Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA)

I just became a new member of an organization called Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, or IAVA. Their organization is dedicated to helping OEF/OIF veterans network in a variety of ways. They provide links for employment, social networking exclusive to veterans, as well as providing general information on veteran benefits.

IAVA members pose with Miller High Life sponsors

They also help take action to help veterans. Recently I received an email from the IAVA community that held a link to a letter to congress. It was a petition to persuade congress to allow National Guard soldiers cleaning up after BP in the Gulf to count their time towards their GI Bill benefits. Due to a bureaucratic loophole, the Guardsmen and women currently do not receive active duty time for what they are doing in the Gulf, despite the fact that they are working around the clock to clean up the oil spill. Thanks in part to IAVA, congress is becoming aware that this is unacceptable. I was happy to join their efforts to change this policy by signing their petition, and I hope that the change is made quickly.

OEF/OIF veterans can go to IAVA's website and find all kinds of useful information. They update information on veteran employment rates, veteran suicide rates, changes in federal legislation (most recently the Obama administration changes in the PTSD rating system and caregiver benefits), legal benefits, financial assistance, and much more.

IAVA volunteer embraces an amputee at Dodger Stadium

They also have a fun side. Through the IAVA "rucksack" http://rucksack.iava.org, veterans can take advantage of many other benefits. IAVA has taken groups of veterans to sporting events free of charge. In California, veterans took the field at Dodgers Stadium, and had the opportunity to take pictures with legends such as Tommy Lasorda, all free of charge. Veterans have attended games at Dodger Stadium, PETCO park in San Diego (Home of the San Diego Padres), and also attended a Washington Nationals game, free of charge. Currently, veterans can sign up to attend a Packers Game in Green Bay, Wisconsin, an MLB game in Phoenix, an Alaskan fishing trip, and several other sporting events through the rucksack. Feel free to check the IAVA rucksack for events in your area.

IAVA game attendees meet baseball legend Tommy Lasorda

Any veteran of the OEF/OIF conflict can access the IAVA membership site atwww.iava.org. You will need to scan a copy of your DD-214 with your character of discharge, as well as a photo ID card such as a state drivers license. It takes IAVA about 48-72 hours to verify your eligibility. Afterwards, you may set up your social site to connect with other veterans, and access the rucksack. Not a veteran? That's OK. IAVA accepts support from the general public as well. If you are not affiliated with the military, you can still volunteer if you have a passion for helping veterans. Most importantly for our civilian supporters is your chance to get involved and show your support, and it is always appreciated.

Originally posted on PTSDdiary.com 7/26/10