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Columbia Basin
Veterans Center

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About Us

Although our name has changed through the years, our mission has always stayed the same. Assisting local veterans.

Columbia Basin Veteran Center assists veterans receive benefits they’ve earned through their service to our country.

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We home veterans through multiple programs, assist veterans financially through county programs and also have a in house Veteran Relief Program.

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Alongside our financial programs, our CBVC staff stays active in pulling veterans out of self isolation through our outdoor recreational programs. We provide free yoga, cycling, hiking fishing and skiing throughout the year. Columbia Basin Veterans Center aims to promote healthy minds through healthy bodies.

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In order to be able to serve veterans on a more extensive level, we house a counselor, and Outreach Specialist from the Walla Walla Vet’s Center.

2009

Columbia Basin Coalition is created

2017

Organization changes name to Columbia Basin Veterans Center

2020

New director, Matt Sammons, leads the CBVC

2021

New staff with new roles; The first Veterans Community Golf Classic is held, followed by the first Tri-Cities Veterans Resource Expo since pandemic.

2022

CBVC Women Veterans Meetups begin

Board Members

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Tom Grego

Board Chairman

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Matt Watkins

Board Member

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Allison Parnell

Vice Chairman

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Dan Bauch

Treasurer

Staff

Matt Sammons

Matt Sammons

Executive Director

Steve Lehto

Steve Lehto

Mentor Coordinator

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King Mars

Housing Case Manager

Linda Rust

Linda Rust

Accountant

Kelsey Lehto

Kelsey Lehto

Project Manager

Front Office Manager

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Mireya Meija

Front Office Assistant

Image by Daniel Foster

Always Remember

This is where we remember the fallen, the ones who gave the ultimate sacrifice from our communities here in the Tri-Cities. We encourage you to take a moment or two to learn a little more about those who came from our neighborhoods to serve their country.

Travis Dwight Pfister

Travis Dwight Pfister

United States Marine Corps
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364
Marine Aircraft Group 39
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing I Marine Expeditionary Force

Daniel Leonard Wagenaar

Daniel Leonard Wagenaar

Army of the United StatesE3 Private First Class

11B10: Infantryman

A CO, 2nd BN, 2nd Infantry, 1st INF DIV, USARV

FAQ

  • Is Columbia Basin Veterans Center a non-profit?
    Yes, we are a 501c3 and our active EIN is 27-1349745. If you want to add us as your charity of choice to the United Way campaign this number is essential.
  • How is Columbia Basin Veterans Center funded?
    The Columbia Basin Vet Center has received funding through a local endowment as well as a bi-county grant; however, CBVC relies heavily on fundraising events and community donations.
  • What services are provided?
    Operates two homes for veterans Offers financial & transportation assistance for qualifying veterans Provides offices for free counseling Offers free recreational activities such as biking, hiking, yoga, fishing and more! Woman Veterans monthly meet-ups
  • How do I get a copy of my DD214?
    You can come into the CBVC and fill out a SF 180 military record request form or you can follow the steps at www.archives.gov.
  • How can I file VA paperwork?
    Veteran Service Officers are trained and certified to fill out VA claims and to advocate on your behalf to the VA and others. Please check our resources tab for local VSO's.
  • Is CBVC part of the VA?
    No, Columbia Basin Veteran Center (CBVC) is a community-based resource center. CBVC provides services to veterans and partners with other organizations in order to provide a full spectrum of opportunities and access.
  • Can I get involved as a civilian?
    Yes! Other then our many volunteer opportunities; we have recreational programs and possibly veteran assistance you may qualify for (for family of veterans). Call our center to apply to volunteer!
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