VFW DISPATCH – September 2014
September is Suicide Prevention Month.
Did you know 22 veterans commit suicide every day? Active duty suicides are up 30 percent since 2008 and with a service member expected to commit suicide in the next 25 hours, this is an issue that must be addressed now.
As you well know, the stress from your deployment doesn’t end once you’re back on U.S. soil and can be felt for many years, even decades, after. Unfortunately, many veterans might not show any symptoms of intent to harm themselves, but that doesn’t mean other behaviors aren’t there.
The facts are staring us in the face, and we have a duty to all veterans to see that no one is alone in this fight. Someone can’t do everything, but everyone can do something.
As we continue to push for fixes within the VA system, let’s also make sure we do all we can to eliminate the stigma that surrounds seeking help.
Respectfully,
Your VFW Membership Team
The Power of 1: Suicide Prevention CampaignThe Veterans Crisis Line provides confidential support 24/7 |
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and one small act could save the life of a veteran or service member in crisis – that’s the inspiration behind “The Power of 1” campaign. Find out how you can make a difference. |
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VFW and Sport Clips Award 93 Veterans with ScholarshipsEligible service members and veterans are encouraged to apply for spring 2015 scholarships |
The VFW “Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship” program launched last year and has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarship funds to service members and veterans. Applications are now being accepted and the deadline to apply is Nov.15. Get the details. |
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Calling All Qualified Medical Professionals!VA launches recruitment effort to bring needed medical professionals to VA |
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald announced the launch of a recruiting initiative aimed at bringing the best and brightest health professionals to the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) which will ultimately expand access to care for veterans. Read more here. |
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Veterans Head Back to Boot Camp to Learn Business SkillsThe two-day Boots to Business: Reboot class was the culmination of a 12 city pilot program |
Boots to Business: Reboot is a two-day entrepreneurship workshop presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) available to transitioning service members as a part of the Defense Department’s Transition Assistance Program. Learn more about the program. |
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Pilot Program to Benefit Rural Communities25,000 veterans and their families are expected to obtain increased assistance with the transition to civilian life |
Five organizations and State and local governments have been selected to participate in a new pilot program to assist veterans and their families who are transitioning from military service to civilian life in rural or undeserved communities. Details here. |
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VFW Applauds New Military Discharge Upgrade DecisionNational Commander Stroud calls it the right thing to do for our veterans |
The VFW national commander is applauding a decision that will enable Vietnam veterans and others to request upgrades to their less than honorable military discharges due to factors that were not known at the time, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Read his full statement. |
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THIS EDITION’S VIDEO FEATURE:One Soldier’s Song for the Fallen
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THIS MONTH'S STORE FEATURE:Black Long Sleeve POW MIA T-Shirt |
MEMBER BENEFIT SPOTLIGHT:EA+ |
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