AmeriLife’s Post

One of the things I love about veterans is that they're action oriented. We've practiced how to identify problems and then implement solutions. We're more comfortable on the field than in the stands. But the political domain is different, especially since a large (and growing percentage of us are Independents or non-partisan). If you're like me, you feel incredibly frustrated by the current political dysfunction, but also don't see yourself represented in the party duopoly. That's why I was so grateful to find the team at Veterans for All Voters (we've rebranded!) led by the incredible patriots Todd Connor and Eric Bronner. We're taking action across the country to implement change at the most important level: incentives. So just a quick reintroduction. Veterans for All Voters (a 501(c)3 non-partisan organization) mission remains: To build and mobilize a community of military veterans to advocate for election innovations that unlock competition, make our politics less toxic and our government more effective. Specifically we do this is by local veteran led chapters (shout out to mine, Mike Cantwell) that advocate for open primaries and ranked choice voting. More choices=more voices. If you're a vet and you live in Virginia or DC, please message me to learn more! Or if you're just generally interested, let me know and I'll connect you to the right resources. #veteransforallvoters

We thank all first responders nationwide and internationally for their service today on National First Responder Appreciation Day. If you see a first responder today, thank them for their service and look into their eyes while thanking them. Their eyes will tell a story of duty, honor, integrity, courage, selflessness, and unfortunately trauma and pain. They will tell the story of suffering in silence for all those that couldn’t be saved despite their best efforts when they are all alone with their thoughts in the middle of the night. Without culturally competent help or resiliency tools, their eyes may tell a story of isolation and despair. So my friends, when you thank a first responder today, take the time to really thank them and to look into their eyes. Those eyes have seen, experienced, and have had to process things that the average citizen does not have to do because they are always there ready to answer the call. The honor of being a first responder carries with it a heavy toll. It is one, however, that does not need to be carried alone as it is “okay not to be okay” and ask for help. #remystrong #resilientfirstresponders #thankyouforyourservice

Lots to cover in today's OFCCP Week in Review, including Biden's reduction of non-defense discretionary budgets for federal agencies, joining Congress' historic pivot away from both bigger federal agencies and bigger social programs. Read this story and others now!

Honoring all who served in the US and internationally 🎖️ Take the time today to thank the Veterans in your life for their service. As health researchers, we recognize that Veterans have unique health strengths and needs. We continue to advocate for cultural competency for health professionals working with the Veteran community, and seek out all potential data sources that shed light on their novel experience for our clients. Curious about the history of Veterans Day? Check out this article from the VA https://buff.ly/3IOnULk 🌍

It is critical that we all recognize the importance of connection… of support… Don’t Wait. Reach Out. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. DO NOT WAIT TO CALL 988. #suicideprevention #suicidepreventionmonth #suicidepreventionawareness #veteran #veterans #veteransupport #veteransuicideawareness #veteranmentalhealth

BIG NEWS for veterans, their caregivers—and those with a financial interest in Home Care and Caregiver Services ;) H.R.542 - Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act of 2023 PASSED HOUSE. Next: U.S. Senate. I’ve been following this Act and its key players for a while now, and a significant portion of my manuscript deals with the details of this legislation. In summary, “The total cost of providing services or in-kind assistance in the case of any veteran described in subparagraph (B) for any fiscal year under the program may exceed 100 percent of the cost that would otherwise have been incurred as specified in paragraph (1) if the Secretary determines, based on a consideration of clinical need, geographic market factors, and such other matters as the Secretary may prescribe through regulation, that such higher total cost is in the best interest of the veteran.” If I snag some free time and there’s interest, I’ll put out an article on it.

🔔 New Resource! 🔔 In partnership with the We Honor Veterans (WHV) program, HAN has a new resource for WHV Partners! WHV Partners provide specialized care to ensure that critically ill Veteran patients experience a peaceful end-of-life journey. There are several ways for WHV Partners to engage legislators’ understanding of and support for Veteran’s end-of-life needs. Check out our linked resource below! #WeHonorVeterans #HospiceAction

Have you tuned into the Advocacy Update yet? These short videos are a great way to stay plugged in with Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and understand how we're working to protect YOUR pay and benefits every single day.

Attention Charlotte #Veterans and #Families: Your benefits matter, and accessing them shouldn't be a battle. That's where your local Veteran Service Officer (VSO) steps in! 🌟 While you may associate VSOs with renowned organizations like the American Legion or VFW, did you know that all 100 counties in NC have their own dedicated VSOs, paid for by YOUR tax dollars? These unsung heroes are committed to serving YOU, ensuring you receive the benefits you rightfully deserve. For those of you in Mecklenburg County, fellow #veterans like Crystal Miller and Scott Garlow can a game-changer by assisting to direct you to the following: 1️⃣ Expert Guidance: VSOs are equipped with the knowledge and training to navigate the complex web of #federal, #state, and local benefits. Whether you're unsure about eligibility criteria or need help with paperwork. 2️⃣ Personalized Assistance: From answering your questions to representing you in VA hearings, VSOs offer tailored support every step of the way. Your needs are their priority. 3️⃣ Comprehensive Services: Beyond just filing claims, VSOs provide invaluable information on a range of resources, including compensation, healthcare, education, employment, and more. They're your one-stop shop for all things related to #veteranbenefits. 4️⃣ Accredited Advocates: VSOs are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. You can trust their expertise and dedication to serving veterans, dependents, and survivors with integrity. Let's honor your service by ensuring you receive the support you've earned. 🎖️ #VeteranBenefits #SupportOurTroops #VeteranServices #bethebridge #veteranshelpingveterans

The Power of Determination, Advocacy, and True Representation 🎙️ In 2019, I embarked on a mission to understand the correlation between suicide numbers and job codes within the Air Force. My Freedom of Information Act request was initially denied, but this setback ignited a passion to uncover the truth and champion a significant cause. Through the "20 Years Done Podcast," I delved into the challenges facing the Air Force, backed by an incredible LinkedIn community. I was so incredibly fortunate to meet Teague Morris, Ph.D. when I worked for the University of Southern Maine. From that interaction, Teague reached out for me to share my story and advocacy work with Senator Angus King-ME (I), whose dedication to true representative government is awe-inspiring. Our collective efforts resulted in a landmark achievement: A section in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act that mandates a study of suicide rates across every military branch and component. Recently, I received a gift from Senator King that moved me deeply: a copy of that significant section. For those unable to see the attached image, it showcases a section of the National Defense Authorization Act, bearing the signatures of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Patrick Leahy, and President Joe Biden. Senator King's approach to representation is a beacon for all in public service, and I'm profoundly grateful for his unwavering support. To every service member out there, and those silently enduring hardships: Know that there are advocates fighting for a brighter future for you. Please hold onto hope; change is on the horizon. 💪✨ [Pictorial Description: A photograph of a section of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, displaying the distinct signatures of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Patrick Leahy, and President Joe Biden.] #ServiceMembersFirst #MentalHealthMatters #MilitaryAdvocacy #ChangeMakers #TrueRepresentation #20YearsDone #ArmedForcesReform #NDAA2023 #SupportOurTroops