New York City Council
Committee on Veterans
Jan 22, 2025
·
01:00 PM
2 hr 37 min
Summary
A hearing on the New York City Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), examining its effectiveness and exploring potential improvements.
Discussions focused on:
- The VAB's lack of budget and resources
- Challenges with member appointments and attendance
- Need for better communication with veterans
- Desire for more VAB input on appointments and policy
- Concerns about transparency and independence from the Department of Veterans Services (DVS)
- Recommendations to codify VAB roles
- Veteran employment programs
- Issues with veteran homelessness
- The need for increased funding for veteran services in NYC overall.
Features testimony from the Department of Veterans Services (DVS), Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) members, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Robert Holden introduces oversight hearing on NYC Veterans Advisory Board
Council Member Robert Holden, chair of the Committee on Veterans, opens the oversight hearing on the New York City Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). He provides background on the VAB's establishment, …
0:00:20
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3 min
Introduction and background of the Veterans Advisory Board
Commissioner James Hendon introduces himself and provides background information on the New York City Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). He outlines the composition of the VAB, which consists of 13 members …
0:04:17
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38 sec
Duties and historical role of the Veterans Advisory Board
The chapter outlines the five main duties of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) and highlights its historical role in addressing the needs of New York City's veteran community. - The …
0:04:54
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52 sec
Challenges facing the veteran community in New York City
This chapter discusses the major challenges faced by the veteran community in New York City, including low self-identification rates, limited VA marketing, and a declining veteran population. - The veteran …
0:05:47
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103 sec
Approaches to addressing veteran challenges and the VAB's role
This chapter outlines the proposed approaches to address the challenges faced by the veteran community and highlights the critical role of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) in this process. - …
0:07:30
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75 sec
DVS initiatives influenced by the Veterans Advisory Board
This chapter details several key initiatives of the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) that were directly influenced by the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). - The Veteran Business Leadership Association (VBLA) …
0:08:46
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111 sec
Support for veteran vendors and Intro 686 of 2024
This chapter focuses on New York City's support for veteran street vendors and the proposed legislation, Intro 686 of 2024, to enhance this support. - New York City has a …
0:10:39
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57 sec
Achievements of the DVS-VAB partnership
This chapter highlights the key achievements resulting from the partnership between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). - DVS gained enhanced contracting capacity for …
0:11:37
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138 sec
Recommendations for improving VAB effectiveness
This chapter outlines several recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) in New York City. - Implement a staggered term system for VAB members, with one-third …
0:13:56
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100 sec
Potential closure of VA medical facilities in NYC
This chapter addresses the potential closure of VA medical facilities in New York City and the challenges it presents to the veteran community. - The VA's Asset Infrastructure Review Commission …
0:15:36
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89 sec
Conclusion and contact information for DVS and VAB
Commissioner James Hendon concludes his testimony by expressing gratitude and providing important contact information for veteran services in New York City. - The Department of Veterans Services can be reached …
0:17:05
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80 sec
VAB website discrepancies and membership concerns
Council Member Holden raises concerns about discrepancies on the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) website, including outdated information and conflicting details about the number of board members. He questions who is …
0:18:28
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58 sec
Explanation of VAB bylaws and legal structure
Commissioner Hendon explains the legal structure and bylaws of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), clarifying the discrepancies between the bylaws and the actual board composition. - The VAB bylaws are …
0:19:25
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55 sec
Responsibility for updating VAB website
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the responsibility for updating the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) website and the availability of meeting minutes. - DVS is in charge of updating …
0:20:21
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31 sec
Implementation of Zoom account for VAB meetings
Jason Loughran explains the recent implementation of a Zoom account for Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) meetings to improve the process of recording and sharing meeting minutes. - DVS collaborated with …
0:20:53
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44 sec
Need for codifying VAB roles and responsibilities
Council Member Holden emphasizes the need to codify certain aspects of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) structure and operations to improve clarity and effectiveness. - Holden suggests codifying VAB bylaws …
0:21:37
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129 sec
Discussion on the relationship between DVS and VAB
Commissioner Hendon and Council Member Holden discuss the relationship between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), focusing on the board's autonomy and the challenges …
0:23:46
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83 sec
Breakdown of VAB appointments and vacancies
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the appointment process for the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) and current vacancies. - The VAB consists of 7 appointments from the mayor and …
0:25:09
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49 sec
Plans to formalize relationship between DVS and VAB
Council Member Holden addresses the need to formalize the relationship between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) based on recommendations from the VAB's 2023 …
0:25:58
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46 sec
Debate on creating standards for VAB attendance and appointments
Commissioner Hendon and Council Member Holden debate the pros and cons of codifying the relationship between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), focusing on …
0:26:44
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5 min
DVS efforts to promote veteran civic engagement
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the Department of Veterans Services' (DVS) efforts to promote veteran civic engagement, particularly focusing on community board participation. - DVS regularly promotes community …
0:31:57
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126 sec
Discussion on VAB recommendations and implementation challenges
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the challenges in implementing Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) recommendations, particularly focusing on improving veteran representation on community boards. - They discuss the need …
0:34:02
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79 sec
VAB's recommendation for personnel support and technology management
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the Veterans Advisory Board's (VAB) recommendation for providing personnel support and technology management assistance. - DVS has offered to help VAB get a …
0:35:21
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145 sec
Communication strategies for promoting veterans committee hearings
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss strategies for improving communication about veterans committee hearings and increasing participation. - DVS has started posting committee hearing information on their website. - …
0:37:46
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78 sec
Addressing potential areas of disagreement between DVS and VAB
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss potential areas of disagreement between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), and how these are being addressed. …
0:39:05
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83 sec
Commissioner Hendon's perspective on DVS-VAB relationship and structural challenges
Commissioner Hendon provides his perspective on the relationship between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), highlighting structural challenges and areas of cooperation. - Hendon …
0:40:28
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69 sec
DVS assistance in setting up VAB meetings
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the extent of assistance provided by the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) in setting up Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) meetings. - Commissioner Hendon …
0:41:37
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41 sec
Discussion on VAB's lack of budget and resources
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss the Veterans Advisory Board's (VAB) lack of budget and resources, as well as the challenges this poses for implementing recommendations. - It is …
0:42:18
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129 sec
Potential recommendations to the mayor about VAB
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss potential recommendations to the mayor regarding the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) and funding for veterans' services. - Council Member Holden suggests recommending a …
0:44:27
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4 min
Measuring VAB effectiveness and meeting attendance
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss methods for measuring the effectiveness of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) and tracking meeting attendance. - Commissioner Hendon estimates that typically less than …
0:49:13
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3 min
Improving outreach and engagement for VAB meetings
Jason Loughran discusses efforts to improve outreach and engagement for Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) meetings, highlighting strategies to increase attendance and participation. - Loughran suggests leveraging city council offices to …
0:52:21
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3 min
Council Member Paladino calls for increased funding and better outreach to veterans
Council Member Vickie Paladino strongly advocates for increased funding for veterans' services and a comprehensive media campaign to reach veterans. She emphasizes that the current $5 million budget is insufficient …
0:55:33
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110 sec
Council Member Marmorato inquires about VAB borough representation and veteran outreach strategies
Council Member Kristy Marmorato initiates a discussion about the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) representation from each borough and seeks advice on improving outreach for veteran services in her district. Commissioner …
0:57:36
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3 min
Outreach strategies for veteran resource centers in council offices
Council Member Holden discusses outreach strategies for veteran resource centers in council offices with DVS representatives. They explore ways to improve veteran engagement and attendance at these centers. - Suggestion …
1:01:32
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63 sec
Data sharing agreements and their effectiveness in veteran outreach
Jason Loughran from DVS discusses examples of data sharing agreements and their effectiveness in veteran outreach. He highlights successful partnerships and plans for future collaborations with city council members. - …
1:02:34
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95 sec
DVS's veteran contact database growth and current numbers
Council Member Holden inquires about the current size of DVS's veteran contact database. Commissioner Hendon and Jason Loughran provide information on the database's growth and estimated veteran population in New …
1:04:10
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65 sec
Budgetary constraints and challenges in email outreach to veterans
Council Member Holden and DVS representatives discuss budgetary constraints for email outreach to veterans and the challenges in establishing relationships through email communication. - DVS lacks sufficient budget for comprehensive …
1:05:14
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171 sec
Proposals for improving veteran outreach and communication
DVS representatives and Council Member Holden discuss various proposals and suggestions for improving veteran outreach and communication, including potential budget increases and leveraging council member resources. - Proposal for data …
1:08:06
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165 sec
Veteran resource center usage and expansion plans
Council members and DVS representatives discuss the usage of veteran resource centers in council offices, focusing on successful examples and plans for improvement and expansion across all council offices. - …
1:10:52
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128 sec
Breakdown of Veterans Advisory Board representation by borough
Commissioner Hendon provides a breakdown of the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) representation by borough, addressing a previous question from Council Member Marmorato. - Total of 13 VAB members with 12 …
1:13:00
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44 sec
Introduction and overview of the Veterans Advisory Board
Mercedes Elias, Chair of the New York City Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), introduces herself and provides background on her role and experience with the VAB. She mentions the presence of …
1:15:00
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22 sec
Composition and appointment process of the Veterans Advisory Board
Elias describes the diverse composition of the VAB and highlights issues with the current appointment process. She emphasizes the need for improvement in board efficiency and validity. - VAB members …
1:15:23
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38 sec
VAB leadership involvement and member participation challenges
Elias discusses the lack of leadership involvement in member appointments and highlights issues with inactive board members. She also addresses the topic of term limits for VAB members. - VAB …
1:16:01
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59 sec
Public sessions and community engagement efforts
Elias explains the purpose and structure of VAB public sessions, emphasizing their role in engaging with the veteran community and addressing pressing issues. - Public sessions aim to hear from …
1:17:02
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24 sec
Collaboration with VA and federal initiatives
Elias discusses the VAB's involvement with federal-level initiatives, particularly their work as a Community Veterans Engagement Board (CVEB) and collaboration with the VA. - The VAB is working to become …
1:17:27
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52 sec
Data tracking and accountability challenges
Elias highlights the need for improved data tracking and accountability in assessing and resolving issues raised by the veteran community. - There's a need for better data and accountability in …
1:18:20
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47 sec
Website information updates and administrative support needs
Elias addresses ongoing issues with updating VAB information on the website and emphasizes the need for dedicated administrative support. - Updating VAB information on the website has been a continuous …
1:19:11
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16 sec
Relationship with DVS and codification of responsibilities
Elias discusses the evolving relationship between the VAB and the Department of Veterans Services (DVS), addressing the need for codification of responsibilities and administrative support. - The relationship between VAB …
1:19:28
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43 sec
Conclusion: Progress and future outlook for the VAB
Elias concludes her testimony by highlighting the progress made by the VAB and DVS while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. - The VAB is addressing ongoing …
1:20:11
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21 sec
VAB meeting logistics and resource constraints
Council Member Robert Holden questions VAB Chair Mercedes Elias about the logistics and resource constraints of VAB meetings. They discuss the lack of budget for refreshments, meeting locations, and technology …
1:20:35
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4 min
Addressing concerns of veteran street vendors
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the VAB's recommendations for improving the treatment of veteran street vendors in NYC. The discussion highlights the need for better interagency cooperation and respect …
1:24:58
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117 sec
Lack of SDVOB designation at NYC level
VAB members discuss the lack of Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business (SDVOB) designation at the NYC level, despite its existence at the state level. This designation would provide procurement opportunities …
1:26:55
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142 sec
VAB board appointments and vacancies
Council Member Robert Holden and VAB Chair Mercedes Elias discuss the current state of VAB board appointments and vacancies. They address the need for filling vacant positions and improving the …
1:29:18
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71 sec
Preparation of VAB's 2024 annual report
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the preparation of the VAB's 2024 annual report. VAB Chair Mercedes Elias provides a brief update on the report's status. - The first draft …
1:30:29
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17 sec
Funding and resources for student veterans in NYC colleges
Council Member Robert Holden and VAB members discuss the recommendations for providing funding and resources for student veterans in NYC colleges, particularly focusing on CUNY schools. - VAB called for …
1:30:46
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6 min
Creating a citywide veteran employment program
Council Member Robert Holden and VAB members discuss recommendations for creating a citywide veteran employment program and improving employment opportunities for veterans in NYC. - VAB suggested creating a citywide …
1:37:37
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4 min
Extending Veteran Treatment Court services regardless of discharge status
Council Member Robert Holden and VAB Chair Mercedes Elias discuss the recommendation to extend Veteran Treatment Court services to veterans regardless of their discharge status. - VAB recommended extending Veteran …
1:41:45
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4 min
VAB member attendance and potential bylaw changes
Council Member Robert Holden and VAB Chair Mercedes Elias discuss issues with VAB member attendance and potential changes to the board's bylaws to address these concerns. - Some VAB members …
1:46:23
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122 sec
Collaboration between VAB and Department of Veterans Services
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the effectiveness of collaboration between the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) and the Department of Veterans Services (DVS). VAB Chair Mercedes Elias provides insights into …
1:48:27
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91 sec
Evaluation of veterans' programs and funding priorities
Council Member Robert Holden asks for feedback on which veterans' programs should be enhanced, increased in funding, or potentially discontinued based on their effectiveness and veteran feedback. - Council Member …
1:49:58
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111 sec
Concerns about funding allocation between immigrants and veterans
VAB Chair Mercedes Elias briefly addresses concerns raised by veterans regarding the allocation of funding between immigrant services and veteran services in NYC. - Veterans have frequently expressed concerns about …
1:51:50
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36 sec
Potential for increased federal funding and communication with VA under new presidency
Council Member Vickie Paladino inquires about the potential for increased federal funding for veterans under Trump. Mercedes Elias, Chair of the New York City Veterans Advisory Board, responds by discussing …
1:52:31
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107 sec
Importance of veteran representation on community boards and budget allocation
Ryan Graham, Vice Chair of the New York City Veterans Advisory Board, discusses the importance of having veteran representation on community boards and the current budget allocation for veterans' issues …
1:54:19
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134 sec
Call for increased veteran advocacy and budget allocation in NYC
Council Member Robert Holden emphasizes the urgent need for increased advocacy and budget allocation for veterans in NYC. He calls for a coordinated effort from all veterans to make their …
1:56:33
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136 sec
Low rates of veteran self-identification and disability applications in NYC
Council Member Robert Holden raises concerns about the low rates of veterans self-identifying and applying for disability benefits in NYC compared to national averages. Ashton Stewart, a member of the …
1:58:49
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143 sec
Strategies for improving veteran outreach and communication
Council members and veterans' advocates discuss various strategies for improving outreach and communication with veterans in NYC. Ashton Stewart suggests alternative methods to reach veterans who aren't currently engaged with …
2:01:11
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48 sec
VA communication methods and effectiveness in reaching veterans
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the VA's methods of communicating with veterans. Mercedes Elias and Ryan Graham provide insights into the VA's communication strategies and their effectiveness. - Elias …
2:02:00
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73 sec
Healthcare preferences and VA services for post-9/11 veterans
Ryan Graham shares observations about the healthcare preferences of post-9/11 veterans, noting a tendency to rely more on private providers. He also discusses the benefits of VA healthcare and mentions …
2:03:15
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48 sec
Testimony by Joe Bello, Former VAB Chair, on NYC Veterans Advisory Board Challenges and Recommendations
Joe Bello, former VAB Chair, testified on the challenges facing the NYC Veterans Advisory Board (VAB) and proposed recommendations for improvement. He highlighted issues with the VAB's effectiveness, transparency, and …
2:06:03
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8 min
Council member's initial response to VAB recommendations
Council Member Holden expresses approval of the recommendations presented by Joe Bello, noting that they could help stabilize the Veterans Advisory Board (VAB). He acknowledges the comprehensiveness of the suggestions …
2:14:43
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16 sec
Discussion on VAB budget constraints
Council Member Holden and Joe Bello discuss the severe budget limitations faced by the Veterans Advisory Board, highlighting the lack of funds for even basic necessities like refreshments at meetings. …
2:15:00
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11 sec
Recommendations for improving VAB operations and budget
Council Member Holden discusses potential improvements for the Veterans Advisory Board's operations and budget, emphasizing the need for a functional budget and dedicated staff support from the Department of Veterans …
2:15:11
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47 sec
Operational suggestions for VAB meetings and bylaws
Joe Bello and Council Member Holden discuss various operational suggestions for the Veterans Advisory Board, including the use of hybrid meetings and updating the board's bylaws. - Bello suggests allowing …
2:15:58
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72 sec
CUNY veteran services and reporting structure
Joe Bello provides insights into the structure and challenges of veteran services within the City University of New York (CUNY) system. - Bello notes that CUNY campus presidents have significant …
2:17:11
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40 sec
Testimony by Timothy Pena, Founder of Veterans Justice Project and The Forgotten Veteran, on Veterans Services and Homelessness
Timothy Pena, a disabled veteran and founder of Veterans Justice Project and The Forgotten Veteran, shared his experiences with homelessness and veteran services in New York City. He criticized the …
2:17:54
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5 min
Council Member Holden discusses DHS policies and donation challenges with Timothy Pena
Council Member Robert Holden engages in a discussion with Timothy Pena about the difficulties faced when trying to donate items to veterans at Borden Avenue shelter. Holden shares his personal …
2:23:33
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73 sec
Council Member Paladino questions Timothy Pena about his veteran experiences
Council Member Vickie Paladino engages in a Q&A session with Timothy Pena, inquiring about his experiences as a veteran in Phoenix and his decision to move to New York City. …
2:24:53
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103 sec
Testimony by Dorothy Farley, Vice President of Behavioral Health and Social Services at Community Healthcare Network (CHN)
Dorothy Farley from Community Healthcare Network (CHN) testified about their services for veterans, particularly focusing on mental health support through their Military Family Wellness Program. She highlighted CHN's collaborative efforts …
2:27:02
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3 min
Council member inquires about contacting Community Healthcare Network
Council Member Robert Holden asks Dorothy Farley about how veterans can contact the Community Healthcare Network (CHN). Farley provides contact information for veterans to reach CHN.
2:30:23
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31 sec
Council Member Paladino questions Community Healthcare Network's funding
Council Member Vickie Paladino inquires about the funding sources of Community Healthcare Network (CHN), a non-profit organization providing services to veterans. Dorothy Farley explains that CHN receives federal, city, and …
2:31:00
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27 sec
Testimony by Claire Barker, Intake Advocate at Veteran Advocacy Project
Claire Barker, an Intake Advocate at Veteran Advocacy Project (VAP), testified about the challenges faced by veterans in New York City and the lack of awareness about the Veterans Advisory …
2:31:45
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4 min