Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs

08/31/2026

On International Overdose Awareness Day, we remember those lost to overdose and stand with Veterans, families and communities impacted by substance use.

For many Veterans, challenges like trauma, chronic pain and mental health concerns can increase the risk of substance use and overdose. Support, connection and access to resources can save lives.

On August 31, join us in raising awareness, reducing stigma and reminding Veterans they are not alone.

Learn more and find resources: dva.wa.gov/news/2026/standing-together-honoring-veterans-international-overdose-awareness-day

08/30/2026

Leaving the military within the next two years? Learn what comes next.

Join the VA Claims Path to Care information sessions at Olympic College to learn how to prepare for your transition from active duty.

Subject matter experts and Veterans Service Officers will cover:
• VA Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) claims
• VA health care enrollment
• Washington State Veteran benefits
• Answers to your transition questions

These free sessions are open to:
• Active-duty service members
• Military spouses
• Veterans
• Walk-ins welcome

No registration required.

2026 Session Dates (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.):
• Aug. 14
• Sept. 11
• Oct. 16
• Nov. 6
• Dec. 4

Olympic College
Building 11, Room 117 (Rotunda)
1600 Chester Ave.
Bremerton, WA

Your transition starts before you separate. Get the information you need to confidently take the next step.

08/29/2026

Today we celebrate the birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve and honor the Marines who have answered the call to serve while remaining ready to support our nation at a moment’s notice.

Thank you to all Marine Forces Reserve Veterans and those serving today for your commitment and sacrifice.

Semper Fi!

08/29/2026

Did you know you should NEVER have to pay to apply for VA benefits?

The VA will never charge you to apply for your benefits, and neither will WDVA.

Protect yourself from benefits scams by working with a VA-accredited representative who can help you understand your benefits, prepare your claim, and file with confidence. And if you spot a scam, report it!

Remember:
✅ Never pay to apply.
✅ Work with a VA-accredited representative.
✅ Find trusted help through WDVA.

Find a Veterans Service Officer near you: dva.wa.gov/resources

08/28/2026

Someone in your community is making a difference for Washington's Veterans every day. Now it's time to recognize them.

Nominations are now open for the Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards, honoring individuals and teams who go above and beyond in service to Veterans and their families. Whether they assist with benefits, support Veterans in their communities, volunteer their time, or advocate for those who served, their dedication deserves recognition.

Award categories include:
• Superior Award
• Distinguished Service Award
• Team Award

Nominations are open through September 30.

Learn more and submit a nomination: https://loom.ly/KgFScVk

Help us celebrate those who continue to serve those who served.

08/27/2026

❤️

Washington state flags will be lowered for one week to honor the life of Dolly Parton, following a similar order from President Trump:
https://www.king5.com/article/entertainment/music/washington-state-flags-to-be-lowered-in-honor-of-dolly-parton/281-3cbd8832-09bf-443d-a9c6-75c5fd7d5e8b?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KING_5

08/26/2026

Looking for hands-on conservation experience?

The Washington Veterans Conservation Corps is recruiting for a **paid internship with the Palouse Conservation District in southeast Whitman County.

As an intern, you'll work alongside conservation professionals to restore riparian habitats, improve water quality, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and support sustainable land management. You'll gain experience in restoration projects, habitat enhancement, education and outreach, research, and conservation practices while working outdoors across the Palouse.

Internship details:
• 6-month internship with the possibility of extension
• Full-time (40 hours/week): $3,200/month stipend
• Part-time (20 hours/week): $1,600/month stipend
• Typical schedule is Monday–Thursday, with occasional evenings and weekends for outreach events
• Position open until filled

Interested? Email [email protected] to learn more or apply.

Grow your conservation skills while making a lasting impact on Washington's natural resources.

08/25/2026

Start your journey from CNA to LPN at the Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard - Retsil and build a career where every day makes a difference.

A job can be more than a job. It can be a purpose, a calling, and a chance to grow.

Apply now for a job with a purpose: dva.wa.gov/careers

08/25/2026

📸 The Serving Those Who Served conference photos are available on Flickr! We're still adding more, so check back often.

🔗 View the photo gallery: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjD2cMe

Download any photo and share to social media! Don't forget to tag , your organization or someone you connected with!

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this conference a special place to connect, learn and strengthen how we serve Washington’s Veterans and their families.

Employment Security Department
Arts Commission

08/25/2026

A simple card can carry a life-saving message.

WDVA Director David Puente Jr. and Su***de Prevention Program Manager Nicole Vreeland recently recognized America’s Credit Union () leadership in DuPont for promoting the first 988 Veterans Crisis Line Visa debit card.

By putting 988 directly into the hands and wallets of members, this effort helps make sure service members, Veterans and their families know where to turn when they need support.

WDVA presented America’s Credit Union with a Certificate of Appreciation for helping bring greater visibility to the Veterans Crisis Line and advancing the work of the Governor’s Challenge, which aims to reduce su***de rates in Washington State.

Special thanks to Tommy Carson for his leadership and commitment to connecting Washington’s military and Veteran communities with life-saving resources.

#988 ***dePrevention