Governor Kay Ivey recently announced the appointment of 11 notable figures to the board of directors for the Alabama Veterans Resource Center (AVRC).
This center offers various services, including vocational training, assistance with benefits, support for family and legal matters, and opportunities for veterans to connect with each other.
“During this past legislative session, enhancing support for our veterans and establishing the Veterans Resource Center has been crucial,” Governor Ivey explained.
She emphasized the need for veterans to have reliable support as they transition to civilian life. “With this committee now in place, we’re taking a significant step to ensure Alabama remains the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation.”
The AVRC board is comprised of:
- Greg Reed – Chairman, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Labor
- Jeff Newton – Vice Chairman, Director of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs
- Kimberly Boswell – Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health
- Bobby Singleton – Senator for District 24 and Minority Leader
- Anthony Daniels – Representative and Minority Leader for House District 53
- Stasia Robinson – Director of the Alabama Minority Office
- Ronald Brown – Executive Vice President and CFO of Jim Wilson & Associates
- Carter Wells – Government relations advisor for Maynard Nexen
- George Talbott – Senior VP of Foreign Affairs at Volkert
- Andrew Jones – Senator and Chair of the Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Safety Commission
- Tracy Dowty – President and CEO of Huntsville Hospital
Greg Reed, from the Alabama Department of Labor, confirmed that there is considerable interest in the AVRC among former military personnel in Alabama.
“Alabama veterans deserve more than just recognition. They need resources to navigate the systems that can aid them,” Reed stated.
“We aim to support the veteran community by providing streamlined access to services and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Our goal is to strengthen partnerships, improve trust, and enhance long-term outcomes for families who have made sacrifices for our nation.”
Jeff Newton, the Alabama Director of Veterans Affairs, emphasized the center’s vital mission and its potential impact across the state.
“The Alabama Veterans Resource Center has the potential to change lives, and that’s just the start,” Newton remarked, highlighting that the facility offers crucial resources to assist veterans in thriving post-service.
He added, “It’s essential to get this transition right. This center represents a chance for veterans to build their futures and make a positive impact in Alabama.”
According to the governor’s office, board meetings will commence in the coming weeks to start their work.
