It was a busy and very productive year for United Spinal Association’s VetsFirst program as we continue our fight to ensure America’s veterans and their eligible family members get the benefits they deserve and need.

In 2011, our National Service Officers provided advice and support to the brave men and women who have served our country proudly. And in return, we have been proud to serve them, along with their families.

We filed 347 new claims at the various VA Regional Offices and VA Medical Centers and had 206 claims approved–obtaining awards in excess of $2,185,831 for those we serve.

VetsFirst continued to assist large numbers of vets quickly and efficiently, answering around 1,500 benefits-related inquiries while still maintaining a personal approach–thanks to our innovative online support and resource center Ask VetsFirst.

Our mission was also supported through a multi-faceted media campaign that brought national visibility to our advocacy efforts and valuable resources and services.

VetsFirst shared its message through print, web, social media, and a variety of media outlets across the country to keep our community in the loop on what we are doing and how we can help.

VetsFirst also testified before the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the EEOC regarding the need for increased access to employment and vocational rehabilitation opportunities for disabled veterans.

We elevated employment for disabled veterans through United Spinal Association’s 2011 Disability Leadership and Policy Summit held at Temple University in April.

VetsFirst promoted access to service dogs for disabled veterans and access for service dogs to VA facilities through legislation and regulatory comments.

We increased awareness of the importance of Social Security benefits for disabled veterans and successfully advocated against changing the formula for determining the cost of living adjustment.

Lastly, we raised awareness about the need to increase VA caregiver assistance for veterans of all eras and met with key players in DC to ensure veterans’ issues are kept high on the agenda.

For 2012, VetsFirst will focus its advocacy efforts to promote key policies that will foster community integration and independence; ensure access to quality VA health care and benefits; and promote the rights of veterans in the US around the world.

Tom Scott
Staff Writer
VetsFirst