VRCN partners help Veterans overcome social isolation

Editor’s note: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering.

Social isolation remains an urgent challenge for many Veterans. However, promising paths to connection offer hope across the Veteran community.

The following VetResources Community Network (VRCN) member organizations offer practical programs designed to build confidence, routine and camaraderie. These opportunities lower barriers, making it easier to take the first step toward meaningful connection, purpose and joy.

Early Alert for Veterans

Early Alert for Veterans offers Veterans a free, confidential way to stay on top of their wellness. Friendly weekly text-message check-ins help Veterans identify emerging challenges in all areas of wellness.

When needed, Early Alert suggests relevant support resources. The service is available on both good and difficult days, helping Veterans access resources early while providing confidential support when needed.

One Veteran described the service this way: “Early Alert is like having a buddy checking in on you every so often without being invasive or bothersome.”

Face the Fight

Face the Fight, an initiative of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, unites more than 250 cross-sector partners to reduce veteran suicide by 2032.

The initiative is collaborating with Starbucks to support VA’s Suicide Prevention Month and Buddy Check Week, Sept. 21-25. The collaboration will provide gift cards to the first 20,000 people who complete the Buddy Check pledge and training.

Take the pledge, then reach out to and speak with 10 Veterans.

Guitars for Vets

Guitars for Vets (G4V) serves at-risk U.S. Veterans affected by post-traumatic stress disorder and other service-related trauma. Its 10-week structured guitar-instruction program puts music in Veterans’ hands and aims to foster renewal, connection and community.

At the end of the program, participants receive a guitar and equipment. Find a local chapter to enroll.

Liberty Dogs

Liberty Dogs™ trains and places skilled service dogs with Veterans experiencing PTSD, at no cost to those who served.

Through the Liberty Service Dogs™ Training & Placement Program, Veterans and their dogs receive companionship, a personalized plan for continuing at home and an ongoing support system.

Liberty Dogs also offers a Warrior Wellness Program, which provides intensive personal growth and recovery through guided, experiential exercises led by fellow Veterans. The programs take place at the organization’s Reno, Nevada, campus.

Veterans Talking to Veterans

Veterans Talking to Veterans® (VTTV) brings professionally trained Veteran coaches from Mentor Agility into communities where Veterans live, work and gather.

VTTV coaches combine military experience with professional coach training, specialized tools and ongoing development. Through coaching conversations and groups, Veterans can connect with other Veterans, strengthen their sense of belonging and purpose, navigate transitions and challenges, and identify their own path forward.

Explore VTTV programs by applying to become a VTTV coach or by finding a meeting in participating states.