2008-2009 EMPLOYMENT & HOMELESS VETERAN PROGRAM

1.         Each District and Post Commander should appoint a Homeless Veteran and Employment Chairman for 2008-2009. These appointments with contact information should then be sent to the Department Director(s)

2.         Homeless Veteran defined:

            a. An individual who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence; and

            b. A veteran who has a primary nighttime residence that is:

                        i. A supervised publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide temporary

                           living accommodations (including welfare hotels, congregate shelters and

                           transitional housing for the homeless);

                       ii. An institution that provides a temporary residence for individuals intended to be

                           institutionalized; or

                      iii. A public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping

                           accommodations for human beings.

3.         Contact the local Michigan Works Agencies and speak with the Local Veteran's Employment Representative (LVER) or with the Disable Veteran's Outreach Worker (DVOW). 

            a. Invite them to your Post to speak on the job outlook in your area; how veterans are being

                placed; availability of job training for veterans.

            b. Also discuss your Post as host for an Employment Fair. Contact 877-Vet-Jobs 877-838-

                5627) or on the web at www.vetjobs.com.

4.         Each Chairperson should compile a list of local agencies to assist veterans either in Employment, Homelessness or Food Banks. Post this list on the Post Bulletin Board.

5.         Encourage Post to host Homeless Veteran Program, such as a stand-down; a Job Fair specifically for homeless vets; you may co-host with another agency.

6.         Remember the Post Relief Fund is for aiding veterans in need. Donate (through VFW Department) to homeless veteran programs.

7.         Remember to publicize homelessness and employment issues on local/cable TV stations; newspapers; radio stations; District/Post Newsletter; local Church Bulletins; Municipal bulletin boards, etc.

8.         Remember to report your activity both to the Department Program Director and on your Post Activity Report.

9.         Education and training are keys to breaking the homeless cycle. Encourage your legislators to provide for homeless veterans beyond a roof over their heads.

Kenneth Aune, Director                                           David Marin, Director                                 

Homeless Veterans                                                    Employment                                          

38850 Pardee                                                             7230 Cascade Woods Dr. SE          

Harrison Township, MI  48045                                Grand Rapids, MI  49546                           

586-463-8890                                                                                                                           616-940-0716 

Email: Kenneth.aune@va.gov                                 Email: marind@michigan.gov