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Fedcap Rehabilitation Services President Considers Dixon Center’s Value

Fedcap Rehabilitation Services President Considers Dixon Center’s Value

Over the next month, we will introduce you to individuals at our parent organization, The Fedcap Group, who have positively influenced our work at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services. This first in a four-part series features Steve Coons, president of Fedcap Rehabilitation Services.

Coons brings a unique perspective to his role with Fedcap Rehabilitation Services, having served on active duty with the Navy for 10 years before transferring into the Navy Individual Ready Reserve program and shifting into a civilian career. As such, Coons is attracted to Dixon Center’s focus on veterans’ transitions from the public to the private sector.

As Dixon Center established its presence within The Fedcap Group, Coons collaborated with the organization on facilities management services on military bases. “It can be rather complex,” says Coons. “We work with Dixon Center to identify individuals skilled in leading personnel in high-tempo operations – a unique skill set for which veterans are well-suited.”

Coons believes that veterans’ inclusion is a natural progression. He envisions that hiring organizations will recognize veterans as a qualified preference group and create the dynamic where the veterans feel embraced during a job search. Further, Fedcap Rehabilitation Services has pledged to ensure that veterans have opportunities to seek employment, particularly for mid-level to senior positions.

Says Coons, “It’s about putting the veteran and their family first in any setting that they choose and giving them the likelihood and potential to succeed.”

Coons predicts that business ownership by veterans is going to become increasingly important to the country and to The Fedcap Group. He sees Dixon Center aiding in these entrepreneurship possibilities by facilitating conversations and opening doors among investors, educators, and the veterans themselves.

For more information about The Fedcap Group or Dixon Center, please contact Duncan Milne, President, dmilne@dixoncenter.org.

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Honor July 4th by Supporting Women Veterans

Honor July 4th by Supporting Women Veterans

Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services can be the refuge of last resort to aid and stabilize the lives of some of our women veterans. This Independence Day weekend, we are prioritizing our ongoing fundraising towards efforts to raise $250,000 in contributions to underwrite our programs for women who have served our country.

Our nation’s Independence Day recognizes the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. The women who have served our country have given years of their lives to ensure we retain those freedoms. There are some who may require assistance so that they can succeed where they live.

The dollars raised during this ongoing campaign will be used for supportive services for women veterans and earmarked for emergent needs and crisis prevention, a hallmark of Dixon Center’s strategic positioning to advance impact.

To honor the intent behind Independence Day, join us in assisting those who have been at the forefront of guaranteeing your freedom.

You can donate in two ways: contribute via our secure online donation page online or contact Vanessa Stergios, Director of Development, at vstergios@dixoncenter.org.

Thank you for considering the needs of our nation’s women veterans. Please stay safe and be well this Independence Day.

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Help Us Raise $250K for Female Veterans Support

Help Us Raise $250K for Female Veterans Support

Female veterans find themselves at or close to the top of the list of those impacted by COVID-19 – and that’s not a list that anyone wants to be on.

To offset the effects of the pandemic, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services has launched a campaign to immediately raise $250,000 for our nation’s female veterans.

Even before the pandemic, female veterans, who number over 2 million, faced increased rates of homelessness, suicide, and significant health concerns. Now those challenges are further heightened.

The dollars raised will be used for emergency relief for 100 female veterans, as well as earmarked for emergent needs and crisis prevention, a hallmark of Dixon Center’s strategic positioning to advance impact.

Asking for contributions during a pandemic is tough. Yet a pandemic does not discriminate. These female veterans have given years of their lives to ensure we have our freedom. Now they are looking for your generosity so that they can overcome unexpected events in their lives.

You can donate in two ways: contribute via our secure online donation page online or contact Vanessa Stergios, Director of Development, at vstergios@dixoncenter.org.

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Reflecting on Our Exceptional Fathers

Reflecting on Our Exceptional Fathers

This Sunday we will celebrate Father’s Day, and we asked Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services President Duncan Milne to reflect on how his father impacted and influenced his own military journey.

“Even in the harsh environment of post-depression New England, my dad knew that his potential was only limited by his imagination and his willingness to work hard.

“At the first opportunity, he joined the Navy, becoming a naval aviator. He flew PBY Catalina seaplanes throughout World War II’s “Battle for the Atlantic.”

“Upon his return, Dad took advantage of the GI Bill, studying mechanical engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. I was proud to follow in his footsteps there many years later.

“As a Department of the Army engineer, he designed and fielded crew-served weapons. He was never destined to make great fortune, but instead desired to enable every one of his seven children to chart their own course in life. There was no family edict and no coercion. There was simply the unending support for whichever path you chose. Never one to talk about his own performance, Dad instead preferred to bask in the achievements of his family, particularly his children.

“One brother and I followed his footsteps and entered naval service. True to his nature, Dad only showed me support and encouragement although I’m told that he had concerns that the U.S. Marine Corps was the most difficult and dangerous branch of our services. When I was faced with my toughest challenges, my father would remind me that ‘thousands have overcome this challenge before, and you’re better than the vast majority of them.’

“Like many of the Greatest Generation, Dad rarely discussed his experiences in World War II, not thinking that any of his actions were exceptional. And yet that is exactly what he was….nothing less than exceptional.

“I miss you Dad. Happy Father’s Day!”

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Four Powerful Lessons for Memorial Day

Four Powerful Lessons for Memorial Day

This weekend marks Memorial Day, a sacred day of recognition in the United States.

I, like the rest of the team at Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, will spend the weekend remembering, honoring, and mourning the United States military members who died while serving in the Armed Forces – some of whom I served with over the course of my 29-year career.

One of these people was the husband of Latrese Dixon. In her book, From Tragedy to Triumph: The Life of a Widow, Latrese reflects on her life leading up to, and journey following, her husband’s death in 2007 during combat operations in Iraq. While her book is a stirring read for Memorial Day, there are many passages that offer lessons and insights relevant throughout the year.

Today I want to share a few pieces of quiet wisdom from this book with you – and what passes through my mind as I read them.

“He was a soldier and he answered the call of duty.”

The members of our Armed Forces put their lives on the line for their country, knowing that it is a dangerous business that could separate them permanently from their families. Yet a service member follows through and perseveres, even amidst difficult times and challenges. It’s called “character,” and it’s explained best not by definition, but by actions such as selflessly putting country before life.

“He died doing what he loved most – protecting his country, protecting his family. Both were inextricably linked.”

For me, the key words here are “inextricably linked.” Those who serve do so both for, and on behalf of, their families, neighbors, and communities. Equally important are the “comrades” to their left and right in times of crisis. Serving our country is a global duty, but it starts with families. You will find courage, love, duty, and sacrifice a commonality among everyone who has served.

“Losing a loved one is hard: healing is harder, but know that their memories continue to live on.”

The worst thing we can do is to forget. We can all use the opportunity created by Memorial Day to remember all those who died while serving, be it in combat, during training exercises, or through accidents and non-combat related deaths. One of the most important deaths for me to remember is death by suicide while on active duty. Ultimately, though, this painful reflection is necessary as it truly is the purpose of Memorial Day.

“The most difficult and hardest thing to do was figure out how to tell the children that their father would not be coming home.”

The narratives of those who have fallen live on through their families. These families are given the honorific “Gold Star” to designate that they’ve had a loved one lose his/her life in service to the nation. If you know a Gold Star family, reach out to check on them this weekend and provide encouragement. If you meet a Gold Star family member in the future, ask them to share their story, then take the time to listen.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has altered our ability to honor the fallen with parades or memorial services, it does provide an opportunity for us to create our own personal remembrances. Consider the following activities this weekend:

This Memorial Day weekend, I hope that you take a moment to personally reflect on the achievements and courage of our U.S. service members who died while serving in the Armed Forces.

We at Dixon Center will always remember, and they will never be forgotten. 

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A COVID-19 Update

A COVID-19 Update

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations are being challenged to address current needs while planning for the pandemic’s current phase to end – and its ensuing changes.

While we don’t know how the crisis will play out, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services is planning for the future even as we track the impacts of the pandemic on veterans and military families.

As a Center of Excellence, we are providing and coordinating technical assistance/training, resource sharing, and strong leadership to our partners who, with our ongoing support, continue to operate direct service programs.

A significant number of veterans are in the high-risk categories for COVID-19, either due to age or an underlying medical conditions. The stalled economy is jolting the 1.5 million veterans who are already living at or below the poverty line. In a terrible irony, the isolation experienced by many veterans is being worsened by social distancing, the best preventative available to us currently.

Over the past several weeks, we have been working to counter these impacts by:

  • Sharing solutions with our partners to quickly connect veterans to direct-service programs and assistance;
  • Providing financial counseling and education to those touched by military service through the Dixon Center/Prudential Financial Wellness Portal;
  • Providing emergency financial assistance to student veterans in the Utility Workers and Teamsters Military Assistance Programs;
  • Connecting with partners and civic-minded advocates to share information and solutions that will improve how we serve the evolving needs of veterans.

We feel confident that when the United States emerges from the pandemic’s current phase, veterans will have more opportunity for integration into direct-service programs for employment, training, well-being and affordable housing.

For more information on programs and services offered by Dixon Center, or to become a Dixon Center partner, please contact Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Programs & Services, swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

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Veterans, Non-Profits – Connect For Free

Veterans, Non-Profits – Connect For Free

Are you a non-profit who wants to make service delivery more impactful? A veteran who is seeking support and assistance as a result of your service or the impact of COVID-19?

Consider joining the Yellow Ribbon Network, of which Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services is a member.

Founded by VeteransPlus, the Yellow Ribbon Network simplifies access to assistance with finances, housing, financial literacy, health and wellness support, and employment for its members, who are current service members, veterans and their families.

Some of the resources provided at different levels to non-profit partners include:

  • An affordable, HIPAA-compliant alternative to multiple technology solutions
  • Robust case management functions, including file sharing and retention
  • Matching tools that enable service delivery to be more effective and efficient
  • Analytics detailed reporting on key metrics
  • Simplified coordination of grant, donor, and volunteer resources

If you are 501(c)3 with a primary mission to serve military and veterans, the network offers licensing options that will help connect you with its members. In response to the challenges that beset veterans and military families as a result of COVID-19, the Yellow Ribbon Network is offering those affiliated with Dixon Center a free lifetime license level. To register, simply send an email with your request to info@yellowribbonnetwork.org and let them know you heard about them through this eNewsletter.

The services that Yellow Ribbon Network provides (connections to the right support at the right time) are always free for veterans, service members, and families touched by military service. All you need to do is build a profile. Should you need assistance, you’re asked to detail your specific request in a short form that is browsable by all of the network’s partners.

For more information on programs and services offered by Dixon Center, or to become a Dixon Center partner, please contact Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Programs & Services, swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

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Education Options For Children Of Veterans

Education Options For Children Of Veterans

This week’s eNewsletter features a Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services partner who supports those significantly impacted by the post 9/11 conflicts—Gold Star families and the families of our wounded service members.

This year’s scholarship deadline is just around the corner – April 15, 2020. The selection committee will prioritize applicants in which the dependent’s service member has been killed in action or has a single combat related disabling condition of 70% or above. To request an eligibility application and more information, please email info@nogreatersacrifice.org.

If you want to learn more about the mission of NGS, visit their website.

For more information on programs and services offered by Dixon Center, or to become a Dixon Center partner, please contact Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Programs & Services, swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

No Greater Sacrifice (NGS) invests in the children of fallen and wounded service members by delivering scholarships and resources to improve their quality of life through the pursuit of higher education. In fact, since its inception in 2008, NGS has awarded 206 scholarships valued at more than $12.5 million in post-high school education benefits. Their services also include:

  • Supporting the families of fallen and wounded service members by hosting events for scholars of all ages;
  • Providing NGS scholars with customized mentorship and funding to achieve their full educational potential; and
  • Delivering assistance to reduce the unmet financial costs of higher education, including in-state tuition, room and board, special equipment, books, or other expenses deemed necessary.
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Digital Resources for Veterans

Digital Resources for Veterans

Either due to age or an underlying medical condition, a significant number of veterans are in the high risk categories for coronavirus disease 2019. Further, millions fall at or below the poverty line. At a time like this, it’s critical to provide veterans and their families with resources to navigate the uncertainy ahead.

Vets4Warriors and Single Stop are two partners of Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services, doing timely work to address the increased anxiety and economic challenges.

Peer Connection to Combat Isolation
Vets4Warriors understands that veterans may have more concerns than usual during this time. The organization’s team of veterans are ready 24/7 to assure veterans that they are never alone and to connect them with needed resources. No matter the issue, a Vets4Warrior team member is prepared to listen and stay connected until it is resolved. This organization does an amazing job at combatting the isolation and anxiety that so many veterans feel. If you are feeling overwhelmed or know someone who is, please share the Vets4Warriors number:
1-855-838-8255.

Tax Assistance
Most states still require tax filing by April 15, unlike the federal government. If a veteran’s annual income is $66,000 or less, they may qualify to file taxes for free. Through a partnership with The Fedcap Group agency Single Stop, these veterans can complete their taxes for free using a self-guided tax link. Before they get started, they will be asked to complete an optional short survey for some basic demographic information.

Additionally, Single Stop has developed fact sheets to help families affected by COVID-19 find resources in the communities in hard-hit areas in New Jersey and New York.

For more information on programs and services offered by Dixon Center and its partners, please contact Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Programs & Services, swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.

 

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New Financial Wellness Site

New Financial Wellness Site

​If you are a veteran who is struggling financially (e.g., mortgage/rent payments, changes in salaries/wages, being prepared for unexpected emergencies) here is a resource to help you address those challenges.

That’s where the collaboration between Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services and Prudential Financial comes in.

Dixon Center does not create new programs. Rather, we build programs and support for veterans through the existing or emerging efforts of other organizations. Prudential’s Digital Financial Wellness Center is a good example of how we do this.

The Center provides users access to information on key financial topics such as managing day-to-day expenses, savings and investments, and protecting for the future. The site, which contains educational articles, videos, infographics, and interactive tools for self-assessments, budgeting, and life insurance needs.

The co-branded Prudential/Dixon Center Financial Wellness Center is available at both www.prudential.com/DixonCenter as well as on the Dixon Center site directly.

Are you interested in working with us on a collaborative effort to assist veterans in their transition from military to the private sector? For a discussion, please contact Sam Whitehurst, Vice President of Programs & Services, swhitehurst@dixoncenter.org.