Onward Ops State Coordinator Pilot - Florida

The Onward Ops program aims to empower transitioning service members with the support and information they need to succeed as veterans. Onward Ops believes that veterans are resourceful, resilient, and valued members of their communities and acknowledges that the transition out of uniformed service is a uniquely difficult challenge.

Hyper-Personalized, Location-Aware Service Delivery

The Pilot initiates with Onward Ops upstream enrollment 6-12 months before separation. The process of establishing a connection between transitioning service members with a destination community network will be complimented in the Florida State Coordinator Pilot by an OnComms provided device with connectivity services. The following personalized, location-based services with be tested:

• Healthcare: Integration with local VA facilities and private healthcare providers specializing in veteran care and telehealth services. Key aspects include: VHA Enrollment, short term risk assessment and assistance (homelessness and food insecurity), and participation in the Military Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program. This program allows service members to file a VA disability claim between 180 and 90 days before their separation date. The State Coordinator will facilitate claims processing before the service member leaves active duty, potentially leading to a faster decision and benefit payments.

• Benefit Navigation: Location-specific information on state and federal benefits, personalized guidance on eligibility and application processes, and direct connections to benefit counselors. Special emphasis will be made on a user-driven, case-by-case basis to a) begin the GI Bill application process 90-180 days before their separation date with specific emphasis on the actions needed to expedite BHA eligibility, and b) obtain a VA Home Loan Certificate of Eligibility (COE), home loan pre-qualification with a vetted-partner lender, and an introduction to a local, vetted-partner real estate agent. 

• Employment & Training Resources: Onward Ops Career Engine and State Coordinator sourcing, geographically relevant job postings, links to local training programs, mentorship opportunities, and resources for translating military skills to civilian careers will be promoted. 

• Retail and Service Discounts: OnComms Discount Finder, the State Coordinator Welcome Basket, and the Veteran Commendation Card program will be used to establish partnerships with local and national businesses offering military and veteran discounts based on the user's current location and self-expressed needs.

• Community Engagement: Listings of local veteran events, support groups, volunteer opportunities, and community initiatives based on the user's location and interests. 

Operation Warrior Hope, the Florida Veterans Coalition and the SGT Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt Foundation provide the core organizational and member support for the State Coordinator Pilot. Founding community partners include the City of Clearwater, Grow Financial and Portobello Square. The State Pilot will initiate in Clearwater.

public-facing prototype