VOL. 3 | NO. 2

Warrior Report

Meet Andy

Andy Porter is the Constituent Services and Veteran Specialist for the Office of Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) in Fort Wayne, IN. Andy served four years on active duty in the U.S. Army as a parachute rigger, spending most of his time stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson in Anchorage, AK.  Andy joined WWFP in April 2020. Since then, he has focused on advocating for veteran constituents and managing casework with the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs. Initially, Andy worked exclusively on veterans issues, but his portfolio recently expanded to include casework with the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security Administration. Andy also enjoys interacting with the community by representing the Congressman at local events.

In honor of National Salute Week, Andy presents a copy of The Congressional Record on behalf of Congressman Banks to Ms. Audrey Frison, the Associate Director of Patient Care Services at the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System.

“After my time in the Army as a parachute rigger, opportunities to develop my experience into a new civilian career were hard to find. After four years off active-duty, I found WWFP, and it has been a great fit. I have always been driven to serve fellow veterans, and I have always wanted to be part of the solution when there is a problem. The fellowship has allowed me to fulfill that role. Advancing in this career field without it would have been much more difficult. I am part of a great team here in IN-03 and see firsthand the importance of the work that congressional offices perform for their district.” -Andy

Welcome Aboard! 

Three new Fellows joined the Warrior family this month!

• George Abuzeid, Rep. William Timmons (SC-4) - Greenville, SC 
• Irene Ochoa, Rep. Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) - Washington Heights, NY
• Jacob Warkentin, Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-8) - Hermantown, MN

Fair winds and following seas...

Two Warriors departed the Program this month to pursue their next opportunities. 

• Michael Jensen (WI-3) - Management Analyst, U.S. Army
• Kenneth Ridge (UT-3) - Staff, Office of Congressman Owens (UT-4)

REMINDER: VHP Overview Today 1PM EST

Check your calendar for an invitation with Webex login credentials.  New Fellows, this is part of the Orientation Program.  Contact Emily with questions.

Professional Development

Social Security 101 (CRS) "The presentation will include current Social Security program eligibility rules, benefits, and financing before covering major solvency proposals of recent Congresses. The seminar will conclude with a question and answer discussion..." Wed, Feb 24, 1:00 - 2:30 PM Register with CRS

Agency Information Sessions (Staff Academy)

"Learn from Congressional liaisons at federal agencies as they provide an in-depth review of some frequently asked questions, common mistakes, and best practices. Please submit questions in advance to Tammi Ainsfield at the Staff Academy: tammi.ainsfield@mail.house.gov."

Register with the Staff Academy

District Staff Institute (CRS) "This two-day virtual Institute, offers practical guidance to staff in district and state offices. Hear from CRS staff and representatives of federal agencies on the resources available to those working in district and state offices." Thu, Mar 4, 12:15 PM - Fri, Mar 5, 6:00 PM Register with CRS

CAO News

Trauma and Resilience Staff Briefing Traumatic events can create turmoil while negatively impacting our physical and emotional well-being. From the Office of Employee Assistance, this briefing presents information on traumatic reaction, tips for managing distress, and how to foster resilience and growth.  Watch the recording here.

In the News

VHA YouTube: Sign Up for the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry

VA.gov: VA extends existing moratoriums on evictions and foreclosures...

VA.gov: VA offers continued debt relief options

Federal News Network: GAO finds flaw in VA’s community care contracts

Military Times: Active-duty troops to administer vaccines in Texas, New York and Virgin Islands

Connecting Vets: Vietnam-era veterans who served in Guam were exposed to Agent Orange, report says

Fellowship Openings

Do you have a friend or colleague that might be interested in the Program? Share our latest postings on USAJobs (WWFP, GSFFP) and the online application on the CAO Career Site. 

Review a comprehensive list of openings.