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TALLAHASSEE, FLA. –The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) is pleased to announce the anticipated continuation of its Veterans Dental Program in Fiscal Year 2026–2027, pending the renewal of funding by the Florida Legislature and final approval by Governor Ron DeSantis. This crucial initiative expands access to vital dental care services for eligible veterans across the state. Under this program, the FVF will continue to manage a comprehensive network of selected 501(c)(3) organizations to deliver a full range of dental services to qualified veterans. The program emphasizes the importance of oral health and seeks to address the gap in dental care services for veterans not fully covered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. "We are honored to continue this initiative, which directly impacts the lives of many veterans across Florida. Our goal remains to ensure that every eligible veteran has access to the dental care they need, improving their quality of life and overall health," says Dr. Pia S. Woodley, DBA, Chair, Florida Veterans Foundation. Key features of the Veterans Dental Program for FY 2026-2027 include: Eligibility and Enrollment: The program is open to Florida residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard and meet specific criteria, including income level and service status. Must have been issued a DD-214, NGB 22, or Certificate of Discharge. Eligible veterans must reside in Florida. Must be at the designated Poverty Level (Pending) or below as defined by the federal government at the time of their application. Must be less than 100% service-connected disabled. Veterans must not have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health. Definition of Veteran According to Chapter 1.01 of the 2023 Florida Statues, “the term ‘veteran’ means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under honorable conditions only or who later received an upgraded discharge under honorable conditions, notwithstanding any action by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs on individuals discharged or released with other than honorable discharges. The term includes all members of the Florida National Guard and United States Reserve Forces who were discharged or released under honorable conditions only, or who later received an upgraded discharge under honorable conditions. Statewide Dental Network: FVF will continue partnering with 501(c)(3) organizations across Florida to ensure services are accessible to veterans in all regions. Comprehensive Care: Services will include routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and other necessary dental procedures. Outreach and Education: FVF will continue working closely with veteran service organizations and community partners to promote the program and educate veterans about their eligibility. Opportunities for Statewide Veteran-Centric Organizations: Statewide veteran-centric organizations interested in participating in the program can learn more and apply online at helpflvets.org/dentalprogram. Once the application has been completed you will receive an application packet via email for our Lead Dental Director. Organizations applying to be a Grantee will be required to: Submit their application to the Florida Veterans Foundation (“FVF”) according to the application packet instructions. Demonstrate that they can facilitate dental care services in accordance with the rules within the Statement of Work. Grantee Workplan Requirements: Administering the Program: The Veterans Dental Grant Program Grantees will be required to use awarded grant funds according to the requirements set forth by the FVF by: Ensuring verification of a veteran's status by reviewing their DD-214, NGB 22, or Military Discharge documents or applicable U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs forms. Utilizing awarded funds based on the requirements of the FVF-provided contract. Tracking the dental services provided to veterans by: Reporting the number of veterans served and other demographics. Tracking Program expenses. Maintain accountability of services for Quality Assurance. Ensure the protection of veteran information and maintain HIPAA compliance to protect PHI. Definition of Veteran According to Chapter 1.01 of the 2023 Florida Statues, “the term ‘veteran’ means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released under honorable conditions only or who later received an upgraded discharge under honorable conditions, notwithstanding any action by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs on individuals discharged or released with other than honorable discharges. The term includes all members of the Florida National Guard and United States Reserve Forces who were discharged or released under honorable conditions only, or who later received an upgraded discharge under honorable conditions. For more information, please contact us at fvf@fdva.fl.gov. The Florida Veterans Foundation is dedicated to providing essential services and support to veterans throughout Florida. Through programs like the Veterans Dental Program, the FVF aims to improve the quality of life for those who have served our nation.

Tallahassee, FL – April 2, 2026 The Florida Veterans Foundation will officially launch its new statewide initiative, the Heroes to Washington Grant , on April 4 in Tallahassee, marking the first of ten ceremonial presentations supporting Honor Flight hubs across Florida. The initiative provides funding to local Honor Flight programs that enable veterans to travel to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. Through this campaign, the Foundation will present a series of $15,000 grants to Honor Flight hubs throughout the state, beginning with the Tallahassee-area hub. Each presentation will recognize the critical role these organizations play in honoring Florida’s veterans. “This initiative is about more than funding, it’s about gratitude,” says Raymond Miller, Chief Operating Officer of the Florida Veterans Foundation. “The Heroes to Washington Grant reflects our commitment to ensuring that every veteran has the opportunity to be recognized for their service in a meaningful and lasting way.” The campaign is being launched in partnership with the Honor Flight Network and participating regional hubs across Florida. Each stop in the statewide tour will be documented and shared publicly to highlight veteran stories and community impact. The Heroes to Washington Grant will include ten stops across Florida, with each event featuring a ceremonial presentation, veteran engagement, and opportunities for community awareness and support. Members of the public are encouraged to follow the campaign online and learn more about local Honor Flight programs and how to support veteran participation. Event Details – Tallahassee Launch: Date: April 4, 2026 Location: Tallahassee, Florida Event: Heroes to Washington Grant Kickoff Presentation For more information about the Florida Veterans Foundation, visit: helpflvets.org Media Contact: Brooke Dennison, Director of Outreach & Strategic Initiatives Florida Veterans Foundation brooke.dennison@fdva.fl.gov

TALLAHASSEE, FLA.  – The Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF) is pleased to announce the continuation of its Veterans Dental Program  in 2026, thanks to renewed funding from the Florida Legislature and approval by Governor Ron Desantis. This crucial initiative expands access to vital dental care services for eligible veterans across the state.  Under this program, the FVF will continue to manage a comprehensive network of selected 501(c)(3) organizations to deliver a full range of dental services to qualified veterans. The program emphasizes the importance of oral health and seeks to address the gap in dental care services for veterans not fully covered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  "We are honored to continue this initiative, which directly impacts the lives of many veterans across Florida. Our goal remains to ensure that every eligible veteran has access to the dental care they need, improving their quality of life and overall health," says Dr. Pia S. Woodley, DBA, Chair, Florida Veterans Foundation.    Key features of the Veterans Dental Program for 2026 include:   Eligibility and Enrollment:  The program is open to Florida residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard and meet specific criteria, including income level and service status.   Must have been issued a DD-214, NGB 22, or Certificate of Discharge.  Eligible veterans must reside in Florida.  Must be at 300% Poverty Level or below as defined by the federal government at the time of their application.  Must be less than 100% service-connected disabled.  Veterans must not have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health.  Statewide Dental Network:  FVF will continue partnering with 501(c)(3) organizations across Florida to ensure services are accessible to veterans in all regions.  Comprehensive Care:  Services will include routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and other necessary dental procedures.  Outreach and Education:  FVF will continue working closely with veteran service organizations and community partners to promote the program and educate veterans about their eligibility.    Opportunities for Statewide Veteran-Centric Organizations:   Statewide veteran-centric organizations interested in participating in the program can learn more and apply online at helpflvets.org/dentalprogram . Organizations applying to be a Grantee will be required to:  Submit their application to the Florida Veterans Foundation (“FVF”) according to the online instructions.  Demonstrate that they can facilitate dental care services in accordance with the rules within the Statement of Work.    Grantee Workplan Requirements:   Administering the Program:  The Veterans Dental Grant Program Grantees will be required to use awarded grant funds according to the requirements set forth by the FVF by:  Ensuring verification of a veteran's status by reviewing their DD-214, NGB 22, or Military Discharge documents or applicable U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs forms.  Utilizing awarded funds based on the requirements of the FVF-provided contract.  Tracking the dental services provided to veterans by:   Reporting the number of veterans served and other demographics.  Tracking Program expenses.  Maintain accountability of services  for Quality Assurance.  Ensure the protection of veteran information and maintain HIPAA compliance to protect PHI.  For more information, please contact us at fvf@fdva.fl.gov .  The Florida Veterans Foundation is dedicated to providing essential services and support to veterans throughout Florida. Through programs like the Veterans Dental Program, the FVF aims to improve the quality of life for those who have served our nation.

To serve, support, and advocate for Florida veterans to improve their quality of Life! The Florida Veterans Foundation serves as the statewide lead organization for Florida veterans and their families by providing direct services and partnering with state and local governments, veteran service organizations, and educational institutions to improve their physical, financial, mental, emotional, and social well-being. About The Florida Veterans Foundatio n Misson Statement To serve, support, and advocate for Florida veterans to improve their quality of Life! The Florida Veterans Foundation serves as the statewide lead organization for Florida veterans and their families by providing direct services and partnering with state and local governments, veteran service organizations, and educational institutions to improve their physical, financial, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Supports the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs’ mission of advocacy; and, advocates for Florida veterans through local and statewide outreach to educate the public and governmental entities, increasing awareness on veteran-related issues. CODE OF ETHICS BYLAWS TEAMWORK The Florida Veterans Foundation team is one of the hardest working veteran advocate teams in the state of Florida. We are composed of a volunteer Chairman and Board of Directors. The majority of the Foundation Directors are retired, military disabled veterans who donate over 40 hours per week of their time to assist and help guide Florida’s veterans through a myriad of issues veterans face today. Whether it’s access to healthcare, education, jobs, VA benefits or the like, our Directors are here to help. Several Directors are trained Veteran Service Officers who know the extent, the meaning and the application of laws that have been passed by Congress in the interests of veterans and their dependents. Our Directors know the rules and regulations adopted by the Department of Veterans Affairs to clarify and implement those laws. Chief Operating Officer – Raymond Miller USMC Veteran MEET THE TEAM FINANCIALS The Florida Veterans Foundation was founded in 2008 by the Florida Legislature and is supported by individual and corporate donations, grants, fundraisers and direct public support to help us faithfully execute our mission of providing emergency and support services and programs for Veterans and their families across the state of Florida. VIEW REPORTS Latest News PSA: Florida Veterans Dental Grant Program FY 26-27 Florida Veterans Foundation Launches “Heroes to Washington Grant” with Statewide Honor Flight Support Initiative Public Service Announcement: Dental Program for Florida Veterans Florida Veterans Foundation Continues Statewide Veterans Dental Program in 2026 Public Service Announcement: Florida Veterans Foundation Launches Dental Program with First Grant Award to Wounded Veterans Relief Fund Dental Grant Program Public Service Announcement FLORIDA VETERANS FOUNDATION, INC. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Email: fvf@fdva.fl.gov Phone: 850-782-4305

Rep. Spencer Roach is a retired Coast Guard Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer who spent his first ten years in service as an enlisted man, serving as a search and rescue coxswain and counter-narcotics officer before earning an officer’s commission. Representative Spencer Roach United States Coast Guard Retired Commissioned Officer Rep. Spencer Roach is a retired Coast Guard Judge Advocate General (JAG) Officer who spent his first ten years in service as an enlisted man, serving as a search and rescue coxswain and counter-narcotics officer before earning an officer’s commission. He grew up in a proud blue-collar household, working with his father and uncles in a 4th-generation family-owned plumbing company. From an early age, he gained an appreciation for the trades and an unwavering belief that a superior personal work ethic is the great equalizer in pursuit of upward mobility. Rep. Roach enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1996. During his two decades of service, Spencer’s assignments included tours of duty in Alaska, a six-month combat deployment to the Middle East enforcing UN sanctions against Iraq, and service in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina ravaged the Gulf Coast. He was selected for the prestigious Judge Advocate General Program and attended the University of Miami School of Law on a military scholarship. His most recent assignment as a JAG was representing returning soldiers and sailors injured in the line of duty to ensure they received the medical care they deserved. He retired from the Coast Guard in 2016. His actions earned him the Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Commendation Medals, Coast Guard Achievement Medals, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, all with Operational Distinguishing Device. While serving on active duty, Rep. Roach attended Edison Community College and Florida Gulf Coast University, earning a degree in Political Science and graduating summa cum laude from FGCU. He is licensed to practice law in Florida and Texas. After retiring from the Coast Guard, he returned to Lee County, where he had been a resident since his assignment to Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach in 2000. The Representative has always had a passion for public service and served as the District Director for Congressman Francis Rooney. He is a certified ESL teacher and has been active in various volunteer work for well over a decade, although his passion is helping children in foster care. While in law school, Spencer managed a program that provided Financial Literacy classes to children aging out of foster care, and currently, he serves as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem in the 20th Judicial Circuit. Representative Roach said: “My career in the Coast Guard, first as an enlisted man, then as a junior officer, and finally, as a JAG shaped my character and developed my work ethic. I traveled the world & experienced different cultures. It paid for both my undergraduate degree & a law degree at a private, tier-one law school. I made lifelong friends who endured emotional and traumatic experiences alongside me. The Coast Guard gave me a commitment to public service and the leadership skills to be an effective advocate for our community…Semper Paratus.” << Back to Veteran Legislators

Meet one of our 2023-2024 Military Legislator's Bryan Avila! Representative Bryan Avila Florida Army National Guard, Currently Serving First Lieutenant Representative Bryan Avila was born andraised in Hialeah, Florida. Bryan’s parents, Bryan and Rosa Maria came to the United States seeking freedom from Cuba’s communist regime. His parents instilled in him the same principles that allowed them to become proud homeowners and successful citizens in the U.S. In April of 2016, Rep. Avila joined the Florida Army National Guard and is currently serving as a First Lieutenant. He distinguished himself by completing the Adjutant General Basic Officer Leader Course as an Honor Graduate and serving as a Human Resources Officer. He has earned a place on the Commandant’s List and is a Leadership Award Recipient. Additionally, he has, over his four years, earned the Army Commendation Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Florida Commendation Medal, Florida State Active Duty Ribbon, Florida Retention Ribbon, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Rep. Avila graduated from Miami Springs Senior High School in 2002. He has since earned an Associate of Arts degree from Miami Dade College, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Miami, and two Masters Degrees from Florida International University. He was an Adjunct Professor at Miami Dade College from 2009 until 2014. Since then, he has taught at Broward College. First elected in 2014 to represent the district that includes Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens, Miami Springs, and Virginia Gardens, Rep. Avila has been a champion for veterans’ issues. He most recently sponsored a bill making it unlawful to use uniforms, medals, or insignia to misrepresent military service. During the 2019-2020 Legislative sessions, he chaired the powerful Ways & Means Committee and served on the Appropriations Committee and Gaming Control Subcommittee. In November, he was sworn in as Speaker Pro Tempore of the Florida House of Representatives. An editorial in the Miami Herald noted: “Bryan Avila is probably the only South Florida legislator who was unable to campaign, not because of COVID-19, but because he was deployed by the Florida National Guard to take part in the pandemic response effort.” << Back to Veteran Legislators