About Us
A nationally certified Veterans Service Organization serving Veterans and their families since 1969.
The Armour Lawrence Greater Bay Area NABVETS Richmond California Chapter 127 — “East Bay” — is the local post of the National Association for Black Veterans (NABVETS), the first and only Black veterans organization chartered by the United States Congress and certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Veterans Service Organization.
We are veterans serving veterans. Our members are advocates, volunteers, and neighbors from Richmond and across the greater Bay Area who believe that the people who served this country should never have to fight for their earned benefits — or their dignity — alone. While NABVETS was founded by and for Black veterans, our door is open to all who served, and our services are offered to every veteran who needs them.
Chapter 127 provides unwavering, personal advocacy for all veterans — helping them pursue the benefits, healthcare, housing, education, and employment they earned through their service. We advocate for our members before federal, state, and local agencies; we foster community development that creates positive lifestyles for veterans and their families; and we work to preserve the historical record of minority veterans so their contributions are never forgotten.
A greater Bay Area where every veteran lives with dignity, stability, and belonging — and where the service of Black veterans, so often unrecognized, is honored in full. We envision Chapter 127 as the organization Richmond’s veterans turn to first, and a model for what a local chapter rooted in its community can be.
History
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR BLACK VETERANS, INC.
NABVETS, Inc. had its beginning as The Interested Veterans of the Central City (IVOCC), a community-based organization founded in 1969 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, by seven returning Vietnam combat veterans. The organization was formed to address issues facing Vietnam veterans in the inner city, such as unemployment, inadequate housing, and difficulties in accessing healthcare. They formed to address the marginalization of Black Veterans and the challenges they faced with getting their benefits and services.
In 1973, IVOCC reorganized to become a membership service organization with the charge to address issues concerning Black and other minority veterans. In 1998, NABVETS, Inc. became a National Veterans Service Organization (VSO), certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and chartered by the U.S. Congress to represent veterans filing claims for their benefits through their Veteran Service Officers (VSO). NABVETS became the first and only Black Organization chartered by Congress.
NABVETS has over 100 chapters, that include Puerto and the Dominican Republic.
Our Namesakes
Our chapter carries the names of two African American pioneers whose courage expanded what was possible for those who served after them.
Vernice Armour
First African American Female Combat Fighter Pilot · U.S. Marine Corps
A Marine Corps officer who broke barriers as the first African American woman to fly combat missions for the United States. Her courage in the cockpit — and her voice as an advocate ever since — embodies the excellence and determination this chapter honors.
Robert H. Lawrence Jr.
First African American Astronaut · U.S. Air Force
A decorated Air Force pilot and scientist, selected as the first African American astronaut in the nation’s space program. He opened the door to the stars for every astronaut of color who followed.
What We Do
Chapter 127 turns advocacy into action across the East Bay.
Benefits & Claims Advocacy
Guidance and representation for veterans filing VA claims for the compensation, healthcare, and pensions they earned — at no cost.
Housing & Stability
Connecting homeless and at-risk veterans to transitional and permanent housing, and the services that keep them housed.
Outreach & Fundraising
Community events that raise both resources and awareness for the veterans we serve across the Bay Area.
Community Partnerships
Veterans Advocacy Partnerships that extend our reach through churches, nonprofits, businesses, and public agencies.
Youth Mentoring & Scholarships
Investing in the next generation through academic enrichment, youth ambassador mentoring, and scholarship opportunities.
“Leading by example is our mantra — to show through our deeds and actions that we seek to pay homage to, recognize, and organize to empower our sister and brother veterans.”
— Armour Lawrence Greater Bay Area NABVETS Chapter 127
Get Involved
Whether you’re a veteran seeking support, a neighbor who wants to give back, or a business or organization ready to partner, there’s a place for you in Chapter 127.