As fall and the holidays approach, many Veterans face unique challenges like shorter days, financial stress and feelings of isolation, which can lead to anxiety or depression. If left unchecked, these feelings can lead to a crisis, which is why peer support—especially during VA’s National Buddy Check Week—is so important.
What is Vets4Warriors?
Vets4Warriors offers 24/7, confidential peer support year-round to make sure no Veteran or member of the military family feels alone. Since we started, we’ve made over 900,000 connections, helping people before their challenges turn into crises. Last year, more than 8,500 reached out to Vets4Warriors for the first time.
Vets4Warriors is housed at the Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care National Call Center, and is staffed by Veterans who understand the struggles faced by their fellow service members who are committed to helping them navigate life’s challenges.
Role in the “Buddy Check” initiative
VA’s National Buddy Checks initiative encourages Veterans to regularly check in on each other, offering support and solidarity. At Vets4Warriors, this philosophy is at the heart of everything we do. Unlike a single phone call, we remain engaged, offering continuous support until each individual feels ready to move forward.
The Buddy Check initiative amplifies our efforts, especially during VA’s Veteran Buddy Check Week from Oct. 21–25, 2024. Our commitment aligns with VA’s mission to create a network of Veterans helping Veterans. We know firsthand that a simple call to a friend or a peer can have a profound impact.
How Peer Support Works
When a Veteran reaches out to Vets4Warriors, they’re not just talking to someone who’s trained to listen—they’re connecting with someone who’s been there. Our peer specialists provide practical guidance based on shared experiences, helping Veterans find solutions tailored to their specific challenges. Whether the need is emotional, social or logistical, we understand the complexities of military and post-military life and are ready to help navigate them.
“I know how it is to not have anybody, or [not have] people who understand what you’re going through. I want other Veterans to know they are not alone. We are here for each other and support each other,” shared one of our organization’s ambassadors.
Vets4Warriors Ambassador Program
Vets4Warriors’ Ambassador Program helps reach more Veterans by using a network of over 650 volunteers across the country, many of whom have personally benefited from our services. With support from Wounded Warrior Project, ambassadors help to educate their communities about peer support services so Veterans can make a connection before their challenges become crises. Their involvement helps to ensure that no one falls through the cracks.
During VA’s Veteran Buddy Check Week , we’re encouraging ambassadors to pledge to check in on 10 fellow Veterans and spread the word about this important VA initiative in their communities.
One ambassador explained her motivation for getting involved, saying “I’ve been down a rough road, and I know my recovery has brightened other Vets’ lives. When I hear Veterans thanking me for sharing resources that helped them, it brings me so much joy and happiness.”
Connect with Us
If you want to speak with a peer, call Vets4Warriors at 1-855-838-8255, or chat online by visiting www.Vets4Warriors.com. We’re available 24/7, every day of the year.
To read this story on VA News click HERE
