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.