Veterans Family Fund of America

Description

Statistics:

A 2008 VA statistic indicates 18 Veterans per day die from suicide; this number indicates one every 80 minutes or over 6,500 per year. Many believe that this old statistic is just the tip of the iceberg. The biggest spike is the 18-24 yr. old (our Recent Veterans).

Definitions of four Mission focus areas:

• Research (R): Initially this area will be addressing the collection of available data regarding Veteran suicide deaths and suicide attempts. Seeking increased data capture by mental health agencies, law enforcement and justice systems regarding Veteran self-injury, harm, and risk taking behaviors.
• Education (E): Providing increased education to the general public regarding the issues facing young Veterans and Families bringing awareness to the serious issue of Veteran suicide, PTSD and TBI.
• Resource Provision (RP): Locating and vetting organizations providing support services to Veterans and families. Identifying peer support programs and mentorship programs for Veterans, Families and Survivors and making these resources known through traditional and non-traditional media. As an organization we do not seek to provide treatment or intervention services but rather to identify and align with organizations and individuals providing those services.
• Community Collaborations/Engagement (CC/E): Outreach to individuals and organizations with an interest in providing support to Veterans and Families. Provide supportive assistance to those seeking to establish community-based events/activities designed to create community around Veterans and their Families.

Our Vision:

To create a network of committed, trained, and recognized volunteer champions actively engaged in addressing the alarming concern of suicide deaths among Veterans. We will impact this concern and provide resources to Veterans, Families and Survivors through the main focus areas of the Alliance.