2010
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IAVA’s efforts to expand G.I. Bill benefits resulted in a big win for many veterans!
IAVA continued to drive the national conversation around all veterans, including National Guard service members and reservists.
200,000+
members
communityofveterans.org
IAVA launched communityofveterans.org, the first and only community exclusive to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. This social network was a place where our members were able to listen, share their experiences, and access resources. From lifelong friendships to help coping with PTSD to employment advice and job postings, our members found a robust community and hub of connectivity.
Other Wins
Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act
After leading the passage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill in 2008, IAVA fought for this legislation which expanded the G.I. Bill to include vocational schools, National Guard service members and Reservists responding to natural disasters. IAVA continues to protect education benefits for veterans.
Ad Council and Whitman Strategies
IAVA enlisted the help of the Ad Council and Whitman Strategies to help us increase the impact of communityofveterans.org. The campaign was so successful that our “Alone” PSA ran during the Super Bowl pregame.
IAVA Films
IAVA has fostered meaningful relationships with the film and entertainment communities, partnering with and producing films that engage the veteran community and bridge the military-civilian divide. IAVA has also served as a producer on several documentary films.
2010’s Restrepo showed the realities of war for a U.S. platoon in Afghanistan, and IAVA partnered closely with journalist Sebastian Junger and National Geographic on this impactful documentary film. As well, IAVA members attended premiere events, and IAVA hosted special advanced screenings for IAVA members in multiple cities. For Green Zone, the major motion picture starring Matt Damon, we held casting calls at our headquarters in New York, resulting in about a dozen first-time actors being selected to appear in the film, including a cameo by IAVA founder Paul Rieckhoff.
IAVA Events
Storm the Hill
Storm the Hill is IAVA’s annual program where selected veterans, called “Stormers,” travel to Washington, DC, to meet with lawmakers and advocate for post-9/11 veterans’ issues. Through personal stories, they push for action on key concerns directly with representatives and senators.
Heroes Gala
IAVA’s Heroes Gala is an exciting evening of patriotism and inspiration. It’s our opportunity to recognize some amazing leaders who empower veterans. And it’s been an anticipated mainstay of Veterans Day events and culture for most of our 20 years!
