National Association of Black Veterans, Inc.

The National Association of Black Veterans, Inc. (NABVETS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the concerns of minority and low-income veterans. Initially founded as the Interested Veterans of the Central City (IVOCC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1969 by seven Vietnam combat veterans, it was reorganized in 1973 as NABVETS to focus on issues affecting Black and other minority veterans[1][4].

Mission and Vision

NABVETS focuses on providing strategic advocacy at the federal and local levels, assisting veterans in navigating claims through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and fostering community development for veterans and their families[1][3]. The organization aims to become a leading professional organization for Black veterans, with a goal of reaching 50% of the national Black veteran population as its membership base and establishing chapters in every state with a significant population[1][4].

Activities and Services

NABVETS offers a range of services, including:

• Claims Assistance: Provides free assistance to veterans with filing and pursuing claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs, regardless of membership or racial background[1].
• Community Development: Works to end homelessness, empower low-income veterans, and support disadvantaged youth[1][4].
• Historical Preservation: Preserves the historical contributions of minority veterans[1].
• Health Services: Offers counseling for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Agent Orange exposure, and behavioral health issues through partnerships like the IVOCC Behavioral Health Clinic[1].
• Advocacy: Advocates for amnesty for Vietnam era veterans and supports incarcerated veterans[1].

Certification and Recognition

In 1998, NABVETS was certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a national veterans service organization, recognized for its work in preparing, presenting, and prosecuting veterans' claims[1][2]. It is the first and only Black organization chartered by the U.S. Congress for representing veterans in filing claims[4].

Chapters and Reach

NABVETS has over 100 chapters across the United States and in international locations such as Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic[4]. Its operations span 15 states with established State Commands, with merging commands in 16 additional states[3].