To better serve veterans in the Tampa Bay region and beyond, the Raymond James National Veteran Inclusion (Valor) Network has added Stetson’s Veterans Law Institute to the portfolio of organizations that help it support those who have served.

A nationwide alliance of nonprofits, Valor offers a variety of services such as financial support and career development to members of all military branches as well as military spouses and first responders. The VLI is the only nonprofit in the network that can provide free legal services to veterans seeking to appeal denial of benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Our Valor nonprofits support veterans from all over the country, and a key need for veterans and transitioning military, is navigating the VA system/claims process,” said Mercy Ameyaw Aston, national co-chair of Valor. “Legal support ranks as one of the highest unmet needs by veterans and their families. VA Claims are a difficult area for private practitioners because cases can take years, involve extensive investigation, and the final award is uncertain.”