1875 Virginia Ave, North Bend, Oregon 97459 Hours: Monday 1pm-5pm; Tuesday - Thursday 9am-5pm closed 12-1 for lunch; Closed Fridays desk@sovoservesvets.org 458-802-3186 (Office) 541-756-8758 (Fax)

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Southwestern Oregon Veterans Outreach (SOVO) 2024: A Year of Impact and Community Support

As we reflect on the year 2024, we at Southwestern Oregon Veterans Outreach (SOVO) are filled with pride and gratitude for the many accomplishments and initiatives that have marked our journey. This year has been one of unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and their families in our community.

Key Highlights of 2024

Veterans Day Lunch at North Bend High School In November, we had the pleasure of partnering with North Bend High School for a special Veterans Day lunch. The event was a resounding success, thanks to the culinary department’s delicious meal and the enthusiastic participation of local Boy Scouts and Girl Scout troops. This event brought together veterans and the community to honor and celebrate their service.

Veteran Café Events Throughout the year, we hosted several Veteran Café events, including gatherings in North Bend on December 17 and Lakeside on December 20. These events provided a space for veterans to connect, share experiences, and find support within their community.

Mental Health Support Recognizing the importance of mental health, SOVO has provided space for veteran support groups to meet. These meetings have offered a safe and welcoming environment for veterans to discuss their experiences and receive peer support.

Community Partnerships We strengthened our partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance the support available to veterans. These collaborations have been instrumental in providing comprehensive assistance to those who have served our country.

Resource Fair The annual Coos County Veteran Stand Down and Resource Fair was a highlight of the year. Veterans had the opportunity to access various resources to improve their quality of life, from health services to housing assistance.

Volunteer Engagement and Educational Workshops The dedication of our volunteers has been a cornerstone of SOVO’s success. We are grateful for the countless hours they have contributed to our programs and events, making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans. This year, we also conducted several educational workshops on topics such as financial planning, job readiness, and veteran benefits, empowering veterans with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate post-service life successfully.

FriendsGiving Potluck for Thanksgiving In the spirit of camaraderie and gratitude, SOVO hosted a FriendsGiving potluck for Thanksgiving exclusively for veterans and their families. This event brought together our veteran community to share a meal, express thanks, and celebrate the bonds that unite us all. The potluck was a heartwarming occasion filled with delicious food and heartfelt conversations.

Community Outreach SOVO continued its community outreach efforts, raising awareness about veteran issues and advocating for policies that support veterans and their families.

A New Home for SOVO

In addition to these accomplishments, 2024 marked a significant milestone for SOVO as we moved to our current location, 1875 Virginia Ave., North Bend, OR 97459. This new space has enabled us to better serve the veteran community with expanded facilities and resources. A special thanks to everyone who supported this transition.

We are also proud to have a new sign out front of our building, which stands as a beacon of our commitment to supporting veterans. The sign is more than just a marker; it symbolizes our dedication to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all who seek our help.

As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to our mission of supporting veterans and their families. We are grateful for the continued support of our community and look forward to another year of impactful work.

Thank you for being a part of our journey.

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Veteran Activities in Coos County, Oregon: A Month of Engagement and Support

Coos County, Oregon, is bustling with activities and events that cater to veterans and their families. Here are some exciting opportunities to get involved and stay connected:

Holiday Events:

Annual Holiday Lights at Shore Acres State Park: November 28 – December 31, 2024

Enjoy a dazzling display of holiday lights from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM every night. Don’t forget to reserve your parking pass in advance!

MaHaffy Ranch Christmas Tree Festival: November 29 – December 8, 2024

U-pick fresh Christmas trees, enjoy hot cocoa, and take photos with Santa in a beautiful, festive setting.

Coos History Museum Holiday Market: November 29 – December 8, 2024

Explore unique holiday gifts and support local artisans.

Kids Fish Free Event: December 7th (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM), December 8th (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM), December 14th (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM), December 15th (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

North Bend Christmas Parade: December 7, 2024, 6:30 PM

Enjoy the annual Christmas Parade in downtown North Bend, featuring festive floats, marching bands, and holiday cheer!

Powers Christmas Light the Night Parade: December 17, 2024, 6:00 PM

Join the community in Powers for a night of Christmas lights and festive floats, starting at 6:00 PM.

Veteran Events:

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony: December 7, 2024, 10:00 AM

Honor the memory of those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor at the Bandon Veterans Memorial Park.

2024 Q4 Veterans Summit: December 10, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Join us at Southwestern Oregon Veterans Outreach for an important summit focused on veteran support and resources.

Coos Bay/North Bend Vet Cafe & Social: December 17, 2024, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Connect with fellow veterans and enjoy a social gathering at SOVO.

Lakeside Vet Cafe & Social: December 20, 2024, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Join us at Lakeshore Lodge for an evening of camaraderie and support.

Support Services:

Coos County Veteran Services: Located at The Pony Village Mall, 1611 Virginia Avenue, Suite 213, North Bend, OR 97459. They assist veterans and their dependents in securing all benefits for which they are entitled with the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA).

Southwestern Oregon Veterans Outreach (SOVO): SOVO provides a range of services to help veterans get the support they need. They offer assistance with benefits, emergency aid, transportation, and more. Located at 1875 Virginia Ave, North Bend, Oregon 97459.

Holiday Giving Campaign:

‘Tis the Season! Help provide a great Christmas season for our community’s Veterans and their families. Drop box locations will follow in the comments of this post as we get them. Drop off can also be done at our HQ, 2055 Union Ave. North Bend. Please email events@operationrebuildhope.org for more information. To sign up to receive from this event, look for the application post or email us for a copy. Thank you for helping us SERVE THOSE WHO SERVED US this holiday season.

Coos County is committed to honoring and supporting our veterans. Whether you’re looking to participate in festive events, connect with fellow veterans, or access essential services, there’s something for everyone. Let’s come together to celebrate and support our heroes this holiday season!

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December Newsletter

Celebrating the Season with Gratitude and Community

Dear Coos County Veterans and Supporters,

As we welcome the month of December, a time filled with joy, reflection, and togetherness, we at SOVO are excited to share updates and events that honor our veterans and celebrate the spirit of the season.

Historical Events and Remembrance

December is a month rich with historical significance. From remembering the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941, to honoring the service and sacrifices of all who have served, we take this time to reflect on the bravery and resilience of our veterans. Let us never forget the importance of their contributions to our nation’s history.

Christmas and the Holiday Season

Christmas is a time of celebration, family, and giving. We encourage all veterans to cherish these moments with their loved ones. Whether you’re spending time with family, friends, or fellow veterans, the holiday season is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

Getting Involved with Local Holiday Activities

Coos County offers a variety of holiday activities and events designed to bring the community together. Here are some ways you can get involved:

Holiday Parades and Festivals: Join the local parades and festivals to experience the festive spirit and connect with fellow community members.

Volunteer Opportunities: Consider volunteering at local shelters, food banks, or holiday events. Your time and effort can make a significant impact on those in need.

Veteran Meetups: Attend veteran meetups and gatherings to share stories, offer support, and build a network of camaraderie.

Stay Connected with SOVO

As always, SOVO is here to support our veteran community. Whether you need assistance, want to get involved, or simply wish to connect, we are here for you. Your support and involvement are what make our mission possible.

Wishing You a Joyous Holiday Season

From all of us at SOVO, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season. May this time be filled with peace, happiness, and gratitude. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our veteran community.

Sincerely, The SOVO Team

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VA Town Hall – North Bend Highlights

Hey everyone!

We wanted to share some key points from the VA Town Hall meeting last night. Here’s what stood out:

New Executive Leadership Team: We had the pleasure of meeting the new executive leadership team. They’re passionate and ready to bring positive changes to our community. It’s reassuring to see leadership that genuinely cares about us.

Staffing Efforts: Big news on the staffing front! Over the past 18 months, they’ve managed to reduce open vacancies by 40%. This is a huge step forward in ensuring we get the quality care we need and deserve.

Addressing Medical Needs: One of the top priorities discussed was how they’re planning to address our medical needs here on the coast. More providers will be brought on-site, which means better access to healthcare for all of us.

Open Communication and Transparency: What really stood out was their commitment to open communication and transparency. They’re genuinely listening to our concerns and taking steps to address them. It feels good to know our voices are being heard.

Respect: Another key point from last night’s VA Town Hall was “Respect.” The VA Leadership team emphasized that respect should be mutual – their staff is expected to show respect to veterans and their families, and in turn, they ask that veterans and families show respect to their staff. In these challenging times, recognizing that we all have families and are dealing with stress is vital. Maintaining a respectful environment is critical for retaining dedicated staff and ensuring everyone receives the support and care they need.

Your Voice Matters: The VA Executive Team is asking for our help through open communication. They want to hear about our concerns and issues on the coast. Last night, fellow veterans highlighted that transportation and availability of services are major issues we face. Let’s ensure our voices are heard and work together to improve our community.

I left the meeting feeling hopeful and optimistic about the future. It’s clear that changes are being made to improve our care and support. Let’s keep the momentum going and stay engaged!

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2024 Q4 Veterans Summit

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Planning your Legacy – VA Survivors and Burial Benefits

 

VA Survivors and Burial Benefits: Planning Your Legacy

Our Mission:

To fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors.

Introduction:

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a comprehensive survivors and burial benefits kit to assist Veterans and their families in pre-need planning and record storage.

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This kit is designed to guide you through end-of-life and survivors’ benefits eligibility, ensuring your loved ones are aware of the benefits available to them.
Planning for the Future:

​ VA provides several benefits to aid Veterans and their families in preparing for the future, including:

  • Pre-Need Eligibility for National Cemetery Burial or Memorialization: Final resting place, headstone or marker, flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate for eligible Veterans, spouses, and dependents.
  • Memorial or Burial Flags: A U.S. flag provided at no cost to drape the casket or accompany the urn of an eligible deceased Veteran.
  • Government Headstones or Markers: Single headstone, columbarium niche cover, or flat marker for a Veteran’s final resting place.
  • Cemetery Medallions: Medallions for use on a headstone or other memorial in a private cemetery to signify a decedent’s status as a Veteran.
  • Presidential Memorial Certificates: Engraved paper certificates signed by the current President for the family of the deceased Veteran.
  • Burial Benefits and Burial Automatic Payments: Benefits to offset burial expenses, plot costs, and transportation costs for a Veteran’s remains.
  • Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Monthly tax-free benefit for eligible surviving spouses, dependent children, and parents of Service members or Veterans who died from service-connected disabilities.
  • Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program: Education and training opportunities for eligible dependents.
  • Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship: Financial support for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and housing for eligible beneficiaries.
  • Survivors Pension: Tax-free monetary benefit for low-income, un-remarried surviving spouses and eligible unmarried children of deceased wartime Veterans.
  • Special Monthly Pension Benefits: Additional funds for certain survivors requiring aid and attendance or who are housebound.
  • The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA): Reimbursement for some medical expenses for certain surviving spouses or children.
  • Home Loans: Assistance for eligible unmarried surviving spouses to buy, build, refinance, repair, and retain a home.
  • Veterans Month of Death Benefits: Last month of benefits paid to the surviving spouse of a Veteran receiving VA compensation or pension benefits.
  • VA Life Insurance: Various life insurance programs to provide financial security for families of Service members and Veterans.

​What to Do, and When:

The document provides detailed guidance on what Veterans and their families should do to prepare for end-of-life and ensure survivors can access benefits. This includes discussing military service, final wishes, and life insurance, as well as obtaining medical records and considering applications for various benefits.
How to Apply for Benefits:
The document lists the forms required to apply for various VA benefits and additional documents that may be needed. It also provides tips on completing VA forms to ensure accurate and speedy processing of claims.

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For Help with Your Benefits:

Several organizations can assist with the claims process, including County Veterans Service Officers, Veterans Service Organizations, and the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).
Record of Personal Affairs:​

A guide to consolidating important information for loved ones, including personal details, marital history, trusted associates, location of important documents, and funeral and burial arrangements.

Conclusion:

The VA Survivors and Burial Benefits kit is a valuable resource for Veterans and their families, providing essential information and guidance to ensure that survivors can access the benefits they are entitled to.

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For more information, visit the VA website or contact your local Veterans service office.
SummaryofVADependentsandSurvivorsBenefits
For More Information:

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Visit VA Benefits or call 1-800-827-1000 for assistance.

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November Newsletter

Honoring Our Veterans and Giving Thanks

Dear Coos County Veterans and Supporters,

As we enter the month of November, a time of reflection and gratitude, we at SOVO are excited to share some important events and updates with you. This month is especially significant as we honor Veterans Day and celebrate Thanksgiving.

Veterans Day – November 11th

Veterans Day is a time to honor and thank all military personnel who have and still serve in the United States Armed Forces. It’s a day to recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans and to show our appreciation for their bravery and service. We invite you all to join us in commemorating this important day.

Veterans Day Lunch Hosted by North Bend High School Culinary Class, at North Bend Highschool. Activities start at 11am, lunch is served at Noon.

We are thrilled to announce that the North Bend High School Culinary Class will be hosting a special Veterans Day lunch for our veterans. This event is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the talented students. It’s a chance to connect, share stories, and celebrate the camaraderie that makes our veteran community so strong.

Thanksgiving – November 28th

As we move towards the end of the month, we look forward to Thanksgiving, a time to gather with loved ones and reflect on the blessings in our lives. For many veterans, the holiday season can be challenging. It’s important to remember that SOVO is here to provide support and resources to help make this time a little easier. Whether it’s through our food assistance programs or community events, we’re committed to ensuring that our veterans feel the support and gratitude they deserve.

Get Involved and Support Our Mission

Your support is vital to our mission of providing a “hand-up” to our veterans. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

Donate: Your contributions help us provide essential services and support to veterans in need.

Volunteer: Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a difference in the lives of veterans in our community.

Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends and family to help us reach more veterans in need.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our veteran community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

Wishing you all a meaningful Veterans Day and a warm Thanksgiving.

Sincerely, The SOVO Team

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A Hand-Up for Our Veterans

At SOVO, our mission has always been to provide support and resources to our incredible veteran community here in Coos County. With over 6,500 veterans residing in our area, we understand the unique challenges and needs that each of you faces. Our commitment is to offer a “hand-up” rather than a handout, empowering you to thrive and succeed.

Our Ongoing Initiatives

Veteran Stand Down Events: These events are designed to offer a day of camaraderie, resources, and support. From health screenings to job fairs, our Stand Down events provide a one-stop shop for the services you need.

Direct Support: Your donations enable us to offer essential support, including food, gas, and assistance with unexpected expenses. Every contribution helps us make a significant impact.

Community Engagement: We believe in the power of community. Our veteran events are an opportunity for you to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive network with fellow veterans.

How You Can Get Involved

Donate: Your generosity directly impacts the lives of veterans in need. Contributions can be applied to various areas, including direct support and event funding.

Volunteer: We are always looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our events and initiatives. Your time and effort can make a world of difference.

Spread the Word: Share our mission with your friends and family. The more people who know about our efforts, the greater our impact can be.

A Message of Resilience and Hope

We know that the journey isn’t always easy, but together we can overcome any challenge. Remember to take time for yourself, engage with your community, and reach out if you need support. At SOVO, we are here for you every step of the way.

Thank you for your service, your strength, and your commitment to our country. Let’s continue to lift each other up and make Coos County a place where veterans can thrive.

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Find Us

Address
1875 Virginia Ave.

North Bend , Oregon 97459

Hours

Monday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Tuesday—Thursday:  9:00am-5:00pm
Lunch 12- 1pm
Closed: Saturday & Sunday

Phone
458-802-3186 (Office)
541-756-8758 (Fax)

Email
desk@sovoservesvets.org

For Map Click Here

About Southwestern Oregon Veterans Outreach, Inc.

(SOVO)  helps bridge the gap between what is available and what is needed to assist in meeting the needs of our veterans and their families. SOVO helps ensure that veterans receive the benefits they are due for their service to our country. Coos County, Oregon has approximately 6000 veterans and one County Veterans Service Officer and one Claims assistant.

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