What is the AVET Project?

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Leah Bucholz
Leah Bucholz, PA-C, is an NCCPA board-certified physician assistant and the founder and CEO of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting. She served 20 years in the U.S. Army as a medic and physician assistant, deployed to Iraq, and retired as a Major. From 2018 to 2019 she was a VA Compensation & Pension examiner in Boerne, Texas. She is lead author of the independent medical opinion chapter in the U.S. Army Physician Assistant Handbook (2nd ed., 2021) and hosts The Veterans Disability Nexus podcast. Her articles cite primary sources, including 38 CFR, VA.gov and the Federal Register.
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At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, our blogs are written and reviewed by licensed medical professionals or military veterans with direct experience in the VA claims process. Our team has served as healthcare providers, combat veterans, and former VA examiners — giving us unique insight into both the medical and regulatory side of benefits. Every article is designed to provide accurate, trustworthy, and practical guidance so that veterans and their families can make informed decisions with confidence.

The AVET Project, short for American Veterans Empowerment Team, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving and empowering veterans and their families. In a recent podcast episode, Leah Bucholz hosts Kim and Garren Cone, the driving force behind AVET Project, shedding light on the impactful work they do for the veteran community.


The Heart of AVET Project

AVET Project operates on the principle that every action they take is geared towards empowering people. Both Kim and Garren emphasize that their efforts, whether through the AVET Project or American Warrior Radio, are driven by the desire to provide valuable information and support for free.

AVET Project’s Mission

The acronym AVET stands for American Veterans Empowerment Team, and that encapsulates the organization’s mission — to empower veterans and their families. The focus is on addressing various challenges faced by veterans, from financial struggles to mental health issues.

VA Benefits and Financial Support

One significant aspect of AVET Project’s work is assisting veterans in navigating and claiming their VA benefits. Garren, an accredited claims agent, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. This support often results in life-changing financial relief for veterans and their families, alleviating stress and improving their overall well-being.

Project Recuperation, Reintegration, and Retreats

AVET Project organizes events like Project Recuperation, Reintegration Retreats, and even a Veterans Day Cruise. These events provide veterans with a safe space to share their experiences and struggles, fostering a sense of community and understanding. Kim and Garren stress the importance of inclusivity, making sure everyone feels welcome, including therapy dogs.

Mental Health Support

Recognizing the impact of invisible wounds like PTSD on veterans and their families, AVET Project collaborates with psychologists and doctors during their retreats. The goal is to create an environment where military personnel and their families feel comfortable discussing and addressing mental health issues.

Leah Bucholz’s Experience

Leah Bucholz, who has attended AVET Project’s events, shares her positive experiences. She highlights the organization’s ability to create a safe space where veterans can be themselves, sharing both the challenges and triumphs of their military experiences. Leah commends AVET Project for fostering a sense of family and warmth.

How You Can Get Involved

Volunteering

AVET Project encourages individuals to get involved by volunteering their time. The organization’s events and initiatives rely on the support of volunteers to make a meaningful impact on the lives of veterans.

Donations

Financial contributions play a crucial role in AVET Project’s ability to provide assistance and organize events. Donations help cover costs associated with retreats, holiday parties for active-duty military families, and other initiatives aimed at supporting the veteran community.

Sponsorship

AVET Project also welcomes sponsorships for events like the Women’s Empowerment celebration, where female veterans are honored. Sponsorship from individuals and businesses allows AVET Project to continue uplifting and supporting veterans in various ways.

Upcoming Initiatives

AVET Project has several upcoming initiatives in the pipeline, including a Veterans Day Retreat and Garren speaking at a church on veterans’ benefits. Additionally, the organization is actively involved in supporting military events such as the Space Coast 10 Miler, exemplifying their commitment to being wherever they can make a positive impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AVET Project is a beacon of support for veterans and their families, providing assistance, creating safe spaces, and fostering a sense of community. The organization’s dedication to empowerment, coupled with the support of volunteers and donors, ensures that AVET Project can continue its vital mission of helping past and present military members and their families. To learn more, get involved, or support their cause, visit AVET Project’s website.

Also read: What to Expect in a PTSD C&P Exam

At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.

Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.

Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.

Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.

Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.

Picture of Alan Bucholz, PA-C
Alan Bucholz, PA-C

Board-Certified Physician Assistant | U.S. Army Combat Veteran | Co-founder & CFO, Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting

This article was medically reviewed and fact checked by Alan Bucholz, PA-C, a board-certified Physician Assistant and retired U.S. Army combat veteran with experience in emergency medicine and two combat deployments (Iraq & Afghanistan). As Co-founder of Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, Alan provides evidence-based medical opinions to support veterans’ VA disability claims with accuracy, compliance, and ethics.

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