Who We Are

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NABVETS, Inc. began as The Interested Veterans of the Central City (IVOCC), a community-based organization founded in 1969 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by seven returning Vietnam combat veterans. The organization was formed to address issues facing Vietnam veterans in the inner city, such as unemployment, inadequate housing, and difficulties in accessing healthcare. They formed to address the marginalization of Black Veterans and the challenges they faced with getting their benefits and services.

In 1973, IVOCC reorganized to become a membership service organization with the charge to address issues concerning Black and other minority veterans. In 1998, NABVETS, Inc. became a National Veterans Service Organization (VSO), certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and chartered by the U.S. Congress to represent veterans filing claims for their benefits through their Veteran Service Officers (VSO). NABVETS became the first and only Black Organization chartered by Congress.

NABVETS  has over 100 chapters, that include Puerto and the Dominican Republic.

 NABVETS will persist in commemorating, safeguarding, and enlightening the nation about the invaluable contributions of veterans, with a specific focus on Black veterans who have been historically overlooked. Serving as a platform, it will facilitate the ongoing national impact of veterans through meaningful community service.