2015 ANNUAL REPORT

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MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT JULY 1, 2014 THRU JUNE 30, 2015 2016 OBJECTIVES

Dedicated to serving Minnesota Veterans and their families TABLE OF CONTENTS ANNUAL REPORT 2015 OBJECTIVES 2016 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS serves to fulfill the needs of Minnesota Veterans and their families by providing innovative programs and services to maximize the quality of life for those who served our country.

MDVA works to meet Veterans needs through two Divisions: Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Overview 1

Letter from the Commissioner 2 HEALTH PROGRAMS The Heroes We Serve 3 CARE & SERVICES Staff Who Serve 4 The MDVA Health Care Division MDVA’s Programs & Services Division Partnerships 5 operates five Veterans Homes assists eligible Minnesota Veterans, that provide high-quality along with their dependents and Health Care Services Overview 6 medical and behavioral health survivors, in attaining the federal Fergus Falls Veterans Home 8 care to Veterans from all eras, and state benefits they have Hastings Veterans Home 9 and their spouses. earned through their service. Luverne Veterans Home 10 Silver Bay Veterans Home 11 Minneapolis Veterans Home & Adult Day Center 12

Programs & Services Overview 14

Education & Employment 16 Claims & Field Operations 18 Memorials & Cemeteries 19 Benefits 20 Grants 22 Homeless Veteran Prevention & Assistance 23

Communications: Activities & Events 24

2015 Fiscal Year Financial Summary 26

Legislative Accomplishments 29

Closing 30

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 1 A Conversation with the MDVA Commissioner Larry Shellito

THE HEROES WE SERVE MINNESOTA VETERANS BY COUNTY I am pleased to present the fiscal year 2015 Annual Report for the Minnesota Department Over 369,000 Veterans called Minnesota home in 2015, ranking Minnesota as the 24th state in Veteran population. JULY 1, 2014 TO JUNE 30, 2015 Sixty-eight percent of Minnesota’s current Veteran population is over the age of 55, with the majority having served of Veterans Affairs (MDVA). I hope this document will be as eye-opening to you Aitkin 1,736 Martin 1,746 during the Vietnam era. With this aging population comes the accompanying issues of age that include an increase Anoka 23,368 McLeod 2,902 as it is to me. I continue to be impressed by this team with whom I serve; their dedication in health care – a need MDVA helps to provide. Becker 2,985 Meeker 1,934 and focus on serving Minnesota Veterans and their families is truly humbling. Beltrami 3,252 Mille Lacs 2,443 Females make up 7% of Minnesota’s heroes, but that number is projected to increase to 9.5% in less than ten years, Benton 3,362 Morrison 2,839 and to 12% by year 2035. The result of this trend is MDVA’s expanded focus on the needs specific to Women Veterans. Big Stone 476 Mower 2,840 Blue Earth 4,603 Murray 690 Almost 14% of Minnesota’s Veterans own businesses, while hundreds struggle with homelessness. These are just two Brown 1,844 Nicollet 2,144 If I had to use one word to describe this past year and our future outlook, of the challenges that Veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, and they are just two of the many services Carlton 3,356 Nobles 1,508 it would be EMPOWERMENT. Reaching the 369,149 Veterans in Minnesota is no small task. and programs MDVA can offer Veterans and their families, in an effort to give back to our heroes. Carver 4,964 Norman 588 Cass 3,355 Olmsted 10,868 For good reason, our focus has been investing in our partners and empowering them Chippewa 849 Otter Tail 5,375 Chisago 4,348 Pennington 1,022 to help us serve our heroes. VETERAN POPULATION MN VETERAN BY RACE MN VETERAN RESIDENCE Clay 4,304 Pine 2,966 Clearwater 802 Pipestone 654

WHITE Top 5 Counties Cook 512 Polk 2,531 WHITE 92%92% Cottonwood 821 Pope 847 That service can take many forms, and you will see an impressive sampling 3369,1469,1499 1. Hennepin 62,054 2015 MN VETERANS AFRICAN Crow Wing 5,797 Ramsey 28,093 2015 MN VETERANS AFRICAN 3% 2. Ramsey 28,093 AMERICANAMERICAN 3% 5 Dakota 27,550 Red Lake 360 in the following pages. Our partners range from state and federal counterparts, Hennepin HENNEPIN 127Dodge 1,221 Redwood 1,161 3. Dakota 27,550 Ramsey RAMSEY HISPANICHISPANIC 59 2% DouglasCentral 3,260 CENTRALRenville 1,178 to community groups, foundations, non-profits and the business sector. LATINLATINOO 2% 4. Anoka 23,368 29 28 FarMetroibault 1,292 SUBURBANRice METRO 4,548 26 St. Louis ST. LOUIS From the good work being conducted statewide by Veteran Service Organizations 7% 93% ASIAN 5. St. Louis 18,789 Fillmore 1,560 Rock 693 7% 93% ASIAN 1% 10 Northwest NORTHWEST 1% Southeast SOUTHEAST 8 Freeborn 2,628 Roseau 1,039 and County Veteran Service Officers, to outreach among Women Veterans, to those 4 West Central WEST CENTRAL 21,680,534 AMERICAN 21 5 Goodhue 3,994 Scott 7,360 21,680,534 AMERICAN Northeast NORTHEAST U.S. VETERANS INDIAN 1% 3 Grant 479 Sherburne 6,402 U.S. VETERANS INDIAN 1% 3 2 Southwest SOUTHWEST helping us house every single homeless Veteran in the state, EMPOWERMENT is the key. Hennepin 62,054 Sibley 1,185 OOTHETHERR 1%1% Houston 1,573 St. Louis 18,789 Hubbard 2,316 Stearns 10,306 Taking care of Veterans and families is not just a nice thing to do, it is the right thing to do. Isanti 3,209 Steele 2,818 MN VETERAN AGE MN ERA SERVED Itasca 4,687 Stevens 524 We have been fortunate to receive tremendous support from our state and Jackson 819 Swift 945 % Kanabec 1,472 Todd 2,113 2015 2014 4 % % federal leaders in this mission, and I am proud of the infrastructure we have built, 85+ 12 8 Kandiyohi 2,766 Traverse 353 PRE 9/11 Kittson 406 WWII % Wabasha 1,821 the programs we have rolled out and the high quality of care we provide. 75-84 KOREA Koochiching 1,279 GULF 36 Wadena 1,206 65-74 Lac Qui Parle 571 Waseca 1,715 Minnesota continues to lead the way, as you will see in the pages that follow. 55-64 VIETNAM Lake 1,209 % Washington 16,896 13 Lake of Woods 482 However, I will be the first to tell you that we, even MDVA, cannot do it alone. 45-54 POST 9/11 Watonwan 922 35-44 LeSueur 2,017 Lincoln 479 Wilkin 470 I look forward to continuing and multiplying our work with the help of you, 25-34 % Lyon 1,756 Winona 3,572 our partners and supporters. Together we can do great things. 17-24 27 PEACETIME Mahnomen 409 Wright 9,059 100,000175,000 50,000 25,000 25,000 50,000 75,000 00,000 Marshall 715 Yellow Medicine 790

Taking care of Veterans and families is not just a nice thing to do, it is the right thing to do. 1898 Spanish-American 2010-2011 1950-1953 2003-2010 Operation New Dawn 1775-1783 1861-1865 Korean War Operation Iraqi Freedom Revolutionary War Civil War 2014-Present 1846-1848 1941-1946 War on Islamic State World War II Mexican War 1990-1991 2001-2013 1961-1975 Persian Gulf War Operation Enduring Freedom 1812-1815 1917-1918 Vietnam War War of 1812 World War I

1700s 1800s 1900-1959 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020

2 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 3 “I continue to be impressed by this team with whom I serve; “Our focus has been investing in our partners their dedication and focus on serving Minnesota Veterans and their families is truly humbling...” and empowering them to help us serve our heroes...” LARRY SHELLITO, MDVA COMMISSIONER LARRY SHELLITO, MDVA COMMISSIONER

STAFF WHO SERVE PARTNERSHIPS THAT WORK

In 1943, under Minnesota Statutes, Chapters 196, 197, 198; It is through a collaboration with state and federal departments, organizations, businesses and Minnesota Rules, Chapter 9050, Chapter 9055, MDVA was Larry Shellito community resources that MDVA is able to provide Minnesota Veterans with the most complete Commissioner 410NURSING ADMINISTRATION17 support, care and advocacy network possible. Some of MDVA’s key partnerships include the following: established. Sixty-four years later, the Minnesota Veterans ASSISTANTS Homes merged with MDVA, affording Veterans coordinated Programs & Services Health Care Deputy Commissioner Deputy Commissioner FEDERAL STATE access to more comprehensive services. 15 MD’S & PHARMACISTS 177DIETARY Minnesota Commanders’ Senior Director MVH MINNEAPOLIS Senior Director Task Force (CTF) Since January of 2011, MDVA has been under the watch PROGRAMS & SERVICES COMMUNICATIONS Home Administrator VETERANS HEALTH CARE Director Comprised of the nine Dept. Employment of Larry Shellito, the 17th Commissioner of the Minnesota congressionally chartered & Economic Minnesota Veterans Veterans Service Development (DEED) 4 Veterans (V4V) Department of Veterans Affairs. Heading up a staff Director of MVH MINNEAPOLIS CENTRAL PHARMACY CLERICAL99 & Organizations (VSO). U.S. Department of Office of the FINANCIAL SERVICES Assistant Administrator Serves All Homes VETERANS SERVICES TECHNICAL Veterans Affairs Governor Working together to raise of 1,345, Commissioner Shellito is assisted by Acting Director awareness on Services include claims, Provides support United Veterans Veteran-related issues, Deputy Commissioners Robin Gaustad, overseeing benefits, medical through initiative and Legislative Council the organizations include: Director of center, ambulatory policy development Minnesota State (UVLC) MDVA’s Health Care, and Brad Lindsay, managing MVH HASTINGS QUALITY DIRECTOR 67CLAIMS VETERANS PROGRAMS HUMAN RESOURCES College and University Home Administrator Serves All Agency & BENEFITS care to Veteran Home the Programs & Services Division. Director Residents, as well as State and Federal (MnSCU) System 141MAINTENANCE Elected Officials 145 construction grant REGISTERED NURSES & & HOUSEKEEPING programs for facilities Works with MDVA VETERANS PREFERENCE MVH SILVER BAY LEGAL ANALYST RN SUPERVISORS to raise awareness on Ninety-three percent of MDVA’s staff provide specialty skills Officer LEGISLATIVE Home Administrator Serves All Agency Director Veteran-related issues MN Office of Higher Beyond the Yellow to treat and care for the health needs of our Veterans. 80 Education Ribbon Network THERAPISTS & American Legion ASSISTANTS Administered through one of five state Veteran Homes, Director of FACILITIES PROGRAM EDUCATION MVH LUVERNE MANAGER Veterans Integrated the staff includes doctors, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, & EMPLOYMENT AA/EEO Officer Home Administrator Serves All Homes Service Network dietitians and other specialized services. (VISN) University of Minnesota Largest integrated health STATE APPROVING Ex-Prisoners of War Military Action Group MVH FERGUS FALLS SAFETY DIRECTOR care system in the US. (MAG) AGENCY Serves All Agency ACCOUNTING33 Minnesota Seven percent of MDVA’s staff provide the technical and Home Administrator Lead INTERNAL AUDITOR 5CHAPLAINS National Guard & FINANCE VISN 23 VA Midwest administrative services available to Veterans through the Health Care Network Works with MDVA Minnesota Department 133 on reintegration, MDVA Programs & Services Division. LICENSED Located in Minneapolis of Labor & Industry PRACTICAL and St. Cloud Veteran-related issues, American Veterans Twin Cities Health CHIEF INFORMATION NURSES HUMAN legislation and service Officer (MN IT Services) 23 RESOURCES and family projects Professionals (TCHP) Work Force Centers

Training & Empowering Disabled American Veterans LeadingAge Minnesota In accordance with the State of Minnesota’s Lean Initiative, MDVA espouses Federal Department County Veterans Prevent and End the Lean philosophy and management system. As a Lean organization, MDVA’s goal of Labor Service Officers Homelessness is to provide Veterans the best in care and services with zero waste. This system challenges Assigned to care for (CVSOs) the welfare of the wage The primary source Jewish War Veterans Humanities Center MDVA’s staff to ask each day, “How can we make our services better for our Veterans?” earners, job seekers, of contact for Veteran and retirees of the benefits and services United States; improve Minnesota Assistance In addition to creating a better atmosphere of service for our Veterans, this management system working conditions; Council for Veterans advance opportunities for (MACV) Military Order of the Purple Heart has also increased productivity. Through employee training that empowers the staff to continuously profitable employment; Joint Apprenticeship & and assure work-related Training Centers improve on how our work gets done, MDVA has been able to achieve the following in 2015: Veterans Court benefits and rights Hennepin and • improve the quality of life in the Veterans Homes system other County Judicial Systems Minnesota Housing Finance Agency • reduce the time needed to provide a service Marine Corps League • streamline operations while still producing needed results, and iHeartMedia • save on the cost of materials and services

Lutheran Social Minnesota Department of As further testament to the success of this program, MDVA has been awarded the Governor’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Twin Cities Service of Minnesota Natural Resources Public Television Continuous Improvement Award five out of the last six years. This award recognizes achievements (LSS) in increased productivity, efficiency and improved customer service of state government services.

Hearth Connection Vietnam Veterans of America Minnesota Department Twin Cities News Talk of Administration

4 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 5 “I am proud of the high quality of care...” LARRY SHELLITO, MDVA COMMISSIONER ACCOMPLISHMENTS OVERVIEW LOOKING AHEAD

OPERATING MN VETERANS HOMES STAFF RECOGNITION The areas of care available through BUDGET OCCUPANCY FOCUS ON EMPLOYEE GROWTH FOR 128 YEARS, Recognized with the Governor’s Continuous MDVA’s Veterans Homes are diverse MDVA VETERANS HOMES TYPICAL MONTH 2015 Implement a comprehensive plan to address FISCAL YEAR 2015 Improvement Award ■ and often vary based on the facility. employee satisfaction, retention, engagement and the mission of Minnesota’s Veterans Homes has MDVA The range of services include: professional growth ■ been to care for the mental, physical, and spiritual For the fifth time, all MDVA Veterans Homes received % Pinnacle’s “Best In Class” customer satisfaction ratings ■ Medical Care $ Establish a workforce planning committee that 2013 96.7 includes community96.75 and state partners ■ well-being of our Veterans and their families. MDVA’s 24 Hour Skilled Nursing $ 2014 SKILLED NURSING CARE Implemented and trained staff in the mandated 95,776,396 2015 pledge is to deliver safe, dignified and compassionate ICD-10 diagnostic coding software, newly required Special Care: Dementia, Alzheimer’s 84% of the MDVA budget MDVA MORE CARE AT HOME - TELEMEDICINE for Medicare and Medicaid processing ■ Outpatient Facility Care Expand Behavioral Health services ■ care in a nurturing and engaging home environment Occupational Therapy 52.9% $ Continue to maintain an excellent national MINNEAPOLIS % Physical Therapy Explore furthering Dermatology telemedicine ■ to Minnesota’s heroes from every era of service. CMS Staff Ratin ■ 96.7 g 14.0% SPECIAL CARE UNIT Speech Therapy FERGUS FALLS $ Here are just a few of the achievements Achieved CMS Certification (Centers for Medicare & CONTINUE BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS Fitness Services 12.3% MDVA Medicaid Services) on the first of three Homes slated ■ SILVER BAY $ Continue Twin Cities Health Professionals (TCHP) made in 2015 toward fulfilling this mission... Recreational Therapy % Drug & Alcohol Treatment 10.8% $ partnership, further implementing core competencies LUVERNE 87.8 and hosting a leadership conference87.85 ■ ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS Mental & Behavioral Health Services DOMICILIARY CARE 9.9% $ Establish an internship program for healthcare Completed 23 projects – each project, from Dental Care HASTINGS administrators with the University of MN ■ new construction to preventative maintenance, Optometry Care MN VETERANS HOMES VETERANS SERVED BY WAR incorporated energy-efficient measures ■ Nutrition Services TYPICAL MONTH 2015 Pharmaceutical Services STAFF IMPROVE EFFICIENCIES OF CARE Continue to meet the Governor’s energy saving Continue developing a transitional Domiciliary Social Services $ WWII initiative in all MDVA facility updates ■ RATING2013 1941-1946 ■ $ MDVA2014 VETERANS HOMES Care (DOM) program Chaplain / Spiritual Care 2013 2015FISCAL YEAR 2015 145 Partnered with the Center for Sustainable KOREA Spouse Support Group 2014 1950-1953 Maximize current technology tools to 2015 Design Research to develop new Energy Efficiency ■ Transportation 151 standardize policies at all Veterans Homes Performance Measurements ■ VIETNAM Barber ZERO1961-1975 205 EXPAND PHARMACY SERVICES Played a critical role in developing Minnesota’s Beauty Shop GULF WAR ■ 1990-1991 Expand Central Pharmacy by including standards for “High Energy Use Equipment” Cashier / Banking For the third year, 12 ■ PEACE pharmaceutical services in Fergus Falls Adult Day Center MDVA Veterans Homes have TIME Volunteer Programs maintained an 170 Implement an automated dispensing system ■ MANAGING HAZARDOUS WASTE Outings & Events Excellent TOTAL NATIONAL CMS STAFF RATING VETERANS 683 Partnered with University of Minnesota End of Life Care CONTINUED COMPLIANCE FOCUS on programs to improve pharmaceutical and with our nursing staff receiving Achieve CMS compliance in two additional Vocational Rehabilitation top recognition for the hours hazardous waste disposal ■ MDVA Veterans Homes ■ Community Transition House ofZE care ROprovided daily to every Resident MN VETERANS HOMES The location of MDVA’s Veterans FURTHER IMPROVE FACILITIES FOCUSED ON SAFETY SAFETY Complete reconstruction of Building 21 and Homes MN VETERANS HOMES Exceeded MNSafe Initiative Claims Reduction Goals include Fergus Falls, Hastings, Not to exceed 12.32 ■ Luverne, Minneapolis and Silver Bay. 12 Not to exceed 11.7 Building 22 at Minneapolis facilities for the second year, receiving ratings of nearly two COMPLIANCE 11 points under the target goal ■ MDVA’s Minneapolis campus also FISCAL YEAR 2015 10 9 10.04 EXPLORE FUNDING RESOURCES provides Adult Day Center services. 9.75 2014 Successfully implemented a monthly safety audit ■ 8 2015 RATING Implement a five year bonding strategy to assist 7 RATING 6 with fulfilling facility upkeep needs ■ Completed other safety training with key staff ■ 5 ZERO 4 Apply for a federal nursing recruitment Correction Free 3 and retention grant ■ for three years standing. 2 MDVA received zero to few 1 recommendations cited by INCREASE COMMUNICATIONS Minnesota Department of 2015 2014 Develop a community relations plan to Health, Federal Department Target 11.70 12.32 increase awareness and support of the of Veterans Affairs and CMS MDVA’s Rating 9.75 10.04 MN Veterans Homes ■

6 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 7 ACCOMPLISHMENTS PROFILE PROFILE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

ESTABLISHED 1998 2015 BUDGET 2015 BUDGET ESTABLISHED 1978 RECOGNITION RECOGNITION Nestled in the rolling hills and Operations $12,779,162 Operations $8,991,298 Located on 128 beautiful wooded acres RESIDENTS AVG # RESIDENTS AVG # lakes of Ottertail County Received 100% Pinnacle customer satisfaction rating Successfully completed all Veterans along the Vermillion River, just 21 miles (national average is 84.5%), including “Best In Class” Male 94 STAFF OVERVIEW Male 141 Administration and Minnesota Department STAFF OVERVIEW ■ Female 12 Female 1 ■ Hastings Veterans is the award-winning in 15 indicators of care and service Staff works with Residents of Health Surveys from St. Paul, lies the Non-Vet Spouse 10 Nurses, Nursing Assistants Non-Vet Spouse 0 to address their significant Fergus Falls Veterans Home. Dietary, Housekeeping, Received 100% Pinnacle customer Home, one of just five US Veterans and diverse needs. Activities & Administration FACILITY UPDATES SERVICE ERA AVG # SERVICE ERA AVG # satisfaction rating (national average is Reminiscent of a stroll along Full Time Employees 94 “Best In Class” Homes to offer domiciliary care. WWII 31 Full Time Employees 152 WWII 2 84.5%), including Roof replaced ■ Biweekly Payroll $239,878 a small town’s main street, Korean War 28 Biweekly Payroll $398,127 Korean War 5 in “Individual Needs,” “Dining,” and Vietnam War 22 Vietnam War 59 “Overall Satisfaction” ■ The mission of domiciliary care is to rooms are designed Installed ceiling lifts in five Resident rooms, SERVICES reducing workers compensation costs an average Gulf War 1 Gulf War 7 provide a structured and supportive SERVICES MEDICAL CARE ■ to look like houses– of $140,000 a year ■ Peacetime 14 Peacetime 66 MEDICAL CARE ■ 24 HR SKILLED NURSING FACILITY UPDATES rehabilitative and therapeutic community Installed sound panels to support a calm atmosphere ■ SPECIAL CARE: DEMENTIA right down to porches PRIMARY DIAGNOSES 24 HR SKILLED NURSING PRIMARY DIAGNOSES Major water tower refurbishing and in our Veterans Village Dementia Unit ■ SPECIAL CARE: DEMENTIA ■ OUTPATIENT FACILITY to eligible Veterans, in order to assist Alzheimer’s 24.00% Depression 67.0% painting completed ■ with porch lights. COMMUNITY BASED ■ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY A handicapped accessible pool table (that converts to Cerebral Vascular OUTPATIENT CLINIC Hyperlipidemia 32.0% them in reaching their optimal level PHYSICAL THERAPY Collaborative project with the City of Beautiful outdoor courtyards a dining room table for extra seating) was installed ■ Disease .07% OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ■ Hypertension 23.0% Chronic Airway SPEECH THERAPY Malaise & Fatigue 9.0% Hastings to replace the sewer line ■ of independence, and aid them in PHYSICAL THERAPY ■ ■ and gardens afford spaces for Obstruction .04% FITNESS SERVICES Mental Health SPEECH THERAPY ■ High voltage work and pump replacement ■ Dementia 24.00% RECREATIONAL THERAPY ■ Disorder 54.0% re ­acquiring the life skills and ability to live reflection and family time. IMPROVEMENTS IN CARE FITNESS SERVICES ■ ■ Mental Health Disorder .05% DRUG / ALCOHOL TREATMENT Substance Abuse 77.0% Significant bike and hike trail completion in the community. We meet Veterans RECREATIONAL THERAPY ■ MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL Paralysis Agitans .09% ■ % Formed a Behavior & Pain Committee to manage HEALTH SERVICES 98.3 fergus fallsto begin early 2016, as scheduled and DRUG / ALCOHOL TREATMENT 75% BEDS Other 51.75% OCCUPANCY AVG # ■ and reduce Resident pain through correct medication DENTAL CARE ■ approved by the city council where they are in their lives and provide “I have recommended the MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL ■ 50% 10 6 ■ HEALTH SERVICES balance and non-pharmacological alternatives OPTOMETRY CARE ■ 201525% Admissions 28 a safe, non-judgmental environment to (Fergus Falls Veterans) Home. 100% OCCUPANCY AVG # DENTAL CARE ■ ■ 2015 Discharges 31 Implemented a new, visually exciting Communication 49.7% NUTRITION SERVICES OPTOMETRY CARE IMPROVEMENTS IN CARE 2015 Admissions 41 PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES ■ % pursue quality of life improvement. I tell them how caring they Board to inform Residents of events, weekly 96.7 NUTRITION SERVICES ■ % 75% BEDS 2015 Discharges 37 SOCIAL SERVICES ■ 79 BEDS hastingsCollaborative telehealth with Federal 50% 50% 341 get-togethers and adventures. This program has been hastings % PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES ■ 46.3 silver bay CHAPLAIN / SPIRITUAL CARE ■ 200 ■ all are. The food is good, 98.3% 25% Veterans Administration25% submitted for a state quality award in innovation ■ fergusSOCIAL SERVICESfalls ■ 75% BEDS SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP mpls “To the staff at the Minnesota 50% 10 6 ■ she gets her medications on CHAPLAIN / SPIRITUAL CARE TRANSPORTATION ■ 25% Total Beds% 200 % Veterans Home in Hastings: I would SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP ■ 96 96 ■ 75% BEDS FOCUS ON75% STAFF BEDS time, the atmosphere is lovely, BARBER Avg Occupancy 79.0% FOCUS ON STAFF mpls TRANSPORTATION ■ ■ 50% 85 50% 83 like to thank you for all the years of % BEAUTY SHOP Avg Monthly Wait List 0 ■ Total Beds 19.5106 25% Employment/Training25% opportunities expand 29% BARBER 96.7■ % ■ Training on dementia and dementia care approaches ■ % CASHIER / BANKING Avg Wait Time Currently None and the staff are all great.” 54.2% A79vg Monthly Residents 104.3 hastings 75% BEDS luverne silver baexcellenty service and treatment you BEDS BEAUTY SHOP ■ 50% 50% 341 ADULT DAY CENTER Twin Cities Health Professionals (TCHP) RESIDENT FAMILY MEMBER % ■ Avg Occupancy% 20 0 98.3% 13.5 76.5 25■% FERGUS FALLS VETERANS HOME Direct care staff trained and tested on lifts and returns 25% CASHIER / BANKING ■ ■ gave to my brother. He loved that luverne VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS 100% staff education consortium Avg Monthly Wait List 106 ADULT DAY CENTER mpls 49.7% OUTINGS & EVENTS ■ place like no other place he ever DAYS Avg Wait Time 160 VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS ■ 96% 96% END OF LIFE CARE ■ 75% BEDS 75■% BEDS lived. He honestly called it home.” OUTINGS & EVENTS VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION hastings 50% 85 50% 83 46.3% silver bay 19.8% END OF LIFE CARE ■ TRANSITION GROUP ■ BROTHER OF A VETERAN 25% 25% MUSIC GROUP ■ luverne silver bay Domiciliary Care 80.2% IN COMMUNITY fergus falls TRANSITION HOUSE ■ mpls 19.5% 29% Skilled Care % 54.2 100% Dementia Unit 49.7% 13.5% 76.5% % 100 49.7% luverne hastings 46.3% silver bay % 100 49.7% hastings 46.3% silver bay

hastings mpls 46.3% 1821silver bay North Park Street 1200 East 18th Street 19.5% 29% % 54.2% 19.8 mpls Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Hastings, MN 55033 % % % % 19.5 13.5 76.5 29 luverne MDVA VETERANS HOME % (651) 539-2400 MDVA VETERANS HOME mpls54.2 (218) 321-2507 % % 19.5 % % 29% 13.5 76.5 80.2 fergus falls 54.2% 1-877-VET-HMFFluverne 1-877-VET-3803 13.5% 76.5% 19.8% luverne (1-877-838-4633) (1-877-838-3803)

19.8% % 80.2 fergus falls

8 2015 ANNUAL REPORT % 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT19.8 % OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 9 80.2 fergus falls

% 80.2 fergus falls ACCOMPLISHMENTS PROFILE PROFILE ACCOMPLISHMENTS

ESTABLISHED 1994 2015 BUDGET 2015 BUDGET ESTABLISHED 1991 RECOGNITION RECOGNITION Developed around the RESIDENTS AVG # Operations $9,827,754 Operations $11,187,728 RESIDENTS AVG # Overlooking Lake Superior, Received zero citations on both the annual Eden Philosophy of Care, Male 89 Male 71 Received 100% Pinnacle customer satisfaction rating the location of the Silver Minnesota Department of Health and Department Female 16 STAFF OVERVIEW STAFF OVERVIEW Female 9 (national average is 84.5%), including a “Best In Class” Luverne Veterans Home ■ ■ Bay Veterans Home the of Veterans Affairs Surveys Non-Vet Spouse 15 Long term dedicated staff Staff work with Residents to Non-Vet Spouse 8 rating in 15 service areas offers encourages spontaneity, Received 100% Pinnacle customer satisfaction rating use consistent assignments to address their significant and Received zero citations on the annual Federal opportunities for boating, SERVICE ERA AVG # better meet Resident needs. diverse needs. SERVICE ERA AVG # (national average is 84.5%), including “Best In Class” Veterans Affairs survey ■ activities and interaction in a Full Time Employees 114 Full Time Employees 131 fishing, hunting, gardening in 14 service areas ■ WWII 17 WWII 20 Surpassed the goal to reduce psychotropic medications stimulating environment. Korean War 27 Biweekly Payroll $313,433 Biweekly Payroll $338,057 Korean War 18 and more. Vietnam War 19 Vietnam War 24 from 69% usage in 2012 to 15.3% in 2015. Gulf War 0 SERVICES Gulf War 0 This achievement was made through an interdisciplinary FACILITY UPDATES SERVICES Peacetime 6 Peacetime 10 team approach and the implementation of Life Located next to the MEDICAL CARE ■ Six ceiling lift systems were installed to improve MEDICAL CARE ■ ■ The facility houses four 24 HR SKILLED NURSING ■ Enrichment Coordinators Resident and employee safety during transfers ■ 24 HR SKILLED NURSING ■ Blue Mound State Park, PRIMARY DIAGNOSES SPECIAL CARE: DEMENTIA ■ PRIMARY DIAGNOSES SPECIAL CARE: DEMENTIA ■ distinct “neighborhood” living New nurse call system installed further improved the Alzheimer’s 12.50% THERAPY SERVICE Alzheimer’s 30% in an active small-town OUTPATIENT FACILITY OUTPATIENT FACILITY ■ ■ Cerebral Vascular Cerebral Vascular Disease 8% FACILITY UPDATES spaces that combine the feel communication and safety of Residents OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ■ Disease 11.25% OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ■ Dementia 26% community with strong PHYSICAL THERAPY ■ With a focus on safety, infection control and Completed a new roof on the entire section Dementia 12.50% PHYSICAL THERAPY ■ Mental Health of a northern lodge with the ■ ■ SPEECH THERAPY SPEECH THERAPY ■ Disorder 17% functionality, renovations were made to the bathing volunteer participation, of the facility Hear98.3t Disease% 8.75% fergus falls ■ ■ comforts of a single-family 75% BEDS FITNESS SERVICES ■ Cardiac/Vascular Disease 2% spa and kitchen Malaise & Fatigue 10.00% 98.3% FITNESS SERVICESfergus falls 50% 10 6 ■ this facility is home to three Paralysis Agitans 6.25% RECREATIONAL THERAPY 75% BEDSRECREATIONAL THERAPY ■ Malignant Neoplasms 2% 25% home, complete with a large 50% 10 6 Ergonomic upgrades were made throughout the DRUG / ALCOHOL TREATMENT DRUG / ALCOHOL TREATMENT Multiple Sclerosis 2% IMPROVEMENTS IN CARE Other 38.75% 25% distinct living spaces, plus facility, further focusing on staff safety ■ MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL ■ MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL Other 13% game room, work shop, HEALTH SERVICES ■ A dining enhancement program, along with kitchen 96.7% HEALTH SERVICES a 17 bed special care unit OCCUPANCY79% AVG # hastingsDENTAL CARE 75■% BEDS improvements, were made to two wings of the facility, BEDS DENTAL CARE ■ 96.7% four season porch and 50% 50% 341 AVG # % OCCUPANCY75% BEDS 200 OPTOMETRY CARE 79 BEDS hastings ■ IMPROVEMENTS IN CARE ■ 201525% Admissions 25 25% OPTOMETRY CARE designed to meet the needs improving the delivery and quality of meals 50% 50% 341 NUTRITION SERVICES ■ 200 ■ 2015 Admissions 34 private dining areas. 2015 Discharges 25 25% mpls NUTRITION SERVICES 25% ■ 2015 Discharges 32 New outdoor wheelchair gardening activity and of Residents with dementia. PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES ■ mpls 96% 96% ■ SOCIAL SERVICES ■ a variety of exercise programs were added 75% BEDS 75% BEDS SOCIAL SERVICES ■ 96% 96% “The best behavior program.” 50% 85 CHAPLAIN / SPIRITUAL CARE 50■% 83 75% BEDSCHAPLAIN / SPIRITUAL CARE ■ 75% BEDS Expanded the Certified Nurse’s Aide Program from 25% 25% CONSULTING PSYCHIATRIST ■ 50% 85 50% 83 “You can check any other place SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP ■ two weeks to one month to further the understanding SILVER BAY VETERANS HOME luverne 25% silver bay 25% 100% TRANSPORTATION ■ 49.7% TRANSPORTATION ■ of Resident care and developing relationships ■ and find that this facility is far Total Beds 85 ■ luverne silver bay BARBER BARBER ■ Avg Monthly Residents 81 ■ Total Beds 83 “My family member is BEAUTY SHOP BEAUTY SHOP ■ and above anything you’ll see.” hastings Avg Occupancy 96% 46.3% silver bay ■ Avg Monthly Residents 80 CASHIER / BANKING CASHIER / BANKING ■ RESIDENT FAMILY MEMBER Avg Monthly Wait List 150 Avg Occupancy 96% FOCUS ON STAFF a Veteran and if they need ADULT DAY CENTER LUVERNE VETERANS HOME Avg Wait Time 270 DAYS ADULT DAY CENTER Avg Monthly Wait List 0 VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS ■ Twin Cities Health Professionals (TCHP) performed nursing care, I want them VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS ■ Avg Wait Time Currently None ■ OUTINGS & EVENTS OUTINGS & EVENTS ■ a nurse training program on Gemini techniques for mpls ■ ■ to come to your facility.” 19.5% END OF LIFE CARE END OF10 LIFE0 CARE% ■ Residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia 29% 49.7% FAMILY MEMBER 54.2% ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA Continued progress with certification programs ■ SILVER BAY VETERANS HOME LIFE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS ■ 13.5% 76.5% luverne hastings 46.3% silver bay Skilled Care Skilled Care Special Care Unit % % Special Care Unit 100 19.8 49.7% mpls 100% % 49.7% % % 19.5 100 49.7% 29 hastings % % % 46.3 silver bay 54.2% 100 49.7% 80.2 fergus falls hastings 46.3% silver bay hastings 46.3% silver bay % % 13.5 76.5 hastings 46.3% luverne silver bay mpls 1300 N. Kniss, PO% Box 539 45 Banks Boulevard % 19.5 mpls 29 % 54.2% % 19.5 mpls Luverne, MN 56156 Silver Bay, MN 55614 29 19.5% 54.2% 29% 13.5% 76.5% mpls MDVA VETERANS HOME luverne 19.5% MDVA VETERANS HOME 54.2% (507) 283-6200 (218) 353-8700 29% 13.5% 76.5% 54.2% luverne 13.5% 76.5% 19.8% 1-877-LUV-VETSluverne 1-877-SBY-VETS 13.5% 76.5% luverne (1-877-588-8387)19.8% (1-877-729-8387) % % 19.8 % 80.2 19% .8 fergus falls 80.2 fergus falls % 80.219% .8 10 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT fergus falls % 11 80.2 fergus falls % 80.2 fergus falls PROFILE ACCOMPLISHMENTS ACCOMPLISHMENTS PROFILE

ESTABLISHED 1887 2015 BUDGET 2015 BUDGET ESTABLISHED 2012 RECOGNITION Overlooking the Mississippi River near The Minneapolis Adult Day Center RECOGNITION RESIDENTS AVG # Operations $47,440,664 Operations $793,446 Received 100% Pinnacle customer No citations since Center’s opening in 2012 ■ SERVICES Male 297 Minnehaha Falls, surrounded by is located on the campus of the Female 32 STAFF OVERVIEW satisfaction rating (national average STAFF OVERVIEW NUTRITION MONITORING ■ is 84.5%), including “Best In Class” 53 wooded acres, the Minneapolis Veterans Home. CARING SERVICES Non-Vet Spouse 24 Stable, dedicated staff gives Staff work with Participants to SOCIAL SERVICES ■ in approval rankings for “Overall continuity of care to better Minneapolis Veterans Home provides The building was built in 1887 as a Physical, occupational, and speech therapies address their significant and MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION ■ SERVICE ERA AVG # meet Residents needs. Satisfaction,” “Nursing Care,” and available, as needed, through the on diverse needs. “Respect & Dignity” ■ quality care in an environment ■ HEALTH MONITORING ■ WWII 75 Full Time Employees 566 hospital for returning Veterans of the campus skilled nursing facility Avg Employees 10 ■ Korean War 73 Biweekly Payroll $1,501,057 Nurse staffing earned 5 and 4 Star rankings of trust and dignity. Civil War, and has been fully restored. Avg Payroll $27,566 BATHING A variety of activities proven to help slow STAFF INCLUDES Vietnam War 81 from the Centers for Medicaid SPECIAL CARE: DEMENTIA ■ Gulf War 4 cognitive decline ■ Chef SERVICES and Medicare Services ■ PHYSICAL THERAPY ■

Peacetime 74 Registered Nurse SPEECH THERAPY ■ MEDICAL CARE ■ Personalized services are delivered One of only two VA certified Real Time Locator System uses GPS tags Hypertrophy Trainer RECREATIONAL THERAPY ■ DEMENTIA CARE UNIT ■ worn by Participants and staff to ensure PRIMARY DIAGNOSES FACILITY UPDATES to a campus of 291 skilled nursing Adult Day Centers in the nation, ■ OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ■ safety of all ■ Health Info Tech NUTRITION SERVICES Alzheimer’s 21% PHYSICAL THERAPY ■  SOCIAL SERVICES ■ Dementia 12% Finalized architectural plans and launched beds and 50 domiciliary beds, in both the Minneapolis Center provides Dietitian SPEECH THERAPY ■ Enclosed garden patio for outside activities, ■ Cerebral Vascular construction of a new 100 bed skilled Social Worker SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP FITNESS SERVICES ■ private and semiprivate rooms. caregivers with the respite front porch for visiting, plus three floors OUTINGS & EVENTS ■ Disease 8% nursing facility featuring spacious private Recreation Therapist RECREATIONAL THERAPY ■ Depression 6% ■ dedicated to client needs and choices, rooms to replace existing, aging building and support they need, COGNITIVE ACTIVITIES ■ Parkinson’s 5% VOCATIONAL & RECOVERY all focusing on person-centered care ■ SUPPORT ■ OCCUPANCY AVG ALZHEIMER’S Substance Addiction 2% Staff goals are to work together to easing daily demands in order SUPPORT GROUP ■ MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL Male 100% HEALTH SERVICES ■ IMPROVEMENTS IN CARE State-of-the-art whirlpool spa for % INDIVIDUAL CARE 98.3 fergus falls DENTAL CARE ■ encourage and achieve each Resident’s to keep Veterans in their bathing services ■ Female 0 ■ 75% BEDS OCCUPANCY AVG # CONFERENCES ■ Implemented a telemedicine program 50% 10 6 OPTOMETRY CARE CAREGIVER REFERRALS ■ ■ maximization to self-sufficiency. own homes. 25% 2015 Admissions 102 NUTRITION SERVICES ■ improving access to care for Veterans “Operation Sight & Sound” brings Veterans Non-Vet Spouse 0 2015 Discharges 109 SOCIAL WORKER ON-SITE ■ PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES ■ together for group songwriting and On-site portable x-ray, telemedicine, Gold Star Parent 0 SOCIAL SERVICES ■ individual artistic expression through 96.7% infusion, and laboratory services now Maximum Occupancy 35 79% 75% BEDS BEDS hastings CHAPLAIN / SPIRITUAL CARE ■ photography and performance ■ 50% ■ Average Per Day 17.5 50% 341 available to Veterans 200 SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP ■ 25% 25% mplTRANSPORTATIONs ■ BARBER ■ 96% Total96 Beds% 341 “My husband was a Resident for eight months until his recent passing from early-onset “Like other 24/7 caregivers of a spouse with Alzheimer’s, my daily routine is stressful 75% BEDS 75% BEDS ■ Avg Daily Dementia10 Care0% 99 BEAUTY SHOP 50% 85 50% 83 % Avg Daily Domiciliary Care 46 CASHIER / BANKING ■ 49.7 Alzheimer’s. The care he received from all the people involved in his care, too numerous and fatiguing. The MN Veterans Adult Day Center is a gift for which I am very grateful. 25% 25% Avg Daily Skilled Care 185 ADULT DAY CENTER ■ luverne silver bay to mention, was incredible –all friendly, loving, respectful, professional caregivers.” It provides me seven hours of needed respite five days a week, Avg Occupancy 96.7% VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS ■ hastings 46.3% silver bay Avg Wait Time 1 YEAR OUTINGS & EVENTS ■ FORMER RESIDENT FAMILY MEMBER and no doubt has helped me avoid a physical or mental breakdown...” MINNEAPOLIS VETERANS HOME END OF LIFE CARE ■ VETERAN CAREGIVER MINNEAPOLIS ADULT DAY CENTER

mpls 19.5% 29% 54.2% 13.5% 5101 Minnehaha76.5 Ave% South 5501 Minnehaha Ave South, Building 4 luverne Minneapolis, MN 55417-1699 Minneapolis, MN 55417-1699 Skilled Care (612) 548-5700 (612) 548-5963 Special Care 1-877-VET-MPLS 1-877-VET-MPLS % % 19.8 Domiciliary Care10 0 (1-877-838-6757)49.7% (1-877-838-6757)

% 100 49.7% hastings 46.3% % silver bay % 80.2 100 49.7% fergus falls hastings 46.3% silver bay hastings 46.3% silver bay mpls 19.5% 29% MDVA MINNEAPOLIS MDVA54.2% VETERANS HOME mpls mpls19.5% % 13.5% 76.5% 19.5% 29 % 29 luverne 54.2% 54.2% 13.5% 76.5% 13.5% 76.5% luverne luverne

19.8% 19.8% 12 % 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 19% .8 13 80.2 fergus falls % 80.2 fergus falls % 80.2 fergus falls “MDVA services can take many forms...” LARRY SHELLITO, MDVA COMMISSIONER

The MDVA Programs & Services Division Education & Claims & Field Memorials Veteran Grant Homelessness administers over 20 of the nation’s leading Employment Operations & Cemeteries Benefits Programs Assistance 5%

Veterans’ programs. MDVA’s mission is to connect Minnesota GI Bill Claims & Outreach Little Falls Veterans LinkVet Support Our Troops Minnesota Homeless % 5% Cemetery License Plate Veterans Registry % Veterans and their families, from all eras of conflict, Higher Education Women Veterans Veterans Preference Act 8.3 Grant Program 8.3% to these benefits and resources that have been Veterans Program Program Preston Veterans Cemetery Minnesota Service CORE Veterans Service Effort Underway 7 State Approving Agency Gold Star Family Organizations to End Veteran Programs & Services earned through their service to our country. State Soldiers Program Grants Homelessness Statewide Claims & Outreach Assistance Program Collaborating with partners in the Veterans County Veterans County Veterans Service STAFF 2015 BUDGET services community, MDVA’s areas of assistance Service Officers Officers Grants 7% of MDVA staff serve $18,108,566 include financial, educational, and medical Tribal Veterans MN received $110 Million benefits and support, administered through Service Officers Veterans through the in Federal Education Benefits these six program sections... Programs & Services Division 16% MDVA Budget

14 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 15 MDVA PROGRAMS & SERVICES EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENT

PRIMARY MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN EDUCATION ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN EMPLOYMENT Provide Veterans with a ADVANCING VETERANS EDUCATION PROGRAMS VETERAN EMPLOYMENT CONTINUES STRONG seamless transition from Working with the Federal VA and the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU), “Most Veterans in The Veteran unemployment rate continues to fall in Minnesota, from nearly 5% in spring of 2014 to 3.7% by July 2015 ■ OVERVIEW a new program is in place to track the graduation and retention rates of Post 9-11 Veteran apprenticeships are a military career, through VETERAN EMPLOYMENT students who are first time users of the GI Bill ■ On-the-job training and apprenticeships for Veterans remain virtually unlimited in Minnesota. Currently 4.5% of Minnesota’s approved education and not aware they can use apprenticeships are filled by Veterans. That number is expected to increase through an MDVA initiative with the Minnesota Veterans Assisted 409 As a member of a 13 state collaborative, Minnesota received a $10,000 grant, each year for the last two Department of Labor and Industry (MNDOLI) and Joint Apprenticeship and Training Centers (JATC). Through these training programs, resulting state and federal GI Bill VETERAN UNEMPLOYMENT years, for a project to make it easier for Veterans to receive educational credits for military service ■ benefits while in training. programs, MDVA is able to connect more Veterans not wishing to pursue higher education with high paying opportunities ■ in a career with permanent, 11% Through a partnership between MDVA and MnSCU, the Veterans Education Transfer System They are speechless CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR VETERANS EXPANDS % full-time employment. (VETS) allows Veterans military career field, pay grade and years in service be applied for once they receive 2014 HIGH 7 MDVA continues to focus on the medic, license practical nurse and law enforcement career fields through the creation of 5 % credits. VETS calculates these factors into the number of credits each campus will offer. 3.7 % Since 2010, over 140,000 credits for military service have been granted, making it easier the assistance...” bridge programs, designed for individuals who held similar positions in the military. This program applies credits to Veteran ■ DAVE BELLEFEUILLE students, affording them permanent employment about six months earlier ■ MDVA is also a resource for Veterans to move through the Minnesota educational system, reducing benefit costs MDVA EDUCATION & EMPLOYMENT JULY SPRING ■ for private businesses MDVA’s Higher Education and State Approving Agency Programs were showcased at Funding was allocated to create a program for Veterans interested in getting into the agriculture career field 2015 2014 and public employers, two Veteran Administrator Conferences this year, expanding recognition and networking Troops to Trades continues to be a growing program option available to Veterans pursuing the trades ■ EMPLOYERS ASSISTED opportunities for the department ■ Total Employers 43 assisting them in the hiring Public Employers 9 MDVA ALWAYS INVOLVED Private Businesses Assisted 32 and training of Veterans. MINNESOTA HIGHER EDUCATION VETERANS STATE APPROVING Training sessions, workshops and referral programs continue to be provided to assist Minnesota service members before Veteran Business Owners Assisted 2 GI BILL PROGRAM AGENCY (SAA) they ship to boot camp, as well as Veterans separating from service. Topics covered in 2015 ranged from compliance APPRENTICE TRAINING PROGRAMS to understanding benefits, as well as career and life planning. These programs, in part, were created as a collaboration SERVICES The Minnesota GI Bill provides Higher Education Program SAA between MDVA and MNDOLI, MnSCU and Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) ■ 10,500+ MDVA’s continues to The goal of is to ensure APPRENTICESHIPS Assist in Deployment Options ■ postsecondary education assistance and 105 be a national model, supporting colleges and the quality of a Veteran’s MDVA became a member and participated in the Veterans Employment Resource Group which brings together OCCUPATIONS apprenticeship on-the-job training (OJT) Transfer Military Credits ■ universities throughout Minnesota with staff education and training, Veteran employment leaders through bi-monthly working groups ■ to eligible Veterans and dependents. 473HELD BY VETERANS Referral to Scholarships ■ who help Veterans access educational benefits. both on-the-job and through Unique to Minnesota is the On-Campus Veterans apprenticeships. This includes Assist with FASFA Application ■ VETERANS CAREER FAIR OVERVIEW Resource Centers which provide student Veterans monitoring that these OJT/Apprenticeship Referrals ■ STUDENTS FULL-TIME PART-TIME and their families a welcoming environment, programs meet license and Hiring events for Veterans are held throughout the state at various times during Employer Referrals ■ Per Semester (up to) $1,000 $500 as well as enrollment assistance and opportunities certification requirements. Per Academic Year (up to) $3,000 $3,000 the year. Often these events provide hiring opportunities for spouses, as well. Employment Assistance ■ for interaction and networking with Veteran peers. Lifetime (to age 62) $10,000 $10,000 ■ Job Search Training Veterans Career Fair VETERAN EMPLOYEES PER YEAR UP TO OVERVIEW OVERVIEW For the eighth year now, the largest in the Midwest Referrals to Career Resources ■ “Hire a Veteran” Eligible Employees $2,000 $9,000 was held in Minnesota during July, designated as month. Institutional Readiness ■ STATE TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FACILITIES EMPLOYERS RECEIVE EACH VETERAN Students Assisted REFERRALREFERRAL1,250S S Total Certified Facilities 286 Veteran GPS LifePlan ■ State Funding $7.8 MILLION Total Public Facilities 61 OVERVIEW Hired VeteranHigher EducatioHigher in Approvedn EducatioApprenticeshipn ApprenticeshipTrainingOn-the-job $1,000On-the-job Training Training 68%68% INTERNAL INTERNAL VA Compliance Surveys ■ Hired Veteran Employed76% 76% 1 Year20% 20%$1,0004% 4% Total Private Facilities 225 MDVA FAIR 2014 CAREER FAIR FEDERAL TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM 2014 VETERAN CAREER FAIR College Admission Assistance ■ New Facilities 15 2014 VETERAN CAREER FAIR StudentsLOCA TAssistedIONS 32%32% EXTERNAL EXTERNAL230 PARTICIPATION PARTICIPANTS 5555LOCATIONS Compliances Performed 60 Federal Funding $110 MILLION

APPRENTICESHIP 20% PROGRAMS REFERRALS 1,100 JOB1,10 SEEKER0S CAMPUS VETERANS RESOURCE CENTERS 68% INTERNAL JOB SEEKERS 266 4% Total Programs Monitored 2530 59 ON-THE-JOB TRAINING 163 EXHIBITORS 1037 New Programs Added55LOCATION S 55732% EXTERNAL 163 EXHIBITORS 76% HIGHER EDUCATION 68%68%INTERNALINTERNAL New Institution Inspections 15

32%32%EXTERNALEXTERNAL 86%%%%14 68% INTERNAL EMPLOYERS SERVICE REFERRALS ACTIVITIES 86 14 L55OCAL55OCATIONTIONS S REFERRALS EMPLOYERS SERVICE SEEKING VETERANS & EDUCATIONAL FUNDS DISTRIBUTED 32% EXTERNAL SEEKING VETERANS & EDUCATIONAL

Technical AssistanceL55OCATION S 286REFERRAL S OJT & Apprenticeship Employers & Veterans TRAINING/OUTREACH Liaison Activities 122 $ $ $ 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 Events Held 161 2015 2015 2015 Outreach Events 45 $ $ $ Apprenticeship 2014 TOP SPONSORS $ 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 20% 11 377,000 2015 2015 2015 Attendees 23,702 $ $ $ ApprenticeshipApprenticeship 2013 2013 2013 3M, Wells Fargo, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association 2014 2014 2014 On-the-job Training CAREER FAIRS FY15 2015 2015 2015 20%20% 4% Higher Education On-the-jobOn-the-job Trainin Training g 76% 16 2015 ANNUAL REPORT4% 4% MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 17 ZERO ZERO ZERO ZERO ZERO ZERO HigherHigher Education Education 76% ZERO ZERO ZERO 76% MDVA PROGRAMS & SERVICES MDVA PROGRAMS & SERVICES CLAIMS & FIELD OPERATIONS MEMORIALS & CEMETERIES

PRIMARY MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS ACCOMPLISHMENTS PRIMARY MISSION To identify and serve Whether a Private or a CLAIMS & OUTREACH OPERATIONS SERVICES NEW FACILITIES & IMPROVEMENTS Veterans and their Grave Sites ■ Five-Star General, our mission CLAIMS & HEARINGS EXPANDING WOMEN VETERANS PROGRAM PRESTON is Minnesota’s newest State Veterans Cemetery, Cremation In-ground ■ dependents from all Successfully processed a record Increased outreach and communications with Women Veterans across the state ■ expected to serve over 50,000 Veterans who reside within is to assure that Veterans Cremation Columbarium ■ 75 miles of its’ Fillmore County location. The cemetery is number of appeals, providing By building and solidifying community partnerships, MDVA was able to bring more social and economic Open / Closed Graves ■ projected to provide over 350 burials annually ■ and their families are honored advocacy services to Veterans, successful events to Women Veterans that focus on their specific needs ■ backgrounds. MDVA widows and dependents ■ Interment Site ■ for their service and sacrifice Markers & Headstones ■ LITTLE FALLS completed construction of three OUTREACH DEVELOPING THE GOLD STAR FAMILY PROGRAM to our nation through lasting outreach representatives Assist with Qualifying ■ new columbarium structures, providing for additional Increased outreach activities Increased awareness of the Gold Star program throughout the state and through building Assist with Arrangements ■ above-ground space for cremated remains over the next tributes in their final advocate for Veterans with events held throughout community partnerships with CVSOs and community service organizations and resources ■ Presidential Certificates ■ decade. This $600,000 project was funded by a grant from by providing personal the state that included: Increased Gold Star Family services specifically to Vietnam era families ■ resting places. Committal Services ■ the National Cemetery Administration ■ • Four-part training of County Initiated planning for quarterly Gold Star Family events in 2016 ■ case development and Military Honor Service ■ Veterans Service Officers Perpetual Care ■ Veterans and their families tracking state and • Two “Get to Know Programs EXPANDING TRIBAL VETERANS SERVICES VETERAN NEEDS REMAIN STRONG Grave Site Locator Services ■ & Services” events Increased TVSO representatives in the three area VA hospitals, located in Minneapolis, In 2015, MDVA saw an 8% increase in Veterans funeral honors, often choose state cemeteries federal claims. ■ • Multiple Tribal Veteran Service St. Cloud and Fargo ■ from 418 laid to rest in 2014 to 452 in 2015 because of the dignified military Officers training sessions Since its opening in 1994, the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery CONTINUED COORDINATION WITH CVSOs OVERVIEW honors provided which includes • Claims and Benefits information in Little Falls has performed 5,599 burials ■ Assisted with temporarily staffing CVSO offices in Wright, Carver, Swift, Lyon, Winona, CEMETERIES LITTLE PRESTON SERVICES programs on MN Military a color guard, 21-gun salute, St Louis, Grant and Anoka, with continuing operations performed in Anoka, Wright and St Louis ■ FALLS ■ ■ File Claims Radio Acres 37 169 NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FACILITY and the folding and presenting Advise on Available Benefits ■ Established 1994 2015 WORKING TO ASSURE VVA SERVICES REMAIN AVAILABLE Located on 37 acres adjacent to Camp Ripley, Assist in Benefit Applications ■ RECOGNITION Staff Size 7.5 7.5 of the flag. When Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) experienced unforeseen staffing problems, the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls has received Advise on Available Services ■ MDVA Field Operations Operating Costs $500,000 $425,000 MDVA stepped in to manage the organization, providing personnel, updating equipment and the “Excellence of Appearance Award,” a recognition given by the Schedule Appointments ■ supervisor recognized in 2015 ■ ■ improving procedures, thereby continuing to assist the Veterans the VVA serves National Cemetery Administration’s Veterans Cemetery Grants “I am so happy my husband chose to Transportation Services ■ as an “Emerging Leader” FACILITIES LITTLE PRESTON FALLS Program. Only four of the country’s 85 state Veterans cemeteries be buried at this cemetery and I am In-home Counseling ■ Administration Building ■ ■ have received this award ■ VETERANS SPOUSES pleased to be there some day also. Provide Updates on Benefits ■ Service Area ■ ■ Help Obtain Military Records ■ OVERVIEW WOMEN GOLD STAR COUNTY TRIBAL Committal Area ■ ■ He was proud to serve his country and CUSTOMER SATISFACTION300 HIGH15 2 Arrange for Temporary Shelter ■ VETERANS FAMILY VETERANS VETERANS Outdoor Assembly Area ■ ■ you all do such a wonderful job.” CLAIMS PROGRAM SERVICE SERVICE Columbarium ■ ■ MDVA regularly receives satisfaction survey ratings at or above Federal Claims 2015 1530 452 WIFE OF A MINNESOTA VETERAN Support, benefits OFFICERS OFFICERS Parking ■ ■ 99% for the handling of burials, appearance of grounds and State Claims 2015 552 450 452 MDVA’s Women and resources are (CVSO) (TVSO) Walking Paths ■ ■ facilities, and courtesy of the 425staff ■ 423 Veterans Program available through ■ ■ 400 418 Maintenance Building 405 398 COMPENSATION offers timely the Gold Star Family A key point of MDVA has a strong VETERANS SPOUSES 375 Amount in compensation and assistance and program, developed contact for Veterans, relationship with pension payments for MN equitable access to honor the legacy MDVA maintains a Native American 300 152 Veterans and their survivors: to the benefits, of every fallen strong collaboration Reservations 5-YEAR BURIAL PREFERRED BURIAL COMPARISON SERVICES CHOICE opportunities and Minnesota hero, with each of the throughout FY2015 FY2015 $76,123,360 resources available while supporting state’s CVSO offices, Minnesota and 452 COMPENSATION VETERANS SPOUSES AND PENSION to Women Veterans. the needs of their thereby providing provides advocacy, 450 452 ION S PAYMENTS community 425 families. Veterans and their 423 M outreach, service 400 418 300 152 families with a 405 398 and training through 375 $ UND CREM AT coordinated team 452 TVSO MILITARY HONORS approach. the program. FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 SKET BURIAL 450 PERFORMED IN-G RO COLUMBARIU

MN VETERANS & SURVIVORS 452 CA 425 230 423 1599194 9 400 418 405 398 375 18 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 19 ION S M ION S UND CREM AT SKET BURIAL UND CREM AT SKET BURIAL IN-G RO COLUMBARIU CA IN-G RO COLUMBARIU M 1599194 9 15CA 99194 9 MDVA PROGRAMS & SERVICES BENEFITS SSAP FUNDING DISTRIBUTION BY COUNTY JULY 1, 2014 TO JUNE 30, 2015 PRIMARY MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS STATE SOLDIERS Aitkin Isanti Polk ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Working closely with federal, $40,332 $47,519 $20,277 ONLINE CONNECTIONS GROW IMPROVED VPA PROGRAM MINNESOTA SERVICE CORE PROGRAM (SSAP) Anoka Itasca Pope $140,618 $140,556 $15,519 state and community Connecting via LinkVet, online chats continue to be In 2015, the procedures, policies and statutory requirements for the Becker Jackson Ramsey A nation-leading program designed to bring essential, community-based services The SSAP Program provides partners, MDVA Benefits a popular communication option for Veterans. Over Veterans Preference Act (VPA) were updated. Internal and external $20,296 $15,081 $371,823 the past two years, online chat usage increased over communications, and VPA administration materials underwent directly to Veterans and their families across MN, CORE services include individual numerous benefits for Veterans Beltrami Kanabec Red Lake $42,517 $43,348 $0 supplement existing ■ review and updates as well, with additional VPA training performed. and family counseling, financial and debt management, in-home counseling, addiction and their dependents, including 400%, from 562 chats in FY13 to 2,256 in FY15 Benton Kandiyohi Redwood Through these efforts, public employers are better meeting counseling, and disability services – all at no cost to Veterans. funds for housing, dental, optical, programs, as well as address $21,073 $38,681 $31,163 obligations, with more Veterans accessing and receiving VPA rights ■ education, subsistence, disaster Big Stone Kittson Renville SATISFACTION HIGH WITH CORE MDVA partners with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota’s (LSS) statewide network, relief, and special needs. $40,837 $386 $24,337 the needs specific to Established a Status Verification Process for the Veteran-Owned Small Veterans accessing the MN Case Management, located in Alexandria, Bemidji, Brainerd, Detroit Lakes, Duluth, Fergus Falls, Mankato, Blue Earth Koochiching Rice Business Program at the Minnesota Department of Administration, $29,888 $22,584 $46,248 Minnesota Veterans. Outreach, Referral & Education (CORE) Program Moorhead, St. Cloud, Twin Cities Metro and in Willmar. Material Management Division ■ Brown Lac Qui Parle Rock remain satisfied with the services, as indicated in $83,882 $109 $28,469 a year-long satisfaction survey that shows 95% OVERVIEW OVERVIEW Carlton Lake Roseau $22,132 $5,625 $1,646 of clients would either use CORE services again, FOCUSING ON STAFF & NEEDS TOTAL CLIENTS SERVED SERVICES PROVIDED SERVICES Carver Lake of Woods Scott or would refer others to CORE ■ In-Office Counseling 32% $19,012 $1,086 $41,953 Phone / Web / Email Support ■ Under the State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP), MDVA approved 5548 Group Counseling 28% Veterans Cass LeSueur Sherburne the SSI / SSDI Outreach, Access & Recovery (SOAR) pilot program to assist Receiving Referral to Programs / Services ■ Seventy-one percent of the 87 counties in Financial Counseling 5% BENEFITSBenefits $61,061 $30,118 $39,305 disabled Veterans with Social Security Disability funds, and homeless Provide VPA Guidelines / Updates ■ Minnesota accessed the MN CORE services in FY15, 498 Off-site Counseling 55483% Chippewa Lincoln Sibley Veterans with attaining stable income to meet their housing needs ■ BENEFITS $18,337 $355 $38,449 Assist in VPA Review Process ■ resulting in 4% more counties participating Case Management 22% %% %%%% %%% Chisago Lyon St. Louis ■ compared to FY14 ■ Ongoing Benefits staff training continues to show improved efficiencies 656565 26 26 26 999 Case Assessment / Planning 18% $46,256 $15,266 $214,317 Referrals to Support Services VETERANS SPOUSES CHILDREN First-Tim1466e in the processing of benefits and effectiveness of case management ■ Case Follow-Up 1466 3% Applicants Clay Mahnomen Stearns In-home Assessment / Follow-up ■ MN COUNTIES UTILIZED CORE FY15 First-Time Travel Applicants9% $83,795 $3,041 $165,165 Rent & Mortgage Assistance ■ Aitkin 3 Marshall 2 Clearwater Marshall Steele LINKVET VETERANS PREFERENCE ACT (VPA) Anoka 25 Meeker 2 Health Premium Assistance ■ FUNDS COLLECTED FROM 3RD PARTY $13,548 $12,214 $15,022 TO250TAL HOUSEHOLDS0 TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS Becker 8 Mille Lacs 4 IN-OFFICE COUNSELING SERVICES 2500 Cook Martin Stevens ■ TOTAL Cash Assistance with Utilities The Veterans Preference Act entitles Veterans limited employee Beltrami 1 Morrison 6 $0 $12,160 $8,292 Minnesota Veterans and their families benefit from 2015 2014 2013 Denture Expenses ■ Benton 14 Nicollet 2 Cottonwood McLeod Swift the direct, personal access to information that MDVA preferences, as well as protections pertaining to layoffs and $50,000 Blue Earth 14 Nobles 1 $38,205 50 $58,916 $21,613 Optical Expenses ■ LinkVet discharges. The VPA statute also gives private employers provides through the service. Staffed by Brown 6 Norman 2 $40,000 45 Crow Wing Meeker Todd Veteran One-time Education Grant ■ support specialists, LinkVet inquiries can be made by authorization to grant preferences to Veterans when hiring. Carlton 2 Olmstead 6 $114,422 40 $35,282 $55,472 $30,000 Annual Dependent Education Grant ■ web, phone or email, and each are answered seven Carver 2 Otter Tail 19 $45,918 $47,752 $33,161 . Dakota Mille Lacs Traverse 4MILLION35 $180,377 30 $56,015 $20,934 days a week, year-round (except on holidays). MDVA’s role is to provide both Veterans and public employers Cass 6 Pine 1 Chippewa 1 Polk 1 Dodge Morrison TVSO WEBSITE information regarding the implementation of VPA in the workplace. CLIENTS WITH INSURANCE DISTRIBUTED $1,435 $63,758 Chisago 6 Pope 9 FUNDS 20 $234,470 MinnesotaVeteran.org While MDVA cannot provide legal advice, if a Veteran’s rights have Clay 18 Ramsey 26 15 Douglas Mower Veterans $34,629 $38,932 PHONE allegedly been violated or denied, MDVA will help guide both the Crow Wing 32 Redwood 1 7 10 10 Homes Dakota 21 Rice 4 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Faribault Murray $91,364 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838) Veteran and employer through the steps of the review process. $26,956 $13,641 Douglas 14 St. Louis 7 % % FY15 Wabasha INTERNATIONAL +1 (651) 556-0596 Fillmore Nicollet ACTIVE CASES Faribault 3 Scott 2 46 54 $ $18,992 OVERVIEW INSURANCE NO INSURANCE 2013 $4,707 $ $8,000 TTY (800) 627-3529 2014 Goodhue 1 Sherburne 38 VETERANS EMPLOYERS 2015 CVSO DEED CLOSEDWadena CASES Freeborn Nobles ASSISTANCE PROVIDED Grant 5 Sibley 4 Dental & SPOUSES2216 $1,475,548 MMB $33,844 50 CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEY $18,870 $11,370 Hennepin 42 Stearns 57 Waseca OVERVIEW 45 Optical 1832 $ 379,637 Gold Star Norman 40 Houston 1 Steele 1 NO $12,024 Families $11,062 LINKVET INQUIRIES Hubbard 1 Stevens 1 AGREE DISAGREE OPINION Special $10,631 Olmsted Washington 30 Isanti 2 Swift 3 CORE services Needs 871 $1,903,953 $89,216 FY15 FY14 FY13 Goodhue $69,424 20 Itasca 14 Todd 3 were helpful Calls Received 2561 3094 4701 86 2 3 HUD $35,136 Otter Tail Watonwan 15 Kandiyohi 8 Traverse 4 and met needs $14,905 10 VASH 34 $ 16,174 Grant $120,361 7 10 Kittson 1 Wabasha 2 Outbound Calls 1217 1064 1335 Situation has ZERO $385 Outreach Wilkin Koochiching 1 Waseca 4 Subsistence 164 $ 185,153 $202,799 $320 Service Related Calls Resolved 3028 4158 6036 ACTIVE CASES improved Hennepin $ Lake 2 Washington 8 since CORE 78 2 11 $344,838 Pennington VETERANS EMPLOYERS CVSO DEED CLOSED CASES Disaster Winona Unresolved Calls 0 0 0 & SPOUSES MMB LeSueur 6 Watonwan 1 $9,299 Relief 344 $ 199,187 Houston $1,000 Lyon 1 Wright 8 Calls Without Merit 174 150 8 Counties 51 $ 180,000 $8,293 Pine Wright The data listed above only represents half of the fiscal year; Would use CORE again McLeod 3 Yellow Medicine 1 % Hubbard $47,499 $9,282 Online Chats 2256 2858 562 data collection in these categories started mid-year and represents CORE services are available statewide. and / or refer CORE 95 Education $24,180 Pipestone 87 $ 39,261 Yellow Medicine January 5, 2015 – June 30, 2015. MN counties not listed did not utilize YES $18,978 services during FY15. $8,200

20 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 21 MDVA PROGRAMS & SERVICES MDVA PROGRAMS & SERVICES GRANTS HOMELESS VETERAN PREVENTION & ASSISTANCE

PRIMARY MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS ACCOMPLISHMENTS PRIMARY MISSION Provide needed funding End Veteran GRANT FUNDING & CVSO PARTICIPATION INCREASES VETERAN REGISTRY LAUNCHED OVERVIEW to partners that assist The Operational Enhancement Grant provided $997,500 to qualified counties, a 3.4% increase from 2014. To bolster progress ending Veteran homelessness, MDVA developed and launched the homelessness by The number of counties receiving the CVSO base grant remained at 26, while the number of counties qualifying 2015 award-winning Minnesota Homeless Veteran Registry. MDVA’s goal is to ensure every MDVA in the goal of HOMELESS providing appropriate, for additional funds increased 5%, resulting in an additional $6,765 funds distributed in FY15 used for training and VETERANS Veteran has the support needed to obtain and maintain stable housing. When Veterans serving Veterans and operations, as well as reintegration services and programs. join the Registry, they authorize a team of public and nonprofit service partners to work effective solutions on VETERANS IDENTIFIED together on housing solutions specific to each Veteran. Through the Registry, MDVA is their families. SOT GRANT DOLLARS REMAIN STRONG HOUSING OUTCOMES able to monitor the progress so that strategies and responses can be adapted as needs a case-by-case basis to The amount raised through the Support Our Troops License Plate Program remained nearly the same, with 42% of the funds, 120 change and evolve. each Veteran and their or $209,612 divided among the VSO grantees. 100 The Registry launched in Hennepin and Ramsey counties on December 8, 2014 and family experiencing SERVICES expanded statewide on January 22, 2015. Since its launch, the number of Veterans housed 80 homelessness. Collect Grant Funds ■ SUPPORT OUR VETERANS SERVICE COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICERS (CVSO) per month grew from 10 in February 2015 to 66 in December 2015. Participation is Distribute Grant Funds ■ TROOPS (SOT) ORGANIZATIONS GRANTS voluntary, and anyone can refer a Veteran to join by calling LinkVet at 888-LinkVet 60 Assist with Grant Applications ■ LICENSE PLATE (VSOs) (546-5838). To learn more, visit MinnesotaVeteran.org/HomelessRegistry. SERVICES ■ ■ PROGRAM GRANTS Mortgage Assistance Network with Organizations 40 ■ Provide Grant Updates / Changes ■ PARTNERS CONVENED TO FIND & HOUSE VETERANS Rent Assistance Grants are provided Grant funds distributed to VETERAN BASE The power of the Registry rests in local partners who identify Veterans and implement ■ Assistance with Utilities MDVA and the MN 20 POPULATION GRANT ■ Department of Military to congressionally Minnesota’s 87 counties are County Totals AMOUNTS housing solutions. Since the Registry’s launch, over 50 organizations and individuals have Transportation Veterans ■ Food Affairs help military families chartered MN used for outreach and to Under 1,000 $0 0 helped identify Veterans experiencing homelessness and signed them up. Nonprofit JAN DEC ■ throughout the state Service Organizations that address Veterans needs 1,000 to 2,999 $2,500 and public service providers meet regularly several times per month to implement Emergency Shelter ■ through contributions made specifically work with specific to their locale. 3,000 to 4,999 $5,000 housing plans for every Veteran. Over a dozen organizations have dedicated staff time Transitional Housing Veterans and their families EQUITY IN HOUSING and resources to this effort on an ongoing basis. ■ Permanent Housing to the SOT program. In addition to a base grant, 5,000 to 9,999 $7,500 The Support Our Troops ensuring they receive the REGISTERED % ■ Referrals to Housing Services counties are eligible for 10,000 to 19,999 $10,000 HOUSED % 51 51 federal, state and local LANDLORD ENGAGEMENT EFFORTS LAUNCHED funds are used for grants, additional funds under the 20,000 to 29,999 $15,000 benefits to which they 3234 Recognizing the critical role that landlords play in housing Veterans facing homelessness, as well as counseling, grant to enhance their CVSO More than 30,000 $20,000 on March 6, 2015 MDVA expanded the capability of the Registry to identify landlords “We are now housing emergency financial are entitled. 9 9 operations and services. 5 4 1 1 332 3 specifically interested in housing Veterans exiting homelessness. This new capacity was more Veterans than assistance, shelter and The amount received is determined by the Federal Veterans benefits for military families, OVERVIEW e announced as part of a broader public awareness campaign about the Registry. we are identifying, Race waiian Affairs, based on the county’s Veteran population. White Black or Hispanic Multiracia l

as well as homeless and e Ha

Alaska Nativ which means that it is

VSOs PARTNERS Race Unknown Latino/A ny under served Veterans. America n African Eligibility for any grant requires the lead CVSO in each county American Indian or no longer a question of

Received grants during FY15: Asian/Nativ maintain certification through continuing education courses, or Other Pacific Islander CURRENT SNAPSHOT American Legion IF we will end Veteran Disabled American Veterans ensuring they are trained and proficient in their duties. POINT-IN-TIME REGISTRY WINS STATE INNOVATION AND TEKNE AWARDS OVERVIEW Military Order of the Purple Heart homelessness, only a ANNUAL Minnesota State Government Paralyzed Veterans of America The Homeless Veterans Registry was among ten winners honored with a AMOUNT RAISED COUNT 644VETERANS question of WHEN.” Veterans of Foreign Wars OVERVIEW COUNTED Innovation Award in July 2015. In November 2015, the Registry received a Tekne Award for collaboration 2010 Vietnam Veterans of America CVSO OPERATIONAL ENHANCEMENT GRANT for community impact, honoring innovation in science and technology. ERIC GRUMDAHL MDVA HOMELESS VETERAN $494,720 SOT License Plate Program PREVENTION & ASSISTANCE RAISED IN 2015 2015 2014 LANDLORD INCENTIVE PROGRAM LAUNCHED $494,500 Counties Receiving Base Grant of $7,500 26 26 HENNEPIN 127 Hennepin 59 Ramsey On Veterans DayRAMSEY 2015, MDVA, Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges, and Saint Paul Mayor Counties Receiving Additional Funds 61 58 29 Central CENTRAL 297VETERANS 28 Metro Chris Coleman SUBURBANinvited METRO landlords interested in joining the effort to house Veterans to an event Additional Funds Distributed $35,795 $29,030 COUNTED 26 St. Louis ST. LOUIS $494,000 NORTHWEST Hennepin2015 10 Northwest HENNEPIN 127 Keys for Heroes.SOUTHEAST 8 Southeastcalled Several landlords were recognized for their efforts to house homeless Veterans, Ramsey 5 West Central RAMSEYWEST CENTRAL 59 NORTHEAST $997,500 3 Northeastand MDVA launched the Keys for Heroes incentive, offering $1,000 to property owners signing 29 Central 2 Southwest CENTRALSOUTHWEST $493,500 980,000 $979,278 $493,353 $353,000 $965,000 28 Metro a lease with aSUBURBAN Veteran METRO on the Registry by the end of January 2016. RAISED IN 2014 TOTAL GRANTS 960,000 26 St. Louis ST. LOUIS $493,000 940,000 $935,970 127 Hennepin 10 Northwest HENNEPINLEVERAGINGNORTHWEST CORE PROGRAM Southeast SOUTHEAST Ramsey 8 RAMSEY CORE Program 920,000 59 In September 2015, MDVA expanded the service scope of the operated by Lutheran Central West Central CENTRAL WEST CENTRAL $492,500 2015 2014 2015 2014 29 5 Social Services through a partnership with Hearth Connection. Through this program, homeless 900,000 Metro Northeast SUBURBAN METRO NORTHEAST 161,914 CVSO GRANT TOTAL DISTRIBUTION TOTAL 28 3 MAX. GRANT AMOUNT Southwest Veterans on theSOUTHWEST Registry in Saint Paul have access to rental assistance and supportive services. 26 St. Louis 2 ST. LOUIS Photo by Tim Nelson / MPR Photo by Radio © 2015 Minnesota Public All rights reserved. Used with permission. 10 Northwest NORTHWEST Southeast SOUTHEAST 22 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 8 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANSWEST CENTRAL AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 23 5 West Central 3 Northeast NORTHEAST 2 Southwest SOUTHWEST MDVA COMMUNICATIONS ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

PRIMARY MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS To build relationships and Received a Midwest Regional Emmy for work on the groundbreaking, Women WEBSITE: MINNESOTAVETERAN.ORG RADIO: MINNESOTA MILITARY Serving In War documentary made in partnership with Twin Cities Public Television ■ improve communications with MinnesotaVeteran.org Minnesota Military Radio RADIO STATIONS 2015 Hermes Creative Awards continues to be an invaluable benefit to Veterans and their loved is a Honored with three , an international competition Albany KDDG-FM 105.5 strategic audiences, informing that recognizes creative excellence. With over 6,000 entries from around the ones, as well as an important resource to state and federal leaders, members of the weekly public affairs program media, and the community at large. Implementing the “plain language” directive of covering information from MDVA, Albert Lea KATE AM 1450 world, two MDVA forms of communication received the highest recognition, Alexandria KXRA 1490 AM and promoting Veteran-related with a third program receiving the second highest award: Governor Mark Dayton, users to the site receive current, immediate information that the Minnesota National Guard, Austin KAUS AM 1480 initiatives that support and • Platinum Hermes for the 2014 MDVA Annual Report is easy to understand and easy to access. Key site features include the FAQ Veteran the Minneapolis VA and Beyond Bemidji KMPI 1300 AM support portal “LinkVet,” and up-to-date activity calendars and info. the Yellow Ribbon. K BUN AM 1450 & FM 94.9 • Platinum Hermes for the MN Military Radio Program: Duluth/Superior WDSM AM 710 further MDVA’s goals. Prisoners of War Program: 42 Years After Vietnam Faribault KBGY FM 107.5 • Gold Hermes for the MN Military Radio Program: Vietnam Veteran, Tom Lyons, Grand Rapids AM 1320 KOZY Tracing the Red Bulls from WWII to Today ■ OVERVIEW strives to inform and entertain Hastings KDWA AM 1460 SUR7777 SUR7777 Jackson KKOJ AM 1190 2015 Gold AVA Digital Awards, listeners in this weekly syndicated Recipient of two an international competition Litchfield KLFD AM 1410184184 SERVICES radio show and podcast. Through ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES recognizing excellence in digital communication. The programs honored include: 1 2 Little Falls WYRQ 92.1 Branding ■ • MN Military Radio Program: Tracing the Red Bulls from WWII to Today 147,195 captivating historic interviews with KLTF AM 960 SESSIONS Marketing ■ “Veterans Day LIVE” ■ Veterans Resources Veterans of all eras, MN Military Luverne AM 800 KQAD • MN Military Radio Program: SUR7777 SUR7777 Montevideo KDMA AM 1460 Advertising ■ Homes Radio endeavors to preserve the MarCom Gold Winner for the 2014 Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs 184 New Prague KCHK AM 1350 184ACTIVITIES Media & Public Relations ■ stories before they are forgotten–ACTIVITIES KRDS 95.5 FM Annual Report, distinguished this year for its’ creativity among 6,000 entries 3 4 ■ 78,438 438,066 stories of heroism from those Owatonna/Waseca KRUE AM 1170 Internal & External Communications ■ PAGE VIEWS in multiple categories Pipestone KLOH 1050 AM Event Management ■ Minneapolis Department who have served, and the families USERS Home Information and communities who have Ramsey 106.1 FM KLCI Website & Social Media Content Management ■ MEDIA: NEWS CLIPS Redwood Falls KLGR AM 1490 & FM 95.9 supported them. The broadcast Rochester KROC AM 1340 OVERVIEW 2,256 also features a weekly update Twin Cites News/Talk AM 1130 # OF CLIPS UNIQUE VISITORS POTENTIAL VIEWERS .98 :50 live chats thru from MDVA Commissioner Willmar KWLM AM 1340 & FM 96.3 per session seconds 2pages minutes2 linkvet 240 76,240,437 110,122,777 Larry Shellito. Tune in or listen to recent episodes at Minnesotamilitaryradiohour.com SUR7777 SUR7777 184 184 ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES MN Military 31, 2015 31, Radio SUR7777 Michael Murray Photography MDVA announces the launch of the Minnesota MAY features Veterans’ Voices Awards Ceremony recognizing former and current military service members Homeless Veteran Registry, a program developed with MDVA

Members of 2015 6, for going above and beyond, making exceptional, positive contributions that improve Claims Minnesota’s state The first license plate to input from Governor Mark Dayton’s Cabinet-level MDVA Field Operations Supervisor MAR Largest Veterans the lives of people across Minnesota 2014 11, and congressional Inter-agency Council on Homelessness, and in support James Miller receives Emerging Honoring the fallen, the Minnesota honor Women Veterans 184ACTIVITIES

Career Fair in the 2014 SEPT 11, MN Military Radio delegation join nearly of Heading Home: Minnesota’s Plan to Prevent and Leaders Award State Veterans Cemetery in MN NOV

released 2015 21,

Midwest brings together 2015 JAN 1,

Program features 2015 MAR 27, Little Falls hosts a Memorial Day 9, 2014 JUL 9, Peggy Moon elected first 500 attendees to End Homelessness 7 Military Residents, families and community members

777 MAY employers, service Hastings Veterans pledge continued SUR program to include a concert by

United Healthcare Military & woman Commander of MN Military Radio gather to bury a time capsule filled with artifacts JUN providers and Veterans Tribal Veterans Home support for Veterans MN Military MDVA the Richfield Symphonic Band, 2015 14, Veterans and Rebuilding Together Minnesota’s American 2014 OCT 26, Governor Mark Dayton reviews preserved for future Veterans. This time capsule Minnesota 2015 KSTP interviews Special Advisor Radio hosting and to celebrate hosts 2015 JUN 18, Twin Cities team up for a Legion, also first woman Service Officer Radio features proclaims April 9 as followed by the parade of flags. 2015 25, MDVA is to be opened Memorial Day 2065. The Military Family 2014 SEPT 19, a 3 hour live FEB 30, 2014 JUL 30, (TVSO) Program generations of MDVA Claims & Benefits Fair Eric Grumdahl regarding the Former Prisoners of The program also features 12, 2014 12, burial ceremony signifies the halfway mark of

volunteer project at the Minnesota OCT 2014 legislative Foundation Golf Chair for the Commanders’ MAY Memorial Day 9, 2015 APR 9,

Minnesota’s heroes MAR 2015 role the Veterans Registry plays 25, 2015 JAN 25, at Middle War Day in the state special recognition for women Veterans Home in Minneapolis Classic hosted at Task Force training held in Field Operations show to honor session a three-phase campus redevelopment at the AUG at the state’s Veterans Walker, MN River, MN in MDVA’s goal to end Veteran of MN in the military Minneapolis Veterans Home Lake Elmo Day celebration homelessness 184 the fallen ACTIVITIES EVENTS & ACTIVITIES OF THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FY2015

The Pearl Harbor Pheasants Forever and Military Appreciation Day at the Minnesota State For the first time, the POW/ The Minnesota Commanders’ Task MN Military Radio records its partners dedicate Survivors Association, Force, together with the United The Minnesota Indian Affairs Fair features Minnesota Military Radio recording live, MIA Flag is raised at the MDVA Commissioner Larry Shellito Minnesota Medal live from the MN Military a wildlife management and Fort Snelling National Veterans Legislative Council (UVLC) Council and the MDVA with guests that include Governor Mark Dayton, State Court of Honor designates the first weekend in of Honor Day Family Tribute Memorial area to MN Veterans 2014 26, Cemetery Memorial and the Minnesota Association of being held to Governor unveils the American Indian

on the Capitol grounds 2015 22, MDVA Commissioner Larry Shellito, with Deputy October the annual Gold Star Family Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd, MN, Story Stone Garden Military 2015 JUN 21, dedication ceremony in Clearwater, MN Rifle Squad, host a County Veterans Service Officers recognize the Dayton Veterans plaque at the State AUG Commissioners Reggie Worlds and Robin Gaustad in a Remembrance Day Retreat weekend, honoring and hosts MDVA’s salute to Women Tribute dedication at the State remembrance ceremony declares April MAY Capitol Court of Honor 23, 2014 JUL 23, Ceremony that features a MDVA (MACVSOs) hold a joint Veterans brave service remembering Minnesota’s Fallen Service as “Month of Veterans, celebrating courage and Capitol Grounds honoring U.S. reading of the names and to credit those who NW Day on the Hill event to announce members who 2015 16, Members, and hosted at Cragun’s promoting wellness for all female SUR7777 military Gold Star, Blue Star, and the Military SUR7777 served, and honor those County their 2015 legislative agenda and have received the hometowns of the MN 2014 OCT 3, MAY Law passes allowing Resort in Brainerd, MN Veterans 2015 JUN 13, Veteran family members who gave their lives in the Veterans speak on behalf of the 369,000 2015 MAR 25, Medal of Honor Child,” Veterans across the Airmen, Marines, Sailors, and

7, 2014 DEC 7, offering Soldiers that remain missing MDVA defense of Pearl Harbor Service 2015 MAR 4, Veterans of MN nation with an honorable numerous from the Cold War and participates in Officers discharge to take MN Military Radio opportunities

25, 2014 SEPT 25, Training advantage of Minnesota’s Vietnam War 184ACTIVITIES184ACTIVITIES Program taking an held in for children of public post-secondary MN service 1, 2014 1, in-depth look Walker, education opportunities at at efforts to MAR 2015 MN members and 16, 2014 16, AUG an in-state tuition rate eliminate Veteran Veterans to APR 2015 NOV homelessness be recognized MG McGrath

24 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 25 MDVA 2015 FISCAL YEAR FINANCIAL SUMMARY

REVENUES EXPENDITURES General Fund Appropriation DISTRIBUTION OF FEDERAL VA FUNDS FY14 • PER STATE 56.5% As of September 30, 2014 EXPENDITURES IN $000s General Fund Appropriations $62,753,000 Fergus Falls Expenditures $12,779,162 VETERANS EXPENDITURES $ $ Alabama 413,618 $ 3,191,317 Health Care $46,513,000 Minneapolis Expenditures $48,234,110 Alaska 73,397 $ 552,280 % % Programs $16,240,000 74 26 minnesota ranks Arizona 532,206 $ 3,607,036 Silver Bay Expenditures $11,187,728 HEALTH CARE PROGRAMS & SERVICES Arkansas 249,274 $ 2,143,834 Federal Funds $465,387 Hastings Expenditures $8,991,298 24th California 1,851,470 $ 14,318,281 population Health Care $18,535 Luverne Expenditures $9,827,754 Colorado 413,271 $ 3,073,039 23 Massachusetts Connecticut 213,420 $ 1,171,099 Programs $446,852 22 Colorado Total Health Care Homes $91,020,052 Delaware 78,099 $ 398,842 $ 21 Wisconsin District of Columbia 29,825 $ 2,703,410 111,165,253 20 Alabama Donations $628,942 MDVA FY 2015 19 South Carolina Florida 1,583,697 $ 11,688,201 18 New Jersey Georgia 752,882 $ 5,398,211 Health Care $605,730 Programs & Services $9,433,943 17 Maryland 16 Indiana Hawaii 121,007 $ 842,115 Programs $23,212 Claims & Outreach $5,696,339 15 Missouri Idaho 132,395 $ 827,990 14 Tennessee Illinois 721,575 $ 4,248,086 Total Programs & Services $15,130,282 13 Arizona VA Per Diem $29,134,319 12 Washington Indiana 476,283 $ 2,667,905 11 Michigan REVENUES Iowa 231,655 $ 1,339,350 10 Illinois Resident Maintenance Charges $15,704,538 Total Administration $7,733,628 9 North Carolina Kansas 221,206 $ 1,358,491 Resident Maintenance 8 Georgia Kentucky 330,599 $ 2,425,358 Charges 7 Virginia Louisiana 330,145 $ 2,540,466 Other Revenue $2,479,067 VA Per Diem 6 Ohio 14.1% 5 New York Maine 127,234 $ 959,396 26.2% Health Care $1,467,203 4 Pennsylvania Maryland 437,762 $ 2,688,111 3 Florida Programs $1,011,864 $ 2 Texas Massachusetts 379,772 $ 2,593,152 $ 1 California 100% Michigan 658,469 $ 3,753,563 % TOTAL REVENUES* $111,165,253 TOTAL EXPENDITURES* $113,883,962 100 HEALTH CARE Minnesota 369,149 $ 2,564,646 HEALTH CARE Mississippi 220,389 $ 1,657,042 Missouri 494,346 $ 3,440,223 minnesota ranks Federal Funds Other Revenue Montana 99,646 $ 731,755 .4% 2.2% Nebraska 143,375 $ 1,136,146 25th Nevada 228,027 $ 1,780,651 EXPENDITURES $ New Hampshire 113,660 $ 674,052 $ 24 Massachusetts CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION 59% 41% New Jersey 428,396 $ 2,115,578 4% 96% 23 Wisconsin * Capitol Bonding Improvements not included in the Revenues & Expenditures Totals HEALTH CARE PROGRAMS 22 Indiana New Mexico 171,528 $ 1,450,002 HEALTH CARE PROGRAMS & SERVICES & SERVICES 21 Maryland New York 892,221 $ 6,123,810 20 District of Columbia FEDERAL STATE FEDERAL STATE FEDERAL STATE FEDERAL STATE 19 Oklahoma North Carolina 775,020 $ 5,949,873 Donations 18 Colorado North Dakota 57,395 $ 367,003 Veterans Cemeteries $ 7,950,231 $ ––– $ 2,999,308 $ ––– $ 728,362 $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– 17 Alabama Ohio 866,481 $ 7,504,281 16 South Carolina .6% Oklahoma 337,571 $ 2,934,748 Fergus Falls Veterans Home $ 341,450 $ 183,858 $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– $ 562,400 $ 302,831 15 Missouri 14 Arizona Oregon 331,632 $ 2,542,834 $ 13 Michigan Minneapolis Veterans Home $ 13,899,240 $ 7,484,206 $ 1,839,042 $ 990,253 $ 657,269 $ 353,914 $ 18,105,312 $ 9,749,014 12 Tennessee Pennsylvania 939,069 $ 5,260,391 96% 4% 11 Washington Rhode Island 71,966 $ 529,503 Silver Bay Veterans Home $ 150,298 $ 80,930 $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– $ 240,517 $ 129,509 HEALTH CARE PROGRAMS 10 Illinois South Carolina 417,554 $ 3,289,095 & SERVICES 9 Virginia South Dakota 72,030 $ 619,864 Luverne Veterans Home $ 167,930 $ 90,424 $ 274,868 $ 148,006 $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– $ ––– 8 Pennsylvania 7 Georgia Tennessee 506,340 $ 3,758,888 6 North Carolina Texas 1,680,418 $ 15,394,005 $22,509,149$22,509,149$22,509,149$22,509,149 5 New York TOTOTOTATATOTALLTAL L 4 Ohio Utah 151,719 $ 1,029,344 FUNDSFUNDSFUNDSFUNDS 202020 20 3 Florida Vermont 48,602 $ 295,362 $18,908,229$18,908,229$18,908,229$18,908,229 2 California 1 Texas Virginia 781,388 $ 5,251,707 FEDERALFEDERALFEDERALFEDERAL 151515 15 Washington 603,623 $ 3,811,479 STATSTATSTATESETATE E $10,181,354$10,181,354$10,181,354$10,181,354 $7,839,417 $ West Virginia 167,355 $ 1,826,167 TOTAL $22,509,149 101010 10 $7$7,839,41,839,41$77,839,417 7 MILLIONS MILLIONS MILLIONS MILLIONS 6,947 Wisconsin 413,723 $ 2,665,107 TOTALFUNDS FUNDS20 $5$5,113,21$5,113,21,113,21$58,113,218 8 8 per mn veteran 555 5 $18,908,229 Wyoming 49,708 $ 383,891 FEDERAL 15 $1$1,138,25$1,138,25,138,25$19,138,259 9 9 $1$1,385,63$1,385,63,385,63$11,385,631 1 1 $353,914 increase from fy14 STATE $10,181,354 $353,914$353,914$353,914 Puerto Rico 93,240 $ 1,563,237 10 $7,839,417 $

MILLIONS Guam 9,453 $ 88,631 2015$52015,113,21201520158 2014201420142014 2013201320132013 2012201220122012 ▲ 469 5 2015 2014 2013 2012 $1,138,259 $1,385,631 $353,914 2015 2014 2013 2012 26 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 27 MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTH CARE HOMES SUMMARY OF FEDERAL EXPENDITURES FY14 • BY COUNTY As of September 30, 2014 EXPENDITURES IN $000s Minneapolis COUNTY / VETERAN TOTAL COMPENSATION CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION INSURANCE MEDICAL UNIQUE CONGRESSIONAL POPULATION* EXPENDITURE & PENSION REHABILITATION/ INDEMNITIES CARE PATIENTS** LEGISLATIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS DISTRICT EMPLOYMENT 42.4% AITKIN 1,736 $ 16,258 $ 7,647 $ - $ 246 $ 133 $ 8,232 939 ANOKA 23,368 $ 144,032 $ 65,941 $ - $ 10,238 $ 1,399 $ 66,454 7,165 BECKER 2,985 $ 22,531 $ 11,063 $ - $ 537 $ 179 $ 10,752 1,196 BELTRAMI 3,252 $ 26,997 $ 15,476 $ - $ 1,270 $ 151 $ 10,099 1,319 Fergus Falls BENTON 3,362 $ 30,761 $ 10,504 $ - $ 669 $ 114 $ 19,473 1,488 BIG STONE 476 $ 4,034 $ 2,004 $ - $ 78 $ 65 $ 1,887 261 FUNDING APPROPRIATIONS PROCEDURE CHANGES VETERANS INTEREST 11.2% BLUE EARTH 4,603 $ 25,592 $ 13,040 $ - $ 2,664 $ 268 $ 9,619 1,237 BROWN 1,844 $ 14,085 $ 8,390 $ - $ 609 $ 200 $ 4,886 847 CARLTON 3,356 $ 24,039 $ 14,514 $ - $ 1,071 $ 131 $ 8,322 977 Establish educational pilot Biennium appropriations for MDVA totaled Military discharge forms can now be shared Customized training programs Silver Bay CARVER 4,964 $ 20,401 $ 10,071 $ - $ 1,830 $ 288 $ 8,212 1,092 $142,785,000. CASS 3,355 $ 28,074 $ 14,183 $ - $ 395 $ 219 $ 13,277 1,523 programs for Veterans The appropriation will be used, in part, to fund the following projects: between state and local government Veteran specifically targeting retired and disabled 9.8% CHIPPEWA 849 $ 6,750 $ 2,819 $ - $ 104 $ 59 $ 3,768 516 CHISAGO 4,348 $ 27,204 $ 14,861 $ - $ 2,057 $ 246 $ 10,040 1,113 interested in agriculture. service entities. Veterans are being developed for CLAY 4,304 $ 35,598 $ 13,807 $ - $ 1,840 $ 289 $ 19,662 1,684 A program through the Department of Education skilled manufacturing jobs. Training for CLEARWATER 802 $ 7,532 $ 3,672 $ - $ 110 $ 61 $ 3,688 406 FUNDING: $175,000 FY2016 $ Hastings COOK 512 $ 2,895 $ 1,732 $ - $ 30 $ 47 $ 1,086 110 $175,000 FY2017 2013to expedite temporary licensing for members of the these positions are planned for in the 2014 MDVA general fund appropriations made COTTONWOOD 821 $ 5,655 $ 2,816 $ - $ 51 $ 14 $ 2,774 354 2015 7.9% CROW WING 5,797 $ 55,907 $ 30,069 $ - $ 1,877 $ 482 $ 23,479 2,901 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 military. Occupations include optometrist, dietitian and may be transferred to a Veterans Homes workplace and at MnSCU institutions. DAKOTA 27,550 $ 174,948 $ 81,419 $ - $ 14,380 $ 1,919 $ 77,230 7,126 DODGE 1,221 $ 6,730 $ 3,740 $ - $ 317 $ 45 $ 2,629 374 nutritionist, marriage and family therapist, professional special revenue fund account. Luverne DOUGLAS 3,260 $ 24,995 $ 13,467 $ - $ 659 $ 161 $ 10,707 1,514 and clinical counselor, podiatric medicine, and barber. FARIBAULT 1,292 $ 8,483 $ 4,024 $ - $ 402 $ 153 $ 3,903 413 Administrative funds to serve Parks, trails and recreation areas on FILLMORE 1,560 $ 9,083 $ 5,269 $ - $ 414 $ 78 $ 3,322 468 Licenses are also to be established for cosmetologists, Firefighters eligibility examination to include 8.6% FREEBORN 2,628 $ 18,730 $ 8,308 $ - $ 465 $ 224 $ 9,733 1,023 Big Marine Lake are scheduled for Veterans at the Stearns nail technicians and estheticians. GOODHUE 3,994 $ 21,168 $ 9,652 $ - $ 1,105 $ 377 $ 10,034 1,001 Veterans relevant military experience. development by the Disabled Veterans GRANT 479 $ 3,960 $ 2,342 $ - $ 74 $ 85 $ 1,460 227 County Veterans Housing FUNDING: $44,000 HENNEPIN 62,054 $ 486,138 $ 155,034 $ 2,798 $ 35,866 $ 8,297 $ 202,380 15,768 Rest Camp Association. HOUSTON 1,573 $ 8,658 $ 5,277 $ - $ 354 $ 139 $ 2,899 665 FUNDING: $85,000 each year AVAILABLE UNTIL: JUNE 30, 2017 Reports on federal Medicare reimbursements HUBBARD 2,316 $ 17,330 $ 9,297 $ - $ 236 $ 139 $ 7,657 880 of the biennium FUNDING: $113,000 ISANTI 3,209 $ 20,657 $ 9,766 $ - $ 954 $ 136 $ 9,800 1,183 SOT grant funds received, and how are used, EFFECTIVE: AUGUST 1, 2015 ITASCA 4,687 $ 33,173 $ 18,987 $ - $ 730 $ 206 $ 13,250 1,721 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 Veterans Service Organizations: JACKSON 819 $ 4,858 $ 2,285 $ - $ 61 $ 46 $ 2,466 309 $ are to be provided annually. KANABEC 1,472 $ 12,957 $ 5,397 $ - $ 159 $ 84 $ 7,318 677 2013 2DAV,014 MOPH, American Legion, VFW, AMVETS, KANDIYOHI 2,766 $ 21,401 $ 11,406 $ - $ 489 $ 204 $ 9,302 1,343 2015 KITTSON 406 $ 2,171 $ 1,064 $ - $ 18 $ 160 $ 929 172 ZEVVA,RO and Paralyzed Veterans of America Verification of small businesses that are The Veterans’ Voices program will be KOOCHICHING 1,279 $ 7,453 $ 4,066 $ - $ 145 $ 19 $ 3,223 367 Grants for non-profit LAC QUI PARLE 571 $ 4,432 $ 2,279 $ - $ 53 $ 22 $ 2,079 351 organizations to provide FUNDING: $353,000 majority-owned and operated by a Veteran hosted at the Minnesota Humanities LAKE 1,209 $ 8,362 $ 5,068 $ - $ 190 $ 107 $ 2,995 381 will now be certified by MDVA. LAKE of WOODS 482 $ 2,996 $ 1,537 $ - $ 17 $ 52 $ 1,390 166 mental health service EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 Center. LE SUEUR 2,017 $ 11,907 $ 5,371 $ - $ 481 $ 104 $ 5,951 661 FUNDING: $100,000 EACH YEAR LINCOLN 479 $ 3,470 $ 1,300 $ - $ 65 $ 110 $ 1,996 183 referrals for Southeast Asian $ LYON 1,756 $ 10,401 $ 4,735 $ - $ 527 $ 171 $ 4,968 550 Veterans (born before 1965) Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) Appointed trustees of the Big Island trust EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 113,883,962 MCLEOD 2,902 $ 17,886 $ 8,292 $ - $ 665 $ 137 $ 8,791 1,076 $ can be dismissed by a majority vote of MAHNOMEN 409 $ 3,867 $ 1,787 $ - $ 62 $ 35 $ 1,982 206 not currently qualifying for 2FUNDING:013 $750,000 ANNUALLY EXPENDITURES MDVA FY 2015 2014 MARSHALL 715 $ 5,015 $ 2,460 $ - $ 108 $ 23 $ 2,424 369 2015 the trustees, and with the consent of the MARTIN 1,746 $ 12,945 $ 7,005 $ - $ 374 $ 154 $ 5,412 759 services available to Veterans. EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 MEEKER 1,934 $ 14,530 $ 6,428 $ - $ 401 $ 89 $ 7,611 802 Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. During deer hunting season, Residents MILLE LACS 2,443 $ 27,339 $ 13,710 $ - $ 666 $ 120 $ 12,843 1,127 FUNDING: $100,000 FY2016 of a Minnesota Veterans Home may MORRISON 2,839 $ 34,019 $ 17,573 $ - $ 1,023 $ 198 $ 15,226 1,678 Honor Guard Services at Veteran funerals MOWER 2,840 $ 16,338 $ 10,018 $ - $ 570 $ 261 $ 5,488 827 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 $ Honor and Remember Flag obtain a firearm or muzzle loader deer 2FUNDING:013 $200,000 ANNUALLY The is the MURRAY 690 $ 4,165 $ 1,845 $ - $ 97 $ 67 $ 2,157 310 ZE2014 RO 2015 license, NICOLLET 2,144 $ 13,497 $ 6,905 $ - $ 1,081 $ 129 $ 5,383 779 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 recognized symbol to acknowledge the and take antlerless deer without NOBLES 1,508 $ 7,762 $ 2,878 $ - $ 327 $ 112 $ 4,446 506 a permit in designated state hunting NORMAN 588 $ 5,754 $ 2,670 $ - $ 136 $ 17 $ 2,932 251 “Support Our Troops” ultimate sacrifice made by a fallen member OLMSTED 10,868 $ 37,622 $ 19,796 $ - $ 3,380 $ 742 $ 13,704 1,950 Administering the Minnesota GI Bill of the US armed forces in the line of duty. areas. Individuals may assist a Minnesota OTTER TAIL 5,375 $ 39,617 $ 20,404 $ - $ 900 $ 498 $ 17,816 2,215 grants available to $ postsecondary PENNINGTON 1,022 $ 6,424 $ 3,448 $ - $ 280 $ 34 $ 2,662 330 Veterans Home Resident during deer 2educational013 benefits, on-the-job training and PINE 2,966 $ 21,812 $ 11,084 $ - $ 708 $ 189 $ 9,831 912 competitive organizations 2014 2015 Veterans Home season without having a deer license, but PIPESTONE 654 $ 4,547 $ 1,421 $ - $ 167 $ 147 $ 2,812 229 and efforts dedicated apprenticeship programs A cannot be closed unless POLK 2,531 $ 15,174 $ 6,858 $ - $ 681 $ 229 $ 7,406 941 specifically authorized by law. that person may not shoot a deer. Programs & Services POPE 847 $ 7,016 $ 3,551 $ - $ 134 $ 21 $ 3,310 418 to improving the lives of FUNDING: $200,000 ANNUALLY RAMSEY 28,093 $ 171,046 $ 70,612 $ - $ 15,209 $ 3,617 $ 81,607 6,746 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 8.3% RED LAKE 360 $ 1,855 $ 968 $ - $ 49 $ 8 $ 831 115 Veterans and their families. ZERO REDWOOD 1,161 $ 8,902 $ 5,037 $ - $ 160 $ 53 $ 3,652 424 Through the Veterans Preference Act, FUNDING: GRANTS UP TO Rehabilitation study of the Minnehaha RENVILLE 1,178 $ 8,781 $ 5,133 $ - $ 255 $ 65 $ 3,328 468 $100,000 Veterans facing a pending discharge can RICE 4,548 $ 21,184 $ 11,328 $ - $ 1,113 $ 241 $ 8,502 972 Gold Star Family Program services for surviving Creek bridge ROCK 693 $ 5,722 $ 2,527 $ - $ 156 $ 280 $ 2,758 301 $ that links South Minnehaha Claims & Outreach EFFECTIVE: AUGUST 1, 2015 2013 file a written request for a hearing to be ROSEAU 1,039 $ 5,622 $ 3,121 $ - $ 126 $ 117 $ 2,259 388 2family014 members of deceased Veterans 2015 Dr. and the Minneapolis Veterans Home. 5.0% ST. LOUIS 18,789 $ 106,493 $ 58,271 $ - $ 7,607 $ 1,443 $ 39,172 5,476 ZEFUNDING:RO $100,000 ANNUALLY performed in one of three methods: SCOTT 7,360 $ 52,271 $ 21,516 $ - $ 7,892 $ 316 $ 22,547 2,057 FUNDING: $650,000 SHERBURNE 6,402 $ 52,486 $ 26,879 $ - $ 3,381 $ 266 $ 21,960 2,470 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 • a civil service board or commission SIBLEY 1,185 $ 6,345 $ 3,156 $ - $ 187 $ 59 $ 2,943 368 • a merit authority, or Administration STEARNS 10,306 $ 155,824 $ 51,974 $ 13,428 $ 4,384 $ 504 $ 83,977 5,791 STEELE 2,818 $ 13,198 $ 6,985 $ - $ 739 $ 137 $ 5,338 689 County Veterans Service Officer grant program • a three-person panel A grant to the City of Sauk Centre to 6.8% STEVENS 524 $ 2,823 $ 1,562 $ - $ 97 $ 30 $ 1,134 225 $ ZERO If the Veteran does not select a method, SWIFT 945 $ 6,073 $ 3,325 $ - $ 189 $ 51 $ 2,508 354 2FUNDING:013 $1.1M ANNUALLY Eagle’s Healing 2014 replace the roof at the TODD 2,113 $ 15,890 $ 7,387 $ - $ 177 $ 77 $ 8,249 1,007 2015 it will be selected for him/her. TRAVERSE 353 $ 2,540 $ 1,361 $ - $ 34 $ 20 $ 1,125 120 EFFECTIVE: JULY 1, 2015 Nest, a facility that serves Veterans, WABASHA 1,821 $ 13,351 $ 7,432 $ - $ 403 $ 212 $ 5,304 659 ALLOCATIONS PAYROLL WADENA 1,206 $ 16,250 $ 9,710 $ - $ 323 $ 92 $ 6,125 630 Who is responsible for the costs of service members and their families. 13% WASECA 1,715 $ 7,854 $ 3,895 $ - $ 407 $ 55 $ 3,498 452 FUNDING: $300,000 7% 28% WASHINGTON 16,896 $ 87,319 $ 42,471 $ - $ 7,976 $ 1,524 $ 35,347 3,406 a discharge hearing are as follows: WATONWAN 922 $ 6,248 $ 2,924 $ - $ 116 $ 54 $ 3,154 384 • If heard by a civil service board, the WILKIN 470 $ 3,409 $ 1,500 $ - $ 105 $ 29 $ 1,775 171 WINONA 3,572 $ 16,656 $ 7,944 $ - $ 1,231 $ 346 $ 7,135 960 Veteran is only responsible for the fees of WRIGHT 9,059 $ 51,859 $ 24,194 $ - $ 3,484 $ 511 $ 23,670 2,480 The unexpended balance from the ZERO the attorney representing him/her. YELLOW MEDICINE 790 $ 6,510 $ 3,340 $ - $ 188 $ 122 $ 2,860 378 2012 appropriation is being added to MINNESOTA 369,149 $ 2,564,646 $ 1,146,384 $ 16,225 $ 151,587 $ 30,815 $ 1,136,313 115,827 • If heard by a three-person panel, all the current appropriations to develop a $81,612,804 CONG DIST (01) 49,621 $ 261,927 $ 135,109 $ - $ 14,944 $ 3,642 $ 108,233 14,369 parties equally pay the hearing cost. new skilled nursing facility in Building 17 CONG DIST (02) 45,507 $ 285,377 $ 131,688 $ - $ 25,675 $ 3,452 $ 124,562 11,783 The Veteran also pays the fees for the CONG DIST (03) 39,575 $ 187,844 $ 76,977 $ - $ 16,651 $ 5,366 $ 88,850 9,567 and adjoining facilities. 80% 72% CONG DIST (04) 38,411 $ 219,383 $ 94,261 $ - $ 19,627 $ 4,385 $ 101,109 8,723 attorney representing him/her. CONG DIST (05) 34,305 $ 363,594 $ 108,271 $ 2,797 $ 24,098 $ 3,716 $ 142,949 9,465 ZERO FUNDING: $18,935,000 CONG DIST (06) 46,808 $ 396,464 $ 164,208 $ 13,404 $ 20,615 $ 2,506 $ 194,172 16,923 If the discharge is reversed and the Veteran Health Care Payroll CONG DIST (07) 52,202 $ 380,809 $ 184,776 $ 21 $ 11,135 $ 3,692 $ 181,185 21,889 prevails, reasonable fees for the Veteran’s Programs & Services Non-payroll Expenses CONG DIST (08) 62,719 $ 469,249 $ 251,094 $ 3 $ 18,842 $ 4,055 $ 195,254 23,108 * Veteran population estimates, as of September 30, 2014, are produced by the VA Office of the Actuary (VetPop 2014). attorneys will be covered. Administration ** Unique patients are patients who received treatment at a VA health care facility. Data are provided by the Allocation Resource Center (ARC). APPROXIMATE EFFECTIVE DATE: MAY 23, 2015

28 2015 ANNUAL REPORT MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 2015 ANNUAL REPORT 29

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