HomeMy WebLinkAbout031026 - 2026 March Veteran Voices - WA Dept of Veterans AffairsALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them.
2026 March Veteran Voices - WA Dept of Veterans Affairs
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March 2026
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In this edition:
* WDVA News and Current Events
* Check out what's happening at our Veterans Homes
* WDVA Job Opportunities
* Events and Observances Calendar
* Check it Out: Program Videos
* Program Spotlight
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Greetings from your WDVA Director:
David Puente Jr.
Last week I had the opportunity to join colleagues from across the country at the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA) conference, where state
leaders came together to collaborate on strengthening services and support for Veterans nationwide.
I’m honored to share that I was elected Junior Vice President of NASDVA. It is a privilege to help guide the organization’s work on behalf of state Veterans agencies across the country.
I’m also proud to see Rudy Lopez, Cemetery Director with the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, appointed to the NASDVA Memorial Affairs Committee representing the Far
West District.
During the week, NASDVA leadership also participated in the United States House Committee on Veterans' Affairs and United States Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs Joint Hearing on
March 4, where national Veteran Service Organizations presented their legislative priorities to Congress. NASDVA President Terry Prince testified on behalf of state Veterans agencies.
Other organizations presenting included Paralyzed Veterans of America, AMVETS, Wounded Warrior Project, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and Mission Roll Call.
Conference attendees also heard from VA Secretary Doug Collins <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsecvetaffairs%3F__cft__%255B0%255D=AZZsS-eWbelq8ydYKh8TcRIFLUkZycJPK
lNZPKnPeBxiT8oilcNOY80KAFVM7tmFkqF9Cq2Rlv15Neb3Wr358uOftHJxZx9UsEADHn7RTajpxi-a4kpWzInDjkjXzoqaY2Yg7m81F1QRmVHtBWIa_MX7v-fs54rCut-O9fltG7XyXM9rJIccUMtRE-uTutoX7DI%26__tn__=-%255DK-R%26utm_medium=emai
l%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/kJIzzx9Yan6irnb7LQxgTTISlroE9k7q8FG-dMBn2ZU=448> , who reinforced the importance of strong federal–state
collaboration in delivering benefits and services to Veterans.
I also had the chance to highlight some of the innovative work happening in Washington. In partnership with the Washington State Arts Commission <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.f
acebook.com%2FWashingtonArts%3F__cft__%255B0%255D=AZZsS-eWbelq8ydYKh8TcRIFLUkZycJPKlNZPKnPeBxiT8oilcNOY80KAFVM7tmFkqF9Cq2Rlv15Neb3Wr358uOftHJxZx9UsEADHn7RTajpxi-a4kpWzInDjkjXzoqaY2Yg7m81F1QRmVHtBWIa_
MX7v-fs54rCut-O9fltG7XyXM9rJIccUMtRE-uTutoX7DI%26__tn__=-%255DK-R%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/2dJeymuGnsJxhp0NDRj76my3Fo
M1s8e7JLqWhVW8t00=448> , WDVA secured a $400,000 Wellness, Arts, and the Military (WAM) grant to expand creative arts programming at four Veterans Homes and two transitional housing
programs across our state. These programs give Veterans opportunities to engage in music, painting, woodworking, gardening, and cultural outings that support healing, connection, and
overall well-being.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated leaders across NASDVA who remain committed to serving those who served.
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WDVA recognizes March as Brain Injury Awareness Month with tools of support
Brain Injury Awareness Month reminds us that healing is not a journey Veterans should walk alone. By strengthening the connections between Veterans, their families, and our community
partners, we create the support network every Veteran deserves.
At WDVA, we are dedicated to making sure every Veteran living with a traumatic brain injury has access to compassionate, informed, and coordinated care. This month is an opportunity
to reaffirm that commitment and expand the bridges that lead to recovery.
The WDVA TBI Toolkit <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Ftbitoolkit%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-0
00000/RpeAh-1haxHMDKpt5czXOtulcekzLUG1zTiTGIpmGDc=448> provides practical tools for Veterans, families, caregivers, and community partners to recognize symptoms, navigate services,
strengthen communication, and support daily functioning and long‑term recovery.
Veterans deserve care that honors both their service and their stories, and Brain Injury Awareness Month underscores the importance of providing support that is compassionate, informed,
and accessible. Healing from traumatic brain injury is strengthened through connection—building bridges between Veterans, families, caregivers, and community partners helps address
the invisible wounds that often accompany TBI.
Learn more: WDVA recognizes March as Brain Injury Awareness Month with tools of support | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fnews%2F2026%2Fwdva-recognizes-m
arch-brain-injury-awareness-month-tools-support%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/bKiv65u61XVeE7qQfczm8680As6pG-I8aAoSVxNAT6w=
448>
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1a82-000000/eIrQXVX63RxqhGD3NkXyOGsFBX7esGwe7z3rIE-LojI=448>
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WDVA News and Current Events
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Community Invited to Tri-Cities Veterans Cemetery Project Town Hall
Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) will host a Tri-Cities Cemetery Project Community Town Hall on March 25 at 2:00 p.m. at the Richland Readiness Center, 2655 1st Street,
Richland, WA. Community members, Veterans, families, and local leaders are encouraged to attend.
This town hall offers an opportunity to learn more about the future State Veterans Cemetery, Tri-Cities, to hear updates on the project’s progress, and share community perspectives as
planning continues.
Read more: Community Invited to State Veterans Cemetery, Tri-Cities Project Town Hall | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fnews%2F2026%2Fcommunity-invited-tri-citi
es-veterans-cemetery-project-town-hall%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/gsyj-Je24k4RKDBLE0PV0XXjOwDs4k2VHp0J0n0824M=448>
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<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fabout-wdva%2Flaws-legislation%2Flegislative-updates%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4
b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/EMRNmW8yE5kJESCJofjPDnfpiE3PpFzk3we21N8A8qM=448>
2026 Legislative Updates
As we near the end of this year's legislative session, WDVA continues to provide updates on the status of Veteran-related legislative bills <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa
.gov%2Fabout-wdva%2Flaws-legislation%2Flegislative-updates%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/2/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/1zPsczlf9rabAT5yyBwBNeAMEarL0n41K
vm56J6MnC0=448>
Sign up for our legislative updates email distribution list at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WADVA/subscriber/new <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fpublic.govdelivery.com%2Fa
ccounts%2FWADVA%2Fsubscriber%2Fnew%3Ffbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExMmpiZ0h2Zk1aZWowcGF6b3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6x8vFoYCPrDCAQHJPCwV0E2ewg1vUKP5PlyyD5OksYpD3C0rTR5u8E8oHjCg_aem_nc
ofP4A12wK41k7S5Jzabg/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/dz-28wW_qMt3s0X-tZq6wtKXuVCjfkriosZPWsw84GA=448> .
Pictured above: HB 1541 <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fbillsummary%3FBillNumber=1541%26Year=2025%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad8
5483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/ZfbZv2QOk66JCmaqk7Z8Pwz5-dy3MpLei5DMcuifjl8=448> is signed by Gov. Ferguson on March 9, 2026. Photo by Conall Anderson
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WDVA's Military Spouse Liaison Olivia Burley receives the 2025 Military Community Ambassador of the Year
WDVA is proud to announce Olivia Burley as the 2025 SHRM Foundation Military Community Ambassador of the Year. In her role as Washington State’s Military Spouse Liaison at the Washington
State Department of Veterans Affairs, Burley – also a military spouse and active member of the SHRM Snohomish County Human Resources Association – leveraged SHRM programs and resources
to reach more than 700 individuals in 2025. Her efforts advanced military-connected talent through statewide advocacy, employer education, and cross-sector collaboration.
Read more: WDVA's Military Spouse Liaison Olivia Burley receives the 2025 Military Community Ambassador of the Year: | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fnews%2F20
26%2Fwdvas-military-spouse-liaison-olivia-burley-receives-2025-military-community-ambassador-year%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-0
00000/K05n3Kc5CqVlL8QaT6_4T31Fo3o14KFgsLrDq5uij3E=448>
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Check out what's happening at our Veterans Homes
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Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard
The Veterans and staff would like to thank the artists associated with South Kitsap Artists <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FARTISTS.OF.SK%3F__cft__%255B0%255D=AZbv
aEwnrnf_0P8wbCtgfBc29UBst_C8sEaavv4WEXWN5fY6Zs9hYfOgpcXTPstEWvHMUXJ5KirOhSaG0KtNvJFsE7NuQ2Jomnba8b0HswGtjck0sXtblp4PVO_ke0x7HaN9MSqhCG7s4oTpC8Uoj3_c6XK2Kfh55YtOdifgSX_FUPVCZCe96ctUxe9mof2jmgCUp1GuTEv
DU1hMIRHL6qED%26__tn__=-%255DK-R%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/-U9GxmXdS1GLS5r0yKctJx9zIwbZ1PofeR2ud2ghYhE=448>
who recently joined the Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard for an art show.
During the event, attendees spoke with visiting artists Kerri Garman Mueller, Cristine Hella Cott, Jlouis King and Phoebe Siemion. Our residents enjoyed viewing the beautiful art and
talking art shop with these artists!
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KHQ Highlights Future Spokane Veterans Home
Thank you to KHQ for highlighting this important conversation about the future of the Spokane Veterans Home.
Your Washington Department of Veterans Affairs appreciates the continued community interest and support for a new, modern facility that would provide Veterans with more living space,
enhanced amenities, and high-quality care in a comfortable environment.
We are grateful to the Veterans, families, and community members whose voices help guide these discussions as we work to meet the evolving needs of those who have served.
Read the full story here: https://www.khq.com/.../article_6d4758c1-99a3-4a85-a94a... <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.khq.com%2Fnews%2Fspokane-veterans-seeking-more-living-space-s
upport-plan-to-build-new-spokane-veterans-home%2Farticle_6d4758c1-99a3-4a85-a94a-ef8bafff90fd.html%3Ffbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExaWNDMzdkMjd5OWxMUXV2bXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5jk
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xc6dBKq09MeFItN3HCDR3brfbQg0rnjH8aAs=448>
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Washington Soldiers Home in Orting
Winter Olympics fun at the Washington Soldiers Home in Orting
Recently, our residents showed off their teamwork and competitive spirit during the Snowball Toss Olympics-style event, where they enjoyed passing “snowballs” back and forth with plenty
of laughs along the way. Every participant earned a medal, with special certificates for gold, silver, and bronze.
And of course, the grand finale was a crowd favorite, where residents joyfully launching soft snowballs at staff members.
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Walla Walla Veterans Home
Thank you, to Washington State VFW and Auxiliary Department Commander Drew James and 2025-26 Department President Robyn Sterrett for the generous gifts you delivered for the Veterans
living at the Walla Walla Veterans Home <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWallaWallaVeteransHome%3F__cft__%255B0%255D=AZZtNDd3Ae7QdPoebzle9s43dhyAjfbIVd_mVqDmY4zyoi
NRilQQBtFF8TnhXtsMYjyhiaqxmHCVO79_6cnhySZBlX-PYWM8kmKq4k1ZbPHP7MmJLephuT9JEmKHV5ozlNt4dcPl-i54l9L321rjysOLaqdDiJO3d1LbxyiCsRyzLE8xwCObqI1xr5d367ZL8H4%26__tn__=-%255DK-R%26utm_medium=email%26utm_sourc
e=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/uZD_Hryy9pbkKTGkN_BGVkH4A9JpWrrld1mFUq4AY0U=448> , and their families.
We look forward to sharing with our friends and community about how these gifts, and the donations from others, are blessing our Veterans' lives every day and night. To learn more about
how to donate to any of our Veterans Homes, please visit: Donations | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fdonations%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000
19cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/e0wu1n94lbOCNSa8NcOKzQNhcYXhgvCbcU8Re4NVORM=448>
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Transitional Housing Program
Veterans in the WDVA Transitional Housing Program (THP) at the Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard - Retsil <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fprofile.php%3F__cf
t__%255B0%255D=AZb6NMDdKpq7F0_OmJ4Ya59OW-Ci0CJySTzf-txEs2SF4b3o0uFOk2BzEt5GOwzItGNijegKs10M_CM5sPcaMUg2_vPq50L2bxVkMZtwhB2VRMkgjo7qKlAFcgyQfqiPsfteZKR76T40xXdQt8Q6vB3sCtgG7oK24rQb6WW5_INcsIbzxTSAkbfu
lpJCzcS67UI%26__tn__=-%255DK-R%26id=61575210843785%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/QV3Dshw8pZd4COx7HT_-qGABLXXE6tyoZiXHeB2kg
KE=448> are strengthening more than just their living stability - they’re building coordination, focus, and confidence through hands-on activities that require concentration and focus
(like LEGO building and craft-making.)
These activities help improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and cognitive engagement — all important for recovery, rehabilitation, and daily independence. For many Veterans,
practicing these skills supports everything from personal care tasks to future employment readiness and overall wellness. Just as important, these sessions foster connection, purpose,
and a sense of accomplishment in a supportive environment.
Our THP provides short-term housing and supportive services for Veterans experiencing housing instability, helping them work toward permanent housing and greater self-sufficiency.
Are you a Veteran in need of housing support? Learn more about the Transitional Housing Program and how to apply: https://dva.wa.gov/.../veterans-transitional-housing-program <https://links-1.govdeli
very.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fl.facebook.com%2Fl.php%3F__tn__=-UK-R%26c%255B0%255D=AT7Bbzce-5CGTEum-XK76R8G-74Gg_a2QbJL8egqIovRphCtlk1pfrqU88U7wh1KMYy-FH6XRw14laP6vi3Ug1ysHLE6sj09ZIlhQmbXeBqvNGQ8X8SiY6RuO
dRCoVk8tGhtxfR2gY8W3ts97_zCeB27OK-NuIilc5smRCTpQeW7xjrZ4DjktJEOrGQizC4JFTkCHeZzb2SVzXVQi0fsR5YQvw%26h=AT5FZGD1otTMxz3cT1J995DeyWMkzGKTTeZMdlwk_4Tz43zeLvTuJ03IgRepjf8_f0LDQTGCU2UjrHj-JBWUE28k1YrxjNrRc
dTZOwfWvZnSfvUWa09QvHbddA-1sd_3n6msCS6qKf9qTQ%26u=https%253A%252F%252Fdva.wa.gov%252Fveterans-service-members-and-their-families%252Fveterans-benefits%252Fhousing-resources%252Fveterans-transitional-
housing-program%253Ffbclid%253DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExaWNDMzdkMjd5OWxMUXV2bXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR67tVMVIsGAMBZxGsJwTt5kvxSyOo-5uZ0SxGKkg_85rJu7ILnP2zUnQzUbaA_aem_ZAvRyo3bbygPreK
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WI8pplN_htKmIqU=448>
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WDVA Job Opportunities
<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.governmentjobs.com%2Fcareers%2Fwashington%3Fdepartment%255B0%255D=Dept.%252Bof%252BVeterans%252BAffairs%26department%255B1%255D=Dept.%2Bof%2BVete
rans%2BAffairs%26sort=PostingDate%257CDescending%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/vkqI1xWzaxAGzeSRDDtriTcHxrM_XzhvTiGCpy8Z0jo
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APPLY HERE: View all available career opportunities <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.governmentjobs.com%2Fcareers%2Fwashington%3Fkeywords=WDVA%26utm_medium=email%26utm_source=govd
elivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/JmpcUugxRD-oyNZTmKIFICU34q6OqAXFylkEdtP_LeI=448> with WDVA
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Veteran Conservation Corps Current Internship Openings
Grays Harbor Conservation District (Elma)
* Prairie Habitat Restoration Internship <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2026-03%2FWCRRI%2520Grays%2520Harbor%2520CD%2520Internship%2520%252820
26%2529.docx%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/OhogNYJRIwjz1cAxwDWgP8ZcdPGqbpuPopbjnM56mFA=448>
Lewis Conservation District (Chehalis)
* Prairie Habitat Restoration Internship <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2026-03%2FWCRRI%2520Lewis%2520CD%2520Internship%2520%25282026%2529.doc
x%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/9fbQifGVEqfoteqqjIntZ-dC07v7Cf2wWrljVPrg5n0=448>
Thurston Conservation District (Tumwater)
* Prairie Habitat Restoration Internship <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2F2026-03%2FWCRRI%2520Thurston%2520CD%2520Internship%2520%25282026%2529.
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Events & Observances Calendar
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<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fcalendar%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/ZcmwVm9E7R_Cv8WYy
mDfYkDH9-E0bd2tVtFvAmE9eSE=448> Click here to view upcoming events <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fcalendar%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/2/0100019cd9b
249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/cvToNCY18R7WGPoMhneK15wO4RqfTRcfS9bWMFP2azg=448>
<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fcalendar%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/3/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/77VvZprmeWgY0dKU
zvHKlt53qBD8VHFn3eltgJW5hrc=448>
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<https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/WADVA/2026/03/13281654/yesvets-10-year-decal_original.png>
YesVets hiring program to celebrate 10-year anniversary milestone
Since 2016, the YesVets hiring program has helped employers hire thousands of veterans in Washington.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of YesVets, the state’s Employment Security Department, Washington Department of Veterans Affairs and Society for Human Resource Management will host
a celebration event.
About YesVets
YesVets is an initiative between ESD, WDVA, SHRM, the state Department of Commerce, The state Military Transition Council and chambers of commerce across the state.
Since its inception, YesVets has helped more than 2,500 employers hire more than 9,000 veterans.
“Employment plays a vital role in a successful transition from military service and strengthens the entire military family,” WDVA Director David Puente Jr. said. “Through YesVets, WDVA
has also been able to help employers better understand the earned benefits and wide range of federal and state programs available to support Veterans.”
Learn more: NEWS RELEASE - YesVets hiring program to celebrate 10-year anniversary milestone | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fnews%2F2026%2Fnews-release-yesvet
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t3wjd8k8=448>
<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fnews%2F2026%2Fnews-release-yesvets-hiring-program-celebrate-10-year-anniversary-milestone%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdeliver
y/2/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/RJWqUaSRgbgpcAnpWUnvCObyEJ-e6WnEoF5UqvDckjk=448>
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Save the Date - Serving Those Who Served Conference is coming to Wenatchee on 19 & 20 August
<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fstws%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/H54tblp-EswdjYdnsJyb
E8Re6IkXj3pb7e82sSFSQHI=448>
Learn more and stay updated with the conference by visiting: Serving Those Who Served Conference | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fstws%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_sou
rce=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/GZMalf4THnVuaf7sSyibUelLUXfkvCBRjdNhe_h4tzs=448>
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To submit an event, please email communications@dva.wa.gov <mailto:communications@dva.wa.gov>
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Washington Department of Veterans Affairs Hosts Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Ceremony
WDVA warmly invites Vietnam Veterans, their spouses, all Veterans, and the public to join us in honoring and celebrating Vietnam Veterans at a special indoor ceremony in the Columbia
Room, Capitol Campus, Olympia.
Event Details:
* Event: Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day Ceremony <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fcalendar%2Fevent%2F2026-03%2Fwelcome-home-vietnam-veterans-day-event-capitol%3Futm_me
dium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/hgbqASaX4zNu3uYo7lHr-C9r7gjAyoucPO04HCAfISI=448>
* Date: March 30, 2026
* Time: 11:00 AM
* Location: Columbia Room, 1st Floor, Capitol Building, Olympia, WA
This event will call upon Vietnam Veterans to briefly share their personal experiences. We are proud to present Commemorative Pins to Vietnam Veterans and their spouses. For those who
have already received pins, we encourage you to wear them with pride.
This ceremony is a heartfelt opportunity to express gratitude and formally welcome home those who served during the Vietnam War. We look forward to honoring our Vietnam Veterans and
celebrating their legacy with you!
For questions or additional information, please contact communications@dva.wa.gov <mailto:communications@dva.wa.gov> .
<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fcalendar%2Fevent%2F2026-03%2Fwelcome-home-vietnam-veterans-day-event-capitol%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/2/0100019cd9b24
9b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/i9moLr3jpzTSSgo8lK8XLO-q-P2IDpvIYfAkMhiRsv4=448>
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Veterans Training Support Center - Upcoming workshops
Counseling Program Battle Mind to Home Mind: Train the Trainer Workshop <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F31300%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdeliver
y/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/xaFzkflz07p4g1Jyv8ODQOt76ipUslkgXOs3ECQPJPw=448>
3/9/2026 9:00am-4:00pm
Brain Injury & Recovery Mindfulness Tools for Veterans & Families: Bridging the Gaps <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F31135%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_sour
ce=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/8-AmecYTa57YcmouVWaLztgULKfE8UGwf5jvc6fueB4=448> 3/12/2026 11:00am-12:00pm
Suicide Prevention PAUSE Lethal Means Safety <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F30863%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad854
83-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/gJ43WUkRCCyyvUemqo3SQXL3fZ82J7d4bfwM3Nw1ho0=448> 3/19/2026 10:00am-11:30am
Brain Injury & Recovery artREMEDY: Trauma-Informed Strengths-Based Practice <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F30897%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdel
ivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/AwKyAXC6NSFetKZqIpOR0qZEg7hrptX8zhxU7oNxcUs=448> 3/19/2026 1:00pm-3:00pm
Suicide Prevention LEARN Saves Lives <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F30833%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-
4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/eoTYgr63srrFmBLC8S2fmJabhJO2E9sU_bViV9fUEGc=448> 3/23/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Brain Injury and Recovery Stress Management and Goal Attainment Scaling <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F31167%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdeliver
y/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/PVusTK3NcR-MduBkxPMiIY5kdHk3DqWZ9DFCoD9ZswM=448> 325/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Suicide Prevention Combatting Stigma <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.eventsquid.com%2Fevent%2F30840%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-
4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/SYvJ2YtP9Ab-OBvUkYDcfO9fohR8KxeYTIu9mnX1zDo=448> 3/26/2026 10:00am-11:30am
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Join us for the March 18 VAAC Town Hall and WVAC Women Veterans Forum in Woodinville
<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dva.wa.gov%2Fcalendar%2Fevent%2F2026-03%2Fmarch-18-vaac-town-hall-wvac-women-veterans-forum-woodinville%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelive
ry/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/XuXv25iZ1kJqYEn2MsrCOQ9ndjnjICooc-4_y-24W3I=448>
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WDVA Program Videos
<https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/WADVA/2025/12/12790376/6587294/check-it-out-voices-videos-graphic_crop.png> Check out the following Program Videos:
Get Connected - WDVA's TBI Toolkit is here to help! <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FDs2aMvp1QdE%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8a
e-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/nl-7etHGFvwUrV4ypgnkS-K8Tr1fynqclU3BsIdEP6w=448>
Washington State Armed Forces License Plates <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2F_6siMK8iuTk%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-
be13-249a65001a82-000000/mJ8P1fs8_C433Wb9QY4qqu72x03J7gog3zvC1L0Mqj8=448>
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Program Spotlight
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<https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2FWISR-DVA%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/hpZ1piHGD2FsJT7On01
7Zi1U3_I4Ih9XA-fT4eJX6G0=448>
Women Veterans
March celebrates Women's History Month and your WDVA is sharing resources for Women Veterans. The mission of the WDVA Women Veterans Advisory Committee <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%
2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fcouncils-committees%2Fwomen-veterans%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019cd9b249b1-bad85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/aR-aea8e5WQjpfi-c-FjnvDlDLq7qMDPoPpdcOKh
LgM=448> shall be to ensure that Washington's women Veterans have equitable access to federal and state Veterans' services and benefits.
* Connect women to their identity as Veterans
* Change the public perception of what Veterans look like
* Connect women veterans to benefits
* Connect women veterans to community
The committee provides assistance to women who served in the United States Armed Forces or in forces incorporated as part of the United States Armed Forces.
Learn more: Women Veterans | WDVA <https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fdva.wa.gov%2Fcouncils-committees%2Fwomen-veterans%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/2/0100019cd9b249b1-bad
85483-a8ae-4c4b-be13-249a65001a82-000000/uhg3QagB15EefZ-Ur0yZIGB9yJtiz0VdkztJcI4ETmY=448>
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If you would like copies of this document in an alternate format, please contact communications@dva.wa.gov <mailto:communications@dva.wa.gov>
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Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
1102 Quince St. SE, PO Box 41150, Olympia, WA 98504-1150
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