November 2017 Newsletter

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November 2017 Newsletter


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Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs

One Judiciary Square           
441 4th Street, NW
Suite 870 North
Washington, D.C., 20004
202.724-5454

www.ova.dc.gov


Thank you for signing up to receive the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs monthly newsletter! 

Please add dcdocs@dc.gov to your address book, email safe senders list, or contact list to ensure that our emails reach you!



Veteran Crisis Line - phone

Veteran Crisis Line - Chat

Crisis line text

Women Vet Call Center

Women Vet Chat

CRRC

Click here for more information about the Washington D.C. VA Community Resource and Referral Center. 


DCVAMC

Click here for more information about the Washington D.C. VA Medical Center.


Veterans Day Event 2017 

vets day

On Saturday November 11, 2017 please join The Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs, The Mission Continues, The Travis Manion Foundation, Serve DC, Safer Stronger DC, MPD, and tons of our hard-charging supporters this Veterans Day as we work to revitalize the Langston Terrace Community. We will be kicking off the day promptly at 9:30am and wrapping up our service project with a community cookout and live music. 

COME OUT AND MAKE AN IMPACT IN YOUR COMMUNITY ON VETERANS DAY! 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER


In Case You Missed It

LGBTQ Veterans Roundtable 

LGBTQ Vets

On Wednesday October 18, 2017 MOVA hosted its first LGBTQ Veterans Roundtable.  We were joined by representatives from The American Legion, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, OutServe-SLDN, Capital Pride, Easter Seals, the Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs, and several members of the D.C. veteran community.  Thanks to all of our great community partners for joining us and sharing their thoughts and ideas for creating a stronger D.C. Veteran Community.  Standby for additional events and programs!  If you have ideas, swing by our office or give us a call.


Veterans Round Table

roundtable 2

On Wednesday, October 25, 2017 MOVA hosted its bi-weekly Veteran Round Table.  This discussions have become a cornerstone of our community engagement and they offer an opportunity for D.C. Veterans to have a voice in the programs and initiatives this office undertakes.  Our discussions at this round table included Veterans Treatment Courts, employment, and helping incarcerated veterans.  If you have ideas, or are looking for ways to support the veteran community - come out and join us!  All are welcome.  


MAYOR’S 10TH ANNUAL DISABILITY AWARENESS EXPO

Expo

On October 26, 2017, MOVA joined the Mayor's 10th Annual Disability Awareness Expo.  It was an excellent opportunity to meet with veterans and other service providers to discuss VA disability benefits.  Moreover, the event advanced the conversation on equal opportunities and inclusive environments for people with disabilities, including veterans. 

If you want more information on equal opportunities for those with disability or for services you can reach out to the District Department of Disability Services or the Office of Disability Rights.  


Veteran Resource of the Month

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals

clinic

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Easterseals provides high-quality, accessible, and integrated behavioral health care to veterans and their families or caregivers. Our no or low-cost services are available to any person who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, regardless of role or discharge status.

The Cohen Clinic uses evidence-based practices with a holistic approach to improve the quality of life for veterans and their families. Services are provided by trained and credentialed staff. Veterans and their family members are able to receive services individually and as a family unit at the same place with the same treatment team.

The Cohen Clinic will also help connect veteran families to community resources and services, as necessary.

Schedule An Appointment:

Cohen Clinic Contact Information:
1420 Spring St, Suite 300
Silver Spring, MD 20910 - Map
Phone: (240) 847-7500
info.mfc@eseal.org


From The Mayor

MMB

Letter from the Mayor

Dear Washingtonians,

My Administration is committed to building a safer, stronger DC. During our first two years in office, total crime in the District fell by nine percent, and this year, violent crime is down 24 percent. While we celebrate this progress, we also recognize that there is more work to be done and that it will not all be accomplished solely through law enforcement. 

Washington, DC has the most dedicated and talented police force in the country, and we continue to create new programs and initiatives that will help us recruit and retain high-quality officers to serve our community. But building a safer, stronger, and healthier city requires the entire community's support.

This week, in addition to announcing new technology that residents can use to better help each other during cardiac emergencies, I was proud to celebrate the opening of our new Safer Stronger DC Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement. Through this new office, we are taking a public health approach to violence prevention. By collaborating across multiple agencies, the Safer Stronger DC Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement will remove barriers to opportunity, directly engage some of our hardest to reach and most at-risk residents, and de-escalate feuds before they turn violent.

By working together, we will continue connecting more Washingtonians to the services they need to thrive. Thank you for supporting this important work. 

Sincerely, 

MMB

Register Today: Mayor Bowser's Women's Leadership Conference

women conference

On Saturday, November 4, Mayor Bowser and the DC Commission on Women will host their first annual Women’s Leadership Conference. In addition to a series of speakers, the event will feature a variety of breakout sessions on civic engagement and running for office. The goal of the conference is to empower more women to think creatively about how they can continue to #BeTheMovement in their communities.

Learn more about the breakout sessions and RSVP HERE.


Connect with your Mayor!

Mayor Muriel Bowser

John A. Wilson Building | 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW | Washington DC, 20004

(202) 727-2643

muriel.bowser@dc.gov | mayor.dc.gov | @mayorbowser


Featured Jobs, Fellowships, and Interships

MOTA

Mayor's Office of Talent and Appointments (MOTA) is seeking diverse and passionate individuals to work in DC Government. Candidates must submit their resume and any additional eligibility materials. Please click here for more information and how to apply.

Executive Service/Cabinet Positions

Internship


DOES

 

The D.C. Department of Employment Services is here to help veterans who need assistance finding employment.  Check out their veterans services page to learn more about the veteran employment services DOES offers.  Don't hesitate to reach out to them.


DCHR

The D.C. government is looking for a few good candidates.  Click here to find out more about the opportunities we have to offer.


Want Your Vacant Position Featured in the Newsletter?

Each month the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs compiles a list of vacant positions.  If your government agency or nonprofit organization in DC would like to promote employment, or internship opportunities for D.C. Veterans please send an email message to ova@dc.gov.


Upcoming Events

Humanitini: Veterans & Reintegrating with Civilian Life

Humanitini

The Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs is proud to partner with Humanities D.C. to host a veteran centered humanitini on Thursday, November 2!  Come out and join us for a lively panel discussion on ways our community can help veterans transition from military to civilian life.  

This Month: Veterans & Reintegrating with Civilian Life

The challenges of reintegrating veterans have been well-documented. Life as a military servicemember can be jarringly different than the life that awaits after discharge or retirement. But Washington, DC is filled with options for military veterans; representatives from the panel represent government agencies and organizations dedicated to easing the difficult transition to civilian life. This event will provide a platform for veterans and their loved ones to share their perspectives.

What is Humanitini?

Humanitini is an exciting happy hour event where Washington's movers, shakers, and creators come together to think and drink. It is a place for you to engage with your peers, meet your neighbors, and speak with experts about what makes our city a unique place to live and play.

Event Details 

When: Thursday, November 2, 2017 from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Where:  Old Engine 12 Restaurant, 3rd Floor Lounge, 1626 N. Capitol Street, NW  

SPACE IS LIMITED - CLICK HERE TO RSVP! 


Mayor's Veteran Advisory Board

advisory board

One Judiciary Square 
Tuesday, November 7, 2017, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
441 4th St. NW, Washington DC 20001
1114 South Conference Room

This meeting is open to the public.  Please come out and join us! 


DD-214 Upgrade Clinic for Veterans with an Other Than Honorable Discharge 

DD214

On Tuesday, Nov 7th MOVA will be hosting a DD-214 Upgrade Clinic at the DC Armory for initial screening of any Veteran with an Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharge. The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program will have three attorneys available from 10 am - 7 pm. 

Cases will be reviewed and put into processing with the ultimate goal of upgrading Veterans discharges to Honorable.

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT:  Call the Veteran Consortium Discharge Upgrade line at: 202-733-3324 or email upgrades@vetsprobono.org

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION


VA Disability Claims Assistance

Claims

Do you need help filing your VA Disability Claim?  If you answered yes - we have the help you need!  We will be hosting a Department Service Officer every week to assist D.C. Veterans obtain the benefits they have earned as a result of their service. 

Helpful Documents:

  • DD-214
  • Military medical records
  • Relevant private sector medical records 
  • Statements from family or friends supporting your claims

Time and Date:

10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 7

10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 14

10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 21

Scheduling:

You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 202-724-5454.  You can also walk-in on the days the counselor has office hours. Please note, however, appointments will be seen before walk-ins and space is limited. 


Discharge Upgrade Clinic 

NVLSP

In case you aren't eligible for our November 7 upgrade clinic - we have another great community resource for you!  On November 8, 2017 The National Veterans Legal Services Program will be hosting a DD-214 upgrade clinic. 

Event Details 

When: November 8, 2017 10AM - 2PM

Where: Law Firm Office of Morgan Lewis & Bockius, 1111 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington D.C. 20004 

 To Schedule An Appointment 

Call 202-265-8305 EXT. 152

Email INFO@NVLSP.ORG

Walk-ins welcome


UDC Veterans Day Celebration 

"Women Can Too"

UDC

On Thursday, November 9, 2017, join the University of the District of Columbia as they celebrate Veterans Day with a program dedicated to Empowering Women that Have Served in the United States Military.

Event Details 

When:  Thursday, November 9, 2017 at 10:00 am

Where:  UDC Student Center, 4200 Connecticut Ave., NW

For more information contact UDC's Director of Veterans Affairs, Ms. Sequoyah D. Adebayo at sequoyah.adebayo@udc.edu 


D.C. Vocational Rehabilitation For Disabled Veterans 

DDS

The District of Columbia Department of Disability Services has partnered with the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs to provide dedicated vocational rehabilitation assistance to our veteran community. This program and separate and apart from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' vocational rehabilitation program.  If you have been denied or are currently using the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' program, you may still be eligible for District assistance.  Come speak with one of our counselors! 

Time and Date:

9:00 am - 4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 14, 2017

9:00 am - 4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Scheduling:

You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at 202-724-5454.  You can also walk-in on the days the counselor has office hours. Please note, however, appointments will be seen before walk-ins and space is limited. 


DC Small Business Boot Camp

VBOC

Are you a DC resident? Are you a member of the military community (active duty, Veteran, National Guard or Reserves) or a military spouse? And are you thinking about starting, or have you recently started, a small business?

If you answered "yes" to all three questions - then the DC Small Business Boot Camp is for you!

Before you register your business, create a website, go after funding, sign a lease or hire employees, you need to determine if you business idea is feasible. This one day intensive workshop is designed to introduce prospective entrepreneurs to the fundamentals of small business start-up and to help you determine the feasibility of your business idea. We will focus on your business concept, industry and market analysis, small business economics and financial forecasting - and introduce you to the resources to help you start and grow your business.

This is an all day event on November 14, 2017.  

 SPACE IS LIMITED CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 


Mary’s Center Invites DC Veterans to Grand Opening of new Behavioral Health Center

mary's center

On Tuesday, November 14, 2017, Mary’s Center, a community health center in Washington, DC, will celebrate the grand opening and expansion of its Behavioral Health Services in Adams Morgan, with a special recognition for our local veterans in honor of Veterans Day.

 All DC veterans and their families are invited to enjoy the festivities and learn about these featured services:

•  Health for Heroes, offering physical and mental health services including PTSD counseling, suicide prevention counseling, and family support services to active duty military personnel and veterans in the community

•  Medication Assisted Treatment for heroin-opioid abuse provided in an individual or group setting

•  Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based treatment for children aged 2y - 6y11m

•  School Based Mental Health program, supporting children, families, and communities by promoting behavioral wellness in a school setting

 Event Details

When:  Tuesday, November 14, 2017 8:00 am – 1:30 pm

Where:  Mary’s Center – Adams Morgan 1707 B Kalorama Rd NW, Washington DC 20009. Look for the blue door!

What:  The following free services will be available to everyone attending the event:

•  Free depression screenings provided by Mary’s Center Behavioral Health Services Staff

•  Medical, dental, and behavioral health appointment scheduling

•  Free vision screenings provided by Centene Corporation and Envolve Vision Van

•  Free glasses, with the ability to choose your frames the same day and have them delivered to you within a month

•  Free and fresh Farmer’s Market non-perishable produce

•  Food and refreshments 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION


Character Does Matter Ambassador Training 

TMF

On Wednesday, November 15, The Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs will be hosting the Travis Manion Foundation's (TMF)Character Does Matter Ambassador Training.  

TMF’s Character Does Matter Program, presented by Johnson & Johnson, engages veterans and families of fallen heroes to inspire young adults to live with character, develop their leadership skills, and activate them to serve their communities in honor of fallen heroes.

During the full-day event we will cover the ins and outs of the TMF organization – Mission, Vision, Values. We will also discuss what Character means and how you can bring that to life in your community.

Additionally, you will get tools and engagement training to help the youth understand and connect to help build and foster character in themselves. 

In the end, you will have everything you need to run activities on your own. 

CLICK HERE TO FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO REGISTER 


Veterans Round Table 

roundtable

The Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs will be holding two round table discussions every month.  If you are a D.C. Veteran with some ideas about how we can help our community, come out and join us!  

Our next round table event will be held in our office on:

Wednesday, November 22, 2017 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm

If you would like to participate, just give us a call at 202-724-5454! 


Washington D.C. VA Medical Center Veterans Focus Group

Focus Group 2

The Veterans Mental Health Advisory Council and Transition and Care Management Program are holding a focus group for Veterans. Your feedback is important in helping the DCVAMC better understand the needs of Veterans.

Focus Group Details

When: Tuesday December 12, 2017 from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Where:  Washington D.C. VA Medical Center, 50 Irving St. NW, Washington D.C. 20422 

How to Participate: Veterans must be initially screened to participate. For additional information, please contact: Andrew Little or Pat Craig at (202) 745-8000 x 58641 by December 8, 2017

Lunch will be provided.

For a copy of the focus group participant assessment click HERE.


Want Your Event Featured in the Newsletter?

The Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs Newsletter is distributed to over 5,100 subscribers every month. If you would like your event to be featured in our calendar, please submit the following details: what, when and where the event will take place. If available, please provide a link to direct readers to more online information.  Please send all inquiries and posts to ova@dc.gov.


Click Here To Signup For News From The Mayor's Office Of Veterans Affairs

Director Ely S. Ross

202-724-5454

www.ova.dc.gov