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IDVA FY-2020 Annual Report

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F i s c a l Y e a r 2 0 2 0ANNUAL REPORT

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I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0From Director WimerI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0This year has been a tale of two halves. The IndianaDepartment of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) worked hardto serve Indiana veterans more effectively thanever. We forged new partnerships and made wayfor veterans and their families to Live, Work andThrive in the great state of Indiana. By the end of2019, IDVA implemented a complete departmentrestructuring. We positioned our staff for maximumeffectiveness to increase benefits for Indiana’s over400,000 veterans. 2020 started off with so muchpromise, but then our world hit a roadblock. Theglobal pandemic forced us to change how weapproached our daily activities and shifted our viewof what needed to be accomplished and what didnot. We focused on figuring out how to provideservices and communicate in a completely virtualworld. During the pandemic, IDVA delivered on ourpromise to provide funds to fight veteranhomelessness. We reviewed almost 20applications and selected 13 organizations to bepart of our very first Grants for Veterans Services.We awarded almost $1 million to be used from2020 to 2021.The new Indiana Veterans' Center at 777 N.Meridian St., the former headquarters of theNational American Legion, was completed andIDVA will be the first organization to move into ournew home in July 2020. The Indiana Veterans'Center will have increased capabilities to assistveterans, improved technology access and a largerspace for training and community meetings. As we look forward to next year, no onepredicts a quick end to the global pandemic.No matter the circumstances, our team willwork to serve, support and advocate for eachand every one of our Indiana veteranswithout reservation. IDVA looks forward toserving Indiana veterans, their families, andcaregivers. Thank you for your continuedsupport.Federal, state, local and nonprofit veteranorganizations will be housed in the newIndiana Veterans' Center, bringing togethermany of the resources our veterans need inone place.

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VISION - MISSIONI D V AIDVA MissionThe mission of the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs is toSupport, Serve and Advocate for theIndiana Veteran Community.I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0IDVA VisionIndiana is the choice for Veterans to Live, Work and Thrive.

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Indiana's Veterans, by the NumbersMeet the TeamIDVA Department Overview Division Overviews: Training & ServicesMilitary Family Relief FundState Approving AgencyLegal & LegislativeOutreachIndiana Veterans Memorial CemeteryIndiana Veterans HomeEvents SpotlightIndiana Veterans' CenterHelping Veterans LIVEWORKandTHRIVEAnnual Report FY2020C O N T E N T S010407081012141620222425INDIANAINDIANADepartment ofDepartment ofVeterans AffairsVeterans AffairsI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0

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HENRY 3,230SHELBY 3,215MIAMI 3,062BOONE 3,059HARRISON 2,993MARSHALL 2,729GREENE 2,698JACKSON 2,693DE KALB 2,677CASS 2,663NOBLE 2,618KNOX 2,459PUTNAM 2,458MONTGOMERY 2,377DUBOIS 2,297HUNTINGTON 2,291JEFFERSON 2,248GIBSON 2,177RIPLEY 2,116JASPER 2,115WHITLEY 2,099STEUBEN 2,098WASHINGTON 2,056WABASH 2,032CLINTON 1,953JENNINGS 1,912CLAY 1,881DAVIESS 1,801WHITE 1,769RANDOLPH 1,703POSEY 1,692FAYETTE 1,663 STARKE 1,629WELLS 1,592SPENCER 1,588SCOTT 1,584OWEN 1,582DECATUR 1,500CARROLL 1,452ADAMS 1,438FULTON 1,414ORANGE 1,368 SULLIVAN 1,363 LAGRANGE 1,288 PERRY 1,287 BROWN 1,261 VERMILLION 1,243 PARKE 1,214 JAY 1,212 FRANKLIN 1,162 TIPTON 1,118 FOUNTAIN 1,108 RUSH 1,063 BLACKFORD 983 NEWTON 910 PIKE 836 PULASKI 833 MARTIN 830 CRAWFORD 735 SWITZERLAND 710 WARREN 576 BENTON 551 UNION 524 OHIO 490 MARION 49,103 LAKE 27,284 ALLEN 20,276 HAMILTON 14,033 ST. JOSEPH 14,005 VANDERBURGH 12,643 HENDRICKS 10,096 JOHNSON 10,081 PORTER 10,024 ELKHART 8,934 MADISON 8,645 CLARK 8,432 TIPPECANOE 8,192 LA PORTE 7,500VIGO 7,192DELAWARE 6,547MONROE 6,217HOWARD 6,012MORGAN 5,913HANCOCK 5,231FLOYD 5,230GRANT 4,989WAYNE 4,812KOSCIUSKO 4,318BARTHOLOMEW 4,299WARRICK 4,012LAWRENCE 3,576DEARBORN 3,510I N D I A N A ' S V E T E R A NP O P U L A T I O NB Y C O U N T YSmallest Veteran PopulationOHIO CO. 490Largest Veteran PopulationMARION CO. 49,103P A G E0 1I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0By the NumbersI N D I A N A V E T E R A N S www.va.gov/vetdata/veteran_population.asp

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P A G E0 2CD1 CD2 CD3 CD4 CD5 CD6 CD7 CD8 CD96,000 4,000 2,000 0 Peacetime Veteran Population:112,178Gulf War Veterans VeteransVietnam Era VeteransKorean Conflict VeteransWWII Veterans144,191140,71628,17311,486Gulf War (Aug. 2, 1990, - Present)Vietnam War era: (Feb. 28, 1961, - May 7, 1975)Korean conflict (Jun. 27, 1950, - Jan. 31, 1955)World War II (Dec. 7, 1941, - Dec. 31, 1946)Indiana's Women Veteran Population: 35,501Women are the nation's fastestgrowing veteran population!I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0By the NumbersI N D I A N A V E T E R A N SWartime Veteran Population:317,139 W o m e n V e t e r a n P o p u l a t i o n b y I n d i a n a ' s( 9 ) C o n g r e s s i o n a lD i s t r i c t spop. 3,510pop. 3,370pop. 5,175pop. 3,833pop. 4,333pop. 3,241pop. 3,743pop. 4,147pop. 4,150 www.va.gov/vetdata/veteran_population.aspIndiana's Total Veteran Population 429,317

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86% 14% 86% 14%Other Races14%African AmericanAI-NAasianPacific IslanderHis latItem 675 50 25 0 AmericanIndiana &AlaskaNativeHawaiian& PacificIslander372,823VeteransIndiana is the choice for Veterans to Live,Work and Thrive.Veteran PopulationAsianHispanicor LatinoOther orMixed RaceWhite86%AfricanAmerican 65%2%3%0.7%21%8.3%36,725 1,753 406 11,6691,183Indiana's Veteran Population by Race4,758 www.va.gov/vetdata/veteran_population.aspI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0 P A G E0 3By the NumbersI N D I A N A V E T E R A N SIndiana's Total Veteran Population 429,317

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Gabrielle Owens, General CounselJoseph DeVito, Outreach DirectorP A G E0 4Joy Grow, IVH SuperintendentDennis has been serving as director since February 2019. He is an Air Forceveteran who brings a wealth of experience from the business, nonprofit andeducational industries. Dennis brings a servant’s mindset to the agency and isexcited to continue serving Indiana’s veterans and their families. Mike Thompson, Operations DirectorDennis A. Wimer, DirectorI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Meet the Executive TeamI D V AMike most recently served in the Indiana Department of WorkforceDevelopment where he led the U.S. Department of Labor’s Jobs for VeteransState Grant (JVSG) program. He is currently a member of the 38th SustainmentBrigade as distribution and integration staff sergeant, Indiana National Guard.As General Counsel, Gabrielle is providing legal advice as well as leadership indepartmental policy, audit and legislative functions. Most recently, she served inthe Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and has over 20 years’ experience inpracticing law. Gabrielle is the daughter of a retired Air Force colonel. Joe is a Coast Guard veteran, graduate of Indiana University Southeast and aformer CVSO and DSO. Joe has experience in business, outreach and volunteerwork. As Outreach Coordinator, he brings a passion for reaching veterans andincreasing the number of veterans served and benefits awarded across the state.Joy came to IVH in September 2015 as its chief counsel and was namedSuperintendent in 2020. Joy is a graduate of Ball State University and MichiganState University. Grow believes in servant leadership and enjoys being engagedin the community and volunteers at many community art and cultural events.

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P A G E0 5I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Meet the TeamI D V APhilip A. KrummDirectorProgrammingMichael L. HammIDVAState VeteranService OfficerTimothy E. DykeDirectorTraining & ServicesThomas D. WhiteNorthwest DistrictState VeteranService OfficerCameron LochnerNortheast DistrictState VeteranService OfficerBryan SchmidtCentral-West DistrictState Veteran Service OfficerRonald HigginsSoutheast DistrictState Veteran Service OfficerKevin HintonSouthwest DistrictState Veteran Service OfficerKelly CherryIDVAOffice ManagerShannonNicoloffIDVACustomer ServiceAlan J. BurnhamSuperintendentIndiana VeteransMemorial CemeteryCharlie J. BurtonAsst. SuperintendentIndiana VeteransMemorial CemeteryAlbert S. BennettFormanIndiana VeteransMemorial CemeteryDavid McKayFormanIndiana VeteransMemorial CemeteryT R A I N I N G & S E R V I C E SI N D I A N A V E T E R A N SM E M O R I A L C E M E T E R YC U S T O M E R S E R V I C EStephen AicheleDirectorLegislative AffairsL E G A L &L E G I S L A T I V E

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P A G E0 6I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Meet the TeamI D V AKirsten ClarkCommunications &Media ManagerRaymond BakerDirectorState ApprovingAgencyAmber R. MertensAssistant DirectorState ApprovingAgencyDeborah WayOutreach Coord.State ApprovingAgencyTara M. EggenProgram DirectorState ApprovingAgencySummer G. TacyProgram DirectorState ApprovingAgencyFredrick HudsonProgram DirectorState ApprovingAgencyLaura McKeeWoman VeteransCoordinatorS T A T E A P P R O V I N G A G E N C YO U T R E A C H &C O M M U N I C A T I O N SLynn DickeyDirectorMilitary FamilyRelief FundJanie GregoryAssistant DirectorMilitary FamilyRelief FundM I L I T A R Y F A M I L YR E L I E F F U N D

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P A G E0 7I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Department OverviewI D V AIndiana is the choice for Veterans to Live, Work and Thrive.Since its establishment in 1945, the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA)has remained focused on improving the lives of Indiana veterans. As veterancommunities and benefits evolve, IDVA is dedicated to customizing communicationto reach every veteran and family category or group. The IDVA staff creates,coordinates, and participates in direct outreach events for veterans and their familiesacross the state daily.IDVA's partnerships with the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, theU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and many other public and private organizationshave grown. We now share the Indiana Veterans' Center at 777 N. Meridian St. withmany great veteran agencies. IDVA remains dedicated to increasing the number ofveterans who are placed in jobs, receive state and federal benefits, and attendtailored events designed to positively impact their lives.IDVA has experienced considerable challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.IDVA leadership utilized the suspension of in-person events and training as anopportunity to master the virtual meeting world. The staff focused on technical andorganizational systems including strategic planning workshops, websitedevelopment training and reviews of office policies and protocols. One notablepandemic adjustment was the Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF) COVID-19 SpecialApplication program. The quick-acting MFRF team was able to begin this temporaryfund at the beginning of the pandemic and it will continue to positively impactIndiana's veteran community until the state's emergency order is lifted.IDVA’s executive leadership has restructured and the operations director, generalcounsel and outreach director positions were filled. Led by Director Wimer, theexecutive team is focused on being transparent, implementing effective policies,empowering staff and striving for positive change.The entire IDVA, including the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery and the IndianaVeterans Home, is dedicated to achieving its vision that Indiana is the state whereveterans Live, Work and Thrive.

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Training & Services Director Tim Dyke assists a veteranwith an Indiana veteran property tax deduction claim. Tim,Phil Krumm and Mike Hamm are available for walk-ins andveterans with appointments.P A G E0 8TrainingServicesIDVAI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Training & ServicesI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WCOVID-19 limited access to our offices makingteleworking from home and virtual meetingplatforms a norm. We continue to process stateveteran benefit applications and field calls withno delay. The team continues our work toassist and train our service officers with nodelays or issues. Considerations are beingmade to host virtual training at least quarterlywith the service officers in Indiana to ensureindividuals stay up to date with any changeswithin the state and federal VA.The Training & Services team worked closelywith the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles todevelop a new Disabled Hoosier VeteranLicense Plate and Disabled Hoosier VeteranParking Placard. The plates now have theveteran’s branch of service emblem and theuniversal handicapped emblem. Both the plateand placard afford the veteran free meteredparking throughout Indiana. 2020 also markedthe first year surviving spouses of veterans killedin action or in the line of duty were able to usethe veteran’s property tax deduction.New legislation changed Indiana Code to allowthe hiring of non-veteran CVSOs who have atleast two years of experience in an assistantCVSO role. These individuals must meet thecurrent residency and familial relationshiprequirements under Indiana Code. Our DistrictService Officers have continued to train newCVSOs and staff in 2020. This training primarilyconsists of in-person or virtual training in theCVSO offices. All these CVSOs have completedthe necessary training to become accreditedthrough the VA Office of General Counsel.The IDVA Training and Service division staffconsists of the Director of Veterans Services,the Training Manager, and the State VeteranService Officer. The mobile division is made upof (6) District Service Officers (DSOs). Thedivision staff manages state benefitapplications and online applications for Tuitionand Fee exemption daily. The State ServiceOfficers focus is assisting veterans applying forfederal benefits, VA pension and VA healthcare enrollment. The District service Officersare located throughout the state provideguidance and training for newly appointedCounty Veteran Service Officers (CVSOs) andtheir staff. The DSOs help with CVSO outreachand conduct quarterly district CVSO trainingand information meetings.

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96%93% 812ApplicationsProcessed625Veteran License PlatesDisabled VeteranPurple HeartPOW/MIAP A G E0 9TrainingServicesIDVA Accredited CVSOsCVSOs withVetraSpecaccounts12 AccreditedAsst. CVSOsNorthwestThomas WhiteCentral-WestBryan SchmidtDistrict Service Officers (DSO)The (6) DSOs each cover 13-15 CVSO offices. They provide on-site training and specialprojects assistance to the county offices tobring training and services to the CVSO office. Central-EastTBDSoutheastRon HigginsSouthwestKevin HintonNortheastCam LochnerDisabled PropertyTax DeductionsTuition & Fee ExemptionApplications: 2019-2020 Academic Year: 1667Tuition & Fee Exemption Applicationsare 100% filed online using ScholarTrack application systemI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Training & ServicesI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WApplicationsProcessed

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P A G E1 0I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Military Family Relief FundI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E W1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10150 100 50 0 MFRF Denial Reason126 39 31 29 28 17 12 <52945DENIED47%APPROVED31%CLOSED22%765 MFRFApplications Processed47%Denied31%Approved22%ClosedWhen an incomplete application is received, theMFRF team attempts to contact the applicant forthe needed information. If these attemptedcommunications are unsuccessful after 30 daysthe application is closed out. This has no bearingon the applicants ability to re-apply.MFRFApplicationsby BranchARMY 441NAVY 135MARINE CORPS 103AIR FORCE 84COAST GUARD 258%18%13%11%.01%1 - Hardship was not caused by military service.2 - Applicant is over the poverty limit.3 - Applicant had other assets available.4 - There was no general hardship.5 - Applicant had already exhausted MFRF funds.6 - Applicant's reported expenditures were inappropriate.7 - Applicant had less that 12 mo. active duty time.8 - Applicant did not serve during a wartime period.9 - Applicant's discharge was not Honorable.10 - Applicant was not IN resident/not a dependant.MFRFThe Military Family Relief Fund assists veteransand their dependents who are experiencingfinancial hardship. The MFRF awards funding foressential household needs that have becomedifficult to afford. During fiscal year 2020, theMFRF operated its regular program andadditional COVID-19 programs pursuant to theGovernor’s Executive Order 20-05.The regular MFRF program requires that aveteran’s hardship be a result of his or hermilitary service. The COVID-19 hardship mustbe related to income loss due to thepandemic. The regular MFRF has a lifetimeaward amount of $2,500. However, veteransmay apply for the COVID-19 programs even ifthey have already exhausted their full lifetimeamount from the regular program. A VeteransAffairs Commission task force was created toreview and approve any awards over $2,500.

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P A G E1 1Amount of AssistanceI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Military Family Relief FundI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WPre- 9/11 Veterans Post- 9/11 VeteransStandard MFRF Apps26033% of Standard Apps.COVID-19 MFRF Apps11248% of Standard Apps.Standard MFRF Apps52867% of Standard Apps.COVID-19 MFRF Apps12352% of Standard Apps.MFRFWho is eligible?Financial CriteriaFederal gross income cannot exceed two (2)times the U.S. Federal Poverty GuidelineHardship CriteriaIndiana Resident12 months of qualifying military serviceMilitary discharge must be Honorable orCurrently serving or servedduring a War Time period orNational Conflict Under Honorable ConditionsThe hardship incurred by theapplicant must be a consequence ofthe applicant’s service in the ArmedForces or the National Guard. The hardship must directly impact theapplicant's most central and basic livingneeds.MFRFstandardapplicationCOVID-19 specialapplicationAllows for Peacetime veterans to qualify.Allows for hardship related to COVID-19 to qualify.Allows for veterans who used MFRF in the past toqualify for COVID related hardship. The MFRF COVID-19 Special Application was created tomeet our Indiana veterans special needs during thepandemic. The Special Application will be available aslong as the Governor has the state under the pandemicemergency order. Lifetime maximum of $2,500 in totalassistanceMFRF

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P A G E1 2SAAWithout these APPprograms, many federalGIBILL® benefits wouldremain unused!APP attracts veterans andtheir families from acrossthe nation to live , work &thrive in IndianaI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0State Approving AgencyI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WApprenticeship Program (APP)800+POTENTIALCLIENTSREACHED20+VIRTUALTRAININGSAPP developedworkshops collaboratingwith Department of Labor,the Department ofWorkforce Development,and INVets.The State Approving Agency (SAA)approves college and non-college degreeprograms, vocational flight training,apprenticeships, and other on-the-jobtraining programs. These approvals allowfor federal educational assistance benefitsto be paid to veterans and other eligiblepersons under several programsadministered by the U.S. Department ofVeterans Affairs (VA). Through acooperative agreement with VA, the SAA istasked with approving and maintaining theapproval of the educational and trainingfacilities. The SAA team welcomed a newoutreach coordinator to work withapprenticeship and on the job trainingprograms. The SAA successfullycompleted all requirements of the fiscalyear 2021 cooperative agreement andachieved a satisfactory rating, the highestrating possible.The SAA was assigned 47 compliancesurveys to review veteran records in fiscalyear 2020; 91% of the surveys werecompleted despite COVID-19 restrictions.The SAA reviewed catalogs, bulletins,addendums, and program outlines for 223educational institutions and trainingestablishments. This resulted in the SAAapproving a total of 10,018 programs. Therewere 31 new facilities approved for veteransto use their GI Bill® benefits. Schools andtraining facilities that have at least oneveteran using the GI Bill® benefit areconsidered active; there are currently 374active facilities. The SAA successfullycompleted all requirements of the fiscal year2020 cooperative agreement and achieved asatisfactory rating, the highest ratingpossible.

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P A G E1 3V78%P22%374SAA100%91%Outreach &Liaison EventsI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0State Approving AgencyI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WFACILITIESACTIVE22331New Facilities22%78%IN-PERSONVIRTUAL47TotalSurveysStatewide43CompletedSurveysStatewideCompliance Surveys areassigned by the VA toavoid/detect institutionalwaste, fraud and abuse.Catalogs & BulletinsApproved

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P A G E1 4ID ALEGIS L AT IV E & LE GAL D I VI S IO NVD aff48.4%dis45.2%Item 36.5%I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Legislative & LegalI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WCOVID - 19 Special ApplicationRequest Over $2,50015 DenialsAffirmed6.5%2 DenialsReversedMFRF AppealOutcomes48.4%45.2%14 DenialsDismissed31TOTALSome applicants for this fund have already exhausted the$2,500 limit of the standard MFRF. Others may have anemergency need for more than $2,500 at one time, for theseinstances the applicant can ask for an Over $2,500 Request.100%29 OVER $2500 REQUESTSAPPROVEDAt the beginning of fiscal year 2020, the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs hired its firstgeneral counsel, Gabrielle Owens. Under Gabrielle's leadership, IDVA established the IDVA legaland legislative division. The IDVA legal and legislative division provides counsel to the IDVAexecutive team and all IDVA employees, represents IDVA in all appeals, coordinates all IDVAlegislative functions, executes grants and contracts, conducts the day-to-day administrativeactivities concerning the Indiana Veterans Affairs Commission and serves as the data center forIDVA.In addition, the IDVA legal and legislativeteam administered the granting of nearly$900,000 to nonprofits that serve Indianaveterans who face homelessness or near-term homelessness and created acompliance monitoring manual and acompliance monitoring timeline for all IDVAgrantees. The legal and legislative divisionalso successfully modernized the IDVAsection of the Indiana Code, includinglegislative changes to reflect the role ofwomen veterans, expand the languagesurrounding a prisoner of war to encompassany war or national conflict and eliminatesections that were outdated and/or notapplicable to Indiana veterans.

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P A G E1 5ID ALEGIS L AT IV E & LE GAL D I VI S IO NV0 25,000 50,000 75,000 100,000 AMVETSVFWAm. LegDVAVVA25 20 15 10 5 0 American Legion DAV$202,000 ea.Age42%Resi33%adopt25%Indiana Legal ServicesFamily Service Assoc. of Howard Co.Center for the HomelessThe Shepard's HouseHVAFVolunteers of AmericaLafayette Transitional HousingReach ServicesVeterans Changing ServicesOperation Job Ready VETSTransition Resources CenterHealthNet, Inc.Operation Combat Bike Saver$100,000.00$84,000.00$79,250.00$77,500.00$76,250.00$75,750.00$72,750.00$72,000.00$71,500.00$69,000.00$44,000.00$32,750.00$25,000.00$102,000I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Legislative & LegalI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WAMVETS VFW VVAGrants VeteranServicesforVeteran Service OrganizationGRANTSApplicantover 32yrs. oldAdoptionReidency42%33%25%96%4%Tuition & Fee AppealsREASONSFORAPPEALSOUTCOMESOFAPPEALSOverturnedUpheld

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P A G E1 6OUTREACHCOMMUNIICATIONSINDIANA DEPARTMENTOF VETERANS AFFAIRSI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Outreach DivisionI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WIDVA teamed up with Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans to helpcreate the Indiana specific content in the gift book that will bedistributed in 2021. The page featured to the right was designed bythe outreach team and will be the introduction page for the book!New BeginningsTracking DD214s with IN Co. RecordersBreaktime for Benefits with DWDIN Veterans Legislative DayRevamp IDVA Newsletter & SpecialEditionsCreating IDVA media policyReview Internal policiesProjects & Partnerships began in FY2020The IDVA outreach division is a new addition to IDVA and will drive its mission to betransparent, progressive, and accessible. Joe DeVito was hired in February 2020 to leadthe team. The WINVet program and its coordinator Laura McKee became part of theoutreach department and a communications manager was added in April 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic happened soon after the creation of the outreach division, andinitial plans were quickly restructured as were many outreach events nationwide. IDVAhas felt the loss of in-person events and communications and is eager to resumenormal outreach events. The team has become well-versed in holding virtual meetingsand will utilize digital formats to complement future in-person events andprogramming.

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P A G E1 7OUTREACHCOMMUNIICATIONSINDIANA DEPARTMENTOF VETERANS AFFAIRSThe eagle represents freedomOn June 20, 1782, the Bald Eagle was chosen asthe emblem of the United States of America. Theeagle, with its majestic appearance was chosenfor its long life and great strength.The bald eagle on the IDVA logo givesHoosier veterans a familiarsymbol of patriotism andmilitary service. The baldeagle appears on eachmilitary branch flagand/or seal.The Torch & ShieldThe Indiana Torch symbolizesenlightenment and liberty.The surrounding rayssymbolize the farreaching influenceof the state. The 19stars representIndiana being the19th state to join theunion. These symbolsare emblazoned on ashield that represents theprotection of the principles ourHoosier veterans served to protect.Single Gold StarThe single gold star centered over the eagle pays respect to Hoosier Gold Starfamilies. The term "Gold Star" describes a family member who has lost a lovedone in military service.The Gold Star signified the family's pride in the loved one's sacrifice ratherthan the mourning of their personal loss.Surrounding WreathThe laurel wreath standsfor honors received incombat defending the peacerepresented by the olive branch. Wreaths appear on many militaryseals, flags and logos adding to thefamiliar symbol of patriotism and military service. IDVA LOGO SymbolismMeaning-PurposeColor Scheme & Date:The 2 colors of the IDVA logo, Oxford Blueand Gamboge, represent the colors of theIndiana state flag. 1945 is the yearthe IDVA was founded.The new IDVA logo represents therebranding & new vision of the department.The logo can be recognized immediatelyas military and veteran oriented.I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Outreach DivisionI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E W

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P A G E1 8OUTREACHCOMMUNIICATIONSINDIANA DEPARTMENTOF VETERANS AFFAIRS @In_dvaIndianaVeterans@Indiana.veterans@InVetAffairsIN Dept ofVeterans AffairsHelping Veterans LIVEWORKandTHRIVEI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Outreach DivisionI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WINDIANAINDIANADepartment ofDepartment ofVeterans AffairsVeterans Affairsin.gov/dva (800) 400-4520R E B R A N D I N G A N DL O G O C O N S I S T E N C YN E W P U B L I C A T I O NM A T E R I A L SD E V E L O P E DS T A T E V E T E R A NB E N E F I T S T R I - F O L DB R O C H U R EI V M C T R I - F O L DB R O C H U R EW I N V E T ST A B L E T O PM F R FI N F O C A R DS O C I A L M E D I AB R A N D I N G A N DC O N S I T E N C Y

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Women of IndianaWho are VeteransW INVetP A G E1 9OUTREACHCOMMUNIICATIONSINDIANA DEPARTMENTOF VETERANS AFFAIRSI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Outreach DivisionI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WPARTNERSHIP SPOTLIGHT20+EVENTSCOORDINATEDPRESENTERORGANIZERKEYNOTESPEAKERWINVets ParticipationIndiana Department of Corrections (IDOC)WINVets and the IDOC have developed a strongcollaborative partnership. IDOC facility visits fromWINVets and programming events have provided apath and voice for women veterans within the IDOCsystem.WINVet is dedicated to empowering womenveterans to Live, Work and Thrive by providingresources, community outreach, networking,and community service. IDVA fully recognizesour women veterans throughout the state andprovides state benefits to all veterans equally. The WINVet program participates in outreachevents statewide and partners with serviceorganizations and the VA to educate womenveterans about benefits, filing claims and theservices available to them. In 2019, IDVA held a Women VeteransConference with keynote speakers, panels,vendors, and information to assist womenveterans. The conference content was diverse,educational, and focused on the well-being ofIndiana's women veterans.WINVet coordinator Laura McKee isthe current president of the NationalAssociation of State WomenCoordinators. Laura was nominated byIDVA and selected by the IndianaDepartment of Corrections executivestaff and commissioner to participateas a cohort in the yearlongExperienced and Emerging LeadersProgram.

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P A G E2 0IVMCThe Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery(IVMC) is dedicated to veterans and theirfamilies as a lasting memorial, and finalresting place, in appreciation and gratitudefor their service and sacrifice to our nation.The IVMC staff was resolute in continuingthe mission as the COVID-19 pandemicwashed over the United States. While thepandemic presented restrictions tointernment services, the staff maintainedburial services with dignity and respect.I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Veterans Memorial CemeteryI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WThe annual Wreaths Across Americaevent at the IVMC was held on Dec.14, 2019. The event had a wonderfulcommunity turnout. Visitors help theIVMC staff ensure every grave markerwas adorned with one of the approx.1,400 wreaths.The annual Memorial Day program heldon the last Monday in May wascanceled due to the COVID-19pandemic. IVMC remained open tovisitors observing outdoor socialdistancing guidelines.

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P A G E2 1IVMCvets72%spous28%I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Veterans Memorial CemeteryI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E WI V M C I N T E R M E N T SSpousesVeterans28%72%148TOTALG O V E R N M E N T H E A D S T O N E SO R D E R E D & S E T180P R E - N E E DB U R I A LA P P L I C A T I O N105 Submitted& Approved2,340Governor MemorialCertificates Issued"Duty, Honor, Country. Those three hallowedwords reverently dictate what you ought to be,what you can be, what you will be."-Douglas MacArthurV E T E R A N S D A Y 2 0 1 9On Nov. 11, 2019, the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery held aVeterans Day service. The service was to honor all past and presentveterans and their families. Guest speakers included Madison MayorBob Courtney, State Rep. Randy Frye and Michael Thompson,Director of Operations, IDVA. Approximately 100 veterans andfamilies were in attendances.

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P A G E2 2Due to COVID-19 precautions beginning inFebruary 2020, most of IVH’s long list ofannual public events for the year had to becancelled or reimagined to help keep our staffand residents safe and our infection risk aslow as possible. Car parades becameimportant community participation events tosafely allow our community members andfamilies to interact. IVH hosted two carparades in FY20, including 200+ vehicles forthe staff appreciation parade in late April, and100+ vehicles for the Women Veterans Dayparade in early June 2020. IVH staff recognized the importance ofsupporting each other through the pandemic.Led by the MDS/Restorative staff team, IVHopened an on-site facility food pantry for staffand contractors to help provide for each otherduring difficult times. I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Indiana Veterans HomeI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E W“Battle of Brave” 10k Ruck and RunNational Saluting Branches eventNative American Indian Veterans DayVeterans DayWreaths Across America ceremonyIVH Carnival DayBeginning July 1, 2019, IVH hosted severalpublic events:Nearly 180 runners and ‘ruckers’ participated inthe event which will be in its third year in 2021.The Commandant’s Home is currently undergoing a three-phase restoration project, in partnership with IndianaLandmarks, to restore and make safe the porch, entryways, siding, and windows in anhistorically accurate manner. The Commandant’s Home Porch renovation project is well underway.The Home is recognized on the national historic register as ahistorically significant building and site. VETERANS HOMEINDIANA

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1 2 3100 75 50 25 0 07/01/2019Residents: 18902/02/2019Residents: 18706/30/2019Residents: 166IVH did not have a single staff member or resident COVID-19 positivecase through the end of June 2020. 12%15%Director Wimer andhis daughter Laurenattending the CarParade!P A G E2 3I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Indiana Veterans HomeI D V A D I V I S I O N O V E R V I E W VETERANS HOMEINDIANAIndianaVeterans Home AverageNationalAverageCensusLong-term care facilities (LTC) nationally were hit hard by COVID-19, which continuesto impact facility census numbers due to deaths and the inability to administervacancies due to COVID safety protocols. Occupancy decline in LTC

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P A G E2 4Director Wimer Presents the Jefferson Co. Veterans Councilwith the IDVA Outstanding Community Partner AwardI D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Events SpotlightI D V AIDVA was proud to join the Center forWomen Veterans, Indiana Department ofDisabled Veterans, Veterans of ForeignWars post 1587, AMVETS, and Hamilton Co.Veterans to bring this amazing event toIndiana.Charlie Burton (left) and DaveMcKay of the IVMC enjoying thework for Wreaths Across America.Outreach Director Joe DeVito (center) WithVeterans Talk radio show co-host AJ Bramer(right) after wrapping a show with special guestWINVets Coord. Laura McKee .State Rep. Sheila Klinker delivered aproclamation to the Indiana VeteransHome to celebrate the ribbon cutting ofmurals painted for the memory care unitby local artist Stacy Bogan. Pictured R toL: Stacy Bogan’s husband, Rep. SheilaKlinker, Superintendent Joy Grow andartist Stacy Bogan. Program Director Phil Krumm participatedin the Beam Signing for the newBrownsburg, IN VA Healthcare Clinic.

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P A G E2 5INDIANA VETERANS' CENTERSServing Those Who ServedState Approving Agency (SAA)Training & ServicesMilitary Family Relief Fund (MFRF)Outreach & CommunicationLegislative & LegalState Veteran Service OfficersDWDFLOOR 3INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Local Veterans Employment Specialist (LVER)Disabled Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (DVOP)I D V A F Y 2 0 2 0Indiana Veterans' CenterO U R N E W H O M EFLOOR 4• Operation: Job Ready Veterans• Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans• Historic Auditorium - Conference/Meeting Space• Veteran Organization Hotel Office SpaceFLOOR 1• Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)• VA HUD-VASH Vocational Rehabilitation• Volunteers of America• Disabled American Veterans• VFW• INvets• American LegionFLOOR 2• Federal VA – Veteran Health Initiative (HUD-VASH Clinic)777 NORTH MERIDIAN ST.INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46204

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