I am a Viet Nam Veteran, I have been going to the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service & Education Center for the past 10 years. I was in an altercation that put my job in jeopardy and I could have fa... text
THE PHILADELPHIA VETERANS MULTI- SERVICE & EDUCATION CENTER INC
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I am a Viet Nam Veteran who has been going to the center for 10 years. I was involved in an altercation that put my job in jeopardy and I was facing criminal charges. I was at my wits end when I came to the center for help. After many sessions with Dr. Sandy Chierich and several other physiatrist I was diagnosed with PTSD. With the help of Dave Douglas and many other staff members I am now doing so much better. I owe the Center any its employees my heartfelt thanks.
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If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
serve all our Veterans. I am particularly worried about our returning Afghan and Iraq Veterans. They need and deserve help.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I am a Viet Nam Veteran, I have been going to the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service & Education Center for the past 10 years. I was in an altercation that put my job in jeopardy and I could have faced criminal charges. I was at my wits end when I went to the Center for help. After many sessions with Dr. Sandy Chierichi and several physiatrist I was diagnosed with PTSD. With the help of Dave Douglas, the Doctors and many of the staff members I am doing much better now. I am very grateful for the help I got at the Center.
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If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
assure that our veterans returning home from Afghan and Iraq get the help they deserve.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
The Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service & Education helped my family out tremendously after my grandmother passed away. My family wasn't sure what benefits my grandfather was entitled since he was a WWII Veteran and with a simple call to the Center, the wonderful staff helped put our minds at ease. The center really comforted and assisted my family during a very difficult time and I am very appreciative of all they have done for my family and all that they do each and everyday for our Veterans.
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The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
very helpful and very passionate about helping our veterans. Their work really is making our world a better place to live.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I am VietNam vet, and have been receiving services at PVMSEC for over 8 years. They helped me apply for service connected benefits and supported me when I wanted to give up trying to get through the VA beureacacy. They have assisted me in getting into the VA health system. This is a great non-profit dedicated to helping veterans.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
This agency helped me process the documents I needed to get a service connected disability from the VA. I am now 50% service connected,I now receive monthly check that I would have never been granted without the help of this agency.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
I would provide them with more space for more services.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Friendly informal atmosphere and dealing with vets who know veteran issues
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Always kind, caring and considerate and looking for the best way to help me navigate the VA system.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
It could help many more veterans get through the VA system. Because they have everything under one roof they could increase the amount of veteran counseling specialist.
Ways to make it better...
If I had known about them sooner.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Lack of funds to reach out further in the community.
One thing I'd also say is that...
This organization really cares about the veterans that they serve.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I am the wife of a Viet Nam Veteran. My husband started going to the center 10 years ago for help, he is still going. No mere words could ever express how much his life and in turn our family life has changed for the better in those years. I am and always will be grateful for the wonderful care he has received at the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service Center & Education Center.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
much needed couples therapy with Sandy Chierici.
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How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
The "Center"is and was a miracle, it just appeared to me while I was lost and out of sorts socially, monetarily, mentally and just not with it. My business had just folded and I went into a deep dep am getting the mental help I need, medicationsression. I took and finished the computer repair course, which boosted me mental state...then I was helped with a grant to pay my gas bill.The staff always had time for me and seven years later I am still relying on. Being greeted by Nigel, saying hello to Kathy, Linda , Lincoln, Julian , Rich, Nate, JIM GRASSI, JIM COLEMAN, DIANE, LARRY SHARKEY DR. DR.STEVENS and numerous other folks who only want to help and guide us. the compassion, knowledge and resources are just phenominal. I guess the only way to describe The folks in this wonderful building is: DEVOTION. wHEN ALL SEEMS BLEAK AND HOPELESS, THE CENTER IS THERE TO LISTEN, HELP AND BE A FRIEND....WOW! I AM BLESSED TO KNOW AND TALK TO THE FOLKS HERE. SINCERLY, JOHN J JOHNSON
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
computer school, help to keep my gas on, counselling. Just somebody that listened to me when times were tough...all through the organization!
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
With winnings from megamillions or powerball, I would make sure the center would not have to depend on the government or donations from corporations.
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What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
The complete turnaround in my mental state...there is hope!!! thanks to these wonderful people from top to bottom!
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
wonderful, caring, compassionate, giving and not asking for anything...they just want to be there for you!
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
I presume it would have a surety of doing more and hiring more folks if needed. I know the budget has been an issue and hopefully that would be enough to follow thru with more programs to help Vets.
Ways to make it better...
How could it get any better than people wanting to help and being there for you?
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Necessary grants from government and corporations.
One thing I'd also say is that...
I LOVE THIS PLACE AND EVERYONE IN IT!!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I first came to the center in 2001 for a computer applications course. I found the staff to be kind, understanding and extremly empathtic to the concerns of veterans. I returned in 2009 for a computer repair course and noticed that most of the staff was still here and continued their excellent services for vets.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
having more competitive skills in the job market. Taking the courses was the best thing I did since going to college.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
have more out reach in more communities
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
the caring peoplee who work in the center. They truely try to understand each vets problem and seek solutions that ease tensions.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
kind, understanding and efficient at finding fixes to vets problems.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
give better programs that will deal on a larger scope with needs of veterans.
Ways to make it better...
I had known about the center sooner
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
tightening budgets within the government
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
The men and women who work at the PVMSEC are unequivocally dedicated to helping veterans. I know from speaking with them that many of the staff are veterans themselves, and the leadership of this nonprofit has an exceptionally large amount of experience assisting veterans in multiple capacities. Since being formed, the organization has helped tens of thousands of veterans. Their day-use facility operates largely on a "no strings attached" basis; one that is particularly appealing to many disadvantaged veterans. As a veteran who is also active in helping other veterans, the PVMSEC serves as a model for me and my veterans' organization. Fortunately, we Philadelphia area veterans are not the only ones who have noticed. On several occasions, the Department of Veterans Affairs has pointed to the PVMSEC as a model for its employees as well. The numerous volunteers and staff at the PVMSEC selflessly provide services that are invaluable to the Philadelphia area in a manner that reflects an appreciation for the debt we Americans owe to those who have sacrificed while serving our country.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
visiting their day-use facility and speaking with some of the veterans taking refuge there.
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If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
do what the VA often fails to do: spend the money such that nearly all of it would be used to assist veterans (and not for administrative costs).
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
The best thing I do was to come to The Philadelphia Veterans Multiservice & Education Center INC. For computer traning to get a good job in the computers to get there I must get training so I do at pvmsec center. I find that the training at pvmsec is very very good because I can with no computer train or e-mail, after my five weeks of training I can e-mail, do Introductions to windows XP. I will tell any veteran to take the Computer Training to help in your job career.The Teacher Mr. Rick Tenalio is very good in teaching the class. I'am a volunteer now, with his class. Because I can see the good work the center do with the Veterans. I also know that the more money the center gets the more veterans they can help and there are many veterans who can use the help in todays jobs market.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
The people who work for a nonprofit compante.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
add more staff to help in group seting. because some veterans come with problems.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Computer classes, to see veterans learner to use e-mail, and other things.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
People and staff and volunteers are good people very helpful and that is the reason I volunteer at the center.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Help so many veterans with training,jobs, housing, clothing, add to staff, money is the answer, to help more Veterans!!!
Ways to make it better...
up to date system like better computers and software.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Money,Money,Money,Money!!!!
One thing I'd also say is that...
The pvmsec is a place that veterans can come to for a shower, clean there clothing talk to someone above problems and that helps very much and this center do just that for veterans.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
Amazing people (staff & volunteers).. serving amazing people (Veterans). Education, job assistance, food & shelter, medical care, mental/emotional care. Absolutely, positively the best place for Veterans in the Philadelphia area. A lot of resources, a lot of love..
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Seeing the value delivered to Veterans with their array of services for them.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
The people. Intelligent, passionate, devoted staff.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
From CEO down to front desk, and everyone in between.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Reach more Veterans, expand services, add locations, etc, etc..
Ways to make it better...
There was no smoking allowed inside the building
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Need more funds!
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
THE PHILADELPHIA VETERANS MULTI- SERVICE & EDUCATION CENTER INC is a one of kind non-profit organization. It is literally a One-Stop-Shop for Veteran's. This is exerpts from an article I wrote about this organization for Examiner.com. Philadelphia Veterans Multi-service and Educational Center may be one of the best-kept secrets in the City of Brotherly Love. Their mission since 1980 is to provide employment, training, and related educational services to all honorably discharged Veterans. And to provide social and human services counseling and referrals to less fortunate Veterans experiencing barriers in finding their way back into the mainstream of society. Pride and Service: Yesterday, this Examiner met with Lincoln Strehle, Director of Development and Information Technology. On a tour of the facility. The involved learning going on was evident floor by floor and center after center. Lincoln's pride in the very busy Center was evident as he talked about the PVMSEC's One-Stop-Shop for the tri-state honorable discharged Veterans. Where is this One -Stop-Shop? PVMSEC is tucked down on 4th street in the shadows of the Ben Franklin Bridge at 213-217 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA. The front entrance is on the side of the building. Inside is a greeter that directs everyone to their destination after they sign the log. The atmosphere is warm and friendly from the minute you walk through the door. Why is PVMSEC a One-Stop-Shop: In LIncoln's words, " Each of PVMSEC’s programs is intermeshed and coordinates a comprehensive approach developing individualized assistance to veterans in need. Veterans can receive their primary health care and behavioral health care at our onsite Community Based Outreach Clinic staffed by Philadelphia VA Personnel. Veterans can receive specialized training and help with job placement in our employment and training center. Those veterans who are homeless can receive food, clothing, a hot shower, haircuts and help with finding a place to live at our day-in-drop center. Additionally, we provide veterans resource assistance, veterans benefits counseling, GI Bill counseling, and veteran transition assistance." What technical sklls are provided? Lincoln emphasized, "We currently train veterans in Microsoft XP and Office 2003. PVMSEC employment and training programs are designed with the current job market in mind to allow veterans to acquire the necessary skills for demanding positions and to earn a livable wage. Each veteran enrolled in the employment and training program is assigned a job developer/case manager, who helps carve a course to the ultimate goal, finding employment. In addition, each veteran attends workshops on resume writing, interview techniques, financial and household budget skills, as well as life skills. Who is eligible to use PVMSEC services? The tri- state area of Southeast Pennsylvania, Northern Delaware, and Southern New Jersey. is where most of the Centers Veteran population comes from. Please note:: ALL honorably discharged veterans are eligible for service at PVMSEC regardless of the state in which they come from. Call 215-923-VETS for more information and help finding the service needed. . Local businesses can now view skilled veterans resumes posted on the PVMSEC website free of charge. Employers can also post jobs for free after registering. Employment and training services assists with job placement as well. PVMSEC HOMEHEALTHCARE is available at PVMSEC. Services available and provided by Philadelphia VA Medical Center are VA Primary Medical and Behavioral Health Care is available at PVMSEC. Present daily is a mental health team which includes a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Registered Nurse, Social Worker, and Individual PTSD counseling. On regularly scheduled days, medical assessments, with appropriate treatment, medication prescriptions, as well as primary care services are provided. If the veteran is in need of emergency service or a specialist, they are referred to the main Philadelphia VA Medical Center. PVMSEC provides daily transportation to those veterans who have scheduled appointments as well as emergency situations. The service includes helping Vets that need help with registering the first time, filling out forms, and even transport to the VA hospital for services not availble at the center. Hours of operation at PVMSEC are 0830 to 1630. When the doors open breakfast is already cooking for those homeless Veterans in need of a hot meal. After the meal safety and rest from the streets is the intent of the Perimeter area. Lunch is also served to those Vets in the center at lunchtime. Donate Today: Your donation will help those honorably discharged Veterans who are in need of a helping hand. Please help PVMSEC to continue “Serving Those Who Served”. Donate Today! For more info: Become familiar with PVMSEC Next on PVMSEC: Target Green Economy Training for Women Veterans
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Some new and exciting things are on the horizon at PVMSEC and I look forward to being part of the Center going forward.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
I have enjoyed being welcomed into the Center and seeking opportunities to serve at any level of volunteer.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Some staff are Veterans, advocating for their comrades needs. Some are non-Veteran but one would never know. They all have one mission, making the lives of Veterans better.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
So many Veteran's would be helped. Veterans'relate to and trust other Veteran's, especially those that have experienced the horrors of combat. PVMSEC is a haven by day for Veterans without a home and many others with life imbalances to begin getting back.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
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