The West Michigan Veterans Coalition was founded in 2009 by a small group of individuals dedicated to finding ways to work together to support area veterans, service members, and their families. In 2013, WMVC was selected by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency to implement a collaborative, “no wrong door” approach designed to enhance the delivery of services from public, private, and nonprofit organizations to veterans, service members, and their families. Government agencies (at the federal, state, and local levels), veterans service organizations, nonprofits, academia, and the private sector are included in the model.
WMVC serves residents of the following counties: Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, and Ottawa.
WMVC, a 501(c)(3) organization, is served by an all-volunteer board. Contributions to support our mission are may be tax-deductible.
In 2013, the West Michigan Veterans Coalition was selected by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency to implement Altarum Institute’s no-wrong-door collaborative Veteran Community Action Team (VCAT). The model is designed to enhance the delivery of services from public, private, and nonprofit organizations to veterans and their family members. The VCAT aims to institute a community-based veterans’ system of care through the establishment of broad-based coalitions of veteran service organizations, health and community service providers, veterans and their family members, and other stakeholders.
The WMVC has formed four working subcommittees to address specific issues facing veterans in the community. The subcommittees meet periodically throughout the quarter to identify and alleviate barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and quality of life.
WMVC serves residents of the following counties: Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, and Ottawa.
Donors Make a Difference
The West Michigan Veterans Coalition is the primary beneficiary for the armed Forces Thanksgiving signature event. The annual Armed Forces Thanksgiving Luncheon brings military-connected individuals, high school students, and business leaders in the West Michigan community together to understand, honor and express thanks to those that are serving or have served in our Armed Forces. This event encourages the next generation to have a sincere appreciation for all the men and women who have served on our behalf.
Volunteer Board of Directors
Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve
Military Officers Association of America
CEO, Bluewater Hayes
Vice President, Commercial Team Lead
Union Bank
Managing Partner
Bluewater Hayes
Marketing & Special Events Manager
Grand Valley State University’s Van Andel Global Trade Center
ADA Employment Advocate
VDC Counselor
Disability Advocates of Kent County
Director of Program & Partnerships
World-Maker Resilience Institute
Training Specialist
Integrated Packaging Machinery, LLC
Member, National Ladies Auxiliary
Lifelong Community Steward
