STATEMENT OF FACTS 

Disabled Veterans are among the most honorable and vulnerable members of our society. They are increasingly being targeted by individuals with verified criminal histories, including sexual assault, harassment, and psychological abuse. These perpetrators often operate under the guise of religious leadership or spiritual guidance, manipulating Disabled Veterans and vulnerable adults to gain access to their finances, property, medical resources, and personal autonomy. 

These deceptive individuals capitalize on their victims' physical limitations, cognitive impairments, and social isolation. They may present themselves as caregivers, ministers, or community support workers while concealing past convictions or patterns of abuse. The consequences are life-altering: homelessness, financial ruin, deteriorated health, estrangement from loved ones, and devastating psychological trauma. 

Despite these alarming patterns, there is currently no universal requirement across veteran-serving organizations or religious service groups to implement safety protocols or formal conflict of interest disclosures for individuals with direct access to vulnerable populations. 

POINTS TO BE REVIEWED  

1. Lack of mandated safety plans and oversight policies within social services and support programs that serve Disabled Veterans and vulnerable adults. 

2. Absence of conflict-of-interest disclosures, particularly when individuals with prior convictions or personal agendas act in advisory, caregiving, or religious leadership roles. 

3. Limited access to information and assistance, often not presented in a format comprehensible to individuals with cognitive or psychological impairments. 

4. Insufficient training and guidelines provided to agencies, organizations, and personnel responsible for safeguarding the rights and well-being of Disabled Veterans. 

RELIEF AND ACTION REQUESTED  

We, the undersigned, respectfully petition the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and all organizations delivering social services to Disabled Veterans and vulnerable adults to take the following actions immediately: 

1. Mandate the development and dissemination of comprehensive safety plans for every organization or agency providing support, caregiving, or faith-based services to Disabled Veterans. 

2. Enforce conflict of interest policies requiring any individual with access to a Veteran's personal resources or decision-making authority to disclose: 

Past criminal convictions, especially involving abuse, harassment, or financial exploitation.

Personal, financial, or spiritual agendas that may influence the nature of care or service delivery. 
3. Ensure all safety information and policies are delivered in accessible formats, tailored to the Veteran's cognitive, emotional, and educational level, as mandated under ADA guidelines and VA best practices. 

4. Establish an independent reporting mechanism within each participating organization where Veterans or their families can safely report misconduct or suspicion without fear of retribution. 

OUR VETERANS DESERVE BETTER  

Every signature on this petition is a declaration that we will no longer tolerate the silent exploitation of our heroes. We must protect those who once protected us. No Disabled Veteran should live under the control or manipulation of a predatory actor posing as a savior. 

We call upon legislators, agency directors, nonprofit leaders, and spiritual institutions to join in the creation of a national standard for safety and accountability in all services that touch the lives of our Disabled Veterans and their families. 

Sign now. Share widely. Let's ensure that integrity, transparency, and protection are non-negotiable pillars of Veteran care.