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MDVA

Friday Digest: September 20, 2024



This week:

* Agency in Mourning Following the Death of Former Commissioner Larry Herke [ #link_4 ]
* Work at MDVA [ #link_1 ]
* Minnesota Military Radio - Tune in this Weekend [ #link_10 ]
* Veteran Disaster Relief Grants Available [ #link_15 ]
* Native American Veteran Stand Down, Sept. 20 [ #link_14 ]
* Armed Forces Tribute and POW/MIA Recognition Day - Brainerd, Sept. 20 [ #link_6 ]
* American Legion Color Ruck, Sept. 21 [ #link_18 ]
* Suicide Prevention Training - Glencoe, Sept. 24 [ #link_5 ]
* Mental Health First Aid Training, Sept. 25 & Oct. 25 [ #link_21 ]
* New Footstones for Civil War Soldiers at Lakewood Cemetery, Sept. 29 [ #link_20 ]
* USDA Invites Veterans to Virtual Beginning Farmer & Rancher Workshop, Sept. 30 [ #link_19 ]
* 6th Annual Veterans Suicide Prevention & Awareness Day in Duluth, Oct. 5 [ #link_3 ]
* Beware: Claim Predators Want to Prey on Your Benefits [ #link_13 ]
* Preventing Veteran Suicide: Free Gun Locks Available [ #link_2 ]
* The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits [ #link_9 ]
* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline [ #link_12 ]
* Submit Your Veteran-Related Event [ #link_7 ]

Agency in Mourning Following the Death of Former Commissioner Larry Herke

Former MDVA Commissioner Larry Herke

Former Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) Commissioner Larry Herke passed away on Friday, Sept.13., 2024. Commissioner Herke retired in September 2023 due to an ALS diagnosis.

“We send our deepest condolences to Commissioner Herke’s family and express our gratitude for his service to Minnesota Veterans and their families,” says Commissioner Brad Lindsay. “He was a dedicated public servant who spread his passion for improving the lives of our Veterans to all who worked alongside him.”

 

Read more >> [ [link removed] ]



Work at MDVA

If you are interested in speaking to a member of our Human Resources team regarding employment opportunities with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, fill out our Job Interest Form [ [link removed] ] to be contacted about available opportunities.

Bemidji

* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(multiple openings, application deadline Sept. 26)
* Registered Nurse - Unit Manager [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 25)
* Safety & Health Officer, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 30)

Fergus Falls

* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant [ [link removed] ]
(application deadline Nov. 22)
* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(multiple openings, application deadline Nov. 22)

Minneapolis

* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant [ [link removed] ]
(application deadline Sept. 30)
* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(multiple openings, application deadline Sept. 30)
* Licensed Practical Nurse [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 30)
* Licensed Practical Nurse, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 30)
* Dental Clinic Hygienist [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 30)

Montevideo

* Registered Nurse, intermittent [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 25)
* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(multiple openings, application deadline Sept. 26)
* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, intermittent [ [link removed] ]
(application deadline Sept. 25)

Preston

* Food Service Worker, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 27)
* Lead Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 23)
* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(multiple openings, application deadline Sept. 26)
* Registered Nurse, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 27)
* Transportation Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(application deadline Sept. 27)
* Housekeeper, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 26)
* Licensed Practical Nurse, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 27)

Silver Bay

* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant [ [link removed] ]
(application deadline Nov. 22)
* Human Services Technician/Certified Nursing Assistant, part-time [ [link removed] ]
(application deadline Nov. 15)
* Food Service Worker, part-time [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 27)
* Housekeeper [ [link removed] ] (application deadline Sept. 27)

Minnesota Military Radio - Tune in this Weekend

Minnesota MIlitary Radio

For over 13 years, the award-winning Minnesota Military Radio (MMR) has been the forum for retelling the stories of Minnesota’s heroes. Retired Command Sergeant Major, Veteran and volunteer host Doug Wortham shares these stories which are carried on 65 broadcasting stations throughout the state of Minnesota in an effort to preserve the stories of our Veterans and keep listeners up to date on things happening at MDVA and in our Veteran Community here in Minnesota.

Coming up this week we learn about the new Women's Clinic being built at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System [ [link removed] ] meet with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon [ [link removed] ] Company Replenex and get an update from the MN Patriot Guard [ [link removed] ].

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



Veteran Disaster Relief Grants Available

Flooding

Minnesota Veterans who were impacted by recent flooding may now apply for a Disaster Relief Grant through the State Soldiers Assistance Program from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs.

On July 25, 2024, Governor Tim Walz issued Executive Order 24-09, amending Executive Order 25-05, which authorizes MDVA to activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP) Disaster Relief Program to provide financial assistance to Veterans following severe storms and flooding across the state. Eligible Veterans would have experienced flooding from June 16 to July 22, 2024.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



Native American Veteran Stand Down, Sept. 20

Stand Down Flyer

There will be a Native American Veteran Stand Down Sept. 20 at the Oshkiimaajitahdah Wellness & Event Center in Redby, MN.

The Stand Down will begin at 9 a.m. and run until 5 p.m.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



Armed Forces Tribute and POW/MIA Recognition Day - Brainerd, Sept. 20

Armed Forces Tribute

There will be an Armed Forces Tribute and POW/MIA Recognition Day at the Crow Wing County Historic Courthouse in Brainerd, MN.

The event will begin at 1 p.m. and is open to the public with numerous services on site.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



American Legion Color Ruck, Sept. 21

Color Ruck Flyer

The American Legion Department of Minnesota will host their first Color Ruck event dedicated to supporting suicide prevention efforts. Over the past year, their focus has centered on conducting training sessions within each of the districts. Now, they are expanding their efforts on a grander scale with the Color Ruck event.

This event aims to unite families and communities, highlighting the profound impact of familial and community support in combating suicide and promoting mental wellness. It serves as a platform to showcase the strength that comes from coming together as a collective force, supporting one another through challenges, and fostering a sense of unity and resilience within our communities.

The Color Ruck event represents a significant step forward in their ongoing commitment to raising awareness, providing resources, and creating a supportive network for individuals and families affected by suicide.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



Suicide Prevention Training - Glencoe, Sept. 24

The 2024 annual Continuing Education for Professionals Conference, "Awareness 2B CONTINUED Into Action," is focused on suicide prevention and mental health. The event will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at the Glencoe City Center in Glencoe.

This conference is designed for Healthcare Providers, Nurses, Social Workers, Therapists, Counselors, Educators, Law Enforcement Officers, Clergy, and anyone with a vested interest in mental health and suicide prevention.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]

 

Mental Health First Aid Training, Sept. 25 & Oct. 25

MHFA Training

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults. You’ll build skills and confidence you need to reach out and provide initial support to those who are struggling. You’ll also learn how to help connect them to appropriate support.

This class will be held virtually and requires 2 hours of self-paced pre-coursework before attending the 6 hour instructor led, virtual portion of the class.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



New Footstones for Civil War Soldiers at Lakewood Cemetery, Sept. 29

The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), Colonel Colvill Camp 56 will be dedicating over 50 new footstones for Civil War soldiers who have been in unmarked graves for decades. The public is welcome to join in honoring these Veterans who served our country during the Civil War.

The ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29 at the Lakewood Cemetery, 3600 Hennepin Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN in the GAR section by the statue and cannon.

Sons of Union Soldiers event

USDA Invites Veterans to Virtual Beginning Farmer & Rancher Workshop, Sept. 30

The Veterans Business Outreach Center of New England, in partnership with the Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), invites Veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses to Boots to the Business Reboot for Veteran Beginning Farmers and Ranchers webinar.

This full-day workshop starts at 8 a.m. and runs through 4:30 p.m. and will aid those interested in exploring agriculture-based business ownership by leading participants through the key steps for evaluating business concepts and providing the foundational knowledge required to develop a business plan. Veterans of all eras, and spouses are eligible to participate.

Topics include:


* What is entrepreneurship?
* Evaluating a business opportunity
* Doing your market research – Who is buying what you are growing/raising?
*  Selecting the correct legal structure for your farm/ranch
* The economics of agriculture
* Business planning – from idea to roadmap
* Financing your venture – short-term and long-Range
* SBA/USDA resources for you
* Active-Duty Service members (including National Guard and Reserve)

 

More information and registration >> [ [link removed] ]

6th Annual Veterans Suicide Prevention & Awareness Day in Duluth, Oct. 5

Event flyer

The 6th Annual Veterans Suicide Prevention & Awareness Day will take place Saturday, Oct. 5, at The Depot in Duluth, MN.

We can all make a difference. A time to come together in remembrance of Minnesota Veterans lost to suicide. We honor them by raising awareness and helping to save lives.

The purpose of our annual event is to bring communities together to honor Veterans we have lost to suicide, allow their lives help save others, and offer healing and hope to survivors. Our goals are to increase awareness and provide resources to communities as we strive toward zero Veteran suicide deaths in Minnesota.

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]



Beware: Claim Predators Want to Prey on Your Benefits

Many Veterans seek support and help with filing VA benefits claims for the payments they deserve. Be cautious of "claim predators" - unaccredited companies or individuals targeting Veterans' benefits for profit.
How to identify claim predators:


* Charging High Fees: Predatory companies charge absurd fees or require you to pay a portion of your VA benefits. Never pay anyone a fee to file an initial claim for benefits.
* Making Dishonest Promises: Don't trust anyone who claims they can help accelerate the claims process and obtain a 100% disability benefits evaluation. Remember, only VA has the authority to determine disability ratings.
* Requiring Binding Contracts: No one should ever charge a fee to file an initial claim for VA benefits. Never sign a contract agreeing to pay an unauthorized individual/company a percentage of your benefit payment in exchange for help with your VA claim.

 

Learn more about VA accredited representatives >> [ [link removed] ]

Preventing Veteran Suicide: Free Gun Locks Available

Sadly, an average of 100 Minnesota Veterans die by suicide each year. Two-thirds of these deaths are by guns.

To help prevent Veteran suicide, MDVA is partnering with the VA Healthcare System to distribute free gun locks. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [ [link removed] ], a locked gun can mean the difference between a tragic outcome and a life saved for someone in crisis. Though Veterans are well-versed in firearm safety, all gun owners should understand that during emotional or stressful times, delaying access to a gun could mean the difference between life and death. Gun locks can prevent someone in crisis from tragically taking their own life.

In an effort to reduce these preventable tragedies, MDVA is offering free gun locks. To request a gun lock, please email [email protected] with your name and address. This information will not be shared; requests are confidential.

For more information on MDVA’s suicide prevention efforts, visit MinnesotaVeteran.org/EndVetSuicide [ [link removed] ].

The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits

The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances.

The PACT Act adds to the list of health conditions the VA presumes are caused by exposure to these substances. This law helps provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.

 

PACT [ [link removed] ]

 

More information >> [ [link removed] ]

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line's number—988 then Press 1—helps make it easier to remember and share the number to access help in times of need.

Veterans can use this option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 [ tel:1-800-273-8255 ]—by text (838255), and through chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat [ [link removed] ].

 



Submit Your Veteran-Related Event

If you know of a Veteran-related community event happening in your area you would like to submit to be included in our Friday Digest, please email all event information to [email protected] for consideration.



________________________________________________________________________

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