AGENCY TESTIMONY
Approaches to addressing veteran challenges and the VAB's role
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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.
- A whole-of-government approach is needed to identify and serve military service members and their families.
- Strong public-private partnerships across various sectors are crucial for addressing veteran issues.
- The VAB serves as the 'tip of the spear' for New York City's influential veteran community, providing situational awareness and community-driven recommendations.
James Hendon
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For one thing, there must be a robust whole of government approach towards identifying and serving US military service members past and present and their loved ones.
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Secondly, there must exist strong public private partnerships throughout the innovation ecosystem so that all stakeholders can join in this struggle.
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I'm speaking of government, finance, academia, industry, the entrepreneurial sector, and the nonprofit space.
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Thirdly and most importantly, undergirding this all must be a strong, influential veteran community.
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This includes individuals, families, networks, and organizations, you name it.
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The tip of the spear for New York City's influential veteran community is its veterans advisory board.
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To that point, the VAB has played a critical role in providing the situational awareness that DVS and our leaders in government, elected, and appointed officials need when working to solve challenging community problems.
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By providing thoughtful, community driven recommendations in its annual report, the Veterans Advisory Board establishes an enduring line of communication between New York City's veterans and their local government.
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The VAB's public meetings serve as a form for stakeholders to promote activities and opportunities to veterans and their loved ones.
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VAB meetings are also a place where, in real time, DVS accepts feedback and input from pub the public listening to our community's advice.
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We course correct on the spot when necessary.