Person First: Get Involved With Veteran Suicide Prevention
Our stakeholders and friends share their stories
The Northwest Pennsylvania (NW PA) Veteran Suicide Prevention Program operates on a three-pronged approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and Veterans and their families. In response to Suicide Prevention Month, we are adding a video component to our Person First series. This ongoing series of interviews chronicles the lived experiences of Veterans committed to reducing suicide deaths of those who have served in the armed forces. We hope to add to this collection of video testimonials and messages throughout the duration of this program. All videos are publicly accessible through YouTube and can be shared through social media, e-newsletters and email, and websites. Please reach out to us if you have any questions.
Read/Watch time: 3 minutes
Tony Aubrey: Operation Vet NOW (OVN)
Tony Aubrey of Operation Vet NOW (OVN) spent 22 years on active duty with the US Air Force. As a Combat Veteran from Operation Desert Storm (1990-91) he served his country through multiple deployments before retiring in 2006. In this Person First message, Tony speaks about the importance of gatekeeper training and how the information helps save lives.
Richard Hamp: Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
The PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) is an active partner and responsible for ensuring that the Program integrates current Veteran suicide prevention initiatives throughout the state of Pennsylvania. Their Caring Messages campaign can be shared with all interested individuals and organizations throughout the state (and beyond).
Looking to Get Involved?
Whether you identify as a healthcare provider, community organization, or Veteran, there are several opportunities through the NW PA Veteran Suicide Prevention Program and PERU to connect to resources, participate in educational training, and promote harm reduction strategies. We are actively recruiting healthcare and community partners to work with us in meeting our goals and objectives. To learn more, visit the program website at theresilientveteran.org.
Need Help? Know Someone Who Does? Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or use the online Lifeline Crisis Chat. Both are free and confidential. You’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor in your area.
