We often hear great things from clients about RRRP’s services. Today, we sit down with Claire, one of IAVA’s VTMs, to hear what it’s like on the other side.

What is a typical day like for you as a Veteran Transition Manager?

There is no such thing as typical. Every day, every client, and every need is different. My day is usually spent building out our database of best-in-class resources, building relationships with service providers across the country, and advocating for clients. In general, our team works with veterans and their families to figure out what they need, which is often more than they initially came to us for. We take a very holistic approach to each client’s care and advocate on their behalf to ensure they’re getting the benefits and resources they need.

What is the most common request you get from veterans or their family members?

Many times, especially during this time of year, we receive requests for help obtaining financial assistance. This week alone we’ve made 19 referrals to financial assistance resources. Many clients are seeking assistance navigating the VA health system, filing or following up on disability claims, finding good general resources, or help understanding and properly using their GI Bill benefits.

What’s the best part of your job?

Advocating for clients to agencies and providers is the most rewarding part of the job. For example, one client was a VA inpatient client for six years who, despite having a disability claim, was forced to pay for the services. Making the payments, which were very expensive, while also supporting his family was very emotional and challenging. I investigated and discovered this was a clerical error should have never happened. For various reasons, the client could not contact the necessary people and advocate on his own behalf, but I was able to get in touch with the appropriate people at the billing department and remedy the situation. He was reimbursed for all six years of services via check one week later.

How can veterans or their families get assistance from RRRP?

Call 1-855-91-RAPID or email transition@iava.org. Everything is free, confidential, and paperwork-free.