Author: Dr. Travis Martin

Author & Educator

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featured program members

Featured Program: Career Pathways

Transitioning from military to civilian life presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding a new career path. At DAV Chapter 55, we understand these challenges and are here to support our veterans every step of the way. Our “Career Pathways” program is designed to help veterans translate their military experience into successful civilian careers.

Drop-In Hours:

  • When: Every other Thursday
  • Time: 10 AM – 2 PM
  • Details: Check our Community Calendar on the homepage for specific dates.

Meet Cris Thompson: Our Career Pathways Expert Cris S. Thompson serves as our Career Pathways guide, leveraging her expertise as an Organizational Psychologist and Consultant. As a veteran spouse, she is dedicated to helping veterans build career pathways and obtain meaningful employment that promotes their overall quality of life. Cris holds an MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and a BS in Human Services, and she is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Veterans and family members can reach her at cris@cstnavigation.com or 859-200-6524, with virtual meetings available by appointment.

Program Offerings:

  • Resume Building: Craft resumes that effectively translate military experience into civilian terms, highlighting transferable skills and accomplishments.
  • Job Seeking Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance to confidently navigate the job search process, from understanding job descriptions to preparing for interviews.
  • Strengths Identification: Identify and emphasize unique skills and experiences that are highly valuable in the civilian workforce.

Why This Program Matters: Veterans face distinct challenges during career transitions. Our Career Pathways program offers tailored support that acknowledges the depth and breadth of military experience. Cris Thompson’s expertise ensures that veterans not only have strong, market-ready resumes but also the confidence and skills to succeed in interviews and beyond. By participating in this program, veterans can better understand how their military service has prepared them for civilian careers, opening doors to fulfilling and rewarding opportunities.

How to Get Involved:

  • New Veteran Clients: If you are a veteran looking to receive mentorship and career guidance, please complete the intake form on our Career Pathways page.
  • Area Businesses: We invite businesses to partner with us to support veteran employment. Please fill out the partnership form on our Career Pathways page.

We invite all veterans to take advantage of this valuable resource. Whether you’re just starting your job search or looking to refine your approach, the Career Pathways program is here to help you achieve your career goals.

Contact Us:

Learn more about our Career Pathways program on our Career Pathways page.

#DAV55 #VeteranSupport #CareerPathways #VeteranEmployment #CareerSuccess

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featured program members

Featured Program: Friday Community Breakfast

Start your Friday mornings with a delicious breakfast and great company at the Madison County Veterans Center. Our weekly community breakfasts provide a welcoming environment for veterans to connect and enjoy a meal together.

Event Details:

  • When: Every Friday, 8:00 – 9:00 AM
  • Where: Madison County Veterans Center
  • Who: All veterans are welcome, and you may bring your family or significant others.

Experience the Power of Camaraderie:

  • Build Community: Engage with fellow veterans and their families in a supportive and friendly environment.
  • Find Purpose: Discover how being part of a vibrant veteran community can provide a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
  • Explore Offerings: Learn about the various programs and services available to veterans, including group therapy sessions, support groups, and other resources.

Our weekly breakfasts are more than just a meal—they are an opportunity to forge lasting connections and find a sense of purpose within the veteran community. Whether you are new to the area or looking to reconnect, Fridays at the Madison County Veterans Center are the perfect place to start.

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing a meal together.

For more information, please contact us at 859-575-1738 or email contact@dav55.org.

#DAV55 #VeteranSupport #CommunityBreakfast #VeteransCommunity #VeteranCamaraderie

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announcements meet the team

Meet the Team: Ben Thomas

Certainly! Here’s a revised “Meet the Team” post for Ben Thomas:

🌟 Meet Ben Thomas! 🌟

Ben Thomas is the current Chapter 55 Treasurer. Fun facts about Ben:

  • A retired USAF veteran with over 8000 hours of flying time on various manned reconnaissance platforms, with combat experience in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Kosovo.
  • Served as a subject matter expert and force manager in the A2 and A3 branches at the Pentagon.
  • Held senior executive roles at the Office of the Director for National Intelligence before transitioning to the private sector.
  • Dedicated a decade to small business consulting before focusing on volunteer work, particularly with veterans and outdoor activities.
  • Plays a vital role as treasurer and support driver for Chapter 55, providing crucial support to fellow veterans.
  • Volunteers alongside his wife at the Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery.

Learn more about Ben and our team on the Staff page.

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announcements meet the team

Meet the Team: Travis Martin

Dr. Travis Martin serves as the Adjutant for the Madison County, Kentucky chapter of Disabled American Veterans. Fun facts about Dr. Martin:

  • Handles administrative duties and record-keeping with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Coordinates communications and newsletters, ensuring our members stay informed and connected.
  • Manages chapter documentation and correspondence, maintaining our records efficiently.
  • Enjoys spending time with his dogs, Bartleby and Glori, his cat, Journey, and his school of fishes.
  • Passionate about plants and gardening, as well as playing video games.
  • Always ready to assist veterans, family members, and students, offering support and guidance.

Learn more about Dr. Martin and our team on the Staff page.

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announcements meetings members

August 2024: Monthly Meeting / Workshop Reminder

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
Chapter 55 | Madison County, KY

Dear DAV Chapter 55 Members,

I hope this message finds you well. We have several important updates and reminders for you this month. Your active participation and engagement are vital to the success of our chapter and the support we provide to our veterans.

Monthly Meeting Reminder

Date: This Saturday, August 12th
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Madison County Veterans Center

Please join us for our monthly meeting where we will discuss ongoing initiatives, upcoming events, and other important matters. Been away for a while and want to get involved? This is your chance!

Lunch & Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) Workshop

(Following the meeting, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM)

Immediately following our monthly meeting, we will be hosting a Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) Workshop. This workshop is designed to equip you with essential skills and knowledge to better support our veterans who have experienced trauma. It will be an informative and valuable session for all attendees.

Follow Us on Social Media

Stay connected and up-to-date with all the latest news, events, and member spotlights by following us on social media:

Facebook: DAV Chapter 55 Facebook
Instagram: DAV Chapter 55 Instagram

We’ve begun highlighting the volunteers and programming that make our chapter possible. Share our posts and help spread the word about the great work our chapter is doing! New featured team member and program posts go out each Tuesday and Thursday, respectively.

For more information on our programs and events, visit our website.

Hope to see you Saturday. Thank you for your dedication and service.

Warm regards,

Dr. Travis L. Martin
Adjutant, DAV Chapter 55

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announcements meet the team

Meet the Team: Mark Ledkins

Mark A. Ledkins is a seasoned professional with an impressive career spanning 28 years in the USAF Security Forces, where he has honed his skills and leadership as a Jr. Adjunct CC. Fun facts about Mark:

  • Supports the commander in chapter leadership, bringing his extensive experience to the team.
  • Actively engages with members, offering support and fostering a strong community spirit.
  • Enjoys cycling, participating in MMA, and attending concerts, reflecting his active lifestyle and passion for both physical fitness and cultural enrichment.

Learn more about Mark and our team on the Staff page.

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announcements members public education workshops

Register – TIC Workshop – Understanding Trauma and Providing Compassionate Care

Join us for the DAV55 Fall 2024 Workshop Series, an enriching set of training sessions aimed at enhancing community resilience and mental health awareness. These workshops, led by the EKU Trauma and Suicide Prevention Team, provide invaluable lessons on crisis management, suicide prevention, and trauma-informed care, equipping attendees with essential skills to support themselves and others in times of need.

Description: This workshop educates participants on providing trauma-informed care, focusing on understanding the impact of trauma on mental health, recognizing symptoms, and applying supportive strategies. Attendees will learn to create safe and healing environments, ensuring their interactions are compassionate and informed by an understanding of trauma’s effects. This training is essential for fostering resilience and recovery in individuals who have experienced trauma.

Date & Time:
August 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM (Potluck meal begins immediately following the monthly DAV meeting)

Location:
Madison County Veterans Center, 1215 W Main Street, Richmond, KY

Details:

  • Free
  • One Hour
  • Open to the public
  • Accompanied by a light meal
  • Evidence-based and taught by trained clinicians

Contact Information:
For more information, please email contact@dav55.org.

Registration Link:
Register Here

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announcements meet the team

Meet the Team: Theresa Wilson

Theresa Wilson serves as a dedicated advocate and service officer for DAV Chapter 55, bringing with her over 20 years of experience in the United States Air Force, where she achieved the rank of E-6. Fun facts about Theresa:

  • Since retiring, she has committed herself to assisting veterans in Kentucky, dedicating thousands of hours to helping them navigate the complexities of their benefits.
  • Holds leadership roles in the American Legion and serves as Senior Vice Commander for DAV Chapter 55.
  • Earned recognition as “Service Officer of the Year” from the state DAV for her outstanding contributions.
  • Operates a rescue kennel business, caring for dogs and cats, demonstrating her compassion and dedication to improving the lives of all community members.
  • Passionate about advocacy and support for veteran benefits, leadership in veteran support programs, coordination with the state-level DAV, member recruitment and retention, and assisting in event planning.

Veterans and family members are encouraged to reach out to her for assistance.

Learn more about Theresa and our team on the Staff page.

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featured program members

Featured Program: VA Claims Support

Navigating the VA claims process can be challenging, but our DAV Service Officers are here to help. With expert guidance, we ensure that veterans receive the benefits they have earned.

Role of DAV Service Officers:

  • Claims Preparation: Assist in preparing and submitting claims, ensuring all necessary documentation is included.
  • Understanding Entitlements: Help veterans understand their entitlements and track claim statuses.
  • Appeals Representation: Represent veterans in claim denial appeals, providing support every step of the way.

How to Get Help:

  • Appointment: Veterans are encouraged to call the Madison County Veterans Center at 859-575-1738 to arrange an appointment. Leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
  • Drop-Ins: Visit during “Open” or “Service Officer” hours for initial intake and scheduling follow-up appointments as needed. Check our calendar for available times.

Documents to Bring:

  • Proof of Service (DD-214)
  • Service Medical Records (SMRs)
  • Private Medical Records
  • Supporting Statements from family, friends, or fellow service members
  • Any previous VA correspondence or claim documentation

Whether you need help starting a claim, understanding your benefits, or navigating an ongoing process, Theresa and our team are ready to assist.

Learn more about our VA Claims Support on our VA Claims Support page.

#DAV55 #VeteranSupport #VAClaims #VeteransBenefits #ServiceOfficer

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announcements meet the team members

Meet the Team: Cris Thompson

Cris S. Thompson serves as our Career Pathways guide within the DAV chapter, leveraging her expertise as an Organizational Psychologist and Consultant. Fun facts about Cris:

  • A veteran spouse dedicated to helping veterans build career pathways and obtain meaningful employment that promotes their overall quality of life.
  • Holds an MS in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and a BS in Human Services, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology.
  • Assists veterans with career planning and job placement, providing one-on-one career counseling to ensure personalized support.
  • Organizes career workshops and training sessions, helping veterans gain the skills needed for successful employment.
  • Acts as a liaison with local businesses and organizations, creating employment opportunities for veterans.
  • In her free time, enjoys spending time with her family on the lake, target shooting, taking pictures, and playing music.

Veterans and family members can reach her at cris@cstnavigation.com or 859-200-6524, with virtual meetings available by appointment.

Learn more about Cris and our team on the Staff page.