Blog post

Behind the Scenes: A Few Weeks in at IAVA
Posted by Ryan Berg on June 30 2010

As an intern at Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) this summer, the operational tempo has matched that of my time in the Marine Corps.  Now, while most of my time is being spent in cubicles and conference rooms, the commitment this organization has to ensuring veterans are taking care of is enormous. From meticulously monitoring news cycles to making hundreds of phone calls to veterans about our new tool to provide free rewards and opportunities to new vets, the mission here couldn’t be more clear:  to improve the lives of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans and their families. 

To achieve this mission, or any mission, military or otherwise, you need people that care.  IAVA has them. In fact, I am not sure how they got so many people who care on the tenth floor of one building in New York City.  It is remarkable. Every department is a team that takes their job seriously and approaches their work with commitment and creativity.  Even Chad Campbell and Chris Kurz, IAVA’s part-time staff, have submitted themselves to late nights and early mornings-the pace demanded of anyone who accepts the task of being an IAVA team member.

Digging in at IAVA's New York City HQ

Part of an effective team is having fun too. Every Wednesday we have a learning lunch—where each department gives a rundown of key projects they’re working on, from GI Bill upgrades to the ways IAVA helps implement legislation.  And every Thursday one department plans a social and takes the interns to a unique part of the city for food and treats.

In the few short weeks I’ve been with IAVA I have been blown away by the rigor and energy of each person pursuing IAVA’s ambitious mission. In fact, you’re reminded every time you step into the lobby.

Oh, and Paul Rieckhoff really isn’t that scary anymore.  It’s my third week here now and every time he passes my cubicle I now make eye contact with him.  By next month, I’ll practice on giving him the proper greeting of the day. By the end of the summer, I just might shake his hand.

Ryan Berg served two tours in Iraq in 2004 and 2006 with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marines and 1st Battalion, 14th Marines. He is currently pursuing a degree in Rhetoric from UC Berkeley on the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

  Share:
 del.icio.us  digg  reddit  facebook  newsvine myspace twitter