Our Speaker, Maureen Adams, Director of Berrien County Veterans Services, was named “Michigan Veteran Service Provider” of the year in 2025. She won the award for making a difference by connecting veterans with healthcare, education, and other services.
Maureen described the VA as an organization with 3 components: the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and the National Cemetery Administration (NCA). Maureen’s job as a “Veteran Service Officer (VSO)” helps veterans know all their federal, state, and local benefits and work with the VA.
Maureen knows that many veterans have been frustrated with their experience working with the VA. But in the last 10 years, things have changed, and she encourages veterans and their families to come and talk with them so they can get help if needed. Only 18% of eligible veterans in Michigan take advantage of VA benefits.
Posted: February 5, 2026 by kiwanisjay
Veterans Services
Our Speaker, Maureen Adams, Director of Berrien County Veterans Services, was named “Michigan Veteran Service Provider” of the year in 2025. She won the award for making a difference by connecting veterans with healthcare, education, and other services.
Maureen described the VA as an organization with 3 components: the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and the National Cemetery Administration (NCA). Maureen’s job as a “Veteran Service Officer (VSO)” helps veterans know all their federal, state, and local benefits and work with the VA.
Maureen knows that many veterans have been frustrated with their experience working with the VA. But in the last 10 years, things have changed, and she encourages veterans and their families to come and talk with them so they can get help if needed. Only 18% of eligible veterans in Michigan take advantage of VA benefits.
Category: Blog Post
Facebook
Kiwanis Club of St. Joseph Benton Harbor
What is Kiwanis? We are an eclectic mix of ages, genders, occupations, backgrounds, and interests. We are all passionate about making our community and the world a better place for children so they can thrive.
This week we heard from club member and Assistant Superintendent of SJ Schools Amy Dirlam. She shared how professional development of teachers is a critical part of SJ Schools strategic plan.
On this Valentine’s Day, we want to give heartfelt thanks 💗 to Amy and all of the area administrators, teachers and support staff who put in thousands of hours of work and study, year-round, to help our kids get an outstanding education. 📚🎭🔬💻🎼🧮 ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Our club was happy to hear from Aravind Ale, Co-owner and Chef for @intaliarestaurant opening in March! He made our mouths water describing the flavorful fusion foods from India and Italy that he will prepare. Aravind also shared his big heart for helping children and the community. Be sure to check out Intalia on Glenlord Rd in Stevensville! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
It’s holiday season and Kiwanians and SJ Key Clubbers are busy elves! Packing lunches for the Soup Kitchen to provide nourishment and show how much we care for those in our community. #kiwaniscares ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook