Benefits of membership
Events Previous generations of veterans found camaraderie by joining traditional veteran service organizations such as VFW and American Legion. However, membership rates in these organizations has been on a steady decline during the last 20 years. Veterans of the Post-9/11 era are looking for new adventures where they have the opportunity to explore the city and meet new people rather than visit a centralized location.
The events held by VMFA provide veterans with the opportunity to explore everything Philadelphia has to offer, whether they've just left the service or have been out for decades. Our first event, axe throwing at Kick Axe Philadelphia on NYE, offered veterans the chance to make new friends and have casual drinks rather than sitting at home alone to ring in 2022. |
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Social Support The VMFA is an organization that was created with two important goals at its center; to provide new social support networks to veterans who may not have one post-service, and to help veterans avoid the trap of social isolation. Social isolation and feelings of alienation is one of the leading factors behind feelings of suicidal ideation, particularly among those in the 18 - 35 age bracket.
The events hosted by VMFA give our members the chance to meet potential friends with similar experiences they might not have otherwise. Friendships based on shared experiences will help those who may be feeling alienated from the relationships they return to after their military service has ended. |
Post service guidanceAnybody who has dealt with the Department of Veterans Affairs can tell you that navigating through the system can be more difficult than a three-week field op in the desert. Every member of the VMFA leadership has dealt extensively with VA to seek medical care, obtain benefits, and fight for earned disability status. We have also attended post-service education in the Philadelphia area and have learned tons of tips and tricks that can be invaluable in helping young veterans re-acclimate to civilian life.
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Membership qualifications
What to expect when applying for membership:
We will ask for a copy of your DD-214 to ascertain your military experience
Discharge status above Dishonorable
Copy of first page of DD-214
We will ask for a copy of your DD-214 to ascertain your military experience
Discharge status above Dishonorable
Copy of first page of DD-214
Having thoughts of harming yourself? Please, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to speak with someone now. You are loved and your life matters.