VFW Advocacy

1. VFW Joins TikTok's 'Veteran Voices' Initiative

   KANSAS CITY, Mo. -The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to announce the launch of its TikTok channel, joining nine fellow veteran-serving organizations as part of TikTok's new "Veteran Voices" initiative. Veteran Voices focuses on key challenges afflicting the military and veteran community - mental health, affordable housing, and employment. Together, these trusted organizations will leverage TikTok's influential community of creators and engage audiences to provide critical support to those in need.

   "In this day and age, many veterans aren't going to walk into a VFW Post, so you have to meet them where they are," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "Nothing beats a warm handshake and looking someone square in the eye to let them know you care about them. But if we want to have that chance, we need to let them know first we exist. In joining TikTok's Veteran Voices campaign, we now have a platform to connect with service members and young veterans where they like to link up, consuming the content they care about."

   Veteran-serving organizations supporting the Veteran Voices initiative alongside the VFW are: America's Warrior Partnership, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Independence Fund, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Student Veterans of America (SVA), Team Rubicon, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and Wounded Warrior Project.

   In addition to providing comprehensive training tailored specifically for nonprofits, which includes guidance on LIVE, content creation, and platform safety to maximize their impact and reach on the platform, TikTok will also be launching a newly updated donation sticker this fall, allowing users to support the organizations above. This feature will empower its online community to contribute directly to causes they support and create a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact.

   One in three U.S. veterans report using TikTok monthly based on data available via GWI Core, measured in Q2 2024 among internet users ages 16-64. Through continued collaboration with nonprofit organizations, creators, and our TikTok community, we look forward to continuing to raise awareness and foster a community where veterans are supported - during Veterans Day and beyond.

   Be sure to follow the VFW on TikTok and help us raise awareness and make an even bigger impact #FORVETERANS.

2. Caretaker Benefits and VA Budget Tops Legislative Conference Business

   VFW held its annual fall Legislative Conference from Sept. 9-11 at the nation's capital, marking a significant event in veterans' advocacy for the year. VFW members from across the country descended on Capitol Hill to advocate for VFW's legislative priorities with lawmakers.

   The conference began with a new member orientation on Sept. 9, followed by a legislative briefing for members the next day. Delegates then took VFW's advocacy efforts to Capitol Hill by meeting with legislators and lawmakers through the end of the conference.

   "This was a pivotal moment for the VFW," VFW Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt said. "Our grassroots volunteers work tirelessly year-round on veterans' issues in their communities. In September and March, they bring that same dedication to Washington, emphasizing the VFW's critical priorities."

   A key issue supported by VFW members included the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (H.R. 8371). If approved by Congress and enacted by President Joe Biden, the Elizabeth Dole Act would improve and expand home and community health care services for disabled veterans being cared for through the VA's family caregiver program.

   VA's 2025 budget shortfall also was a priority for VFW. Delegates urged Congress to address the VA's budget deficit before the Sept. 20 deadline to avoid consequences for veterans and their families. If no action was taken, veterans compensation could have been delayed in October, the start of the 2025 fiscal year.

   In July, VA informed Congress that it estimated that the VA's budget was about $12 billion less than it would need for the 2025 fiscal year. VA also reported that there would be a $2.9 billion shortfall for the 2024 fiscal year budget. As of the VFW magazine print deadline, Congress had not taken any action on the VA budget.

   The conference also coincided with the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks of New York City's World Trade Center and the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. VFW leaders, members and staff held a ceremony at the VFW Washington Office, and then followed with a press conference that highlighted the negative impacts of not properly funding the VA.

   This article is featured in the 2024 November/December issue of VFW magazine.

3. VFW Action Alert: Pass the Dole Act Now

   H.R. 8371, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, would provide enhancements to critical health care services for veterans and caregivers who need help now and cannot wait any longer.

   It has bipartisan support in the Senate but is not supported by Democrats in the House. Contrary to certain opposing voices, this IS a good piece of bipartisan-negotiated legislation that had input from numerous organizations representing veterans, caregivers, and survivors from around the country.

   To get this important piece of legislation passed, we need your help! Contact your elected representative and strongly urge them to vote in favor of H.R. 8371 today!

4. Message from the VFW National Commander on General Election Results

   WASHINGTON - "In the 125-year history of the VFW, we have witnessed the transfer of power of the highest office of our nation 21 times. It has not always been easy. But despite wars and rumors of war; assassinations and assassination attempts; depressions, recessions, and economic turmoil; political upheaval and sharp divisions, our country has consistently moved forward as one nation.
   
   While half the country may be celebrating, the other half may feel left behind. Thankfully, Election Day came and went and Americans peacefully made their voices heard once more.
   
   Now is the time for Americans to show our mettle to the rest of the world, leading by example of what democracy truly means. "We the People" of the United States can and will keep striving for a more perfect Union.
   
   On behalf of the more than 1.4 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary, we look forward to working with the Trump-Vance administration in promoting a strong, all-volunteer military and upholding America's promise to care for our veterans and ensuring they receive the benefits they earned supporting and defending the Constitution of the United States.
   
   I have personally reached out to both President Trump and Vice President-elect Vance, a fellow VFW member, to not only offer my congratulations on their election, but to offer the VFW's insight on military and veterans' affairs, as we seek to continue our important work to honor and serve those who defend our democratic principles."

5. VFW Announces National Initiative with the Grunt Style Foundation to Address Veterans' Mental Health Needs

   KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is honored to partner with the Grunt Style Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to providing life-changing resources for veterans, service members and their families, to raise awareness about the mental health needs of veterans, with a focus on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and promoting alternative treatment methods.

   This national collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both nonprofit organizations to accomplish five main objectives:

   1. Raise awareness about the importance of addressing mental health needs
   2. Promote alternative treatment methods for PTSD
   3. Reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues amongst the veteran community
   4. Share available resources and best practices related to mental health treatments
   5. Collaborate on fundraising initiatives to support the mental health programs of both organizations

   To learn more about the VFW and Grunt Style Foundation's national initiative, please visit www.gruntstylefoundation.org.

   "We are pleased to join forces with the Grunt Style Foundation in the fight for veterans' mental wellness," said VFW National Commander Al Lipphardt. "Teaming up with likeminded organizations is a force multiplier, and there is no doubt that together we'll affect real change to positively benefit those who suffer the invisible cost of protecting our freedom."

   "Working with the VFW allows us to expand our shared commitment to serving the veteran community. Together, we are building stronger networks of support and creating impactful initiatives that uplift and empower those who have served our nation," said Will Wisner, executive director of The Grunt Style Foundation. "This collaboration is a testament to the strength of unity and the incredible potential we have to make a lasting difference in the lives of veterans."

   -vfw-

   About the Grunt Style Foundation:Established in 2021, the Grunt Style Foundation is a 501(c)3 national nonprofit organization committed to providing life-changing resources and experiences in which Veterans, Service Members and their families thrive. The Grunt Style Foundation is the nonprofit arm of Grunt Style, a patriotic and veteran-operated apparel brand, to further Grunt Style's commitment to recognize and celebrate those who bravely served our country. The Grunt Style Foundation focuses on mental health and wellness, military transition and sustainment, while alleviating food insecurities, and ending homelessness for military and veteran communities. To learn more about the Grunt Style Foundation, please visit www.gruntstylefoundation.org.