September 2024

This month has been a busy one. I have been learning a lot on the law side of things. Things like case management, team meetings, and scheduling. Then there is the heart of the work. I have been to the Cary Benefits Live and the Greensboro Stand Down.

The formal description of the Cary Benefits Live on VA's website is "Veterans & dependents will be assisted by a combined team including VA Benefits (Veterans Benefits Administration Winston-Salem Regional Office) & Health Administrators, Vet Center and Veterans’ Service Officers with VA claims and questions about benefits. Please bring proper “Veteran ID, DD-214” and any paperwork related to your claims in question and your military history."

It is so much more. This three-day event sees hundreds of veterans and family members. Once they arrive, they are given a number so they can receive some counseling and direction to whatever challenges they may face. Not only is VA there but the community comes out in support. Many places like the American Legion, Veterans Life Center, USAA, and Legal Aid of NC/Veterans Law Project come ready to assist veterans in the many other ways that they may need in their daily lives. As this was my first community event it was overwhelming to realize I am someone who gets to help veterans. I also realized that I am not alone.

VA also helps to organize Stand Downs. "Stand Downs are typically one- to three-day events during which VA staff and volunteers provide food, clothing and health screenings to homeless and at-risk Veterans. In addition, Veterans also receive referrals for health care, housing solutions, employment, substance use treatment, mental health counseling and other essential services." The Greensboro Stand Down was sponsored by the Servant Center.

I work with great people and if there is a reason we cannot assist, they have a network of others who are willing to step in. I look forward to not only helping veterans but getting to know this community of others that help veterans.

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August 2024

Since beginning law school in 2021, I have graduated, taken the bar exam, and am beginning my journey as an Equal Justice America Veterans Rights Fellow. Legal Aid of NC has graciously agreed to sponsor me.

I went to law school with the purpose of helping people, specifically veterans. When I sat in the Veterans Benefits substantive law course, I learned then, even though I am a veteran, that not all people who have served in the military would be considered a veteran for benefits purposes. That is something they do not tell you. Common sense told me a dishonorable discharge meant you lose out on some things so that was not a surprise. My jaw dropped when I learned that a 20-year Reservist or National Guardsman may not be considered a veteran. I do not think that is fair, they signed the same line I did that said they were willing to give up their life for our country.

I hope as I continue to grow and learn the ins and outs of veterans benefits, I will become effective in implementing the changes that need to be made. You can learn more about Equal Justice America and other fellows at this website. Equal Justice America - Best Legal Nonprofit, Social, Law School Charity