Tucson, AZ, August 2024 – Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) marks a significant milestone as Director Jennifer S. Gutowski, MHA, FACHE, celebrates 25 years of dedicated service with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Reflecting on her tenure, Director Gutowski expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve Veterans alongside a passionate team, emphasizing the continuous commitment to providing top-tier care and support.
Community engagements, partnerships:
- Tohono O’odham Nation Veteran Claims Event: The Medical Disability Exam Office and the SAVAHCS Outreach Team will attend to offer exams, eligibility assistance, and information on various health programs.
- OVC, American Legion Yoeme Post #125 Veteran Stand Down: The Outreach Team will provide critical information, enrollment assistance, with a focus on suicide prevention.
Upcoming events:
- National Veterans Creative Arts Competition: Scheduled for August 14-15 at the Tucson VA main campus, this event invites the community to enjoy, vote for their favorite artworks.
- Annual International Overdose Awareness Day: Held on August 30, this event will focus on educating Veterans about naloxone, substance use disorder services.
Volunteer opportunities:
SAVAHCS seeks volunteers for numerous positions, including:
- Ambassador Patient Transportation
- Van Drivers from Yuma or Casa Grande
- In-Home Visitor Program
- Blind Rehab Recreation Activities Assistants
- And more. For details, contact Kristina Blake at (520) 629-1822 or email [email protected].
Health care information:
SAVAHCS announces new eligibility for VA health care for WWII Veterans under the Cleland-Dole Act. This legislation ensures access to health care for all WWII Veterans, regardless of income or service length.
Construction updates:
- Mental Health Building 90 Expansion: Phase 1 completed, with Phase 2 demolition ongoing. Expected completion date: September 7, 2024.
- Roof repair projects: Work on buildings 50, 60, 78, 90 continues as scheduled.
Director’s message:
Reflecting on her 25-year journey, Director Gutowski shared her appreciation for the dedicated team at SAVAHCS and the unwavering support from Veteran Service Organizations, community partners. She reaffirmed her commitment to excellence in serving Veterans, and their families.
For more information, contact SAVAHCS Public Affairs at (520) 629-1819.
