In this edition:
Greetings from your WDVA Director:
David Puente
Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a moment to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who have worn our nation’s uniform. At WDVA, this day holds special meaning across our four Veterans Homes, where residents embody the legacy of service every day.
From Port Orchard to Spokane, Orting to Walla Walla, our Homes provide more than care. They offer community, dignity, and connection. On Veterans Day, staff and volunteers come together to celebrate our Residents with heartfelt ceremonies, shared stories, and quiet moments of gratitude. These events remind us that honoring Veterans isn’t just symbolic it’s personal.
As we recognize their service, we also invite everyone to support these Homes in a tangible way. Donations help provide comfort items, recreational activities, and personal touches that make our Homes feel like home. Whether it’s a warm blanket, a holiday gift, or a new book, your contribution makes a meaningful difference.
To learn more about Donations watch this video: https://youtu.be/ZbaLZWiBMvU or visit: https://www.dva.wa.gov/donations
Looking for another way to give back?
Volunteers play a vital role in enriching the lives of our Residents, whether through friendly visits, event support, or simply lending a listening ear. If you’re interested in volunteering at one of our Veterans Homes, we’d love to hear from you.
For volunteer opportunities please visit our website Volunteers | WDVA (wa.gov)
Thank you for being part of this mission. On Veterans Day and every day, we honor our Residents not just with words, but with action.
For more information about our Veterans Homes visit: Veterans Homes | WDVA
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WDVA News and Current Events
Honoring Service: 2025 Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards
Honoring Service: 2025 Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards
The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), in partnership with the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (VAAC), proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards. These annual awards honor individuals and organizations across Washington who have gone above and beyond in serving and supporting the state’s Veteran community.
Award Recipients Include:
Superior Service Award:
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Alfie Alvarado-Ramos (Thurston County) – Celebrated for over 30 years of transformative leadership and advocacy in and out of uniform.
Distinguished Service Award:
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Christopher Diaz (Skagit County) – Honored for strengthening one of the state’s most effective county veteran service programs.
Team Award:
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Blue Mountain Action Council & OIC of Washington (Walla Walla County) – Recognized for their unwavering support across 17 rural counties.
Legislators of the Year:
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Rep. Stephanie Barnard (8th District) – Sponsored HB 1106 expanding property tax relief for veterans.
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Rep. Clyde Shavers (10th District) – Sponsored HB 1102 to enhance County Veterans Services.
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Sen. Marcus Riccelli (3rd District) and Sen. Leonard Christian (4th District) - Instrumental in securing $8M for a replacement Spokane Veterans Home.
These awards reflect the power of service, advocacy, and leadership in improving the lives of those who served.
As we celebrate these honorees, we invite you to reflect on your own legacy. Whether you’re a veteran, family member, or ally, your voice and actions help shape a stronger future for those who follow.
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Commanders Call Town Hall - All Are Welcome to Attend
Join us for a Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee (VAAC) Commanders Call Townhall.
This year’s meeting will focus on four priority areas, with an emphasis on rural Veterans and their families. It will include an opportunity for attendees to participate in breakout group conversations, they include:
Women Veterans - Resources & Support
Suicide Prevention - Save & Transform Lives
Unhoused Veterans - Save & Transform Lives
Connecting Veterans & Families to Earned Benefits - Be the Leading State in Veteran Service Delivery and Outcomes.
To register visit: Commander's Call RSVP
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 Washington Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking applications from eligible Washington-based, Veteran-serving organizations to apply for the Suicide Prevention Community Based Services Grant (SPCBSG). WDVA is seeking to fund programs and organizations that serve Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF) who are at risk of suicide. Ideal candidates for funding include those who utilize peer support models that include evidence-based, research-based methods, or promising practices.
Deadline is December 1, 2025
To learn more about the Grant, Eligibility and how to Apply visit:
Request for Grant Applications - Suicide Prevention Community Based Services Grant Award | WDVA
WDVA vs WDVA Campaign
 To learn more, visit VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs
Washington Veterans Home
Irene from Seniors Creating Art stopped by to lead our residents in a fall themed art project, generously funded by a grant through their organization!
She provided paints, stencils, and some inspirational photos and patterns as guides.
Attendance was high, and everyone jumped right in to painting! Thanks, Irene, and everyone in our activities staff who assisted with the class!
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Washington Soldiers Home in Orting
Our Washington Soldiers Home Residents recently enjoyed the Puyallup Fair!
A heartfelt thank you to the Washington State Fair for donating admission tickets and to the volunteers from the Puyallup Elks, PNW Vets, JBLM military personnel, individual volunteers, and dedicated staff
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Walla Walla Veterans Home
Hipsters and Pink Ladies were rockin' & rollin' at the 1950s Sock Hop at the Walla Walla Veterans Home!
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Spokane Veterans Home
Recently, four talented musicians from the Spokane Symphony visited our Veterans Home to share the healing power of music. Their performance delighted residents across the campus, and they offered a special set for our memory care community bringing comfort, joy, and even sparking cherished memories.
Moments like these remind us how deeply music can connect, uplift, and honor the lives of those we serve. We’re grateful to the Spokane Symphony for their time, talent, and heartfelt presence
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