Disabled Veteran Empowerment Network (DVEN) Earns 2026 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency

The Disabled Veteran Empowerment Network (DVEN) is proud to announce that it has earned the 2026 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest-tier recognition awarded by Candid (formerly GuideStar) for nonprofit transparency, accountability, and public reporting. This achievement underscores DVEN’s commitment to openness, rigorous reporting, and measurable impact in the service of disabled U.S. veterans and their families. (Candid)Candid.org 2026 Platinum Seal of Transparency awarded to DVEN.

The Candid Seals of Transparency program evaluates nonprofit organizations on how much information they voluntarily share about their mission, programs, leadership, financials, goals, strategies, and measurable outcomes. Candid.org grants the Platinum Seal to organizations that go beyond basic reporting and provide comprehensive insights into impact metrics, operational priorities, and strategic progress, enabling potential donors and partners to make informed decisions. (Candid)

What the Candid Platinum Seal Means

Earning the 2026 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency signals to donors, grantmakers, and community stakeholders that DVEN has embraced transparent practices across all facets of its nonprofit profile — from mission and programs to governance and measurable outcomes.

With this distinction, DVEN has publicly shared:

  • Clear organizational goals and strategic priorities
  • Key impact metrics related to its programs
  • Detailed financial and governance information
  • Ongoing progress toward serving disabled veterans and their families (Candid)

This level of visibility strengthens trust, enhances credibility, and makes it easier for supporters to explore DVEN’s work and confidently invest in its mission.

Empowering Disabled Veterans Through Transparency and Impact

Under the leadership of founder Robert Hess, a combat-disabled U.S. Army veteran, DVEN has deepened its efforts to support disabled veterans through a suite of programs and initiatives, including:

  • Emotional Support & Companion Animals: Connecting veterans with companion dogs and therapeutic support to foster emotional well-being.
  • Empowering Events: Hosting signature events such as the Top Dog Championships, Be The One Road Rally, and other Rally4Vets programs that raise awareness and funds to prevent veteran suicide.
  • Resource Navigation: Providing a robust digital hub that connects veterans and their families to verified benefits, services, and support organizations.

Earning this Platinum Seal not only validates DVEN’s commitment to ethical stewardship of resources but also reflects its dedication to sharing honest, data-driven insights about its outcomes and community impact — a powerful affirmation for current and prospective donors alike.

A Milestone for DVEN and the Veteran Community

“Transparency and accountability have always been at the heart of DVEN’s mission,” said Robert Hess, President and Founder of DVEN. “This Platinum Seal marks an important milestone in our journey to build trust with the veterans we serve, our supporters, and the broader philanthropic community. It tells a clear story: that every dollar entrusted to DVEN is used wisely to empower those who have served our country.  We are delighted to earn this distinction for the second year in a row.”

About Disabled Veteran Empowerment Network (DVEN):
The Disabled Veteran Empowerment Network connects disabled veterans and their families to trusted resources, emotional support programs, and community engagement opportunities. Founded by Vietnam veteran Robert Hess, DVEN helps navigate the complexities of veteran support services while championing initiatives that honor the resilience and service of America’s disabled veterans. (DVEN)

About Candid and the Seals of Transparency:
Candid.org is a leading nonprofit organization that provides data, insights, and tools to help nonprofits share information with donors and the public. Its Seals of Transparency — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum — recognize levels of openness and reporting commitment shown by nonprofit organizations. (Candid)