVC Education Subcommittee

Disclaimer
Since individual circumstances vary, it is
important for any GI Bill recipient to contact
his or her school VA Certifying Official about
military education benefit eligibility.

GI Bill Chapters
• Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
• Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty)
• Chapter 1606 (Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve)
• Chapter 1607 (Reserve Educational Assistance Program
or REAP)
• Chapter 35 (Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational
Assistance Program or DEA)
• Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment or
Voc Rehab)

• Typically the most beneficial GI Bill chapter (depending on
circumstances).
• Available to Honorably discharged service members with at
least 90 days active duty after September 10, 2001.
• Transferrable to dependents
• Expires 15 years from last active duty discharge date.
• Apply by completing VA 22-1990 through the VONAPP.
• GI Bill Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is mailed to veteran and
typically arrives a month or two after completing application.
Submit COE to school VA Certifying Official.
• Provides up to 36* months of benefits.
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Ch. 33)

Post-9/11 GI Bill
• Paid to school: Tuition & Fees
• Paid to student: MHA & Book Stipend

Montgomery GI Bill
MGIB – Active Duty (Ch. 30)
• Typically, all Honorably discharged veterans
qualify if they have served 36 months of active
duty and have elected to participate.
• Apply by completing VA 22-1990 through the
VONAPP.
• Student veteran must confirm enrollment
monthly through WAVE.
• Payment is made directly to student (therefore
payment arrangements with school and book
expenses are student’s responsibility).

Montgomery GI Bill
MGIB - Selected Reserve (Ch. 1606)
• Typically, available to anyone who is currently
serving in any Reserve or National Guard
component and signed a 6 year contract after
June 30th, 1985
VONAPP.

Reserve Education Assistance Program
REAP – (Ch. 1607)
• Typically available to currently serving Reserve or
National Guard members who were activated for
at least 90 days after September 10, 2001.
VONAPP.

Dependents of Disabled or Deceased
Veterans Education Assistance (Ch. 35)
• Must be a dependent of a veteran who died,
or is permanently and totally disabled as a
result of service related disability
VONAPP.
• Payment is made directly to student
(therefore payment arrangements with school
and book expenses are student’s
responsibility).

Vocational Rehabilitation (Ch. 31)
• Available to Honorably discharged veterans
who received a service-connected disability
rating of 20% as determined by the VA.
• Student veteran must apply for the benefit
and work directly with his or her assigned
Voc Rehab counselor.
• VA pays school directly: all tuition, fees, and
books. VA assists the student with required
education supplies.

Military Tuition Assistance (TA)
• Available to those who are currently serving in
the Regular Army, Army Reserve, Army
National Guard, Air Force, Marine Corps, or
Navy
• Student must apply for TA through their
branch
• Maximum funding of $4,500 per fiscal year
• Davenport University’s Military TA webpage

Military Spouse Career Advancement
Account (MyCAA)
• For spouses of active duty Servicemembers in pay
grades E1-E5, W1-W2, and O1-O2 (Not Coast Guard)
• Must have an approved MyCAA authorization form
• MyCAA provides a maximum education benefit of
$4,000 with an annual fiscal year cap of $2,000 ,
limited to associate degrees, certifications, and
licensures.
• Annual cap waivers are available for licensure and
certificate programs if there is an upfront tuition cost
that exceeds $2,000 (up to the maximum education
benefit of $4,000).

Children of Veterans Tuition Grant
• This is for children of veterans between the ages of 16-
26 who have been Michigan residents for the past year.
• Student would need Letter of Eligibility from the State
Office of Scholarships and Grants
• Can apply through www.michigan.gov/osg
• Full time students can receive up to $2,800 per
academic year
• To be eligible, a student must be the natural or
adopted child of MI veteran. Veteran must have been a
legal resident of MI immediately before entering
military service and did not later reside outside of MI
for more than two years

Concluding Information
• Accessing the information
• Please refer veterans who are interested in
military education benefits to a VA
representative.
• There are many great benefits, but there are
potential consequences if a servicemember
pre-maturely selects something incorrectly.
• Any interest in a detailed information session?

FAQs about Education Benefits
What is the Yellow Ribbon Program?
This program allows colleges and universities in the United States to voluntarily enter into an agreement with VA to
fund tuition expenses that exceed either the annual maximum cap for private institutions or the resident tuition and
fees for a public institution. The institution can contribute up to 50% of those expenses and VA will match the same
amount as the institution. Davenport University is a Yellow Ribbon member, and you can see what schools participate
here: http://gibill.va.gov/gi_bill_info/ch33/yrp/2013/states/mi.htm
Can I transfer benefits to my dependents?
If you are a member of the Armed Forces on August 1, 2009 and eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Department of
Defense may offer you the opportunity to transfer benefits to your spouse or dependent children.
How long do I have to use these benefits? You must begin using your benefits within 10 years of separation from the
military.
What if I am eligible for more than 1 benefit? In some cases a student may be eligible for more than 1 benefit.
Students can receive a maximum of 48 months. The key is using the 36 months of original GI bill and picking up an
additional 12 months of another benefit, if eligible.
For questions about your benefit status, please note VA contact information below:
- (888) 442-4551 Call Center
- (800) 273-8255 Veteran’s Crisis Line

EMPLOYMENT
WMVC Employment Subcommittee

PARTNERS
• U.S. Dept. of VA
• Goodwill Industries
• TALENT 2025
• H2H
• ESGR
• WGVU
• DoL
• VetBiz Central
• MRS
• VOA
• Michigan Works
• MVAA
• State of MI
• Army One Source
• GR Chamber
• Hello West Michigan
• Axios Staffing
• Herman Miller
• Meijer

KEY INSIGHTS
1. Different employment needs
for different veteran
populations

Veteran Employment Groups
There are a lot of personal
resources for this group but
many individuals can’t or
don’t want to work
Felony
background
Multiple
barriers
Low-income
Several online resources exist for this group but there are
not many personal resources to connect with. This
group either doesn’t know how their skills translate to
the civilian world of employment or want to pursue a
new line of work from what they did in the military and
need retraining or recertification
Transitioning
Entrepreneur
MRS
Goodwill
VA Peer Support
Michigan Works
Voc Rehab
VOA
There are not many
resources for this group,
but individuals are so
highly skilled they can
find jobs fairly easily
Professional
Highly Skilled
B2B
H2H
Recruiters
LinkedIn
ESGR

GOAL #1
Small networking events to
connect employers to veterans

ORGANIZERS:
Hello West Michigan
GR Chamber of Commerce
Herman Miller
ESGR
• Panel of questions
• Speed dating style for networking
• Organized by career field
• Monthly events
10
EMPLOYERS
10
VETERANS

KEY INSIGHTS
2. Veterans need to know
about available resources

KEY INSIGHTS
3. Employers need to understand
the veteran population and
available resources

GOAL #2
Employment workshops
• Webinars - WGVU
• HR credit - SHRM
• Veteran panels
• HR panels
• Job prep resources

E-BENEFITS
Brent Haddow, MA , VetSuccess On
Campus Counselor, WMU

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs / Department of Defense
eBenefits Training 101
May 13, 2013
Brent Haddow, MA , VetSuccess On Campus Counselor, WMU

eBenefits Training 101 Overview
Website Overview
 History
 Website Statistics
 Purpose and Importance
 Users
 Navigation Overview
Registration
 Overview
 Basic eBenefits Account
 Premium eBenefits Account
 DS Access Station
 Registration Wizard
Features
 Top 20 Features
 Mobile Access
 More Information on Features
Promotion
 Promotion Goals
 Promotional Materials and
Strategies
 Scenarios
 Resources & Referrals
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs / Department of Defense 52

eBenefits Training 101 Objectives
After this training, you will be able to:
 Direct users to www.ebenefits.va.gov.
 Understand basic content and navigation of the site.
 Explain general registration requirements for Basic and Premium Accounts.
 Know how users can enroll in eBenefits using the online DS Logon Registration
Wizard or in person.
 Understand and promote top eBenefits features.
 Reference contacts and key resources for questions, referrals and common
troubleshooting.
53U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs / Department of Defense

WEBSITE
OVERVIEW
eBenefits 101
What’s Inside:
 History
 Website Statistics
 Purpose and
Importance
 Users
 Navigation
Overview
 Checkpoint
Summary

Website Overview: History
 eBenefits (www.ebenefits.va.gov) is
a joint VA/DoD Web portal that
provides self-service capabilities to
Veterans, Service members, their
families and caregivers.
 Development of eBenefits was
initiated in March of 2007 at the
recommendation of the President’s
Commission on Care for America’s
Returning Wounded Warriors
(Dole/Shalala).
 With quarterly releases, eBenefits
continues to evolve as a “one-stop
shop” for Veterans, Service
members and their families.

Website Overview : Website Statistics
eBenefits Statistics-
In the month of February 2013, there were over 2.4 Million registered
eBenefits users. Used in over 180 countries.
Number of claims status views: over 17.7 Million to date
Home Loan COE: 217K to date
OMPF (DD 214): 238K to date
Letter Generator: 1.9 Million
January 2013: over 4.02 Million site visits

Website Overview : Purpose and Importance
 Provides a secure, single, personalized online point of entry to access
numerous VA and DoD applications and services.
 Offers access to over 50 self-service tools (through online transactions, without
needing to call or visit VA).
 Facilitates improved customer service and access for Veterans to VA
information and services.
 Helps Veterans manage their claims.
 Provides links to other sites that provide information about military and
Veteran benefits and services.

Website Overview : eBenefits Users
 Veterans
 Service members
 Family members eligible
for benefits (legal
dependents over age 18)

Website Overview : Website Navigation Overview
Login/Register
Authenticate with a
basic or premium
account
Claims Status
View your Claims
Status here
Features
View all Features that
are available to
eBenefits users

Website Overview : Website Navigation Overview
Overview of Main Navigation
 Login / Register
 Apply for Benefits
 View Status
 Access Documents
 Browse Benefits Links
 Career Center
Overview by Audience
 I am a Veteran
 I am a Service member
 I am a Family member
Overview of Features
 See upcoming modules

Website Overview : Checkpoint Summary
 eBenefits is a joint VA/DoD Web portal.
 Visit eBenefits at www.ebenefits.va.gov.
 eBenefits is available to Veterans, Service members and eligible family
members.
 eBenefits provides resources and self-service capabilities to research, access
and manage VA and military benefits and personal information.

REGISTRATION
eBenefits 101
What’s Inside:
 Overview
 Basic and Premium
Accounts
 Registration
Wizard
 Checkpoint
Summary

Registration: Overview
Before a user can use eBenefits, they…
 Must be listed in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).
 Obtain a DS Logon (Level 1 – Basic or Level 2 – Premium).
DEERS is the system of record that determines who is officially eligible for
military benefits and entitlements.
A DS Logon is a secure identity (username and password) used by various
VA and DoD websites, including eBenefits.

Registration: Basic eBenefits Account
eBenefits Basic Account (DS Logon Level 1):
 Self-Register in eBenefits using online Registration Wizard or in person at an
RO or TRICARE Service Center.
 Only requires that user be registered in DEERS.
 Provides limited access to eBenefits features.
 Favorite links
 Categories of benefits that are of interest
 VA home loan certificate of eligibility
 No access to personally-identifiable information (PII) from VA or DoD.
 Lower form of access that is easier to obtain because in-person or remote
identity verification is not required.

Registration: Premium eBenefits Account
eBenefits Premium Account (DS Logon Level 2):
 Requires another level of identity verification (online, by phone, or in-person) for
access to PII and given HIPAA requirements.
 Provides unlimited access to eBenefits features.
 Highest level of access, allows users to access PII through VA and DoD
applications and services.
 Claim status
 VA payment history
 TRICARE information
 Military separation documents (for Veterans)
Note: Creating a Premium Account by visiting an RO or TRICARE office without
having a Basic Account will require users to receive an activation code from DoD
within 6-12 days at their mailing address on record.

Registration: Premium eBenefits Account
In Person Proofing:
 The Level 2 DS Logon is available to users at all VA Regional Offices and TRICARE Service
Centers (TSCs) via in person proofing using the DS Access Station software.
 One piece of photo identification issued by a state or the Federal government
 Second piece of identification, such as a birth certificate or social security card
Remote Proofing:
 Veterans and Service members can obtain a Level 2 DS Logon online using the DS Logon
Registration Wizard’s online identity authentication tool.
 Military retirees can use their DFAS MyPay logon and password to self-authenticate and
obtain their DS Logon online.
 Veterans and Service members holding DoD Common Access Cards (CAC) may use these
cards to obtain a DS Logon online.
 Upgraded MyHealtheVet users with a DS Logon now have instant access to eBenefits
(via single sign on).
 Veterans in receipt of monetary benefits from VA via direct deposit can obtain a DS
Logon account via telephone (NIST 800-63 compliant).

Registration: Wizard
The eBenefits DS Logon Account Registration Wizard is a DoD online self-
service application that allows online registration and identity
authentication.
To obtain a DS Logon using the Wizard, users must:
 Be registered in DEERS
 Create a Basic Account first
 Build a user ID
 Create a secure identity through answering 5 questions
 Answer three personal questions correctly to confirm identity for upgrade to
Premium Account Status. A fourth question may be asked if you miss one.

Registration: Overview

Obtaining a DS Logon Level 1 Credential (eBenefits Basic Account):

The Veteran will move on to the next phase and will be required to Create
a password. Once a password is created and confirmed, click Continue.

User will be select “Challenge Questions” from those provided.
After completing five challenge questions, click Continue

Select one image and create a short phrase.

Veteran now has eBenefits Basic (Level I) account.
 Note: Username should be written down as shown below.
Note: May have a number for common
last names

The user will have four minutes to select the correct answers to the
Remote Proofing Quiz. Once the user has answered the questions, click
Submit Responses. If the user answers one question incorrectly, an extra
question will be asked.

Note: Users should log back into the www.ebenefits.va.gov portal instead
of logging in from this page.

Registration: Checkpoint Summary
 Users must be in DEERS.
 To use eBenefits, users must register for a DS Logon account.
 There are two types of eBenefits Accounts: Basic and Premium.
 Basic Accounts provide limited access to features.
 Premium Accounts provide unlimited access to over 50 features and require
identity proofing.
 Users may register for a Basic Account online.
 Users may register for a Premium Account online, by phone, or go in person to
a VA Regional Office or Tricare Service Center.
 The eBenefits Registration Wizard allows users to obtain both a Level 1 and
Level 2 DS Logon online (using remote proofing).

eBenefits 101
FEATURES Site Content
 Top 20 Features
 Mobile Access
 More Information
on Features
 Checkpoint
Summary

eBenefits: Top 20 Features
1.Access & Download VA Documents:
 Home Loan Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – Veterans and Service members can
generate and print their Certificate of Eligibility for a VA Guaranteed Loan.
 Preference Letters – Veterans can create VA letters for a variety of purposes,
including Civil Service Preference, Commissary (DoD Identification Card), Service
Verification, and Benefit Verification. The letter templates automatically include
the user’s name and current Compensation and Pension address.
2. Access & Download Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) – including
DD Form-214
3. Apply for Benefits
 Where applicable, users can apply
for Compensation, Pension,
Education, Burial and Vocational
Rehabilitation & Employment
(VR&E) Benefits online through the
Veterans Online Application
(VONAPP).

4. Review claims and appeal status
 Veterans and Service members can view the status of their claims/appeal.
5. Apply for benefits and manage your claims (via VONAPP Direct
Connect)
 An online wizard recognizes Claimants upon login and helps them make
changes to marital status, dependents and school verifications with guided
assistance from VONAPP Direct Connect (VDC).
6. Check Post-9/11 GI Bill status
 Veterans and Service members can view entitlement and school enrollment
information for Post-9/11 GI Bill Education benefits.

7. Transfer Post-9/11 GI Bill
 Service members: If eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill program, may transfer
educational benefits to eligible dependents listed in DEERS. Veterans may
review, modify, or revoke a transfer request made while as a Service member.
8. Search for Employment: VetSuccess & VA for Vets
 Veterans and Service members can search VetSuccess for jobs and find useful
tips on completing resumes, cover letters, job applications, and interviewing.
VA for Vets enables Veterans to search for employment within VA and other
organizations, and receive employment counseling and support.
9. Order medical equipment
 Veterans can place online orders for prosthetic socks and hearing aid batteries.

10. Edit profile
 Complete personal profile and customize the content seen on the
eBenefits portal.
11. SGLI Life Insurance
 Service members may view the amounts of coverage and coverage
dates for their Group Life Insurance (SGLI).
12. Benefits Explorer
 Allows users to interact with a display that presents benefit
information at different stages in their career or personal lifecycle.
View a personalized list of possible benefits based on their eBenefits
profile and allows them to fine-tune the results to suit their needs.

13. Search for Representatives
 Search for and print detailed information on accredited Attorneys, Claims
Agents, and Veterans Service Organizations. Users can also download and print
representative appointment forms.
14. VA Payment History
 Monitor VA Compensation and Pension, Education, and Vocational
Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) benefits payments.
15. Premium Access to VA TAP Online Courses
 Learn about VA Federal benefits in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP).
Users complete benefit courses electronically to develop an understanding of
all VA benefits they may be entitled to as they transition into Veteran status.
16. Mobile Find a Facility Function
 Locates VA and DOD facilities using the smart device’s GPS location – it also
provides users with the option to map directions or call a facility.

17. Health Benefits Eligibility Check
 A calculator to assess whether Veterans qualify for VA health care
benefits. (Eligibility is based on financial considerations.)
18. Premium Access to Specialty Adapted Housing Grant Application and
Claim Status
 Apply online for a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant. Users can also check
the status of SAH-related claims.
19. Premium Access to DoD TRICARE Health Insurance
 View TRICARE medical, dental, and pharmacy information.
20. Premium Access to Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
 Users may view and update information related to their VGLI policy. Download
forms and print their Certificate of Insurance. Provides for the conversion of
Service members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) to a renewable term life
insurance policy within 120 days of separation from active duty service.

eBenefits: Features – Veterans
eBenefits Fact Sheet

Features: Mobile Access – Beyond the Desktop
eBenefits self service is available from mobile devices (https://m.eBenefits.va.gov)
 The mobile Find a Facility feature locates VA and DOD facilities using the smart device’s
GPS location – it also provides users with the option to map directions or call a facility.
 The mobile C&P Claims Status feature provides access to claims information consistent
with status details available in the My eBenefits Dashboard.
 The mobile VA Payment History feature allows users to monitor their Compensation and
Pension, Education, and Vocational Rehabilitation benefits payments.
 The mobile Appeals Status feature allows users to view the status of their appeals.
 The mobile application is optimized for most Smartphones.

Features: More Information
 Check our eBenefits website for upcoming changes
 https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits-
portal/ebenefits.portal?_nfpb=true&_portlet.async=false&_pageLabel=FeatureListMa
in
 Access Top 10 and Top 20 eBenefits Features fact sheets and
eBenefits Quickbook (September 2012)

Features: Checkpoint Summary
 There are over 50 features available on eBenefits.
 Top features on the site include reviewing claims status, downloading VA
forms/letters, and applying for benefits.
 eBenefits mobile application is available at http://m.ebenefits.va.gov.
 Refer to the eBenefits fact sheet and Quick Book for information on the
website and features.
 Check out the eBenefits website to view upcoming features.

eBenefits 101
PROMOTION Promotion
 Promotion Goals
 Promotional
Materials and
Strategies
 Scenarios
 Resources and
Referrals
 Checkpoint
Summary

Promotion: Goals
eBenefits Promotion Goals
 Increase awareness of eBenefits and Premium Account enrollment.
 Increase Veteran use of eBenefits as a method of self-service.
 Engage stakeholders who influence, or interact with, Veterans, Service
members, dependents and caregivers to promote enrollment in eBenefits.

Promotion: Website - Where to Access eBenefits Materials
To view, download, and/or share eBenefits Promotional Materials, visit:
https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits-portal/pages/PromotionalMaterials
 Click “About” link in the header of the site
 Click “Promotional” in the left-hand sidebar

Promotion: Materials
Materials include:
 Fact sheets
 Brochure
 Posters
 Flyer/advertisements
 Web badge
 Logo
 NASCAR Radio PSAs
 TV PSA (Fall 2012)
 Quickbook (End of September)

Promotion: Web Badge, logo and QR scan code
 Encourage your Website managers
to post our Web badge on their
Websites.
 The Web badge (also called a
widget) provides Veterans with a
direct link to www.ebenefits.va.gov.
 Use the official logos for all
materials discussing eBenefits.
 Scanning the QR Code will direct
individuals to the eBenefits Website.

Promotion: Scenarios
You are someone who assists Veterans
 A person comes to you and asks, “How do I get an eBenefits account?”
 Tell them to visit www.ebenefits.va.gov and follow the steps in the Registration
Wizard.
 A person comes up to you and asks, “Can I get an update on my claim’s
status?”
 Ask them if they have an eBenefits account online. If they don’t have an account yet,
tell them they can register for a free Premium account at www.ebenefits.va.gov to
view their claim status.
 A person comes to you and says, “I was told I have to be registered in DEERS.
What is DEERS and how do I register?”
 Use the eBenefits fact sheet to tell the person what DEERS is and provide them with
the number: 1-800-827-1000 option 7 to confirm they are in DEERS.
 Someone says to you, “I have a myHealtheVet account. Can I use that to get an
eBenefits account?”
 Let them know that there is a single sign on feature that allows upgraded
myHealtheVet account users with a DS Logon to automatically access eBenefits at
the Premium Level.

Promotion: Resources
Resources
 IRIS https://iris.custhelp.com
 State resources: http://www.va.gov/statedva.htm
 County resources:
http://www.nacvso.org/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=10
 Health Resource Center (HRC): 877-222-VETS (8387)
 Call Center: 1-800-827-1000 – Option 7

Promotion: Checkpoint Summary
 eBenefits promotional materials are available on the eBenefits website at:
https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits-portal/pages/PromotionalMaterials.
 If a Veteran or family member expresses interest in eBenefits, give him or her a
copy of the eBenefits fact sheet or other materials as appropriate.
 Refer them to appropriate contact and referral resources.
 Help encourage Veteran self-service and empowerment and reduce the
number of calls to call centers by referring Veterans to eBenefits.

Question and Answer
Questions?

QUALITY OF LIFE
Health Care for Homeless
Veterans (HCHV)
County - All Clients (Homeless & At Risk)
Overall
Unduplicated
Adult Single
All
Total
Adults in
Families
Total
Households
w/Children*
Total
Females
Total
Males
Kent- Calendar Year 2012 1/1/13-12/31/13 267 226 51 51 74 191
Kent – 4
th
Quarter 2013 10/1/13-12/31/13 124 110 14 14 10 114

Veterans (HCHV)
Helping veterans find their way home

Background
In 2009, President Obama and U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Secretary Eric
K. Shinseki pledged to end veteran homelessness by 2015.
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.
There are six pillars to President Obama’s 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.
• Treatment: the Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans treats with veterans with
mental illness, health or substance abuse issues.

Veterans (HCHV)
• HCHV is an essential and critical part of the VHA, providing a
gateway to VA and community supportive services for eligible
Veteran who are homeless. HCHV programs provide outreach, case
management and Contracted Residential Services in community
locations to engage homeless Veterans who have been underserved
and disenfranchised. 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.

Homeless Patient Aligned Care Team
(H-PACT)
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. The objectives of H-
PACT are to reduce emergency department use and
hospitalizations, improved chronic disease management, and
decrease barriers to accessing health care services and
affordable housing. H-PACT is available in Grand Rapids and
Lansing.

Jesse House
The Jesse House Program is a transitional housing collaborative between the
Battle Creek Housing Commission (BCHC), the City of Battle Creek, and the
Battle Creek VA Medical Center. Veterans must meet the admission
criteria before entering into the Jesse House Program as determine by the Battle
Creek VA Medical Center. The Jesse House Program is designed to build 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. There are currently 3 transition homes in Battle Creek.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
SUD is an addiction recovery program that is available to
Veterans who are enrolled in a HCHV program. 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. All Veterans will be assessed for services and
then appropriate referrals made depending on level of care
determined by the SUD Specialist.

Housing and Urban Development
-Veterans Affairs Supportive
Housing (HUD-VASH)
HUD-VASH is a collaborative partnership between the
Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of
Housing and Urban Development. 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. There are
currently HUD-VASH vouchers allocated to Battle Creek,
Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Muskegon.

Veterans Justice Outreach (VJO)
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. VJO works with
Justice-Involved Veterans which is any Veteran who has contact with the
judicial system, law enforcement, or jail system.
“The purpose of the Veterans Justice Outreach (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.”
Source: Department of Veterans Affairs, April 30, 2009,
Under Secretary for Health’s Information Letter.

Homeless Veterans Dental Initiative
Homeless Veterans who have been in
designated Homeless Programs for 60 or more
consecutive days may be eligible for specified
dental services. A Dental Consult from the
Primary Care Provider is required. The
Homeless Program Coordinator determines
eligibility.

Homeless Veteran Supported
Employment Program (HVSEP)
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. HVSEP is dedicated to helping Veterans
obtain and maintain competitive employment
by providing quality vocational and rehabilitative
services.

Grant Per Diem(GPD) and Contract
Programing
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 which supports recovery and meets the needs of homeless
Veterans. Selected GPD programs offers services such as case
management, education, crisis intervention, counseling, and services
targeted towards specialized populations including homeless women
Veterans, etc. The Grant Per Diem and contract programing facilities are
located in Lansing, Niles, Battle Creek, and Grand Rapids.

HCHV Outreach
• Staff members provide outreach, assessments, referrals and
case management services to homeless Veterans identified
at the medical center and in the community. Services are
also provided to homeless Veterans receiving treatment in
Contract Residential Treatment and Supportive Housing
Homeless Programs.
• 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.

HCHV Outreach Events
• Stand Downs are typically
events providing services to
homeless Veterans such as
food, shelter, clothing, health
screenings, VA and Social
Security benefits counseling,
and referrals to a variety of
other necessary services, such
as housing, employment and
substance abuse
treatment. Stand Downs are
collaborative events,
coordinated between local VAs,
other government agencies, and
community agencies who serve
the homeless.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Veterans Health Administration
Health Care for Homeless Veterans
Service Center
620 Century Ave, Suite 120
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-356-1746
Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 8:00am-4:30pm
Walk-in assessments: Monday- Thursday 10:00am-3:00pm
Fridays: 10:00am-2:00pm
http://www.va.gov/homeless

Elena Bridges
Veterans Services Community Coordinator
Altarum Institute
elena.bridges@altarum.org
Cell: 616-401-2026

Wmvc pres 5.13.2014

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