2014
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The battle to end the VA backlog continued. In 2014, IAVA released a comprehensive analysis of progress and remaining challenges.
IAVA catalyzed the national conversation about veteran mental health and suicide prevention. IAVA continued to fight the VA backlog and to push for modernization of the VA.
Clay Hunt SAV Act Campaign
Historic legislation introduced to combat veteran suicide
On March 27, 2014, IAVA heralded a significant step toward combating veteran suicide in America with the introduction of new, historic and comprehensive legislation introduced by U.S. Senator John Walsh of Montana.
Red Tape Report: The Battle to End the VA Backlog
IAVA released its 2014 Red Tape Report: The Battle to End the VA Backlog. This report analyzed the issue and provided recommendations on how to not only end the backlog, but to make sure it never happens again. No veteran should ever have to wait.
Other Wins
Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act
Successfully passed in 2014, this legislation expanded veterans’ healthcare options in the private sector by creating the Veterans Choice Program (Choice). IAVA saw this as a “band-aid” and pressed for further legislation to close the gap in veterans’ care.
Veterans Storm Capitol Hill to Demand Action on Suicide Prevention
In March, Veterans from across America “stormed” Capitol Hill with Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) and demanded Congress and the President take new action on their top issue: combating veteran suicide. The impactful week ended with a flag activation on the National Mall where IAVA members planted thousands of flags to represent the many veterans who have died by suicide.
4,000+
lives changed through our Rapid Response Referral Program (RRRP)
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.
Working with Director Clint Eastwood, IAVA provided early content feedback to Warner Brothers and the American Sniper team on messaging, outreach and program support. For Grounded, IAVA served as the exclusive charitable partner and technical advisor to the film, connecting the producers with Lauren Augustine, UAV pilot combat veteran and IAVA Legislative Associate.
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!
Video Highlights
Aspen Ideas Festival
The Uncertain Return: How Is the 21st Century Veteran Doing?
Not even one percent of the US population has served in the military, but the return of veterans from war has a ripple effect far greater than that one percent. IAVA founder, Paul Rieckhoff, participated on a panel during the Aspen Ideas Festival to discuss the post-9/11 generation of veterans.
