The Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Detroit Chapter 9 has been a transformative force in Detroit’s Cass Corridor and District Detroit neighborhoods since its inception in 1981, when it collaborated with Detroit Mayor Coleman A. Young to create a thriving veteran service center. Since then, Chapter 9 has dedicated itself to advocating for veterans and supporting the broader Detroit community.
The Chapter’s contributions include:
- Supporting Detroit police with programs like CB Patrols and Neighborhood City Hall Police Stations.
- Reviving the Detroit Veterans Day Parade, now featuring over 5,000 participants.
- Advocating for the construction of the John Dingell VA Hospital and providing health care facilities during its development.
- Establishing scholarships for JROTC cadets in Detroit high schools.
- Donating to numerous local charities, including NSO, Detroit Rescue Mission, and Volunteers of America.
Chapter 9’s impact extends beyond advocacy, with initiatives like supporting the designation of Detroit as a Purple Heart City and providing service dogs to veterans through the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dog program.
“As one of the founding members of Chapter 9, I’ve witnessed its profound impact on the lives of Vietnam veterans and the broader Detroit community,” said NVBDC Founder and CEO Keith King. “This partnership builds on a legacy of service, advocacy, and empowerment.”
By joining the NVBDC MVO Task Force, Chapter 9 strengthens its ability to advocate for veterans in the business world. NVBDC’s mission to connect veteran-owned businesses with corporate supplier diversity programs aligns perfectly with Chapter 9’s ongoing efforts to support the veteran community, as well as veteran entrepreneurs, providing resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
“VVA Detroit Chapter 9’s dedication to supporting veterans in Detroit aligns perfectly with NVBDC’s mission,” said Paul Edelstein, Director of Media Relations. “We’re excited to collaborate with NVBDC and other Task Force members to create meaningful opportunities for veterans.”
Together, NVBDC and VVA Detroit Chapter 9 will continue to champion for the needs of veterans, ensuring they have the resources to succeed in business and in life.
For more information about the mission and activities of VVA Detroit Chapter 9, visit vva9.org
