Veterans Legal Institute

VLI is keeping up with all veteran supporting efforts and signed a letter of support for this bill.

On this day, in 1944 President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the G.I. Bill into law. You can learn more about it here: https://bit.ly/3cqFqoD

Welcome New VLI Team Members!

Happy Father's Day! We wanted to share some well known support groups for military dads! Support Groups: Army for Parents: https://www.goarmy.com/parents.html National Guard For Parents: https://www.nationalguard.com/parents-faqs... Air Force for Parents: https://www.airforce.com/lifestyle/for-families Marines.com for Parents and Mentors: https://www.marines.com/parents-f/why-the-marine-corps.html #VLI #Veterans #Army #AirForce #Marines

Today, Juneteenth, we celebrate freedom!

We hope to safely see many of you at our Lawyers for Warriors in-person networking event on November 8th! You can purchase tickets & checkout sponsorship opportunities here: bit.ly/L4W2021 #VLI #Veterans #LawyersForWarriors

"Get My Payment will let you confirm: That we sent your second Economic Impact payment, also known as a stimulus payment. That we sent your first payment. Some people received their first Economic Impact Payment in partial payments. If you received partial payments, the application will show only the most recent.... Your payment type: direct deposit or mail. Data is updated once per day overnight, so there's no need to check more than once per day. " #veterans #stimulus https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment

Orange County Veterans who use the OC Veterans Service Office-- monthly clinics are still available! Clinics are virtual for now. Free legal aid via telephone and zoom conferencing. Next clinic is JANUARY 13, 2021. Contact the VSO to schedule an appointment date and time. If you can't wait, please apply online at www.vetslegal.org. Be sure to let us know in the application that you heard about us through the OCVSO. #veterans #FreeLegalAid OC Veterans Service Office

For our small business owners, new webinars from #SBDC for grants, loans, and assistance this month. Register at bit.ly/3pRbxlv #VeteranSmallBusiness #smallbusiness

VLI High School volunteer voices her thoughts about volunteering at Veterans Legal Institute.

Do you know a healthcare or frontline hero who needs mental health support? So many of our Veterans go into health and emergency response to continue serving others at home. NAMI has support just for them: https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Frontline-Professionals #veterans #healthcare #mentalhealth

Diana Santillan says that she loves to volunteer because the men and women deserve our acknowledgement for their bravery to protect our rights and freedom. It’s my deep honor to help the men and women that sacrificed so much for this country. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Veterans avoid COVID-19 #vaccine #scams Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is becoming available, scammers are calling, texting and emailing Veterans with promises of vaccine availability and early access to vaccines. Learn how not to get ripped off by fake vaccine offers with this article.

VLI is co-sponsoring an event with the Federal Bar Association: Inland Empire Chapter on November 18th. Please see the flyer for more information. Orange County Asian American Bar Association, Federal Bar Association, Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Los Angeles County (APABA), San Diego County Bar Association Animal Law Section, The Los Angeles County Bar Association - LACBA, AABA - Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Bay Area, Latin American Bar Association, Hispanic National Bar Association, Long Beach Bar Association, Riverside County Bar Association

Want to learn how to start a business? Check out and RSVP for this FREE presentation hosted by the Legal Re-Entry Working Group of the Orange County Veterans and Military Families Collaborative, Veterans Legal Institute and the Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center.

www.ABAFreeLegalAnswers.org is a virtual legal advice clinic in a number of states for state-specific civil legal issues. Qualified users may post legal questions, and authorized volunteer attorneys may provide legal advice. The ABA Military & Veterans Legal Center has collaborated with the Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service, along with the Commission on Immigration, to develop a new ABA Free Legal Answers website for federal legal issues, including veterans’ i...ssues. Veteransalong with eligible dependents and survivorswho meet financial eligibility guidelines may submit questions about veterans’ issues involving discharge upgrades, VA disability and other VA benefits, and more. Volunteer attorneys who are licensed in good standing in their jurisdiction, and who are accredited with the U.S. Department with Veterans Affairs, are eligible to volunteer on the site to view and answer veterans’ questions without any formal representation.

Interested in how compassion drives our quest to serve our Veterans and Milfams? Fan of long form, coffee conversation podcasts? Cue up this convo from Deputy Executive Director KellyAnn Romanych when you need to recharge. Thank you Your Nonprofit Life ! https://yournonprofitlife.com/ep31-kellyann-romanych/

Federal employees and retirees, you can make access to justice possible with the power of your #CFC pledge. Pledge season is OPEN NOW and ends 1/15/21. Our Veterans made a solemn oath to protect us. Together we can deliver that same oath for them. VLI's CFC # is 78202. Sign up here at cfcgiving.opm.gov/welcome Every cent is powerful. #veterans #giving

Veterans Legal Institute is swamped with inquiries from veterans who need assistance with their complex benefit claims. The County VSO is incredibly understaffed which has led more Veterans to come to VLI.

Do you need financial assistance to help you manage your monthly energy bill? Southern California Edison (SCE) is a long term supporter of VLI's pro bono legal aid for Veterans and has three ways to save: sce.com/billhelp sce.com/eaf sce.com/medicalbaseline... #veterans #COVID19 #financialhelp #savemoney

Happy Veterans Day! Enjoy this heartfelt message written by the young son of local USMC Veteran Peter Hardin.

Did you know that only one person in history has ever received both the Medal of Honor and Lifesaving Medal? His name was Marcus Hanna and he was a lighthouse keeper and Civil War sergeant. He received the Medal of Honor in the Civil War for his heroic volunteerism and received the Lifesaving Medal for saving two shipwrecked sailors during a dangerous blizzard. His courage and bravery will not be forgotten.

We'd like to take a moment to thank all veterans for their service and sacrifice to ensure our freedom. #VeteransDay2020

Happy birthday, USMC! #SemperFi

Happy 245th Birthday to our United States Marine Corps! Semper Fi. We are grateful for your courage and sacrifice. Special shout out to our USMC Veterans we serve and the many tireless USMC Veterans that support us https://www.marines.mil//happy-birthday-and-semper-fideli/

Ashley Sasaki says that she loves to volunteer because I believe everyone should have access to the legal assistance they require and I would like to do my part in that process. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Veterans Day Discounts for 2020 https://www.blogs.va.gov//803/veterans-day-2020-discounts/ #Veterans #VeteransDay #SaveMoney

In a year of loss, we deeply hope your New Year is filled with healing and promise. We are grateful for: You - and your belief in the power of free legal aid to change the lives of our heroes and loved ones... Our Veterans and Military Families - and their solemn promise to give their all to keep us safe Our Veteran Community - and its strength in caring for each other when heartbreak hit Our Allies - and their understanding that military service changes a life forever With a resolute heart, we look forward to a New Year together in service of our deserving Veterans so they can rebuild their lives at home after selfless service. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and healthy New Year, Team Veterans Legal Institute Connect with useful materials and links here: https://www.vetslegal.com/useful-materials-and-links/ Listen in on our Veteran stories here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC74lmPefADtu9yEY0O9xxSg Learn all the ways you can be involved here: https://www.vetslegal.com/get-involved/ #veterans #militaryfamilies #newyear #law #probono #givingback

The annual Oso Fit 5K Fun Run & Community Health Fair is back on Saturday, Feb. 27! This year the 5K will be virtual and the Community Health Fair will be drive through. If you preregister by Feb. 19 and select Veterans Legal Institute as your charity of choice, 100% of your registration fee will go to help us continue our mission to support our Veterans! Please register at OsoFit5k.org

Check out these Veterans Day events in Orange County.

Happy th birthday, Ma’am!

What to know about COVID testing:Free tests are available, regardless of immigration statusDrive-through and walk-up sites are availableA test does not protect you from getting COVID-19. To register for a test: Call your doctor first. If you do not have one, call 211 or click here: COVIDhelpLA.org

Our warmest wishes to all this holiday season! Thank you for being a light in the dark for our Veterans who deserve our support. #Veterans #militaryfamilies #gratitude

2020 has been tough for our communities. Stay safe at home this holiday season by celebrating in-person only with people you live with. Our work this month is the key to keeping our communities safe from COVID-19. Learn more: COVIDhelpla.org

Leobardo Rosas says that he loves to volunteer because Veterans deserve to know that there are people here to support them after they have finished serving their country. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

#VA to begin COVID-19 vaccinations at 128 additional sites

Wearing a mask properly is an important part in stopping the spread of #COVID19. Remember to: Wear a mask that covers your mouth, nose and chin completely Make sure to wear a mask when you’re outside your home Don't touch the mask, and if you do, wash your hands. Visit COVIDhelpLA.org for more information.

3 Ways to Safely Stay in Touch with Family and Friends Over the Holidays: Host a video chat gathering with friends and family Make and send homemade cards Order online gifts and have them shipped to your loved ones' home.

The pandemic isn’t over and our neighborhoods are getting hit hardest. Let’s stick to the basics to protect our friends, families and communities. Wear a mask Wash your hands Social distance when in public. When we work together, we can stay healthy and safe. Learn more how YOU can stop the spread this holiday season.

Zane Wagner says that he loves to volunteer because for me, serving our veterans gives me the opportunity to give back to those who have answered the call to serve their country. I am honored to have the chance to serve my fellow brothers and sisters in order to make a positive impact in their lives, as they have mine. Semper Fidelis. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

The Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles launched the L.A. Emergency COVID-19 Crisis Fund that provides direct payments for food and essentials for residents of the City of Los Angeles. Please consider donating at https://mayorsfundla.org/covid19/

Veteran Hero Spotlight Meet U.S. Army Veteran Vincent Howard Vincent Howard is a successful attorney and former U.S. Army military police officer. He came from humble beginnings and grew up near Fort Campbell in Tennessee. While he was working at Dairy Queen in high school, he decided that he wanted to be a police officer. After asking some of the officers who stopped by his work for ice cream on how to become an officer, they said that they were most likely to hire those w...ho were in the military. With this in mind, Howard decided to join the Army. Serving in the military changed my perspective of the world. The lessons I learned in the military can be applied to every aspect of life. I always fell back on the skills I got in the military. After serving, Howard utilized the drive and work ethic he developed in the army and enrolled in college. He went on to get his law degree from Western State College of Law and currently is a trial lawyer at Gibson & Hughes. The best advice I have for those who have just left the military is to use the military-civilian networks and connections to your benefit. See more

Many people are going to work every day and can’t stay home. That’s why, if you can, it’s important to stay at home whenever possible. Over the holidays, keep in-person celebrations to ONLY people you live with and help stop the spread of COVID-19: COVIDhelpla.org

Setthinan Siridachanon says that she loves to volunteer because I believe we should give back to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Making holiday plans? Remember, #COVID19 is still a very real danger. Stay safe by celebrating in-person only with people who live with you every day. Your action will save lives and keep your family healthy. Learn more about stopping the spread COVIDhelpla.org

If you would like advice on how to approach potential nonprofit sponsors, the Forbes Nonprofit Council posts can help. VLI's Deputy Executive Director KellyAnn Romanych (she, her) shares her perspective of approaching potential nonprofit sponsors by getting to know those who you seek to invite. #leadership #nonprofits #charity

Julie Roberts says that she loves to volunteer because my father is the biggest reason why I want to serve the veteran community. His dedication and the sacrifices he made to serve our country has spurred me to want to give back to those who have done the same, and I am truly honored to have been given the chance to give back to these brave men and women. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Janice Shin says that she loves to volunteer because for me, just being able to help a fellow veteran is hugely rewarding, and in return, there’s a lot of perspective that they can offer that I might not have received from anyone else. So I think it’s definitely beneficial to both parties. I am appreciative to be given the opportunity to work directly with our country's veterans. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Please share with the Veterans in your life that want to know about options on home loans in California. We want every Veteran to have a chance to create a home they deserve. #housing #veterans #calvet https://www.calvet.ca.gov/HomeLoans

If you would like advice on how to approach nonprofit financial planning in uncertain times, the Forbes Nonprofit Council posts can help. VLI's Deputy Executive Director KellyAnn Romanych shares her approach of financial planning as a daily responsibility to add to the voices of her peers in the field. #leadership #nonprofits #charity

Happy Hanukkah from the Veterans Legal Institute!

Veteran Hero Spotlight Meet Marine Corps Veteran Derrick J. Harris. Better known as D. Harris on stage, Harris is an entertainer, singer, songwriter, emcee, recording artist, and aspiring entrepreneur. In the Marine Corps, Corporal Harris was a food service specialist. When he wasn’t feeding his marines in Okinawa, he was keeping busy as a member of the Special React Team specializing in urban warfare conflict-resolution. Upon leaving the military, Derrick took a con...tract with the government to work on F18 Super Hornet Fighter Jets on Coronado Island, CA. Since then, Derrick graduated from the Musicians Institute with a degree in Vocal Technique and has become a vocalist, sharing the stage with popular musicians such as Babyface, Stevie Wonder, and Chaka Kahn. Derrick has also gone on to work with under-serviced communities as an addictions counselor for at-risk youth.This work has allowed him to combine his love for music education & advocacy to positively impact lives. As a music educator, Derrick dedicates his time supporting his students’ success to pursue their passions in music & entertainment. Having established multiple B2C/B2B lines of revenue within the financial sector, music entertainment services & music educationDerrick continues to be proactive in his pursuit to transition his agile leadership skills attained as a Marine to grow his business and make a mark. See more

Katelyn Rose Vasquez says that she loves to volunteer because it gives me the opportunity to give back to the individuals that serve our country and risk their lives for us. I'm definitely excited to be apart of the Veterans Legal Institute team to learn more and to give back to courageous veterans. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Veterans Legal Institute is offering the opportunity to consult with an experienced family law attorney next Friday, December 18 and throughout 2021 if you need advice on a divorce, child custody or support matter, or other family law issue. Appointments are available between 1 PM and 3 PM and you can apply online at www.vetslegal.org. #legalaid #Veterans #VeteranHeroes Tierney Center for Veteran Services Orange County Veterans and Military Families Collaborative Orange County Veterans OC Veterans Service Office

VA announces initial plans for COVID-19 vaccine distribution #Covid #Vaccine Occ Veterans OC Veterans Service Office

Are you a low income Veteran in Orange County or the Inland Empire that needs pro bono family law assistance? Veterans Legal Institute is offering the opportunity to consult with an experienced family law attorney next Friday, December 18 if you need advice on a divorce, child custody or support matter, or other family law issue. Appointments are available between 1 PM and 4 PM and you can apply online at www.vetslegal.org. First come, first served. #legalaid #Veterans #VeteranHeroes Tierney Center for Veteran Services Orange County Veterans and Military Families Collaborative Orange County Veterans OC Veterans OC Veterans Service Office

Stephanie Betanzo says that she loves to volunteer because it is an honor to serve the brave men and women that have made many sacrifices to ensure our freedom and safety. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Here's what you need to know to #savemoney on your #energy costs during #COVID. Find out more at: sce.com/billhelp sce.com/eaf sce.com/medicalbaseline... Thank you Southern California Edison (SCE) for supporting our #Veteran community. See more

Devin Nash says that he loves to volunteer because my Grandpa and Uncle have served in the service. Giving back to the veteran community is important to me and VLI helps me achieve that. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Kassandra Salgado says that she loves to volunteer because because I am able to give back to the men and women who serve to protect our country everyday. I am grateful to Veterans Legal Institute for giving me the opportunity to do so. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Register for Women's Health Transition Training!

There will be a Veteran today that will be facing an eviction. You can make sure this hero has a legal advocate on their side right now. You can bring back fairness through the power of free legal aid. If you are able, please join us today on this global day of giving. Every cent brings peace of mind.... Donate at vetslegal.org or text VLI to 44321. With gratitude always, Team Veterans Legal Institute #Veterans #GivingTuesday #Charity #ProBono #Hope

Tony Gevorgian says that he loves to volunteer because it allows me to give back to all the brave men and women who served and protected our country. I greatly support VLI's mission in providing legal assistance to our veterans in need and I'm glad to be a part of the team. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Please consider championing a Veteran in need by making a gift to Veterans Legal Institute.

Veterans Legal Institute celebrates the BRAVE GIVERS of our nation -- our Veterans and military families. Because above all else, they make freedom possible. Bravely and silently, their family members serve alongside them. Like Wyatt, telling how his father, USMC Veteran and Attorney Peter Hardin, is a hero for him.... 85% of Californians will not be able to access justice. You can make sure this is not the fate of our local Heroes. Right now, you can put the power of FREE legal aid into the hands of a homeless, disabled, or low-income Veteran. If you are able, please donate as part of #GivingTuesday --a global movement of giving! Make a one time donation or rally with us as a monthly donor in our Heroes Brigade by donating at vetslegal.org or by texting VLI to 44321. Every cent brings priceless peace of mind. Thank you! #givingtuesday #charity #veterans #fundraising #philanthropy #militaryspouses #militaryfamilies

Yuen Tran says that she loves to volunteer because it allows me to understand more about the people who risk their lives to protect us. By doing so, I also learn more about a community that my active duty family members will be a part of one day. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Shout-out to our VLI Deputy Executive Director KellyAnn Romanych for contributing to the Forbes Nonprofit Council and being featured in an article published by Forbes!

Zachary Simons says that he loves to volunteer because I feel there should be a greater amount of societal effort put into our Veterans as a whole. These are some of the bravest and most generous men and women I have ever had the privilege of knowing, and I am honored to simply be part of that tradition, even in this way. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

From all of us at the Veterans Legal Institute we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Free course on how to start a business- register today!

If you plan to join in #GivingTuesday on December 1st, Veterans Legal Institute would be grateful to have your support! 5 Ways to Give: 1. Take a case pro bono! Unleash the power of free legal aid for a Veteran who needs an advocate in their corner right now. Email Antoinette Balta at [email protected] to get on the distribution list.... 2. Join our Heroes Brigade! Our compassion monthly donors who keep free legal aid ready everyday. Text VLI to 44321 to join. 3. Donate! If you are able, a one time donation can make the difference in the life of a Veteran right now. Help build the bridge to justice with one gift. Donate at www.vetslegal.org or text VLI to 44321. 4. Give your skills! One of the greatest gifts is time as a board member, committee member, marketer, social media guru and more. Email KellyAnn Romanych at [email protected] to chat about what you are looking for in your volunteerism. 5. Share our mission! Help us tell the powerful story of how free legal aid builds the bridge to justice for our Veterans. Like, comment, share, follow. You can inspire hope now for our Veterans and military families. Find out more at www.vetslegal.org #GvingTuesday #Veterans #ProBono #Causes #Fundraising #DonateWithLove

Ariyan Prothro that she loves to volunteer because these are the people that risk the most doing what they do, and they do it for the sake of our country. I'm excited to work with the Veterans Legal Institute and help create meaningful change in the lives of the service members who need it. Thank you for being a champion volunteer at Veterans Legal Institute!

Many thanks to RoundTable Group, LLC and its CEO Russ Rosenzweigfor supporting Lawyers for Warriors at the Brigadier General level! Please check out Round Table Group’s new short video about its expert witness recommendation services it’s one of the better corporate videos I’ve seen in a while!

Dear Veteran Advocate, thank you for believing in the power of free legal aid for our Heroes. VLI is thankful for your support and trust this year #veterans #probono #Thanksgiving