Los Angeles County is home to approximately 281,000 military veterans who, despite their leadership experience and community service mindset, face significant challenges. Compared to civilians, veterans are twice as likely to experience homelessness and suicide, with one in three reporting having been jailed—rates that are even higher for veterans of color. The Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs (MVA) works to support these veterans by helping them navigate complex benefit systems and access healthcare, education, housing, and community connections.
MVA’s work spans dozens of departments and requires knowledge of City, County, State, and federal programs, making it challenging for Veteran Services Officers to efficiently serve clients. The project will develop a comprehensive dashboard that synthesizes data from various departments and agencies, allowing staff to quickly access veterans’ information, identify previous government interactions, and connect them with appropriate opportunities. Additionally, the initiative will analyze MVA’s current IT systems to identify gaps and plan for future growth. With user-centered design and proper data security protocols, these tools will enable MVA to more effectively prevent homelessness, suicide, and incarceration among veterans while ensuring they can access the benefits and opportunities they deserve.