Charles “Little Eagle” Reyes, Army Vietnam Veteran, shared facts about his family lineage during American Indian Heritage month in November. His father is a member of the Kiowa Nation and his mother is a member of the Cheyenne Nation from the Twin River Reservation. Vet Center’s Tim Prendergast and Charles “Little Eagle” Reyes at a…
Lifesaving housing programs put Veteran on the path to a permanent home
Jay Walker joined the military to outrun drug dealers and a broken heart. While that may sound like the start of a compelling novel, it’s the true story of Walker’s life. He never suspected that the benefits he received through this decision would be lifesaving, helping him overcome homelessness, health issues and a substance use…
Finding the right words: How keywords can impact your resume
For hiring managers and recruiters, keywords outline the necessary skills and experience they’re looking for in candidates. These are the specific responsibilities, qualifications and expectations associated with a particular role. When the hiring manager or recruiter begins reviewing applicants, they’re going to be looking for those keywords. Using keywords will make sure your resume meets…
VA raises the bar on care for Women Veterans
The Barriers for Women Veterans to VA Health Care 2024 report examines the input of over 7,000 women Veterans and shows that women are happier with VA health care than ever before. This comprehensive study provides crucial insights into your experiences, and it highlights both our successes and areas where we can do better. Key…
Have your say: Proposed changes to VA Caregiver Support Program
VA values the contributions of caregivers and Veterans in our community. We’ve recently published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register, proposing updates to expand access to the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC). Please note that these changes are not yet in effect, and your feedback is important in shaping…
Stay safe this December: Prevent impaired driving and save lives
December is one of the most festive months of the year with celebrations and holidays bringing joy to many. However, it is also one of the deadliest times on the roads due to impaired driving. This December, VA is observing National Impaired Driving Prevention Month by highlighting the dangers of impaired driving and promoting safe…
VA honors Native American Veterans’ service with Native American Direct Loan program
Vietnam Veteran David Chee a is among the many Native American Veterans and service members who have dedicated their lives to military service. Chee proudly served with the Army’s 82nd Airborne, parachuting into the jungles of Vietnam. Chee now owns a home he purchased on Navajo tribal lands with the help of the VA Native American Direct…
Air Force Veteran on living with MS
I had been in the Air Force for a little under four years. Never in my wildest dreams would I have predicted that I would be receiving the news that I had Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but that is exactly what happened. My initial MS symptom was mild. I had a little weakness on one side,…
Find your way to a VA career as a medical support assistant
Medical support assistants are responsible for screening and greeting Veterans, as well as interviewing them in preparation for their appointments. They also answer phones, relay messages to the clinical staff, and schedule both initial and follow-up appointments (or reschedule, as the need arises). “I attend [to] Veterans. I help them with their appointments. I help…
Nutrition supports a strong immune system
Cold and flu season is here. Many people want to support their immune system to help protect themselves from illness. The immune system fights off germs, like bacteria and viruses, that can make you sick. A balanced diet supports your immune system to help keep you healthy, but it doesn’t completely prevent illness. There are…
Live Whole Health Episode #250: Finding joy and comfort in gratitude
For many, the holidays are filled with joy and connection, but for others, they can stir feelings of loss or loneliness. The absence of loved ones or familiar traditions can make the season bittersweet, leaving some longing for comfort. It’s in challenging times that gratitude shines the brightest. It’s not about denying grief—it’s about finding…
Veterans Integrated Wheelchair Cleaning Kiosk (VICK)
At Richmond VA, the Office of Advanced Manufacturing (OAM) is turning challenges into practical solutions for Veterans. Brian Burkhardt, OAM site lead, and Seth Hills, clinical rehabilitation engineer, have been pivotal in the development of the Veteran Integrated Chair Kiosk (VICK). This innovative wheelchair-cleaning device aims to enhance Veterans’ experiences at VA hospitals by ensuring…