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News for Howard County Veterans and Military Families
11 Jan 2023
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Happy New Year! As we move into January, Let's take a moment to recognize
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World Day for War Orphans - January 6.
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Martin Luther King Jr's Day - January 16. He was a leader of civil rights, human rights, and promoted peace!
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Vietnam Peace Day - January 27
Local Veterans and Residents Honor Howard County Veterans with Wreaths Across America
Each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, the mission to Remember, Honor and Teach is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as at more than 3,700 additional locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad. In Howard County, veteran service organizations such as VFW Post 7472 and American Legion Posts 156 & 300, as well as our local Civil Air Patrol, lay wreaths on hundreds of Howard County graves to honor the men and women who served our country dating back to WWI. Of the 1400 veteran graves idenitified in Howard County, nearly 900 wreaths were laid at cemeteries such as Good Sheppard, St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church and St. Paul's Lutheran Church. The cost this year exceeded $10,000 so if you are interested in donating, please use this link. If you have questions or would like to get involved with laying wreaths or collecting them, email terri@tristartech.net.
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Howard County's Veteran and Military Families Resource Guide
For a compilation of veteran and military family resources in the region, please visit our directory to learn more about VA benefits, recreational opportunities, mental health support, employment assistance and more. The guide is updated quarterly with new organizations meeting the needs of our military-connected community.
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Essentials Resource Day and Free Expungement Clinic
If you plan need complete this questionnaire about the need for child care, transportation, and workshop interest.
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Important Dates and Events
January 9, 12, 13, 19, 25, 27, 30 and Feb 1 Click link for locations and time.
Residents who are unable to attend or would like to send their thoughts via email can send them in advance to Future@howardcountymd.gov
January 17 - Small Business Resource Session, 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Whether you're an early-stage entrepreneur just starting out or an established business looking to grow, Howard County Economic Development Authority can provide the resources to support your business endeavors. The session format is a presentation followed by Q&A and one-on-one sessions for attendees to discuss specific topics based on business needs. Virtual and Free.
January 17 & 30 - Selecting High Quality Child Care. Selecting child care can be an overwhelming process. Every parent wants to find quality care to meet their needs; a healthy & safe environment, a child that is happy to attend the program, a program that is a convenient in location & hours and a program that is affordable. Learn how to choose a child care program that works for your family.
Tuesday, January 17, 7:00 p.m. Free Virtual Workshop. Register here
Monday, January 30, 12:00 p.m. Free Virtual Workshop. Register here
January 18 - Early Intervention- Finding the Help Your Child Needs, 7-8pm. Worrying that your child might be falling behind or having a pediatrician or child care provider raise a concern that they are developmentally delayed can be a very concerning prospect. Many parents are unclear of where to go, what to do or what getting their child screened means. This can lead to a wait and see approach that defers timely assistance. Early intervention is the proven best approach to helping children. Attend this session to learn about the free steps for assessment and evaluation with early childhood early intervention programs and options for eligible children and families. This is for families of children birth to five. Free Virtual Workshop.
January 18 – Building Better Caregiver/Dementia Workshop – 6 virtual and free workshops. If you are currently caring for a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer's or Dementia and are seeking ways to manage your life while being a caregiver, we welcome you to participate in our FREE workshop for Building Better Caregivers with a focus on Dementia (free Ebook provided). This is a community-based, highly participatory workshop. At this time, this workshop is available to Maryland residents, only. Learn about Respite Reimbursement and more.
The Building Better Caregivers workshop is designed to support and strengthen your ability to manage caregiving tasks and maintain a fulfilling life. When you participate in this workshop, you may be eligible for RESPITE CARE reimbursement (see below).
NEW: Tablets are available to loan should you need access. Please click the option for loaning a tablet at the bottom of the registration form.
January 21 - Teen Mental Health Class for Parents and Caregivers at the Savage Branch, DaVinci Room from 2pm to 3pm. - Howard County Library System is hosting the Howard County Health Department to share information on mental health services including the new 988 Crisis Line, Behavioral Health Navigation Services, Suicide Prevention efforts, and Crisis Services.
January 23 thru February 27 - Living Well Chronic Disease Self-Management - This community-based virtual workshop in a small group setting helps adults become stronger and better educated in managing ongoing health conditions. The class is held for six Mondays from 10:00 -12:30 pm. For more information or to register call 410-313-3507 or email adotson@howardcountymd.gov
January 26 - The Power of Play - In the words of Albert Einstein “play is the highest form of research” Join us for an engaging workshop that will provide insight into why children must play, how play impacts a child’s development, and learn what learning through play looks like. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Free Virtual Workshop.
January 30 - Parenting Apart: A Path to Cooperative Co-Parenting in Divorce and Beyond. 7pm Virtual Free. This workshop is for individuals who are facing divorce and separation and want to learn how to create a parenting plan that minimizes conflict and promotes a positive co-parenting relationship. Participants will learn about what to consider when coming up with an access schedule that is best for your children. We will also review how to navigate some common issues and decisions impacting children which arise during divorce and separation. You will leave with skills and strategies for effectively communicating and co-parenting during a difficult transition, as well as resources for ongoing support and assistance.
February 4 - Howard County's free Child Care Fair at North Laurel Community Center, 10am to 1pm. Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to speak directly with representatives from the many child care programs throughout the county. To help in the selection process, professional parent educators from the Office of Children and Families will present “How to Choose an Early Childhood Program."
February 4 – Essential Resources and Free Expungement Clinic, 10am-2pm at Howard Community College. Criminal records are huge barriers and obstacles to employment, housing, scholarships, financial aid and more. Come find out if you qualify to expunge (erase or remove) your criminal record. Expungement Clinic 10am-1pm
Workshops: - Trusts, Wills, Estates, Financial Literacy, Life Insurance, Health, Wellness, Liberation, and Renewal, Small business/Entrepreneurship, Free Legal Advice.
Resource Fair: Accounting services, Free food distribution, Head Start information, Medicare information, Real Estate Investment and more
Please complete survey if you need transportation, childcare or expungement services.
February 5 – Howard County Virtual Veterans Book Club, First Sundays of the Month from February to June 2023 (February 5, March 5, April 2, May 7, and June 4), 1:30-3pm. Led by David Owens, United States Naval Academy, Class of 1994, this book group is open to current service members and veterans of all eras. Participants should plan to attend all five sessions. Materials are provided. Registration is required.
February 7 - Veterans Curation Program Meet and Greet, 10am-2pm in Alexandria, VA. Please email jdanna@newsouthassoc.com for a formal invitation and spread the word! Guests are always welcome!
February 21 & 28 - KidsConnex is a two-session program for children ages 8-11, experiencing family transitions (divorce/separation). Children will have the opportunity to express their feelings, and work toward understanding and learning how to navigate the changes in their family. KidsConnex sessions are currently being held online. The link will be provided with your registration confirmation. Please ensure that you have downloaded Zoom prior to our sessions beginning. Please email ask@nfrchelp.org or call (410) 740-9553 (Ext. x208 or x100)
Part 1 (of 2): Tuesday, February 21, 2023 (6:30-7:45 PM) Kids only.
Part 2 (of 2): Tuesday, February 28, 2022 (6:30-7:45 PM) Kids only.
Parent Portion (Last 15 minutes of Part 1 & Part 2): Both sessions conclude with a parent connection portion from 7:30-7:45 PM.
Recurring Programs:
Veteran Virtual Kiosk, Monday thru Friday 10am-3pm EST. A daily virtual office where you can connect to our employment professionals and get help with MD Workforce Exchange and find out about available resources. Contact Mr. Anthony Butler Sr.
Virtual—https://meet.google.com/awf-yoqx-mmu
Phone—+1 516-268-6742 PIN: 748 066 507 #
Virtual Toastmasters for Veterans and Military Communities 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm & 4th Saturdays of every month at 11:30 am. Please register with Bernadette Garrett at tmspeakerleaderdtm20@gmail.com
Now – Honor Flights Maryland seeking WWII, Korean and Vietnam Veterans who may be interested in visiting DC Memorials next year, volunteers and guardians to help!
Now - Howard County Fallen Heroes Tribute. To honor Howard County residents who died while in service to our country, the Office of Veteran and Military Families is proud to announce the creation of the Fallen Heroes Tribute page.
2nd Thursday of the Month - Veteran Small Business & Entrepreneur Check-In, 3pm EST. A monthly outreach and support event which brings together vet friendly businesses, small business service organizations and aspiring veteran entrepreneurs to share opportunities advice and resources. Contact Mr. Anthony Butler Sr.
Virtual—https://meet.google.com/coi-hmmo-gqy
Phone—+1 385-645-7116 PIN: 158 654 013 #
Last Thursday of the Month- Veteran Career Club, 11am EST. A monthly outreach and support event which brings together veteran job seekers, career guides, JVSG employment professionals and veteran service organizations to provide job/career options, information on apprenticeships and training opportunities and share tips and techniques for success. Contact Mr. Anthony Butler Sr.
Virtual—https://meet.google.com/nog-aidc-bfv
Phone—+1 316-778-8309 PIN: 237 445 104 #
Connections Veteran Support Group, 1st Monday of each month, 6-7:30pm
Parent Support Group, 2nd Monday of each month, 7:30-9pm
NAMI Connection Support Group, 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, 6:30-8pm
Transition Age Youth Support Group, 3rd Thursday of each month, 7:30-9pm
Family Support Group, 3rd Friday of each month, 7:30-9pm
Now – Honor Flights Maryland seeking WWII, Korean and Vietnam Veterans who may be interested in visiting DC Memorials next year, volunteers and guardians to help!
Now - Howard County Fallen Heroes Tribute. To honor Howard County residents who died while in service to ou country, the Office of Veteran and Military Families is proud to announce the creation of the Fallen Heroes Tribute page.
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Resources
Howard County Aging in Place tax credit program expands Are you 65 or older? Have you lived in the same dwelling for the last 30 years? You may qualify for Howard County's Aging in Place senior tax credit. New guidelines took effect November 30, 2022, increasing the maximum amount of qualifying assessed property value to $650,000, lowering the amount of years required to live in the same dwelling to 30 years, and extending the tax credit for eight years. To check your eligibility, call 410-313-4076 (voice/relay).
ServingTogether offers service members, veterans and their families access to a class-leading continuum of providers that runs the gamut from superior mental health, housing, and emergency service providers to employment, financial capabilities, education, volunteering, recreation and fitness, and more! We are able to track client progress, communicate with providers and ensure the veterans are truly getting what they need all free of charge.
Serving Together has been immensely successful in building a dynamic team that is truly devoted to the mission of the organization. This team has tangible, personal connections to our veterans and genuine concern for their best outcomes. ServingTogether provides peer navigation, collaboratives, guides, education, and training. Please visit our Website for more information.
Veteran Medical Debt Relief
It’s easier than ever for Veterans to apply for and receive medical debt relief.
VA has simplified and streamlined the application process to allow Veterans better access to the help they might need. Simply click the link, log into your VA.gov account, and follow the application instructions.
There, you can also:
- Check the amount and status of your VA debt related to VA disability compensation, non-service-connected pension, or education benefits;
- Check the amount and status of copay bills at each VA health facility where you receive care;
- Find out how to make payments or request help;
- Download billing statements, debt notices, and collection letters.
Objective income threshold criteria are used for the processing and consideration of debt relief, and supplemental documents to support requests are no longer recommended for submission of applications. An application can still be made in a facility revenue office or by calling the Health Resource Center.
Information on these programs can be found online, in VA medical center facility revenue offices and via phone:
Debt relief resources
Ft. Meade Education and Resiliency Center is now open! Stop in to be connected to community resources and learn about the programs we have planned.
The operating hours for Kuhn Hall are Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The phone numbers for Kuhn Hall are as follows:
Education Reception/Front Desk: 301-677-6421 Education Services
Specialist/Counselor: 301-677-2064/5414 Testing Office: 301-677-6423
Learning Center/Multi-Learning Facility: 301-677-2772
Army Community Service/Resiliency Reception: 301-677-1772
Military Family Life Counselor: 240-755-9278/9851
Army Reserve Minuteman scholarship for students who wish to attend college and participate in the Army Reserve. After college graduation, students will be commissioned as an officer in the Army Reserve, obtain leadership and specialized training, and pursue civilian career plans.
· Covers full tuition and fees (in-state) OR room and board ($10,000 per year) at the participating university; Monthly $420 Cadet stipend; Annual $1,200 book stipend; E5/Sergeant pay in an Army Reserve unit. Guaranteed commission in the Army Reserve with an eight-year military service obligation
· Prospects must enroll Army in ROTC while in college; 2-, 2.5-, 3-, 3.5-, and 4-yr scholarships are available (includes graduate school students).
· Prospects cannot compete for Active Duty
· If candidate does not meet SAT/ACT requirement, they will be required to achieve a 110 GT score on AFQT & acquire a waiver
The study will investigate the effectiveness of meditation and therapy as treatments for Posttraumatic Stress (PTS) among Veterans, Active Duty Military Members and First Responders.
Interventions
- You may receive an intervention for your PTS symptoms in the form of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) or Present Centered Therapy (PCT)
- Neither intervention involves medication or discussing traumatic experiences.
Compensation
- Qualifying participants will be compensated up to $1000 for participating.
Veteran Sponsors Needed!
The ETS Sponsorship Program
2600 Virginia Ave NW Suite B200, Washington, DC 20037 * 202-999-6034
www.etssponsorshipprogram.com * www.facebook.com/etssponsorshipprogram/ The transition out of uniformed service is difficult, whether you served four years or forty. Our mission is to support active duty service members in their journey back into civilian life. We connect new Veterans with trained sponsors from their destination community with a focus on the 12 months between leaving the military and reintegrating into civilian life as a new Veteran. We give you the tools to achieve your goals, along with a sponsor to guide you along the way. A program by Vets for Vets.
The Village in Howard is offering a free, 3-Month ASSOCIATE Trial Membership for Howard County residents 55 and older. This truly is a no-obligation FREE 3-month trial. Trial ASSOCIATE members will receive a website login and can freely register for events and activities. In addition, a trial ASSOCIATE member will be assigned a “Buddy” to aid in the process of becoming familiar with all The Village has to offer.
If you do not care to join The Village in Howard by the trial expiration date, the trial membership will automatically cease, and no membership fee will be charged.
To become an ASSOCIATE Trial Member, simply register online or by downloading a paper application at https://www.thevillageinhoward.org via the Membership Tab >>>>Application. What do you have to lose? Any questions or need assistance? Contact the office at 443-367-9043.
Join the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on five Wednesdays in February and March 2023 for webinars on approaches to combatting elder financial exploitation.
The series will be moderated by Jenefer Duane from the CFPB’s Office for Older Americans and veteran elder abuse prosecutor, Paul Greenwood.
Register now! Attend one or all sessions. The series includes:
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New Resources for Elder Fraud Prevention and Response Networks | February 1, 2:00 – 3:00 ET. Elder financial exploitation threatens the financial security of millions of older Americans annually. Learn about newly updated CFPB resources for elder fraud prevention and response networks – including an expanded CFPB report on the network collaboration and a streamlined online Network Development Guide.
- Promising Practices from Successful Elder Fraud Prevention and Response Networks
- Part 1, featuring network leaders in Michigan and South Carolina | February 8, 2:00-3:30 ET. Learn about strategies for funding elder justice networks, how networks can provide training across disciplines, and more. A special guest presentation will highlight funding available from the Department of Justice for elder justice networks.
- Part 2, featuring network leaders in Hawaii and Florida | February 15, 2:00-3:30 ET. Learn how state-level elder justice networks can effectively support locally based sub-networks, how networks can coordinate with the payments industry to spot and respond to exploitation, and more.
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Recovering from Elder Financial Exploitation | February 22, 2:00 – 3:00 ET. Learn about the Recovering from Elder Financial Exploitation report, a financial recovery framework explaining how and when older adults get money back after financial exploitation. Topics include identifying, reporting, and investigating elder fraud and returning funds to victims.
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Money Smart for Older Adults | March 1, 2:00 – 3:30 ET. Learn how to use Money Smart for Older Adults instructor-led curriculum and resources. A joint program of CFPB and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Money Smart for Older Adults can be adapted in a variety of ways.
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Employment/Volunteer Opportunities
Howard County Loan Closet Volunteers Needed to inventory, sanitize equipment and other tasks. Call to inquire.
Military Career Connections assists eligible transitioning service members, military spouses, and veterans with enhanced one-on-one career services. These career services include a combination of resume assistance, employment assistance, no cost industry training, licensing, certifications, work and learn opportunities, and barrier remediation with the goal of employment.
To be eligible for services
Transitioning service members must be
- Transitioning within 180 days or retiring within 270 days
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Be stationed/ assigned to Fort Meade and reside in the state of Maryland or
- If not stationed/assigned to Fort Meade must reside in Anne Arundel or Howard County
Military Spouses must be
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The spouse of a service member assigned/attached to Fort Meade and reside in the state or Maryland or
- A military spouse (active duty, veteran, reserve, or NG) who resides in Anne Arundel or Howard County
- Unemployed or underemployed and seeking new or better employment
Veterans must have
- Separated from the Military with an honorable, general, or other than honorable discharge
- Reside in Anne Arundel or Howard County
- Unemployed or underemployed and seeking new or better employment
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