Category: Veteran Services & Advocacy
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A Veteran’s Guide to Overlooked VA & State Benefits By Barbara M. SotoVeteran Service Representative & PR Professional When most veterans think about benefits, the same few come to mind: disability compensation, the GI Bill, and VA health care. But after years of working directly with veterans—and being one myself—I’ve learned something important: Some of…
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Many veterans support aging parents but don’t realize the VA may recognize that responsibility through additional monthly compensation. One of the biggest concerns I hear as a Veteran Service Representative is: “Will my parent lose Social Security if I claim them with the VA?” The short answer is no — and below I’ll explain exactly…
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Change is inevitable—but leadership determines how we navigate it. For many veterans, deployment represents one of the most intense periods of change imaginable: unknown environments, shifting missions, high stakes, and constant uncertainty. While the setting may shift after service, the leadership lessons learned during deployment remain powerful tools for navigating life, careers, relationships, and community…
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Situational awareness is often associated with military operations, aviation, or emergency response—but its true power lies in how it shapes everyday decision-making. At its core, situational awareness is the ability to perceive what’s happening, understand what it means, and anticipate what comes next. When applied intentionally, it becomes a quiet but formidable strategic advantage. 1.…
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When we talk about “transitioning out of the military,” most people picture active-duty service members preparing for civilian life after years of full-time service. But for National Guard and Reserve veterans, the transition experience is unique—and often far more complex. Balancing civilian careers, families, deployments, drill schedules, and sudden activations creates a lifestyle that doesn’t…
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By Barbara M. Soto — Veteran Service Representative & PR Professional Women have served, led, and sacrificed across every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Yet, long after the uniform comes off, many women veterans still face challenges that look different from those experienced by their male counterparts. This blog shines a light on those…
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Los veteranos enfrentan una variedad de desafíos al hacer la transición a la vida civil y a lo largo de sus años posteriores al servicio. A continuación se presentan 10 problemas clave que suelen encontrar, junto con posibles soluciones para cada uno: 1. Problemas de salud mental (PTSD, ansiedad, depresión) Problema: Muchos veteranos experimentan trastorno…
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Transitioning from military to civilian life brings new opportunities—but it also brings new financial responsibilities. Whether you’re navigating a new job, adjusting to changes in income, or planning long-term goals, financial wellness is essential to building stability after service. Here’s a short, practical guide to help veterans take control of their financial future. 1. Reassess…
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Transitioning from military life into the civilian world is often framed around one central theme: benefits. VA claims. Education programs. Home loans. Healthcare.And while these resources are essential, focusing only on benefits can unintentionally shrink the bigger story of what success truly looks like for today’s veterans. Modern veterans are more than their service history…
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Virginia’s women veterans are a powerful force—leaders, caregivers, warriors, and community builders. And now, there’s someone dedicated to making sure your voices, needs, and experiences are seen and supported. Meet Nikki, the new Women Veterans Liaison at the Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS). She brings a genuine passion for advocacy and a commitment to…