RI Veterans: Did you know? 13.07.23 (federal jobs, events, resources, discounts) – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, veterans writer

Special Hiring For Disabled Veterans by federal agencies 

Q: I am told a veteran can be hired by a federal agency even if the position is not advertised or? – Scott, Tiverton

A: What I think you might be referring to is a veteran who is receiving Veterans Administration disability and has a Schedule A Letter.

The majority of federal jobs are advertised on USAJOBS, https://www.usajobs.gov. Federal agencies give preference and points to veterans and disabled veterans.

However, the Schedule A letter gives the agency the authority to select a veteran non-competitively. Simply put, the veteran could be hired without a job being advertised, and if a job has been advertised and a veteran applies, the agency can select him or her without considering other applicants. 

Having a Schedule A Letter will separate a veteran from other applicants who are veterans, disabled veterans, and civilians applying for the position.

Moreover, I know veterans with a Schedule A Letter who contact a federal agency that does not even have a position open or advertised and can be interviewed from his or her resume, with Schedule A Letter, and be selected for a position. 

VETTIP – Having a Schedule A letter is in addition to having veteran preference.  Simply put, a veteran who applied for a position with his or her Schedule A letter can be selected for the job without the agency having to review and interview other applicants. 

How does a veteran know if his or her disability qualifies for a Schedule A Letter?

Below is a list of the most common disabilities a veteran has and can be eligible for a Schedule A letter:

If a veteran’s disability is not on the list, contact your provider who can still sign the letter if they feel your disabilities qualify for a  Schedule A Letter. 

VETTIP – Even if the veteran’s disability is not service connected the disability can be considered to be eligible for a Schedule A Letter.

How does a veteran obtain a Schedule A Letter?

The easiest way is to contact your VA provider and ask him or her to give you a Schedule A letter for your disabilities. 

The letter must come from one of the following officials: A licensed medical professional (such as, but not limited to, primary care physicians, family physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists, audiologists, and other specialists). A licensed rehabilitation professional.

The veteran should contact his or her VA provider (although a private doctor or vocational rehabilitation specialist could also provide the letter).

A sample letter is below:

Schedule A allows individuals to apply for a Federal appointment through a noncompetitive hiring process. This means that if you meet the eligibility status of the appointment and the minimum qualifications for a position, you may be hired for the position without competing with the general public.

How do I find a job with the Federal Government?

The Federal government’s official website for job information is USAJOBS. Through this website, you can search for openings in a particular field, city, or agency, or all three. You also can sign-up for e-mail alerts about job openings by type of job, agency, and/or geographic area. If you cannot access the Internet or need additional assistance, you can call 202-606-2525 or 978-461-8404 (TTY).

There are some Federal agencies that have their own hiring system and evaluation criteria. These agencies are called excepted service agencies. Excepted service positions, like Schedule A appointments, are not required to be posted on the USAJOBS website. As a result, it is important to look at individual agency websites for job announcements. And of course, when it comes to finding a job, networking is essential – talking with friends, family members, teachers, mentors, and acquaintances about your employment goals, interests, and desires.

How to apply for a Federal government position?

Those interested in applying for a federal position using Schedule A must follow the previous steps listed under Learning About Schedule A, and then contact the Hiring Manager, Human Resource (HR) professional, Disability Program Manager (DPM), and/or Selective Placement Coordinator (SPC) within the selected agency. The appropriate person or office can be found by either using the contact information included in the vacancy announcement itself (all announcements include a phone number and/or e-mail address to be used for questions), or by searching a directory of SPCs maintained by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The directory can be found here, but please note that this list is not always up to date.

Applications should be submitted through both the regular job-posting announcement on the USAJOBS website and the individual agency website to ensure that the application is not overlooked.

Having a Schedule A the authority for people with certain disabilities, 5 CFR 213.3102(u), is an excepted service authority that agencies can use to appoint individuals, including veterans who have a psychiatric, intellectual, or severe physical disability. An agency’s vacancy announcement will generally inform you whether the agency intends to consider candidates under this authority.

For example, a veteran is interested in working for a federal agency like the IRS. 

To be eligible, you must:

Show proof of your disability. Documentation may be from any licensed medical professional (e.g., a physician or other medical professional certified by a State, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. Territory to practice medicine), a licensed vocational rehabilitation specialist (i.e., State or private), or any Federal or State agency, or agency of the District of Columbia or a U.S. territory that issues or provides disability benefits.

The above documentation may be combined in one letter or you can provide it in separate letters.

Agencies can use this authority, at their discretion, to appoint you at any grade level and for any job (time-limited or permanent) for which you qualify. Appointments filled under 5 CFR 213.3102(u) are considered to be exempt from the normal veterans’ preference procedures of 5 CFR part 302. After 2 years of satisfactory service, the agency may convert you, without competition, to the competitive service.

There is no limit to the number of times you can apply under this authority.

OPM encourages job-seeking veterans to seek consideration under all the hiring authorities for which they are eligible, in addition to claiming their preference under the competitive examination process (if applicable).

If a veteran needs assistance obtaining a Schedule A Letter, FREE assistance can be provided to the veteran by the Veteran Service Officer of the Italian American War Veterans of US, (401) 677-9838 , EMAIL [email protected]

In conclusion, Schedule A Letter is a benefit most disabled veterans do not know about. However, Having a Schedule A Letter could open the door for a disabled veteran in a career with a federal agency.

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Events

July 2023

July 15, 2023 , Free Quahogging Event for Rhode Island Veterans, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm , North Kingstown Town Beach offers an opportunity for Veterans to engage in a unique outdoor activity and connect with fellow servicemen and women in a relaxed and supportive environment. Veterans, both experienced and new to quahogging, will have the chance to experience the thrill of clamming while forging new friendships and strengthening existing ones.

The host, Providence Vet Center invite members of the media to attend the Quahogging Event for Rhode Island Veterans on July 15th, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the picturesque North Kingstown Town Beach. This event offers a compelling visual opportunity and heartwarming stories of Veterans coming together in celebration and fellowship. For more information: Justyn Charon Veteran Outreach Program Specialist Phone: (401) 767-6969 Email: [email protected]

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July 18, 2023 Monday, FREE Luncheon 11:30-1:00 for Veterans and one guest at Perella’s Ristorante. 330 Metacom Ave, Warren, RI. This month’s meal will be TBA. The event is a partnership of the Italian American War Veterans of US, inc. and the Building Bridges program. 

Last month over 60 veterans attended the luncheon!

The Building Bridges program provides a free breakfast or lunch at 13 sites that include Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. These sites are run by community volunteers at community sites, including halls run by fraternal organizations, veterans’ organizations, and local restaurants. A team of veterans and volunteers do all the cooking and serving. Join us!

Do you know a restaurant, post, lodge, hall, etc.. willing to host a luncheon on one of the Mondays in November, December, and January ITAM organization has RI Licensed Food Service Manager and full insurance.

If you have a location one of the luncheons can be held at, contact ITAM program manager John, (401) 677-9838.

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August 2023

August 4, 2023, Annual RING Reunion, Quonset Officer Club, 11:00am, 200 LT James Brown Rd. North Kingstown, RI

 Hot buffet, cost per person $37.00.  – Cut-Off date July 30 i2023.  

Make checks payable to Bob Antonelli – Mail to:  9 Hurlburt Ave, Johnston, RI 02919

POC:  Bob Antonelli; [email protected]/401-837-6028/401-996-3764

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August 7 2023, Monday, Federal Hill Veteran Coffee House (always meet the FIRST Monday of the month), 9-11 am, at Roma Ristorante, 310 Atwells Ave, Providence (free parking across the street). Veterans and their guests are invited. Refreshments are available, which include Italian toast, pastries, and calzones. Any questions call Italian American War Veterans of US, (401) 677-9838, email, [email protected]

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September 2023

Sept 8-10, 2023  Rocky Point State Park, Warwick – SAVE THE DATE! – American Veteran Traveling Tribute & Traveling Wall, remembering 209 Rhode Islanders who lost their lives in Vietnam War. Donations and sponsorship will support Operation Stand Down Rhode Island. Memorial opens 8am Friday – 5 pm Sunday. Saturday September 9 2:09-2:30 and Sunday 2:09-2:30 pm reading of 209 Rhode Island names, For more information visit OSDRI’s Event Page, www.OSDRI.org

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September 14-15 Veterans Event, Johnston RI, Center, located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston RI. – Operation Stand Down Rhode Island (OSDRI) is set to kick off its 32nd annual Veteran Assistance Event on September 14th at 8 a.m. This Veteran Assistance Event will be held at OSDRI’s Veteran Service Center located at 1010 Hartford Avenue in Johnston. Services will be available from 8:00 – 4:30 on Thursday 9/14, and 8:00 – 3:30 on Friday 9/15. 

“Since its inception in 1993, the annual event has provided thousands of veterans with access to important services including health, dental, and substance abuse care, as well as employment, legal, and housing services. After holding a scaled back event during the pandemic in 2020, OSDRI expects a full roster of service providers this September.” said Erik Wallin, Esq. Executive Director of Operation Stand Down RI.

Veterans may access the location via RIPTA Bus Route 28 which operates out of Kennedy Plaza and stops at the corner of Hartford and Bordon Avenue. Those arriving via their own vehicle must park and take a shuttle from behind the paved parking area ACROSS from Tri-County Community Action Agency: 1133 Hartford Avenue, Johnston.

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Travel/Entertainment for Veterans

Free Golf, Goddard Park Golf Course Fee Exemption for Totally Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island resident Veterans who have a 100% permanent and total, service-connected disability rating from the VA are exempt from paying any fees to play Golf at the Goddard Park Golf Course. For more information call the Clubhouse at Goddard Memorial State Park from April 1st through the 3rd Saturday in November at 401-884-9834 or year-round at Division Headquarters at 401-667-6200.

Free Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Licenses for 100% Disabled Veterans: A Veteran who has a 100% disability rating from the VA is eligible for free Rhode Island hunting and fishing licenses.

No cost licenses are available if you are:

·       over 65 AND a Rhode Island resident

·       a veteran with 100% disability status from the Department of Veterans Affairs

·       a person with 100% total disability status from the Social Security Administration

To apply in person at DEM, please bring a photo ID and an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. (directions)

To apply by mail, please complete an application and mail the application and a copy of your photo ID and the ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Please allow two weeks for processing.

The address to obtain your license in person or by mail is:
DEM Licensing Office
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-3576

To purchase online, you will be required to certify that you have an ORIGINAL DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). You will also be required to enter the date the decision expires. The Department will audit compliance with the certification and may, at any time, request a copy of the current DOCUMENT OF THE FINAL DECISION(S). Failure to submit the documentation by the date requested may result in the suspension of your fishing and hunting license. Also, Rhode Island General Law 11-18-1 prohibits giving false documents to an agent, employee, or public official. The penalty is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to one year.

Rhode Island Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Service Members and Veterans: Rhode Island offers several hunting and fishing benefits to Service members and Veterans. A short description of each is listed below. Applicants are required to show documentation proving eligibility when they apply:

· Active-Duty Service members – Military ID

· Veterans – DD214

· Disabled Veterans – VA Disability Certification Letter ( Contact VA office)

Applicants can apply online at Rhode Island Outdoors, in person at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Office of Boating Registration and Licenses in Providence (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.), at an Authorized In-Person Sales Agent, or they can mail applications to:

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Room 360
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-222-3576

Learn more about FREE Rhode Island Hunting , Fishing, State Parks, and Golf  Benefits for Service Members and Veterans

https://dem.ri.gov/about-us/dem-offices/boating-registration-licenses/rhode-island-outdoors#:~:text=If%20you%20qualify%20for%20a,that%20issued%20the%20disability%20decision.

Free Rhode Island State Park Passes for 100% Disabled Veterans: Rhode Island offers the State Park Disability Pass for use at any state-owned recreational facility to disabled Veterans who have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA.

The State Park Disability Pass authorizes free admission and parking but does not exempt the following:

· Licensing fees

· Camping fees

· Picnic table fees

· Specialized facility use fees

· Use of equestrian areas

· Performing art centers

· Game fields fees

· Mule shed fees

If the disabled Veteran cannot drive, the vehicle transporting the Veteran will not be charged.

Veterans must apply in person at the Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters and are required to show official documentation (dated within the past year) from the VA that states they have a 100% service-connected disability.

Rhode Island State Parks and Recreation Headquarters
1100 Tower Hill Road
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Phone: 401-667-6200
Email: [email protected]

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RESOURCES  & ongoing groups 

Below are all the groups the Providence Vet Center is currently offering.  As this list changes, I will provide updates. Please send me any questions that you may have, thank you for your time! 

***All Vet Center Groups require that the Veteran be enrolled with the Vet Center prior to attending. To check eligibility or for questions, please contact the Vet Center at (401) 739-0167 or reach out to our Veteran Outreach Program Specialist (VOPS) via email at [email protected]*** 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Group (PTSD) – 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. (Group is only active September through May) 

Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and Vietnam Veterans PTSD Group – 2nd and 4th  Wednesday of the month from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. 

Vietnam Veteran PTSD Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 10:30 – 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Art Expression Group – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 12:00 p.m. 

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF)/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)/Operation New Dawn (OND) Group – Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. 

Stress Management – Every Thursday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Low Impact Walking  Group – Every Tuesday from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Guitar 4 Veterans – Every Wednesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m. 

Monday Mindfulness Group – Every Monday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Yoga Group – Every Friday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. 

Moral Injury Group – Every Friday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Modern Warrior Support Group – 1st and 3rd Monday of the month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm. 

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Discounts for Veterans 

Services 

No Problem Plumbing and Heating LLC:  15% military discount, ask for Ron Gaynor, (401) 568-6666. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility with a VA Card, VA ID Card, or RI State license with veteran identification. 

Restaurants 

Applebee’s – Military Discount. With more than 2,000 locations, Applebee’s is a family grill restaurant. Applebee’s gives 10% off for active duty and veteran. Last verified 07/31/2022. 

Denny’s – Hartford Ave, Johnston offers 10% discount for veterans and active duty. Denny’s is a table service diner-style restaurant chain. Last verified 07/31/2022. 

Outback Steakhouse – 10% Discount to active and veterans. Last verified 07/28/2021 

99 Restaurant & Pub – The 99 Restaurant & Pub offers a 10% military discount to members of Veterans Advantage. Available at select locations only. Bring valid military ID 

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Retailers 

Advance Auto Parts – 10% for Active Duty, Veterans, and families. Last verified 07/28/2021 

Bass Pro Shops – Offers a 5% discount to active-duty military, reservists, and National Guard. Sign up and verify your status online or bring your military ID when you shop at your nearest Bass Pro store (source). 

BJs Wholesale – Reduced membership fee. BJ’s offers all military personnel over 25% off their Membership. Last verified 07/28/2021 

Lowes – Enroll in the Lowe’s Military Discount Program to activate your 10% discount – “Our way of saying Thank You” to our active duty, retired and military veterans and their spouses with a 10% discount on eligible items. Verification of your military status is fast and easy through our partner,  ID.me. 

ID.me is our trusted technology partner in helping to keep your personal information safe. 

GameStop – is offering a 10% in-store military discount on all pre-owned products, collectibles, and select new products. Available to current and former military members who bring any valid proof of service or when they verify through ID.me 

Home Depot – Offers a 10% off military discount on regularly priced merchandise for in-store purchases for active duty, retired military, and reservists at participating locations. Customers are required to show a valid government-issued military ID card to redeem this offer. 

Kohls – 15% discount offers for active military, veterans, retirees, and their immediate family members a 15% discount on purchases made on Mondays, in store only. In order to receive the military discount, eligible customers must present proper identification along with any tender type. 

Jiffy Lube – HONORING VETERANS ALL DAY EVERY DAY! – We didn’t want to wait for Veteran’s Day to express our appreciation and gratitude for your service. That’s why every Team Car Care owned and operated Jiffy Lube® service center is offering our BEST discount of 10% OFF as a “Thank You” to the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service to our country. *Disclaimer*- I.D. required. No coupon is required. Excludes batteries and brakes, alignment, and diagnostic services. Available only at 3 select locations listed below: 

Tioque Ave, Coventry RI – Bald Hill Road, Warwick RI – Park Ave, Cranston RI 

Michaels – offers a 15% off Military discount on the entire in-store purchase including sale items for active duty, retired Military, guard, reservists, veterans, and family members. How to get – 

1.    Create an Account. Log in or create a Michaels Rewards account. 

2.    Get Verified. Provide your military information to get verified instantly. 

3.    Go Shopping! To use your discount online and in store, just sign into your account or provide your Michaels Rewards phone number at checkout. 

O’Reilly Auto Parts – 10% discount on in store items for Active Duty, Veterans and families. Last verified 3/4/21. 

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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: [email protected]:  the business’s name, location, and military and veteran discount offered. 

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, [email protected], ITAM Office 1-(401)677-9VET(9838) 

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To read all columns in this series go to: https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/  

John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.

Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.

Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.

He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.