A simple reflection exercise to help Veterans and caregivers reclaim time for themselves When it comes to self care, how much time do you set aside for yourself each day? If your honest answer is “barely any,” you’re not alone. It’s always easy to feel like you’re losing track of time—and yourself. We find that…
Five organizations with Veterans wellness at the heart of their mission
Editor’s note: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering. Veteran‑led and community based organizations nationwide are stepping up to strengthen the connections that support Veterans’ well‑being. These groups provide peer support, reduce social…
A second chance in the courtroom: Veteran found healing
Paying it forward: One Veteran’s healing journey through treatment court Once people find themselves in a courtroom with a judge, they typically never want to return. That was not the case for Army Veteran Jimmy Wigington, where the courtroom became a place of hope, not judgment. It became a place where he received a second…
Because they served: VA volunteers honored for community impact
VA Volunteers honored for dedication to Veterans, caregivers and survivors Volunteers are the heartbeat of care at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center, and their dedication was recently recognized on WDTV as part of the area’s new Hometown Heart Award initiative. Sponsored by Antero Resources and WDTV 5 News, this award shines a spotlight…
The recruiter advantage: Landing your first clinical role at VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the nation’s largest healthcare system, employing more than 371,000 health care professionals and support staff at 1,380 healthcare facilities. To find the best candidates in the industry and to manage a large volume of applications, VA works with hundreds of recruiters around the country. Our specialty recruiter teams provide personalized support…
Finding her rhythm: How music therapy helped Veteran heal from PTSD
The sound of healing from PTSD When post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) made everyday life feel overwhelming, Sgt. RaMonica Felton found an unexpected source of healing: music. The racing heart, emotional outbursts and stress that once defined her days have been replaced by something much different. Today, a familiar song helps her slow down, breathe and…
Plan your future with VA’s Know Before You Go Workbook
Before you transition out of the military, it’s hard to understand how the process will play out. And when it comes to VA benefits, care and services, it all feels so… complex. That’s why VA designed a clear and concise guide to your future benefits: VA’s Know Before You Go Workbook. The Know Before You…
Tomah VA fishing tournament brings together Veterans and community
A story of community, camaraderie and celebration The Tomah VA recently welcomed dozens of Community Living Center and Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program Veterans to its Annual Fishing Tournament, which highlights the Medical Center’s dedication to enriching the patient experience and helping inpatient Veterans reconnect with hobbies they love. Tomah VA extends deep gratitude to its valued partners at the Genoa…
Florence Standish: The nurse who helped build VA Care in Asheville
How her leadership during World War I helped lay the foundation for modern VA nursing practice Long before today’s modern Veterans Health Administration, nurses formed the backbone of military and Veterans healthcare. Among them was Florence Standish, the first Chief Nurse at Army Hospital No. 19 in Oteen, North Carolina, the facility that would later become…
Puppies with a purpose visit VA’s Central Office
Recently, the halls of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Central Office in Washington, D.C., welcomed some very special visitors: six-week-old puppies from Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). VA employees gathered for smiles, cuddles and a chance to meet the pups. VA leaders, including Deputy Secretary Paul Lawrence and Chief Veterans Experience Officer Lynda Davis, also…
Intermediate Care Technicians continue to serve at VA
Through the SCOUTS (Supporting Community, Outpatient, Urgent Care, and Telehealth Services) program, Intermediate Care Technicians (ICTs) at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) help ensure Veteran care never stops, even between appointments. Air Force Veteran and ICT Randy Snider knew that he wanted to provide hands-on care to his fellow Veterans, and now as a SCOUTS ICT, he can…
Scammers are getting smarter. Here is how Veterans can stay ahead.
Scammers know many Veterans rely on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for services and support, and they try to take advantage of that trust. Whether it’s a fake email, a cloned voice or a look-alike website, the goal is the same: to steal your personal information, your money or your benefits. You don’t need…