"To connect veterans to the services or programs needed and to ensure veterans receive the highest level of care."
Who We Are
In 1776, the Continental Congress recruited more than 230,000 soldiers to fight for American independence, promising pensions in exchange for their service. Those promises were never kept. The pay they received became worthless. The first pension for common soldiers didn't arrive until 35 years after the war ended — by then, most had already died or succumbed to their injuries. Only 850 ever received what they were actually promised.
The Eight Fifty Committee exists because the gap between what veterans are promised and what they receive has never closed.
We serve veterans across Preston, Monongalia, Marion, Harrison, Taylor, and Wood counties and surrounding areas in North Central West Virginia.
Our Approach
Connect
We funnel veterans to the right organizations — the ones that truly serve veterans' best interests.
Advocate
We publicly advocate by providing support and a voice for veterans who need it, ensuring the systems built to serve them are held to the standard of adequacy.
Serve
Direct support tailored to the individual, never the group — from home repair to benefits navigation to community building.
Board of Directors
Shawn Cosner
Richard Cosner
Rodney Chipps
Nicole Gerard
Yira Muse
John Cox
James Vincent Clemente
Advisory Board
Our advisory board includes community voices and veteran advocates who guide our mission and growth.
Meet Our AdvisorsFiscal Sponsorship
The Eight Fifty Committee operates under the fiscal sponsorship of Veterans Collaborative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This partnership provides us with the organizational infrastructure and donor accountability needed to deliver effective veteran services.
Transparency
We believe in complete financial and organizational transparency. Our governing documents, financial reports, and certifications are available for public review.
View Our Documents