Veterans

News and Notes from AARP Michigan

Across the country, someone’s identity is stolen every two seconds. Fraud is an escalating crisis, with losses far exceeding what is reported. While $9 billion in fraud losses were reported in 2022, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates the true financial impact at $137 billion due to underreporting. The impact on victims and their families can be financially and emotionally devastating, especially for older Americans.

Fraud cost veterans, service members, and their families $477 million in 2023, according to the latest Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data, and this only includes fraud that was reported. With over 85% of veterans having encountered service-related scams in the last 12 months, now is a great time to review some of the most prevalent scams targeting current and former service members.

Two special volunteers recognized for exceptional service to their community.

When Tropical Storm Helene slammed into western North Carolina, AARP volunteer leaders and staff all across the state were anxious to help. Many ideas were proposed, but it was a single photograph in the Citizen Times of the devastation of a veterans housing site in Swannanoa, one of the hardest hit towns, that spoke most powerfully of the tremendous need in the Mountain Region.

AARP Virginia spotlighted veterans' issues this November, featuring a powerful webinar with Col. Donna Fore, a 30-year U.S. Air Force veteran and survivor of the 9/11 Pentagon attack.

Resources, programs and support available for Michigan’s Military Community

Free resources, community programming and access to discounts to meet the unique needs of veterans and their loved ones.

Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is observed annually on November 11, for honoring military veterans of the United States Armed Forces. This gives Americans a way to thank current service members and honor those who have paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

Help spread holiday cheer to California veterans and active duty military!