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Governor Tim Pawlenty presents MACV with the 2009 Secretary’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Service to Homeless Veterans at the State Capitol on Monday, January 11, 2010.
MACV was recognized by Governor Tim Pawlenty in an award presentation at the State Capitol on Monday, January 11, 2010. MACV was commended on the recent high honor received from the Department of Veterans Affairs for its community service, the 2009 Secretary’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Service to Homeless Veterans. The ceremony was attended by more than 70 guests including many veterans who have benefited from the services of MACV.
The award reads, “It is with great pride that we recognize your devotion and outstanding contributions to our Nation’s homeless veterans. Your dedication and commitment to helping others exemplifies outstanding service to our community and our Nation. The Department of Veterans Affairs proudly commends you for your selfless efforts,” signed by Eric K. Shinseki, Secretary of Veteran Affairs. (continued below)
Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty with MACV’s Executive Director, Kathleen Vitalis
 
Secretary of State Mark Ritchie with MACV’s Executive Director, Kathleen Vitalis
More and more veterans are returning from Iraq and Afghanistan to face the unimaginable challenges associated with reuniting with family, friends and the community, and these challenges are becoming increasingly difficult in the current economic climate. As a result, MACV is seeing an unprecedented rise in demand for programming and services to prevent homelessness among these veterans and their families.
Paramount to MACV’s amazing capacity to rise and meet this need has been increased outreach and education. MACV greatly increased its outreach efforts in 2008. MACV’s outreach has touched every county across the state – making connections at food shelves, shelters, community centers and clinics providing services to individuals and families. As a result, MACV is reaching more veterans and educating community service providers throughout the state on how to best meet the needs of homeless and at-risk veterans and their families. Education also plays a key role in direct services to veterans and their families - either as a step toward achieving their goals or as a new found link to resources that lead to self sufficiency.
In 2008, MACV provided 887 veterans throughout Minnesota with direct services. This represents a 58% increase in the number of veterans served in 2007.
Related News Links
Capitol Chat – Forum Communications Company, Minnesota Capitol Bureau
HometownSource.com
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