ASHLAND — Ed Kieper has personal experience navigating a disability claim through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
Kieper, a U.S. Navy veteran, said he had prior knowledge of how to complete the process, but the same can’t be said for every vet. He decided to help close that gap.
“There’s a whole lot of benefits veterans just don’t know about,” he said Wednesday.
In an effort to continue giving back to fellow vets, Kieper has organized a free educational event to assist veterans who want to better understand the VA’s disability process.
It will take place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at The Ashland Theatre, 212 Center St. The program will provide practical information about beginning a VA disability claim, determining possible eligibility and requesting an increase in an existing disability rating.
Veterans from Ashland County and neighboring counties, such as Richland and Crawford counties, are welcome to attend.
Kieper said representatives from the Ashland County Veterans Service Office and several community organizations are expected to participate, including Catholic Charities, KADA, Appleseed Community Mental Health Center, Silent Watch and the Ashland County Veterans Honor Bus.
A representative from the VA facility on Trimble Road in Mansfield may also attend to discuss healthcare and other services available to area veterans, Kieper said.
Participating representatives will answer questions about disability eligibility, filing claims and navigating the VA process. Microphones will be available so veterans can direct questions to members of the panel.
Opportunities to arrange follow-up appointments with the VA will also be available to vets after the program.
Organizers encourage veterans not to assume they are ineligible because they did not serve in combat or spent only a limited amount of time in the military. Veterans should allow the VA to review their individual circumstances and make an eligibility determination.
“Let the military tell you no,” Kieper said.
The event is open to veterans with a DD Form 214, including veterans who are not currently receiving disability benefits and those interested in seeking an increased rating.
Admission is free and pizza will be provided.
