Real People, Real Successes
The following are real stories of successful outcomes of people in Arizona who have been helped through the Coaching Into Connection program. www.ConnectVeterans.org/Connection.
The support line offers no-cost, confidential resource navigation services and support to Arizona service members, veterans, and their families. It is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST and is closed on federal holidays.
How Simple Meetings Transformed a WWII Veteran’s Mental Health
During the opening remarks of the Staff Sergeant Fox Suicide Prevention Grant
Program (SSG Fox SPGP) conference in Orlando, Sandra Foley, the Director of the SSG Fox SPGP at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, shared two inspiring success stories with the 80 grantees in attendance. One highlighted the Arizona Coalition for Military Families and their support of a World War II veteran through the Coaching Into Connection Program. The veteran, seeking help for social engagement, simply desired in-person conversations. Recognizing this need, the Connection Coach arranged multiple face-to-face meetings. After one such meeting, the veteran expressed, “This is exactly what I wanted and needed.” His spouse observed a notable improvement in his mental health since he began these regular interactions. Director Foley remarked on the profound impact of these meetings, emphasizing how something as simple as regular coffee chats can significantly enhance a veteran’s mental well-being through social connection.
Veteran Gains Support and Comfort Through Telephone Calls
The Southern Arizona Connection Coach began working with a veteran who faced significant social isolation due to mobility and pain management challenges, making it difficult for them to leave their home. 
The veteran expressed a desire for regular phone conversations to help alleviate their loneliness. In response, the Connection Coach provided the veteran with a service offering supportive calls. Upon follow-up, the veteran shared that they had reached out twice in the past week and expressed deep gratitude for the ability to connect with someone whenever they felt lonely. The veteran appreciated the comfort and flexibility provided by Coaching Into Connection during their times of need.
