I receive emails with live links all of the time using the Verizon email servers. I am using Outlook Express, what email client are you using? Maybe there is a setting in your client that is preventing the links from being live.
Edit: I also just went into the Verizon Webmail application and opened an email there, the links are live there also.
JustinVerizon FiOS TV, Internet, and phoneIMG 1.6.0, Build 06.89Keller, TX