Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
www.dvs.virginia.gov
Contact us at 804-786-0286, visit www.dvs.virginia.gov or download the DVS app from Google Play or iTunes by searching for “Virginia Veterans”.
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Commissioner’s Message Here in Virginia we are proud of our men and women who have served our nation. 725,000 veterans currently live and work in the Commonwealth, contributing to our communities and economy. The most effective thing we can provide veterans and transitioning service members is a suite of services applicable to their unique journey. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services does just that every day. We at DVS are very proud of all the innovative programs and services we offer. We certify over 1,000 world class programs
in Virginia for GI Bill ® use – from 4-year degree options to cutting edge certifications, apprenticeships and accelerated programs. These diverse options offer transitioning service members efficient pathways to high demand, high tech jobs. Our new Military Medics and Corpsmen pilot program is designed to get highly-skilled military medical professionals on an express track to employment in hospital and health care settings, maintaining their valuable skills while getting the medical licensure needed for a career in health care. Our Virginia Transition Assistance (VTAP), Virginia Values Veterans (V3) and Military Medics & Corpsmen (MMAC) Programs help connect veterans with employers who understand and appreciate the value of your military service and have made commitments to hire veterans. Several of our community colleges and universities have dedicated staff and space specifically for veterans. Our benefits offices, stretching from Accomack to Big Stone Gap, assist veterans every step of the way to ensure that they receive all the benefits earned through their service. Our Veteran and Family Support staff, partnering with federal, state and local behavioral health partners, assist active duty and veteran families through issues unique to the military experience. Whether transitioning now or 50 years ago, this Veterans Resource Guide provides Virginia’s veterans and their families with useful information on all of these programs and services. We stand ready to help all veterans continue their service as productive and honored citizens of the great Commonwealth of Virginia. John L. Newby II Commissioner Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Table of Contents
Employment/Transition..................................................................... 1 • Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program • Virginia Transition Assistance Program (VTAP) • Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) • Military Medics and Corpsmen Program (MMAC)
This Resource Guide is provided and published by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services to educate Virginia’s veterans and their families about state veterans benefits. Veterans may also access information online at www.dvs.virginia.gov or by downloading the DVS mobile app.
• Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) • Virginia Veteran Entrepreneurship Program
Women Veterans Resources................................................................ 6 Education............................................................................................ 7
• Using GI Bill ® Benefits in Virginia • Virginia’s Credits2Careers Initiative • Virginia Military Survivors & Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP)
Benefits Services.................................................................................. 8 Veteran Legal Assistance. ................................................................. 10 • VVFS Justice Involved Veteran Services • Veterans Assistance & Resources offered by the Office of the Attorney General • Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Veterans Benefits Clinic Virginia Veteran and Family Support Program (VVFS)................. 12 Veteran Housing and Homeless Services. ........................................ 13 Long Term Veteran Care Centers..................................................... 15 Cemetery Benefits............................................................................. 16 Other State Services.......................................................................... 17 • Virginia Veteran License Indicator • Veteran License Plates • Troops to Truck Program • Virginia Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Program (SDVOSB) • Real Estate Tax Exemptions • Veteran Hunting & Fishing Licenses Virginia War Memorial..................................................................... 19 Advising Boards and Supportive Organizations. ............................ 20 • Board of Veterans Services • The Veterans Services Foundation • Virginia War Memorial Board • Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations Federal Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Virginia........ 21 Contact Information......................................................................... 22 • Mason Veterans and Service Members Legal Clinic • The Virginia Bar Association Veterans Task Force
Carlos Hopkins Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs
John L. Newby II Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
DVS Locations
Bene ts Services O ces Bene ts Services O ces
Ben ts Services O ces
Care Centers
Care Centers
Car Centers
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Abingdon Accomac 2 1
Abingdon Accomac
Abingdon Accomac
Cemeteries 1 Virginia Veteran and Family Support Regions Virg nia V teran and Family Su port Regions VirginiaWar Memorial, Richmond Virg niaWar Memorial, Richmond 2 Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond Virginia Veterans Care Center, Roanoke Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond Virg nia V terans Care Center, Roanoke 1 2 Cemet rie 1 2 1 2 1
Sitter & Ba foot Vete ans Care Center, Richmond irgi ia Veterans Care Center, Roanoke
Salem VA Medical Center South Hill Springeld 23 25 24
Salem VA Medical Center South Hill Springeld
Salem VA Medical Center South Hill Springeld
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Salem VA Medical Center South Hill Springeld Danville Emporia Fairfax Fredericksburg Hampton Hampton VA Medical Center Henrico Loudoun Lynchburg Manassas McGuire VA Medical Center (Richmond) Norfolk Pentagon Danville Emporia Fairfax Fr dericksburg Hampton Hampton VA Medical Center Henrico Loudoun Lynchburg M nas as McGuire VA Medical Center (Richmond) Norfolk Pentagon 16 18 17 6 7 9 10 11 13 15 8 12 14 Salem VA Medical Center South Hill Springeld Staunton Strasburg Tazewell Virginia Beach Williamsburg Wytheville 23 25 24 27 28 26 29 31 30 Salem VA Medical Center South Hill Springeld Staunton Strasburg Tazewell Virginia Beach Williamsburg Wytheville 1 2 Staunton Strasburg Tazewell Virginia Beach Williamsburg Wytheville Big Stone Gap Charlottesville Chesapeake 3 4 5 Big Stone Gap Charlottesville Chesapeake Big Stone Gap Char ottesville Ch sapeake
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Staunton Strasburg Tazewell 27 26 Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond Virginia Veterans Care Cent r, Roanoke Staunton Strasburg Tazewell Staunton Strasburg Tazewell
3 Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia Albert G. Horton, Jr., Memorial Veterans Cemeter Suolk Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Dublin
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VirginiaWa Memorial, Richmond
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1 Danville Emporia Fairfax Fredericksburg Hampton Hampton VA M dical Center Henrico Loudoun Lynchburg Manassas McGuire VA M dical Center (Richmond) Norfolk Pentagon 2 2
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Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia Albert G. Horton, Jr., Memorial Veterans Cemetery, Suolk Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Dublin 27 27 North Region East Region C ntral Region West Region Virginia Veter n and Family Supp rt Regions 3 Virgini Veterans Cemetery, Amelia Albert G. Horton, Jr., Memorial Veterans Cemetery, Suolk Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Dublin Cemeteries 1 2 3 3 North Region East Region Central Region West Region 2 North Region East Region Central Region West Region
Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond Virginia Veterans Care Center, Roanoke Virginia Beach Williamsburg Wytheville 29 31 30 Virg nia Beach Willia sburg Wyth ville 29 31 30 Virginia Beach Williamsburg Wytheville 29 31 30 Virginia Veteran and Family Support Regions VirginiaW r Memorial, Richmond Sitt r & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Rich ond Virginia Veterans Care , Roanoke
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Virginia Veteran and Family Support Regions Virginia Veteran and Family Support Regions VirginiaWar Memorial, Richmond VirginiaWar Memorial, Richmond North Region East Region Central Region West Region
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North Region East Region Central Region West Region
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North East Region Central io West Region
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Charlottesville Lynchburg Harrisonburg 22 23 2 26 Roanoke
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Employment/Transition
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Helping Employers Hire, Train and Retain Veterans Businesses often ask, “Why should I hire a Veteran?” and “Where can I find Veterans to hire?” The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program helps employers understand why hiring Veterans can be one of the best business decisions they make. In Virginia, Veterans are an integral solution to filling in-demand jobs and contributing to positive economic growth. Educate – Train – Connect The V3 Program provides education, training and connectivity resources to assist companies recruit, hire, and retain a highly-skilled, well-educated, and easily-trained
leadership talent pool: Virginia’s Veterans. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services is fully engaged in this venture with a firm confidence that hiring Veterans is not just the right thing to do - understanding who Veterans are and hiring them will increase organizational productivity and efficiency. Hundreds of V3 Member companies have committed to hiring transitioning service members and Veterans. Companies who have completed all training requirements are recognized as official “V3-Certified Companies,” and are awarded a certificate from the Governor of Virginia. Job Seekers If you are a Veteran, transitioning service member or serving member of the National Guard or Reserves, and want to know how you can connect with companies that value your service and potential contributions to their company, visit www.dvsV3.com/job-seekers and contact the Virginia Transition Assistance Program to learn about employment opportunities . Veteran Employment Grant V3-certified employers may also be eligible for up to $10,000 in grants through the V3 Program for hiring and retaining Veterans in Virginia. For more information on corporate membership in the V3 Program, grant criteria and application visit www.dvsV3.com/ v3grant.
To learn more visit www.dvsV3.com or call (804) 371-2683
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Employment/Transition
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Virginia Transition Assistance Program Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Helping Virginia’s Transitioning Service Members Stay in Virginia Mission: The mission of the Virginia Transition Assistance Program (VTAP) is to assess, coordinate, and disseminate opportunities for members of the armed forces and their spouses transitioning from military to civilian life, thereby providing pathways to employment, education, and entrepreneurship. Key Activities:
• Peer to Peer support to transitioning service members and their spouses through assessments, personalized career coaching, referrals, and a variety of career networking opportunities • Outreach for the Commonwealth of Virginia, answering the question “Why Virginia?” • Partnerships with federal, state, local, nonprofit, and employers to provide the best possible resources to our service members and spouses by certified career coaches For more information on career coaching services or employment and transition workshops hosted by the VTAP team, e-mail us at vtap@dvs.virginia.gov, call us at (804) 786-8060, or visit our website at www.dvs.virginia.gov under Veterans Education, Transition, and Employment. HIRE VETS NOWNetworking and Hiring Events Virginia’s HIRE VETS NOW brings together transitioning service members, veterans, military spouses and dedicated V3 certified businesses to share in camaraderie, professional development and career networking. Hosted by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and Transition Assistance Offices on military installations, these events offer opportunities to connect with Virginia companies looking to hire you!
For more information, please visit www.vachamber.com/hirevets.
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Employment/Transition
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Military Medics and Corpsmen Program Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Medics And Corpsmen: Your Path Is Clear! Military medics and corpsmen receive extensive and valuable health care training and experience while on active duty. When they leave the service, most medics and corpsmen find their military healthcare training does not translate into the licenses required for civilian healthcare jobs. Many face the challenge of being unemployed, underemployed or not working in the in-demand healthcare field. The Military Medics and Corpsmen Program (MMAC) addresses these challenges by providing veterans employment and educational pathways, offsetting healthcare staffing shortages and supporting quality patient care in Virginia. MMAC works with major Virginia health care employers to facilitate the hiring of medics and corpsmen upon completion of their military service. MMAC recruits, reviews and refers candidates to MMAC Partner Healthcare Systems. The program provides employment and educational opportunities for qualified veterans to apply their extensive clinical skills and experience under supervision while they obtain required civilian clinical licensure.
Virginia is the first state to offer this kind of innovative pathway for these highly skilled veterans. As a clear path to employment and education, MMAC draws veterans to Virginia from across the globe. MMAC is people and organizations coming together as a team to serve the citizens and employers of the Commonwealth and those who served our country: that’s teamwork at its best .
To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov or call (804) 786-0571
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Employment/Transition
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Finding Employment In addition to services provided by DVS, veterans are eligible for job referral, job training and job placement assistance through the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC). Veterans may access these employment services through a statewide network of VEC Local offices. The VEC also work with those that are currently transitioning out of the military. Employment Services for Veterans • Job readiness assessment, including interviews and testing; • Development of an Individual Employment Plan; • Career counseling that helps veterans in making training and career decisions; • Labor market and occupational information, to include training; • Referral to job banks, job portals, and job openings; • Referral to employers and registered apprenticeship sponsors;
• Referral to training by WIA-funded or third party service providers; and • Monthly follow-up by an assigned case manager for up to six months. Find a Job
Register as a Job Seeker with the Virginia Workforce Connection for access to all the services available and so you can find a job and Employers can FIND YOU! You will find Job Search, Career Information, Training Opportunities, Skill requirements, Labor Market Information including Wage data, Industry and Occupational trends. Register at www.vawc.virginia.gov.
VEC Military Base Locations The VEC provides veterans assistance at all its Local Offices as well as at the following Virginia Military bases. Call for days and hours of operation. Joint Base Langley - Eustis Naval Station Norfolk Fort Belvoir 601 Washington Boulevard 7928 14th Street (703) 805-0070 Building 601, ACS Suite 154 Fort Eustis, 23604 Norfolk, 23505 (757) 878-0906 (757) 440-4024 (757) 878-0908 (fax) (757) 440-4026 (fax)
To learn more visit www.vec.virginia.gov or call (866) 832-2363
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Employment/Transition
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Hiring Preference in State Government The Commonwealth of Virginia and Virginia localities give preference to honorably discharged veterans of the armed forces of the United States in its employment hiring policies and practices, provided that such veteran meets all of the knowledge, skills and eligibility requirements for the available position. Additional consideration is also given to veterans who have a service connected disability rating fixed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Commonwealth of Virginia extends its veterans hiring preference to active members of the Virginia National Guard as well. The surviving spouse and dependents of service members killed in action are also entitled to the hiring preference. The Commonwealth of Virginia extends its veterans hiring preference to active members of the Virginia National Guard as well. The surviving spouse and dependents of service members killed in action are also entitled to the hiring preference. For more details visit jobs.virginia.gov/veteranshiringresources.html
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Women Veterans Resources The Virginia Department of Veterans Services hosts an annual Virginia Women Veterans Summit whose mission is to empower women veterans with the knowledge and resources needed to smoothly transition into civilian life and improve overall wellness. This event brings together veterans, employers, community leaders and government agencies from the federal, state, and local levels to raise awareness about the services and benefits offered specifically for women veterans through expert presenters, breakout sessions and exhibits.
For more details and resources visit dvs.virginia.gov/education-employment/virginia-women-veterans
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Education
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Using GI Bill ® Benefits in Virginia The State Approving Agency of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services has approved over 1,000 educational and training programs where veterans may utilize their GI Bill ® benefits. From apprenticeships, to community colleges to four year universities, Virginia offers an array of technical and academic choices. To see the current list of GI Bill ® approved programs visit: www.dvs.virginia.gov/education- employment/state-approving-agency
* GI Bill ® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
The Virginia Credits2Careers ( www.credits2careers.org ) initiative serves as a military and veterans portal created by the Virginia Community College System (VCCS). Credits2Careers is the first-of-its-kind education and career portal for a community college system and affords service members and veterans the opportunity to upload their military transcripts and determine the number of credits they would receive in program(s) of their choice at specified VCCS institutions. The portal also allows veterans and military personnel to access real-time information on current job openings, both in Virginia and around the nation.
Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program Virginia Department of Veterans Services
The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) provides a waiver of tuition and mandatory fees at Virginia’s public colleges and universities to spouses and children of military service members killed, missing in action, taken prisoner, or who became at least 90 percent permanently disabled as a result of military service in an armed conflict. Military service includes service in the United States Armed Forces, United States Armed Forces Reserves, the Virginia National Guard, or the Reserves. Armed conflict includes military operations against terrorism or as the result of a terrorist act, a peace-keeping mission, or any armed conflict after December 6, 1941. To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov or call (804) 225-2083
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Veterans Benefits Services
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Benefits Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Connecting Veterans to Earned Benefits The Virginia Department of Veterans Services advocates for Virginia veterans and connects them to benefits and services they have earned. Information on current federal, state and local veterans’ programs, entitlements and referral services are available in Virginia through a network of 31 benefit service offices (www.dvs.virginia.gov/benefits). All services are provided free of charge. For additional information visit www.dvs.virginia.gov/benefits or one of our offices on the following page. Eligibility for most federal and state benefits is based on discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. Active service means full-time service as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or as a commissioned officer of the public health service, the Environmental Services Administration, or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Current and former members of the Selected Reserve and National Gaurd may be eligible for certain benefits, such as home loan guaranties and education, if they meet time-in-service and other criteria. Men and women veterans with similar service are entitled to the same federal and state veterans benefits. The eligibility policy is set by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. To determine potential eligibility for such benefits go to http://www.benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/Applying.asp or visit one of our offices on the following page.
To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov/benefits or call (804) 786-0286
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Contact your local benefits office to determine how VDVS can best serve YOU
• Abingdon Benefits Office (276) 623-0070 100 Abingdon Place, Suite 202, Abingdon, VA 24211 • Accomac Benefits Office (757) 787-5862 23365 Front Street, Suite B, P.O. Box 7 Accomac, Virginia 23301 • Big Stone Gap Benefits Office ( 276) 523-1411 • Charlottesville Benefits Office (434) 529-6431 1430 Rolkin Court, Charlottesville, Virginia 22911 • Chesapeake Benefits Office – Tidewater Community College Campus, Pass Building (757) 822-5298 1428 Cedar Rd., Room 158, Chesapeake, VA 23322 • Danville Benefits Office (434) 836-8447 139A Deer Run Rd., Danville, VA 24540 • Emporia Benefits Office (434) 829-6386 Emporia Community Based Outpatient Clinic 1746 Atlantic St., East Emporia, VA 23847 • Fairfax Benefits Office (703) 359-1210 9990 Fairfax Blvd. Suite 120, Fairfax, VA 22030 • Fredericksburg Benefits Office (540) 376-7298 Lee Hill Building 1 10300 Spotsylvania Avenue, Suite 290 Fredericksburg, VA 22408 • Hampton Benefits Office (757) 825-7893 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 420, Tower Box 48 Hampton, VA 23666 • Hampton VA Medical Center Benefits Office (757) 722-9961 ext. 2940 100 Emancipation Drive, Bldg. 43, Room 114 Hampton, VA 23667 • Henrico Benefits Office (804) 952-6112 121 Cedar Fork Road, Room 412, Henrico, VA 23223 • Loudoun Benefits Office (703) 995-9998 Lakes at Ashbrook, Bldg 2 44345 Premier Plaza, Suite 200, Ashburn, VA 20147 • Lynchburg Benefits Office (434) 582-5102 519 Leesville Road, Suite A, Lynchburg, VA 24502 • Manassas Benefits Office (703) 479-7437 9300 West Courthouse Road Suite 305 Manassas, Virginia 20110 • McGuire VA Medical Center Benefits Office (804) 675-6546 1201 Broad Rock Blvd., Room 1M-169A Richmond, VA 23249 • Norfolk Benefits Office (757) 455-0814 6350 Center Drive, Bldg. 5, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502 • Pentagon Benefits Office (571) 257-6633 Room 1A144 (Near Main Food Court) 322 Cloverleaf Square, Suite E-1 Big Stone Gap, Virginia 24219
• Petersburg Benefits Office - Freedom Support Center (804) 720-8027 and (804) 691-4905 Petersburg Freedom Support Center 32 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803 • Portsmouth Benefits Office (757) 953-6205 Portsmouth Naval Hospital 620 John Paul Circle, Building 3, 7th Floor Portsmouth, VA 23708 • Quantico Benefits Office (703) 630-2811 Quantico Marine Corps Base, Education Center 3089 Roan Street, Quantico, VA 22134 • Roanoke Benefits Office (540) 597-1730 210 Franklin Road SW, Suite 810, Roanoke, VA 24011 • Salem VA Medical Center Benefits Office (540) 982-2463, ext. 3557/4055 VA Medical Center 1970 Roanoke Blvd. , Bldg. 8, Room 101A & 101B Salem, VA 24153 • South Hill Benefits Office (434) 584-9100 118 East Danville Street South Hill, Virginia 23970 • Springfield Benefits Office (703) 417-9090 6564 Loisdale Ct., Suite 301, Springfield, VA 22150 • Staunton Benefits Office (540) 332-7840 Greenbrier Office Complex Building 1 1600 North Coalter Street, Suite 17B Staunton Virginia 24401 • Strasburg Benefits Office (540) 465-6113 and (540) 465-2615 105 Stony Pointe Way, Suite 220, Strasburg, VA 22657 • Tazewell Benefits Office (276) 988-3761 657 Main Street Tazewell, VA 24651 • Virginia Beach Benefits Office (757) 552-1884 Pembroke Office Park 287 Independence Boulevard, Pembroke Two, Suite 130 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 • Williamsburg Benefits Office (757) 221-1734 203 Ironbound Road, Dillard Complex P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, Virginia 23187 • Wytheville Benefits Office (276) 228-5211 335 West Monroe Street, Suite 200, Wytheville VA 24382
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Meeting Veterans Legal Needs
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Virginia Veteran and Family Support Justice Involved Services The Department of Veterans Services’ (DVS) Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) Justice Involved Services (JIS) program provides resource connections, care coordination, and support to Virginia Veterans and service members involved in the criminal justice system. JIS serves veterans of any era and members of all branches of the Armed Services, National Guard and Reserves not in federal service who are Virginia residents. JIS offers assistance to those veterans and service members involved with: • Veteran and/or problem solving treatment dockets • Local jails and state prisons • Probation and/or parole supervision CONFIDENTIAL SERVICES OFFERED • Pre-release Comprehensive Needs Assessments • Homeless and Housing Services • Outreach and Education Services If you know a justice-involved veteran in need of services, please send an email or submit a VVFS Veteran Justice Client Service Request form to the VVFS Justice mailbox at Email: justice.vvfs@dvs.virginia.gov | (804) 225-4734 Veterans Legal Services Clinics Virginia’s Office of the Attorney General (OAG) offers the Virginia Military and Veteran Legal Resource Guide, a new tool to help Virginia service members, military families, and veterans understand the unique legal protections, rights, and resources available to them under the law. Volunteer attorneys from the Office of Attorney General spent more than a year developing the new guide, which will be distributed in hard copy and electronically in conjunction with the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, veterans’ service organizations, and more. In addition, the OAG offers veterans legal service clinics to assist qualified veterans and their spouses with simple wills, powers of attorneys, and advance medical directives, including notary services, on a “first-come, first-served basis.” To learn more about this veteran friendly initiative visit www.oag.state.va.us. Contact Info: Attorney General’s Office 202 North 9th Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219 | Phone: (804) 786-2071 • Care Coordination Services for Behavioral Health, Rehabilitative and Supportive Services • Direct Linkage to Treatment Services for Post Traumatic Stress and Traumatic Brain Injury • Direct Linkage to VA Benefits and Healthcare, Employment, and Education Services • Peer Support Services
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Meeting Veterans Legal Needs
Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Benefits Clinic, The College ofWilliam &Mary The Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Benefits Clinic provides current and former military service members with knowledge of and assistance with pursuing available U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits resulting from their military service. As a clinical program consisting of law students supervised by experienced former military attorneys, the Veterans Benefits Clinic is in a unique position to provide veterans with disability claims services while simultaneously providing the next generation of attorneys with hands-on experience working with real clients. The Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Veterans Benefits Clinic William & Mary Law School P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795 | (757) 221-7443 | Email: veterans@wm.edu Mason Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic (MVETS), George Mason University The law students participating in the Mason Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic (MVETS) assist active-duty members of the armed forces, their families and veterans with free representation in matters of clear injustice or those matters where they could not retain counsel without undue hardship. Mason Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic George Mason University School of Law 3301 Fairfax Drive, MSIG3, Arlington, VA 22201 | (703) 993-8214 | (703) 993-9540 (fax) | Email: clasv@mail.gmu.edu The Virginia Bar Association Veterans Task Force The Virginia Bar Association Veterans Issues Task Force is committed to helping Virginia service members who are getting ready to deploy, or are returning from a deployment, find an attorney who will assist them or their family with their legal services needs on a pro bono or reduced fee basis. For additional information visit www.vba.org.
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VVFS
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Virginia Veteran and Family Support Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Specialized Veteran Care Coordination and Support
The Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) program provides a statewide delivery and response system for behavioral health, rehabilitative, and supportive services for military members, veterans, and their families. VVFS proudly serves Virginia veterans of any era, members of the Armed Forces, National Guard and Reserves not in active federal service, and their families. VVFS provides peer and family support and comprehensive care coordination services including: • Direct linkages to medical and behavioral healthcare, housing, employment, and other public and private assistance programs; • Peer and family support groups, resilience-focused training, and retreats for couples and families; and • Specialized outreach and assistance to vulnerable veterans, including at risk or homeless veterans and veterans involved in the criminal justice system. The Virginia Veteran and Family Support program is operated by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services in cooperation with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, and numerous partners including the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov or call our toll free number 1-877-285-1299 or the central office 804-371-4675 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
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Veteran Housing and Homeless Services
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Veteran Housing and Homeless Services Virginia is proud to be the first state to functionally end veteran homelessness as defined by the United Stated Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH). DVS takes a leading role in coordinating federal, state, and community partners to ensure that veteran homelessness is rare, brief, and non-recurring. If you are a veteran or know of a veteran experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness, please contact the Federal Department of Veterans Affairs Homeless Hotline at 1-877-424-3838 (1-877-4AID-VET) or dial 211 Virginia, available 24/7 (resources for Veterans in need and service providers)
VirginiaHousingSearch.com
Ifyou’reaveteranseekingaplaceto rent,startwith VirginiaHousingSearch.com . Search forhousingalloverthestate,andfind landlords lookingto renttoveterans. Seephotosandget infoonutilities,pets,accessibility featuresandmore. Search for freeonline,orcallusat 877-428-8844 .
Virginia Housing Development Authority
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Health Care
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Virginia Veterans Care Center Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Care Centers/Long Term Care Virginia’s state veterans homes provide affordable care, including long term care, short term rehabilitation and specialized Alzheimer’s units for Virginia’s veterans. Conveniently located in Richmond and Roanoke, each first-class facility is designed to enhance quality of life with a clean, caring and dignified setting appropriate for those men and women who have served our country with honor. To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov/veterans-care-centers Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center 1601 Broad Rock Blvd. Richmond, Virginia 23224 (804) 371-8000 Virginia Veterans Care Center
Virginia Veterans Care Center, Roanoke
4550 Shenandoah Avenue Roanoke, Virginia 24017 (540) 982-2860
Virginia has committed to building two additional long term veteran care centers. One facility will be located in Fauquier County and the second new facility will be located in Virginia Beach opening in 2020.
Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond
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Cemetery Benefits
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Cemeteries Virginia Department of Veterans Services
Cemetery Benefits The Virginia Department of Veterans Services three veterans cemeteries provide a final resting place for our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guard - a place of honor, dignity, respect, and remembrance. The Virginia Veterans Cemetery is located in Amelia, the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery is located in Suffolk, and the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin. All cemeteries accommodate in-ground burial of casketed remains, in-ground inurnment of cremated remains, and above-ground inurnment of cremated remains in a columbarium. Virginia Veterans Cemetery (Amelia) 10300 Pridesville Road Amelia, VA 23002 (804) 561-1475 Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery (Suffolk) 5310 Milners Road Suffolk, VA 23434 (757) 255-7217 Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery (Dublin) 5550 Bagging Plant Road Dublin, VA 24084 (540) 674-6893
To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov
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Other State Services
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Veteran ID Cards/License Plates In Virginia as of July 1, 2018, Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces have the option of adding a veteran indicator to their driver’s license or ID card. Having the word “veteran” appear on your driver’s license or ID card is a convenient way to demonstrate your veteran status. This option is offered by DMV on behalf of the Department of Veterans Services (DVS). Go to https:// www.dvs.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Veteran-Indicator-FAQs-FINALf.pdf to view our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) regarding the veterans license indicator. Five ways to get Your Veterans ID Card (Requires a $10 DMV application fee): • Visit your local DMV customer service center • DMV 2 Go mobile offices, the schedule can be found online at www.dmv.virginia.gov • www.dmvNOW.com • U.S. mail: P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269-0001. You can download the application at www.dmv.virginia.gov • Fax: (804) 367-1112
Virginia offers more than 50 unique license plates that represent various branches of military service and veteran designations. Visit www.dmvNow.com to learn more.
Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for the veterans ID card, applicants must: • Have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge status other than dishonorable.
• Hold an unexpired Virginia commercial driver’s license, driver’s license, learner’s permit or DMV-issued ID card. • Present a copy of a U.S. Armed Forces veteran service proof document according to the Virginia Department of Veteran Services, showing 180 days of active duty* service. Such documents include DD214, DD256 or WD AGO that displays your: - Branch of service, - Discharge date, and - Discharge status. (Individuals with a dishonorable discharge status are not eligible for a veteran ID card).
Troops to Trucks Through the Troops to Trucks SM program, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles is making it easier for personnel trained by the military in the operation of heavy vehicles to obtain civilian commercial driver’s licenses (CDL). A commercial driver’s license is required to operate large trucks and buses. To find out if you qualify for the Troops to Trucks SM program, complete the Troops to Trucks SM checklist. To learn more visit www.dmvnow.com
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Other State Services
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
100% Disabled Veteran Exemptions Veterans rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as having a 100%, permanent and total, service-connected disability or who have a service-connected individual unemployable disability rating are exempt from paying real estate taxes on their primary residence. The exemption is based on the veteran’s disability rating rather than the level of compensation. The exemption includes property held jointly by a husband and wife, and applies to the residence and up to one acre of land. Exemption Eligibility for Surviving Spouse of Veteran Killed in Action The surviving spouse of an eligible veteran may also receive the real estate tax exemption if the veteran died on or after January 1, 2011. The spouse will lose the exemption if he or she remarries or does not occupy the property as his or her primary residence. To learn more about these exemptions contact the Commissioner of the Revenue for your locality. Contact information may be found at www.vacomrev.com/who-we-are/districts-localities
Veteran Hunting & Fishing Licenses The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) offers a number of discounted licenses for Disabled Military Personnel & Veterans. Applications are available at any VDGIF field office or online. For more information visit www.dgif.virginia.gov or call (804) 367-1000
Service-Disabled Veteran- Owned Small-Business (SDVOSB) Designation
As part of the Virginia Small, Women-owned, and Minority Owned Business (SWaM) certification program , qualifying service-disabled veterans who are small business owners may obtain a Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) designation in the Virginia SWaM vendor database. This is not a separate SWaM certification, but rather a designation of those small businesses that are owned by Service Disabled Veterans. SDVOSB certification is provided by the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity in partnership with the Virginia Department of Veterans Services.
To learn more visit www.sbsd.virginia.gov
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Virginia War Memorial
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
The Virginia War Memorial in Richmond serves an integral role in supporting the mission of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. The Memorial honors our fallen heroes by passing their extraordinary stories of sacrifice forward to future generations through many outreach and on-site educational programs. With regular patriotic events, educational seminars for students and teachers, historical museum exhibits, research library, first-person historical documentary videos, customized tours for schools and other groups, and near virtual reality film, Into Battle , the Virginia War Memorial is heralded by many as the preeminent state memorial to honor its veterans in the United States.
To learn more visit www.dvs.virginia.gov/virginia-war-memorial
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Veteran Boards
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Advising Boards and Supportive Organizations Board of Veterans Services The Board of Veterans Services advises the Virginia Department of Veterans Services regarding programs and policies that enhance veteran services across the Commonwealth. Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations The Joint Leadership Council of Veterans Service Organizations provides a vehicle for veterans service organizations to collaborate with the Department of Veterans Services on meeting the needs of Virginia’s veterans. The Joint Leadership Council is open to one representative from each qualifying veterans service organization in Virginia that chooses to participate. All veterans organizations are encouraged to join this initiative to support Virginia’s veterans and their families, by contacting the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Virginia War Memorial Board The Virginia War Memorial Board advises the Commissioner of the Department of Veterans Services and the director of the Virginia War Memorial on the management, control, maintenance, and operation of the Virginia War Memorial. The Veterans Services Foundation The Veterans Services Foundation (the Foundation) is established as an independent agency of the Commonwealth supporting the interests of veterans and their families and contributors through the Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs and the programs and services of the Department of Veterans Services.To learn more visit www.virginiaveteransservicesfoundation.org.
Serving Virginia’s Veterans
The Veterans Services Foundation and the Veterans Services Fund www.virginiaveteransservicesfoundation.org
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Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Federal Veteran Facilities
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Virginia VA Medical Centers Hampton VA Medical Center: (757) 722-9961 Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center: (804) 675-5000 Salem VA Medical Center: (540) 982-2463 Outpatient Clinic Bristol Virginia OPC: (276)-645-4520 Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Charlottesville CBOC: 434-293-3890 Chesapeake CBOC: 757-722-9961 Danville CBOC: 434-710-4210 Emporia CBOC: 434-348-1055 Fort Belvoir CBOC: 571-231-2408 Fredericksburg CBOC: 540-370-4468 Harrisonburg CBOC: 304-263-0811 X 5130 Marion CBOC: 276-783-2756 Norton CBOC: 276-679-8010 Staunton CBOC: 540-886-5777 Tazewell CBOC: 276-988-2526 Vansant CBOC: 276-597-2106 VA Beach CBOC: 757-722-9961 Winchester CBOC: 304-263-0811 X 5130 Wytheville CBOC: 276-223-5400 Vet Centers Jonesville CBOC: 276-346-2595 Lynchburg CBOC: 434-316-5000
Alexandria Vet Center: 703-360-8633 Or 703-360-8633 Norfolk Vet Center: 757-623-7584 Or 877-927-8387 Richmond Vet Center: 804-353-8958 Or 877-927-8387 Roanoke Vet Center: 540-342-9726 Or 877-927-8387 Virginia Beach Vet Center: 757-248-3665 or 877-927-8387 National Veterans Cemeteries Culpeper National Cemetery: (540) 825-0027 Danville National Cemetery: (704) 636-2661 Quantico National Cemetery: (703) 221-2183
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Contact Information
Virginia Veterans Resource Guide
Contact Us, the Virginia Department of Veterans Services is Here to Serve YOU
Virginia Department of Veterans Services Headquarters (804) 786-0286 Benefits (804) 786-0286 Long Term Care Centers Virginia Veterans Care Center 4550 Shenandoah Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24017 (540) 982-2860, (800) 220-8387 (toll free) Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center 1601 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23224 Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery 5310 Milners Road, Suffolk, VA 23434; (757) 255-7217 Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery 5550 Bagging Plant Road, Dublin, VA 24084; (540) 674-6893 Virginia Veterans Cemetery 10300 Pridesville Road, Amelia, VA 23002; (804) 561-1475 (804) 371-8000 Cemeteries
Veterans Education, Training, and Employment (VETE) GI Bill ® Programs - State Approving Agency (804) 786-0571 Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program (804) 371-2683 Virginia Transition Assistance Program (VTAP) (804) 786-8060 Military Medics and Corpsmen Program (MMAC) (804) 482-8509 Virginia Military Survivors & Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) (804) 225-2083 Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) (804) 371-4675, (877) 285-1299 (toll free) Virginia War Memorial 621 S. Belvidere Street, Richmond, VA 23220; (804) 786-2060 Veterans Services Foundation (804) 382-3715
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101 North 14th Street, 17th Floor Richmond, Virginia 23219 www.dvs.virginia.gov
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