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In this edition:
Greetings from your WDVA Director:
David Puente Jr.
I’m excited to share highlights from our 2025 accomplishments across Counseling & Wellness, Veterans Services, State Veterans Homes, and Support Services.
In 2025, your WDVA saw more than 700 individuals complete LEARN suicide‑prevention trainings, and we distributed 3,600 firearm locking devices statewide. Our counselors provided nearly 13,000 hours of care, and our Veterans Services teams supported 2,846 Veteran‑Owned Businesses, helped 90 Veterans transition to employment, and assisted 70 households facing eviction or foreclosure. In our State Veterans Homes, we completed $33 million in capital improvements and reached a 95% census, while Support Services modernization saved more than 40,000 hours through IT efficiencies. Our State Veterans Cemetery served 860 families and provided final honors to more than 175 unclaimed remains. The cemetery also received $500,000 to conduct a pre-design study for a new Tri-Cities State Veterans Cemetery.
These achievements reflect the momentum behind our updated 2026–29 Strategic Plan, and I’m proud of the progress we’re making together. You can read my full message and explore the complete 2025 Year in Review Accomplishments on our website.
Learn more: WDVA’s 2025 Year in Review | WDVA
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WDVA News and Current Events
Update to Tri-Cities Veterans community on the proposed Tri-Cities State Veterans Cemetery
The purpose of the pre-design phase is to supply WDVA with the necessary data to assess and compare the two parcels of land being researched and to determine the most suitable option.
The types of things being assessed are:
- Site Constraints
- Buildings
- Land Use and Codes
- Sustainability/Energy
- Cultural Resources
- Accessibility
- And more
As part of the project, Carve Architects will also submit cost estimates through the state’s Capital Budget System. This process is essential for budgeting and legislative development, ensuring all costs are accurately reflected in the budget documents.
Learn more: January 2026 Update to Tri-Cities Veterans Community on the Proposed Tri-Cities State Veterans Cemetery | WDVA
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 Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard
Residents at the Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard are suiting up in their Seahawks gear and bringing the spirit of the 12s to game day.
With jerseys on and pride running high, these hometown fans are more than ready to cheer their team into the Super Bowl spotlight. Their enthusiasm is a reminder that the heart of Seahawks country beats strong across every generation.
View more photos from the NFC Championship game viewing party
Spokane Veterans Home
A Week of Hockey and Heart
Our Spokane Veterans Home residents enjoyed not one but two unforgettable nights of hockey recently. The excitement kicked off with a special invitation to a Spokane Chiefs game, where they took in the action from the Columbia Box—an experience that made the evening truly memorable.
The momentum carried on at Eagles Arena for another spirited matchup, bringing plenty of energy, camaraderie, and smiles. Moments like these remind us how meaningful shared experiences can be.
View more photos: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1H1eJtioK7/
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Washington Soldiers Home in Orting
Residents and staff at the Washington Soldiers Home in Orting had the Music Works 4 Veterans organization come to the home on January 27th to play music for all.
The home had numerous residents participate in a jam session and one resident took on the vocal duties by singing.
Our staff and residents always enjoy the music when the band comes to play for us!
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Walla Walla Veterans Home
The Walla Walla Veterans Home continues proudly showing their commitment to hiring Veterans with YesVets decals on their windows and vehicles.
The Veterans Home Shuttle is also representing a YesVets bumper sticker, as we have drivers who have served in the military. Honoring Veterans isn’t just something we say — it’s something we do. #YesVets #ServingThoseWhoServed #SayYesToVets
View more photos
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Save the Date - Serving Those Who Served Conference is coming to Wenatchee on 19 & 20 August
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WDVA Job Opportunities
Build experience and serve Veterans with WDVA Work-Study program
Looking for a flexible, meaningful job while you’re in school? Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs is hiring students through the VA Work-Study Program to help serve those who served. Serve your community. Build your future.
Who can apply:
- Students using VA educational benefits
- Enrolled at least ¾ time
- All fields of study welcome
Why apply:
- Flexible work schedules
- Non-taxable income
- Real-world experience and valuable skills
Learn more: email benefits@dva.wa.gov with “Work Study” in the subject line. Or call 1-800-562-2308
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Veterans Training Support Center - Upcoming workshops
WDVA program videos
Get certified: Washington's Identify Screen Refer (WISR) certification training
Be “WISR” in 2026: Washington's Identify Service Members, Veterans & Families, Screen for Suicide Risk, and Refer for Resources training helps healthcare and community providers give better support & services.
The no-cost, virtual, self-paced training encourages asking about military service, screening for suicide risk, & sharing resources like the 988 Veterans Crisis Line.
Learn more & get certified: https://tinyurl.com/WISR-DVA
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If you would like copies of this document in an alternate format, please contact communications@dva.wa.gov
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