Photo By Destiny Walker | From left to right, Scott M. Bonner, Exchange regional vice president, John Hilgert,...... read more read more
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The Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs held a ribbon cutting ceremony for a first-of-its-kind resource center at the base exchange mini mall, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, October 31, 2024.
The Offutt location is the first in the nation to offer military, veteran, and dependent support services in a public-facing storefront within a base exchange. This innovative center is part of Nebraska's efforts to retain service members and their families in the state post-service.
“At Offutt, we are committed to providing our service members and their families with the support they need both during and after their military careers,” said Col. Mark Howard, 55th Wing commander. “The Nebraska Resource Center is a testament to this dedication, offering valuable resources right here on base to ensure our airmen, veterans, and their families have access to the benefits they’ve earned and the opportunity to continue contributing to Nebraska's community. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to their success, both in uniform and beyond.”
Julie Gregory, exchange services manager has developed a cooperative relationship with the VA to have the pilot program last for one year. After that year, the program will be reevaluated to see if it was successful enough to warrant a longer-term commitment. The goal is to open centers at base exchanges nationwide.
“The Exchange is proud to be part of this innovative partnership with the Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs,” said Justin McIntyre, Offutt Base Exchange general manager. “The resource center will provide support to the military community at Offutt in a convenient format, making it easier for those who have served to access their hard-earned benefits and find new opportunities. This is another demonstrable example of the Exchange’s ongoing commitment to serving those who serve.”
The resource center is currently staffed by Krystal Salisbury-Hendricks who is a state accredited veteran service officer from the NDVA. She will assist veterans in accessing state and federal benefits, reviewing service records, completing forms, guiding appeals, and more. The center will also offer resources on employment, occupational licensure, tax reforms, housing, recreational activities, and support for families. Additionally, the VSO will participate in the Transition Assistance Program to aid those transitioning to civilian life.
The Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs partnered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the state of Nebraska, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the Omaha Chamber of Commerce to open this center.
“As we work to grow Nebraska and “the good life,” the service members stationed at Offutt and their families are exactly who we want to attract and retain in the state,” said Gov. Jim Pillen. “These are men and women who have dedicated themselves to the service of our country, have developed exceptional skills and discipline, and bring so much to our community. It's wonderful that we can support them through this resource center."
NDVA’s mission is to honor Nebraska’s veterans and their families by providing outstanding service, assistance, and care. NDVA helps veterans access federal benefits, such as disability compensation and health care, as well as state benefits like Nebraska Veterans Aid and tuition waivers. NDVA also operates four state veterans' homes and ensures eligible veterans receive a dignified resting place in its cemetery system. For more information, visit veterans.nebraska.gov.
| Date Taken: | 10.31.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 11.12.2024 15:39 |
| Story ID: | 484367 |
| Location: | OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, NEBRASKA, US |
| Web Views: | 12 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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