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VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia Veterans

UPDATED 2025

RESOURCE GUIDE

dvs.virginia.gov

The Virginia Veterans Network (VVN) is your one-stop portal for trusted support, tailored to veterans, service members, and their families. Access housing assistance, health care, career training, and more—all in one trusted place. Connect with vetted resources designed to meet your unique needs. Free, easy-to-use, and available anytime at your convenience.

Hundreds of resources. ONE WEBSITE. Explore today at vesa.dvs.virginia.gov

or call 844-VDVS-VET

COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE

Veterans, Virginia wants to serve you! This Veterans Resource Guide is your roadmap to veterans benefits in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is filled with useful information on the programs and services offered by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS), other state agencies, and partners. We are very proud of all the innovative programs and services we offer. In this guide, you will read about: • The Virginia Veterans Network, a free network of veteran focused organizations committed to providing gold standard service to veterans and their families; • Our network of 38 benefits offices, stretching from Accomac to Big Stone Gap, which will help you access the federal and state veterans benefits you have earned through service and sacrifice;

Chuck Zingler Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services

• The Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) program, which monitors and coordinates behavioral health, rehabilitative, and supportive services through an integrated and responsive system of care; • How DVS helps connect you to more than 900 world class programs in Virginia that are certified for GI Bill® use; • Our Military Medics and Corpsmen (MMAC) program, which helps put highly-skilled military medical professionals on an express track to employment in hospital and health care settings; • The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Transition Program and the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) program, which connect veterans with employers who understand and appreciate the value of your military service; • Our veterans care centers, which offer in-patient skilled nursing, memory, and short-term rehabilitation care; • How DVS provides an honored final resting place for veterans and their families at three state veterans cemeteries; • The Virginia War Memorial, the Commonwealth’s tribute to Virginia’s men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice from World War II to the present; • How to get a Veteran Indicator on your driver’s license, or how to buy one of the more than 50 military and veterans license plates offered by the DMV; • Legal assistance offered by the Office of the Attorney General and through our colleges and universities; • Employment assistance offered by the Virginia Employment Commission; and • Much more! Virginia is home to nearly 700,000 veterans. You are leaders in our businesses, our schools, and our communities. You are our friends and our neighbors. You are living examples of service, of sacrifice, and of teamwork. You are our inspiration.

You served us—now it is our turn to serve you.

Chuck Zingler Commissioner Virginia Department of Veterans Services

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

DVS Statewide Support

Map current as of October 2024

State Veterans Oices

Benefits + Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) 07 Front Royal 08 Hampton

18 Staunton 19 Virginia Beach—Oceana 20 Virginia Beach—Pembroke 21 Williamsburg 22 Wytheville

13 Norfolk 14 Petersburg, Virginia Community Resource Center 15 Salem VA Medical Center 16 South Hill 17 Springfield

01 Abingdon 02 Big Stone Gap 03 Charlottesville 04 Danville 05 Fairfax 06 Fredericksburg 1

09 Henrico 10 Loudoun 11 Lynchburg 12 Manassas

Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) Only

Benefits Only

39 Blacksburg 40 Clifton Forge 41 Martinsville 42 Richmond 43 Suffolk 44 Warrenton

31 JBLE (Eustis) 32 JBLE (Langley) 33 Pentagon 34 Portsmouth 35 Quantico 36 Richmond VA Medical Center

23 Accomac 24 Arlington 25 Emporia 26 Fort Belvoir 27 Fort Gregg-Adams 28 Fredericksburg 2 29 Hampton VA Medical Center 30 Harrisonburg—JMU Valor Center

37 Roanoke 38 Tazewell

Cemeteries

Care Centers

Virginia War Memorial

01 Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, Suffolk 02 Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Dublin 03 Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia

01 Davis & McDaniel Veterans Care Center, Roanoke 02 Jones & Cabacoy Veterans Care Center, Virginia Beach 03 Puller Veterans Care Center, Vint Hill* 04 Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center, Richmond * Facility to open in 2024.

Table of Contents Connecting Veterans to Earned Benefits �� 2 Local Benefits Offices��3 Employment and Transition �� 4 Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program�� 4 Virginia SkillBridge Program��6 Hiring Preference in State Government��6 Virginia Women Veteran Program (VWVP)��7 Education �� 8 Using GI Bill® Benefits in Virginia�� 8 Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI)��8 Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP)��9 Meeting Veterans Legal Needs �� 11 Virginia Veteran and Family Support, Justice Involved Services��11 Veterans Assistance and Resources Offered by the Office of the Attorney General��11 Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Veterans Benefits Clinic, The College of William & Mary��12 Mason Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic (M-VETS), George Mason University��12 The Virginia Bar Association Veterans Task Force��12 Virginia Veteran and Family Support �� 14 Veteran Housing and Homeless Services �� 14 Virginia Veterans Care Centers �� 15 Cemetery Benefits �� 16 Other State Services �� 17 Driver’s License—Veteran Indicator��17 Virginia Women Veteran License Plate��18 Troops to Trucks��18 Disabled Veteran and Surviving Spouse Real Estate Tax Exemptions��18 Veteran Hunting & Fishing Licenses��19 Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small-Business (SDVOSB) Designation��19 Extended State Tax Exemptions for Military Retirees��19 VCU RTR Teacher Residency Partnership��19 Virginia War Memorial �� 20 Advising Boards and Supportive Organizations �� 21 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Virginia �� 22 Contact Us �� 23

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 dvs.virginia.gov .

Craig Crenshaw Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs

Chuck Zingler Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services

Cover: A Navy officer poses for a photo with his wife and children during a homecoming at Naval Air Station Oceana.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Connecting Veterans to Earned Benefits The Virginia Department of Veterans Services Benefits service line advocates for Virginia Veterans by assisting them with the development, submission, and tracking of claims related to Disability Compensation, VA Pensions, Survivor Benefits, and related appeals. All services are provided free of charge. Information on current federal,

Eligibility for most federal and state benefits is based on discharge from active military service under conditions other than dishonorable. Active service includes full-time service as a member of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, or as a commissioned officer of the public health service, the Environmental Services Administration, or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and their dependents. Current and former members of the Selected Reserves and National Guard may be eligible for certain benefits, such as home loan guaranties and education, if they meet time-in-service and other criteria. The eligibility policy is set by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. To determine potential eligibility for such benefits go to benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/Applying.asp or visit one of the offices listed on the following page.

state and local veterans’ programs, entitlements, and referral services are available in Virginia through a network of 38 benefit service offices ( dvs.virginia.gov/ benefits-services ). Our Claims Agents and Attorneys are highly skilled and experienced professionals who are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. All services are provided free of charge. For additional information visit dvs.virginia.gov/benefits-services or one of the offices on the following page.

To learn more visit dvs.virginia.gov/benefits-services or call (804) 786-0286.

U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Anthony Henderson, has his rank placed onto his uniform by his mother and wife.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Contact your local benefits office to determine how DVS can best serve YOU

ABINGDON BENEFITS OFFICE (276) 525-6559 202 Abingdon Pl., Abingdon, VA 24211 ACCOMAC BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 787-5862 23365 Front St., Suite B, P.O. Box 7, Accomac, VA 23301 ARLINGTON BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 399-9590 American Legion Post 139 3445 Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201 BIG STONE GAP BENEFITS OFFICE (276) 523-1411 322 Cloverleaf Squ., Suite E-1, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 CHARLOTTESVILLE BENEFITS OFFICE (434) 529-6431 1430 Rolkin Ct., Suite 202, Charlottesville, VA 22911 CHESAPEAKE BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 567-9351 Chesapeake Central Library

LOUDOUN BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 995-9998 Lakes at Ashbrook, Building 2 44345 Premier Plz., Suite 200, Ashburn, VA 20147 LYNCHBURG BENEFITS OFFICE (434) 582-5102 519 Leesville Rd., Suite A, Lynchburg, VA 24502 MANASSAS BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 479-7437 9300 West Courthouse Rd., 3rd Floor, Suite 305, Manassas, VA 20110 NORFOLK BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 455-0814 6350 Center Dr., Building 5, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502 PENTAGON BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 545-7461 *DVS does not provide sponsorship into the Pentagon. 1500 Defense Pentagon, Suite 1A126, Washington, DC 20301 PETERSBURG BENEFITS OFFICE (804) 431-3260 Virginia Community Resource Center West Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803 PORTSMOUTH BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 953-6205 620 John Paul Jones Cir., Building 3, 7th Floor, Portsmouth, VA 23708 QUANTICO BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 630-2810 Education Center - 3089 Roan St., Quantico, VA 22134 RICHMOND VAMC BENEFITS OFFICE (804) 675-6546 1201 Broad Rock Blvd., Room 1M-169B, Richmond, VA 23249 ROANOKE BENEFITS OFFICE (540) 982-2463 ext. 6547 210 Franklin Rd., Suite 810, Roanoke, VA 24011 SALEM VAMC BENEFITS OFFICE (540) 982-2463 ext. 6547 1970 Roanoke Blvd., Building 8 Rm 113, Salem, VA 24153 SOUTH HILL BENEFITS OFFICE (434) 584-9100 118 East Danville St., South Hill, VA 23970 SPRINGFIELD BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 417-9090 6564 Loisdale Ct., Suite 301, Springfield, VA 22150 STAUNTON BENEFITS OFFICE (540) 332-8900 Greenbrier Office Complex 1600 North Coalter St., Building 1, Suite 17B, Staunton, VA 24401 TAZEWELL BENEFITS OFFICE (276) 988-3761 657 Main St., Tazewell, VA 24651 VIRGINIA BEACH—OCEANA BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 689-3729 1232 Perimeter Pkwy., Suite 202, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 VIRGINIA BEACH—PEMBROKE BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 552-1884 293 Independence Blvd., Pembroke 5, Suite 109, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

298 Cedar Rd., Chesapeake, VA 23322 DANVILLE BENEFITS (434) 836-8447

441 Piney Forest Rd., Suite B, Danville, VA 24540 EMPORIA BENEFITS OFFICE (434) 829-6386 Emporia Community Based Outpatient Clinic 1746 E Atlantic St., Emporia, VA 23847

FAIRFAX BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 359-1210 9990 Fairfax Blvd., Suite 120, Fairfax, VA 22030 FORT BELVOIR BENEFITS OFFICE (703) 805-0177 9625 Middleton Rd., Building 1189, Rooms DH124 and DH125, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 FORT GREGG-ADAMS BENEFITS OFFICE (804) 766-3478 Soldier/Civilian Support Center 1401 Barfoot Ave., Building 3400, Room 102E and 120F, Fort Gregg-Adams, VA 23801 FREDERICKSBURG BENEFITS OFFICE 1 (540) 376-7298 10300 Spotsylvania Ave., Lee Hill Building 1, Suite 100, Fredericksburg, VA 22408 FREDERICKSBURG BENEFITS OFFICE 2 (540) 656-7092 10304 Spotsylvania Ave., Suite 100, Office 210, Fredericksburg, VA 22408 FRONT ROYAL BENEFITS OFFICE (540) 551-8909 1516 N Shenandoah Ave., Front Royal, VA 22630 HAMPTON BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 825-7893 2101 Executive Dr., Suite 420, Tower Box 48, Hampton, VA 23666 HAMPTON VAMC BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 722-9961 ext. 2940 100 Emancipation Dr., Building 43, Room 114, Hampton, VA 23667 HARRISONBURG JMU BENEFITS OFFICE (540) 332-8900 285 E. Grace St, Taylor Hall, Room 108, Harrisonburg, VA 22807

WILLIAMSBURG BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 209-0370 203 Ironbound Rd., Galt Complex, P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg, Virginia 23187-8795 WYTHEVILLE BENEFITS OFFICE (276) 228-5211 335 W. Monroe St., Suite 200, Wytheville, VA 24382

HENRICO BENEFITS OFFICE (804) 593-2782/(804) 952-6112

121 Cedar Fork Rd., Room 412, Henrico, VA 23223 JOINT BASE—LANGLEY-EUSTIS BENEFITS OFFICE (757) 878-0906 705 Washington Blvd., Suite 71, JBLE-Fort Eustis, VA 23604

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Employment and Transition Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program

U.S. Air Force Airmen study engine components during a UH-60 Helicopter Repairer course at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

Helping Transitioning Service Members and Families

The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program provides tailored support to military families, strategic partners and employers across the Commonwealth of Virginia to ensure that every veteran can reach their fullest potential. The V3 Program assesses, coordinates, and dis- seminates opportunities for members of the armed forces and their spouses transitioning from military to civilian life. This includes pathways to employment, career readiness, vocational training, education, and entrepreneurship. By providing peer-to-peer support through the transition process, V3 staff work alongside the transitioning service member, veteran, or spouse to make referrals that address their unique needs. The referral services may include, but are not limited to,

resume reviews, career coaching, mentorship, hands on training opportunities, access to credentialing pathways, and connection to Virginia Values Veterans (V3) certified companies for employment, and referrals to other applicable DVS programs. The V3 Transition team aims to reach the transitioning community as early and efficiently as possible by maintaining a presence on installations throughout Virginia. Our Regional Transition Coordinators present at Transition Assistance Program (TAP) classes, hold office hours, lead resume and employment workshops, attend job fairs, and set up informational tables at Fort Gregg-Adams, Fort Belvoir, Quantico, Joint Base Myer- Henderson Hall, Naval Station Norfolk, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, and Joint Base Little Creek-Fort Story.

For more information, e-mail us at v3transition@dvs.virginia.gov , call us at (844) 838-7838 (VDVS-VET) , or visit our website at dvsv3.com.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Helping Employers Hire, Train,, and Retain Veterans

Educate – Train – Connect The V3 Program provides education, training, access to resources and engagement opportunities for both military job seekers and the employers seeking to employ them. Employers learn national best practices and proven imple- mentation skills to recruit, hire, train and retain veterans/ spouses. Supportive resources also include setting a veteran hiring goal, improving organizational military cultural compe- tency and developing plans to meet organizational career and workforce development objectives. Employers have committed to hiring transitioning service members, veterans and their families. Companies that complete all training requirements are recognized as official “V3-Certified Companies,” and are awarded a certificate from the Governor of Virginia. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services is fully invested in this initiative, with firm confidence that hiring veterans is not just the right thing to do— it’s also a smart business decision. Understanding veterans and hiring them will enhance organizational productivity and efficiency. 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 employers that value your service and potential contributions to their company, visit dvsv3.com/job-seekers 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 dvsv3.com/v3grant .

Virginia has a unique opportunity to help veterans gain career employment. Our Commonwealth is home to one of the youngest veteran populations in the United States and the fastest growing veteran labor force. Thousands of new veterans enter Virginia’s workforce each year, and that number is projected to rise in the coming years. While many employers remain unaware of the value veterans can bring to their workforce, thousands more are eager to hire veterans but lack the knowledge or resources to do so. The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program bridges this gap by assisting job seekers in identifying, applying for, and starting their next career. To identify, apply and start their next job. In addition, V3 supports employers by developing and implementing effective, long-term strategies to recruit, hire, and retain Virginia veterans. Hiring veterans is not only the right thing to do—it is also a smart business decision. Today’s service members and veterans acquire extensive knowledge and abilities in our modern military, making them a uniquely valuable talent pool for companies seeking to enhance organizational performance and achieve growth. In Virginia, veterans play an integral role in filling in-demand jobs and driving positive economic growth. The V3 Program provides employers with critical connections to a highly skilled, well-educated, and easily trained leadership workforce. Veterans bring experience in a wide range of fields, including:

• Education • Healthcare

• Skilled Trades • Manufacturing • Logistics/Transportation • STEM/STEAM • Information Technology/Cybersecurity

For more information, e-mail us at v3@dvs.virginia.gov , call us at (844) 838-7838 (VDVS-VET), or visit our website at dvs.virginia.gov under Employment and Transition.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia SkillBridge Program

The Virginia SkillBridge Program provides transitioning service members the opportunity to participate in a Department of Defense-approved SkillBridge Program. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services offers internship opportunities to eligible applicants, with command approval, and within six months before separation in a host of competitive fields. The Virginia SkillBridge Program provides transitioning service members an opportunity to experience civilian employment, while they are still on active duty.

Sailors perform aircraft maintenance aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt.

Hiring Preference in State Government

The Commonwealth also extends this hiring preference to active members of the Virginia National Guard, as well as to the surviving spouse and dependents of service members killed in action. Furthermore, veterans who are disabled, who served on active duty in the Armed Forces during specified time periods, or who participated in military campaigns are entitled to preference over others in hiring for nearly all federal government jobs.

The Commonwealth of Virginia and its localities give preference to honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces in its employment hiring policies and practices, provided the veteran meets all knowledge, skills, and eligibility requirements for the position. Additional consideration is also given to veterans who have a service-connected disability rating fixed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

For more details visit, jobs.virginia.gov/veterans-hiring-resources , dol.gov/agencies/vets/programs/vetspref , fedshirevets.gov , or contact DVS Human Resources at recruitment@dvs.virginia.gov .

Guardians Spc. 4 Roberto Santiago-Irizarry and 2nd Lt. Yoon Jung Lee, both with the 18th Space Defense Squadron, provide conjunction analysis and potential collision notifications to NASA—National Aeronautics and Space Administration & other satellite owner-operators.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia Women Veteran Program (VWVP)

The Virginia Women Veteran Program (VWVP) is a vital resource for Virginia’s women veterans, providing referrals and access to essential services related to education, transition, training, and employment. Guided by its foundational pillars— advocacy, empowerment, and supportive services through community partnerships—VWVP ensures that women veterans from all eras receive timely and personalized assistance. Advocacy lies at the heart of VWVP. The program partners with government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders to amplify the voices of Virginia’s women veterans, ensuring their needs are prioritized in policy decisions, funding discussions, and resource allocation. VWVP also empowers women veterans by offering engagement opportunities for recognition, networking, and access to services. Each year, VWVP organizes the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Women Veterans Week Celebration. Other notable activities include the Women Veterans Pinning Ceremony, legislative roundtables, social events, learning opportunities, and community activities throughout Virginia. These events are designed to equip women veterans with the knowledge and resources they need for a smooth transition in life and to enhance their overall wellness. Community engagement further strengthens VWVP’s im- pact by building a network of community partners across the Commonwealth. The program connects women veterans with essential organizations that provide training, employment assistance, peer support, and access to health and wellness services, including healthcare and mental health resources. These specialized services assist women veterans in navigating life, empowering them with the tools they need to thrive.

Lt. Cmdr. Maria Relayo, inspects ammunition.

Maj. Grace Lee, is pinned her Expert Soldier Badge (ESB) by her spouse, on April 26th, 2024, at Camp Humphreys, South Korea.

Aviation Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Haley Cox, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, troubleshoots a circuit card assembly.

For more details and resources visit: dvs.virginia.gov/benefits-services/women-veteran-support , or email womenvet@dvs.virginia.gov .

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Education Using GI Bill® Benefits in Virginia The State Approving Agency of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services has approved more than 900 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. Virginia Veterans Resource Guide

To see the current list of GI Bill® approved programs visit: dvs.virginia.gov/benefits-services/education/state-approving-agency-gi-bill.

* GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at benefits.va.gov/gibill.

as well as their spouses. MEWI also provides pathways to training, certifications and technology credentials to increase marketability and preparation of service members, veterans, and their families. Using GI Bill ® Benefits in Virginia The State Approving Agency of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services has approved more than 90 training programs where veterans may utilize their GI Bill® benefits. From apprenticeships to community universities, Virginia offers an array of technical and academic choices. To see the current list of GI Bill ® approved programs visit: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/benefits-services/education/state-approving-a * GI Bill ® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits off official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI)

The Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI) assists veterans and service members with their transition from active duty to civilian life. MEWI supports employers by enhancing employment opportunities for Virginians who have served in the United States military,

Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI The Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI) assists veterans and service members with the active duty to civilian life. MEWI supports employers by enhancing employment opportunities for Virgin in the United States military, and their spouses. MEWI also provides pathways to training, certifications credentials to increase marketability and preparation of service members, veterans, and their families. Military Education & Workforce Initiative Virginia Department of Veterans Services

Blue Ridge Community College veteran students receive laptops through the Virginia Veteran Laptop Project tour.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP)

The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Programs (VMSDEP) is a Commonwealth of Virginia program that provides education benefits to spouses and children of military service members killed, missing in action, taken prisoner, or who became

totally and permanently disabled or at least 90 percent permanently disabled as a result of military service. Military service includes service in the United States Armed Forces, United States Armed Forces Reserves, or the Virginia National Guard.

To learn more visit dvs.virginia.gov or call (804) 225-2083.

Virginia families who have benefited from the VMSDEP program.

Credits2Careers ( credits2careers.org ) is a free academic and career portal, designed specifically for prospective military and veteran students. The portal presents multiple academic pathways for veterans based on their military experience and allows them to see potential prior credit awards before applying to a Virginia Community College System (VCCS) school. The portal also provides an opportunity to explore career paths and resources related to the certifications that will be important for a particular career.

Virginia Veterans Resource Guide

H H

YOUR RIGHTS UNDER USERRA THE UNIFORMED SERVICES EMPLOYMENT AND REEMPLOYMENT RIGHTS ACT

USERRA protects the job rights of individuals who voluntarily or involuntarily leave employment positions to undertake military service or certain types of service in the National Disaster Medical System. USERRA also prohibits employers from discriminating against past and present members of the uniformed services, and applicants to the uniformed services. REEMPLOYMENT RIGHTS You have the right to be reemployed in your civilian job if you leave that job to perform service in the uniformed service and:

✩✩ The U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS) is authorized to investigate and resolve complaints of USERRA violations. ✩✩ For assistance in filing a complaint, or for any other information on USERRA, contact VETS at 1-866-4-USA-DOL or visit its website at http://www.dol.gov/vets . An interactive online USERRA Advisor can be viewed at http://www.dol.gov/elaws/userra.htm . ✩✩ If you file a complaint with VETS and VETS is unable to resolve it, you may request that your case be referred to the Department of Justice or the Office of Special Counsel, as applicable, for representation. ✩✩ You may also bypass the VETS process and bring a civil action against an employer for violations of USERRA. HEALTH INSURANCE PROTECTION ✩✩ If you leave your job to perform military service, you have the right to elect to continue your existing employer-based health plan coverage for you and your dependents for up to 24 months while in the military. ✩✩ Even if you don’t elect to continue coverage during your military service, you have the right to be reinstated in your employer’s health plan when you are reemployed, generally without any waiting periods or exclusions (e.g., pre-existing condition exclusions) except for service-connected illnesses or injuries. ENFORCEMENT

✩✩ you ensure that your employer receives advance written or verbal notice of your service; ✩✩ you have five years or less of cumulative service in the uniformed services while with that particular employer; ✩✩ you return to work or apply for reemployment in a timely manner after conclusion of service; and ✩✩ you have not been separated from service with a disqualifying discharge or under other than honorable conditions. If you are eligible to be reemployed, you must be restored to the job and benefits you would have attained if you had not been absent due to military service or, in some cases, a comparable job. RIGHT TO BE FREE FROM DISCRIMINATION AND RETALIATION If you: ✩✩ are a past or present member of the uniformed service; ✩✩ have applied for membership in the uniformed service; or ✩✩ are obligated to serve in the uniformed service; then an employer may not deny you: ✩✩ initial employment; ✩✩ reemployment; ✩✩ retention in employment; ✩✩ promotion; or ✩✩ any benefit of employment because of this status. In addition, an employer may not retaliate against anyone assisting in the enforcement of USERRA rights, including testifying or making a statement in connection with a proceeding under USERRA, even if that person has no service connection.

The rights listed here may vary depending on the circumstances. The text of this notice was prepared by VETS, and may be viewed on the internet at this address: http://www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/poster.htm . Federal law requires employers to notify employees of their rights under USERRA, and employers may meet this requirement by displaying the text of this notice where they customarily place notices for employees.

1-800-336-4590 Publication Date — April 2017

U.S. Department of Labor 1-866-487-2365

U.S. Department of Justice

Office of Special Counsel

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Meeting Veterans Legal Needs Virginia Veteran and Family Support, Justice Involved Services

CONFIDENTIAL SERVICES OFFERED • Pre-release Comprehensive Needs Assessments • 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

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 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

• 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 justice.vvfs@dvs.virginia.gov , or call (804) 225-4734.

Veterans Assistance and Resources Offered by the Office of the Attorney General Virginia’s Office of the Attorney General (OAG) offers the Virginia Military and Veteran Legal Resource Guide, a valuable tool to help Virginia service members, military families, and veterans understand their unique legal protections, rights, and resources available to them under the law. The guide is available at dvs.virginia.gov . 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.”

Virginia Army National Guard Soldier participates in retention flights aboard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters at Fort Barfoot, Virginia.

Contact Info: Attorney General’s Office 202 North 9th St., Richmond, Virginia 23219 | (804) 786-2071 To learn more about this veteran friendly initiative visit oag.state.va.us/citizen-resources/veterans-assistance-resources .

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Veterans Benefits Clinic, The College of William & Mary

The Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Veterans 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 (M-VETS), George Mason University

The law students participating in the Mason Veterans and Servicemembers Legal Clinic (M-VETS) 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 Dr., 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 vba.org.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia Veteran and Family Support

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 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. VVFS also has a new subprogram known as the Suicide Prevention and Opioid Addiction Services (SOS) Program. SOS aims to enhance understanding of suicide prevention and opioid addiction among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) and build community support capacity to ensure the RIGHT HELP is widely available RIGHT NOW to military-connected citizens and families. The SOS team has developed a Community Grant Program to enhance outreach and direct services for SMVF. 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 and Virginia’s Community Services Boards.

Lt.j.g. Latina Perry, assigned to the USS Tortuga (LSD 46), is promoted to Lieutenant in a ceremony aboard the USS Wisconsin (BB 64).

A Sailor hugs his children during the completion of the ship’s homeport shift from Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk, Va., to NAVSTA Rota, Spain.

To learn more visit dvs.virginia.gov or call our toll free number (844) 838-7838. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line 9-8-8 (press 1) or text 838255.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Veteran Housing and Homeless Services

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)

Peer Support Program Services

The Virginia Department of Veteran Services (DVS) Virginia Veteran and Family Support (VVFS) Veteran Peer Support Program (VPS) assists veterans with identifying their own personal health and wellness goals by pairing them with peer support staff who, through their own lived experiences, identify as military service members or veterans and have relatable behavioral health and life experiences. • Peer Support Staff are trained to Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.

(DBHDS) Standards and receive continual training on suicide prevention, and communication skills. • Staff share their unique military and behavioral health experiences to increase bonding with clients. • Program allows veterans to progress at their own pace toward recovery and wellness. • Program staff maintain a peer or non-hierarchical relationship with other service members or veterans. • Program staff provide resources and care coordination support.

If you are a service member/veteran or want to refer someone, please visit dvs.virginia.gov or call our toll free number (844) 838-7838. For more information on the program, please call the Peer Services Director at (540) 840-3003.

Peer Support Groups (Virtual and In-person)

• Virtual and in-person peer support groups. • Group exclusively for female service members and veterans. • Groups are facilitated by former military service members who identify with and can relate to behavioral health challenges. • Non-clinical. • Discussions are tailored to groups needs. • Resources are provided by facilitator and fellow participants.

Virginia Department of Veteran Services (DVS) Veteran Peer Support Program (VPS) offers both virtual and in- person groups where service members and veterans are invited to dialogue with others who have similar military experiences. Groups are facilitated by like-minded veterans who have experiences in the military and can relate to behavioral health challenges.

If you are a service member/veteran or know of a service member/veteran who could benefit from participation in a peer support group, please visit dvs.virginia.gov or call our toll free number (844) 838-7838. For more information on the program, please call the Peer Services Director at (540) 840-3003.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia Veterans Care Centers

Care Centers/Long Term Care

DAVIS & MCDANIEL VETERANS CARE CENTER, ROANOKE

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.

JONES & CABACOY VETERANS CARE CENTER, VIRGINIA BEACH

Davis & McDaniel Veterans Care Center 4550 Shenandoah Avenue Roanoke, Virginia 24017 (540) 982-2860

Jones & Cabacoy Veterans Care Center 2641 Nimmo Parkway Virginia Beach, Virginia 23456 (757) 263-3100

SITTER & BARFOOT VETERANS CARE CENTER, RICHMOND

Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center 1601 Broad Rock Blvd. Richmond, Virginia 23224 (804) 371-8000

Virginia is building an additional long term veteran care center located in Fauquier County opening in 2025.

To learn more visit dvs.virginia.gov/healthcare/veteran-skilled-nursing-facilities-state-veterans-homes.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Cemetery Benefits Virginia Department of Veterans Services Cemeteries The Virginia Department of Veterans Services’ three veterans’ cemeteries provide final resting places for our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen in settings of honor, dignity, respect, and remembrance. Spouses may be interred in the same gravesite as the veteran at no cost; eligible dependent children may be interred in the same gravesite as the veteran for no fee. The grave space, columbarium niche, headstone/ marker, and vault or crypt are provided free of charge. This benefit also includes the use a facility for the committal service, military funeral honors, and perpetual care of the gravesite. These National Shrine-standard cemeteries are located in Amelia, Suffolk, and Dublin. Each cemetery can 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 855-4VA-VETS

Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery (Suffolk)

5310 Milners Road, Suffolk, VA 23434 855-4VA-VETS

Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery (Dublin) 5550 Bagging Plant Road Dublin, VA 24084 855-4VA-VETS

Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia, VA.

To learn more visit dvs.virginia.gov/veteran-cemeteries/state-veteran-cemeteries.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Other State Services Driver’s License—Veteran Indicator 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 show your veteran status at retailers and restaurants that offer discounts to veterans.

Learn more at dmv.virginia.gov/military and click on “add a veteran indicator to your drivers license or ID card.”

Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for the veteran indicator, you must: • Be a Virginia resident. • Apply for or currently hold an unexpired Virginia commercial driver’s license, driver’s license, learner’s permit, or DMV-issued ID card. • Have served either (1) in the active U. S. Armed Forces or (2) for more than 180 days in the Virginia National Guard or U. S. Reserves. • Have received an honorable discharge. • Present a photocopy of a veteran service proof document or combination of documents that provide branch of service, discharge date, and discharge status (e.g. DD 214, DD 256, WD AGO, or NGB 22). Alternatively, you may present your U.S. Military Retiree ID Card (DD Form 2) and a completed Virginia Veteran Military Service Certification application (DL 11). • Consent for the information on your application and any subsequent address changes you make to be shared with DVS. Virginia offers more than 50 unique license plates that represent various branches of military service and veteran designations. Visit dmvNow.com to learn more. For more information on eligibility, please refer to § 46.2- 328.2 of the Code of Virginia.

Cost There is no fee for the veteran indicator. However, you must pay the standard fee for an original or replacement credential that will display the veteran indicator. Applying for a Veteran Indicator When applying for a veteran indicator, make sure that the DMV has your current address on your record. • You may apply for a veteran indicator online, by mail, by fax, or in person at a DMV customer service center. • If you apply online, you must submit the required veteran status proof document(s) to DMV within 45 days of submitting your online application. These documents can be submitted to DMV online, by mail, fax, or in person at a DMV customer service center. • If you are applying by mail, fax, or in person, you must complete a Virginia Veteran Military Service Certification (form DL-11) and provide a copy of your veteran service proof document(s).

Mail to: Driver Support Work Center, Room 419, P. O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269-0001 Visit a DMV customer service center dmv.virginia.gov/DMVLocator Fax (804) 367-1112

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Virginia Women Veteran License Plate

DVS is pleased to announce that Virginia’s first Women Veteran License Plate is now available to order on the Department of Motor Vehicles website. We extend thanks to all the women veterans who contributed to the design process.

Questions? Contact Kay Currie at Kay.Currie@dvs.virginia.gov.

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 dmv.virginia.gov/military.

Disabled Veteran and Surviving Spouse Real Estate Tax Exemptions

Veterans who are 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. The surviving spouse of an eligible veteran who was receiving the tax exemption may continue to receive the real estate tax exemption. However, the spouse will lose

the exemption if he or she remarries or does not occupy the property as his or her primary residence.

Exemption Eligibility for the Surviving Spouse of a member of the U.S. armed forces who was killed in action The surviving spouse of any member of the U.S. Armed Forces who was killed in action, as determined by the U.S. Department of Defense, and who occupies the real property as their principal place of residence, is exempt from paying real estate taxes. For purposes of this exemption, the determination of “killed in action” includes a determination by the U.S. Department of Defense of “died of wounds received in action.”

To learn more about these exemptions, contact the Commissioner of the Revenue for your locality. Contact information may be found at vacomrev.com/who-we-are/districts-localities.

VIRGINIA VETERANS RESOURCE GUIDE 2025

Veteran Hunting & Fishing Licenses

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) offers a number of discounted licenses for disabled

military personnel and veterans. Applications are available at any DWR field office or online.

For more information visit dwr.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 for small businesses 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 sbsd.virginia.gov or call (804) 786-6585.

Extended State Tax Exemptions for Military Retirees Virginia’s veterans will now have an expanded state tax benefit, effective January 1, 2024, with the removal of age restrictions for state tax-exemptions for military retirement pay.

VCU RTR Teacher Residency Partnership

Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Education’s RTR Teacher Residency Program began a new partnership under the Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI) to promote RTR to veterans, spouses, and their adult dependents. RTR Teacher Residency recruits, trains, and supports passionate, future teachers (residents) for hard-to-staff schools. Residents learn side- by-side with top district teachers (mentors) for an entire year while completing an undergraduate or graduate program at VCU. Successful residents receive a stipend and reduced tuition. Those interested in becoming a resident teacher or learning more about the program should visit teachrtr.org.

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