Be Connected

Community Helper Training
2023-06-01 - 2023-06-30, 2023-05-01 - 2023-05-31
Become a Pillar of Support in Your Community
We invite you to join us for the Be Connected Community Corps training series. This self-paced virtual training is offered at no cost to any Arizonan interested in becoming a source of support for service members, veterans, and their families. You can enroll and start this training series at any time!

Make a Difference
By taking the Be Connected Community Corps Helper Training, you can strengthen your ability to give back to all who are serving and have served our country. As a trained Be Connected Community Corps Helper, you will be a guidepost for service members, veterans, and their families in your neighborhood, helping to make them feel connected and cared for. As a Community Helper, you will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a difference in the lives of Arizona’s military and veteran community.

About the Training
The training series consists of 10 modules that relate to the Social Determinants of Health. Each module includes a video full of helpful information as well as a handout with key points and space to take your own notes. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and engage with our moderator and other course participants in the online community. At the conclusion of the training series, you will earn the Be Connected Community Corps Certificate and be connected to a wide variety of opportunities to serve Arizona’s service members, veterans, and their families.

Learn more about the Be Connected Community Corps Community Helper training series at www.ConnectVeterans.org/BCCCHelper
Sign up now at https://bit.ly/BCCCHelper

Memorial Day
2023-05-29
Memorial Day is a federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday in May. Its primary purpose is to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. The day has its roots in the aftermath of the Civil War, when groups of people began decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. Over time, the observance evolved into a more formal occasion, with parades, ceremonies, and other tributes to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Memorial Day has significant cultural and historical significance in the U.S., serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the military and the importance of honoring their memory.
NOTE: Memorial Day is different than Veterans Day. Memorial Day is meant for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of a wound sustained in battle. Veterans Day is intended to thank all those who have honorably served in the military – in wartime or peacetime.

Yuma Veteran StandDown
2023-05-27 09:00 - 14:00 (America/Phoenix)
Yuma StandDown
​May 27, 2023 (more information to come).
As the date nears, visit https://www.azhousingcoalition.org/avsa.html for more information on other upcoming StandDown events and the Arizona Veteran StandDown Alliance.
Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend to connect with other veterans, community leaders, and resources.
While each event is tailored to the needs of the local community, Veteran StandDown events typically offer resources related to:

Healthcare and mental wellness
VA benefits
Housing resources
Legal resources
Employment resources
Pet services

May 24 Resource Navigation Training
2023-05-24 09:00 - 23:30 | Virtual Event via Zoom
Everyone in our community is invited to attend Military/Veteran Resource Navigation training. This is the signature training developed by the Arizona Coalition for Military Families to equip members of our community to be an open door to connect service members, veterans and their families to support and resources. Over 5,000 Arizonans have attended this training.
There is no cost for this training and all are welcome!
Register: https://2023acmfnavigationtraining.eventbrite.com
For questions or more information, email Events@ArizonaCoalition.org.

Armed Forces Day
2023-05-20
Armed Forces Day is celebrated on the third Saturday in May each year to honor and recognize the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces. This day was established in 1949 to replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force Days and to promote unity among the military branches. Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity for Americans to show appreciation and support for the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. It is also a day to showcase the strength and capabilities of the U.S. military through various events and demonstrations. On this day, Americans are encouraged to thank and honor current and former military members and to recognize their contributions to the defense of our nation. Armed Forces Day is a reminder of the importance of our military and the sacrifices they make to protect our freedoms and way of life.

Military Caregiver Day
2023-05-19
Military Caregiver Day is observed on the third Friday of May to honor and recognize the contributions of military caregivers. Military caregivers are individuals who provide care and support for wounded, ill or injured service members and veterans. The day’s observance raises awareness of the unique challenges that military caregivers face and shows appreciation for their vital role in supporting the health and well-being of those who have served our country. The significance of Military Caregivers Day lies in its recognition of the sacrifices and resilience of military caregivers, as well as the need to provide them with resources and support to help them cope with the challenges of caregiving. The day is marked by events and activities that honor and support military caregivers, provide education and resources for them, and promote advocacy on their behalf. It is an opportunity to show gratitude and support for the essential work that military caregivers do, and to advocate for policies and initiatives that support their well-being and the well-being of those they care for.

Veteran StandDown – Flagstaff
2023-05-18 09:00 - 14:00
High Country (Flagstaff) StandDown
​Flagstaff Armory
320 N Thorpe Road
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Thursday, May 18, 2023
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
>> View the event flyer
Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend to connect with other veterans, community leaders, and resources.
While each event is tailored to the needs of the local community, Veteran StandDown events typically offer resources related to:

Healthcare and mental wellness
VA benefits
Housing resources
Legal resources
Employment resources
Pet services

For more information on the Arizona Veteran StandDown Alliance, visit https://www.azhousingcoalition.org/avsa.html

Children Of Fallen Patriots Day
2023-05-13
Children Of Fallen Patriots Day is observed on May 13 to honor and support the children of fallen military service members. In the past 25 years, more than 15,000 children have lost their parents in military conflict. Children of Fallen Patriots Day was created to both honor these children and raise awareness of the sacrifices and struggles they must endure in the wake of their parents death. May 13 was selected as the date of observance due to being the day Arlington National Cemetery was established in 1864. The day recognizes the sacrifices that military families have made and continue to make, as well as the challenges that children of fallen soldiers face in their pursuit of higher education. The day works to raise awareness and encourage support for the children of fallen heroes, so that they may have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and achieve their full potential. The day also honors the courage and sacrifices made by the fallen service members who gave their lives in service to their country, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing needs of their families.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day
2023-05-12
Military Spouse Appreciation Day is observed in the United States on the Friday before Mother’s Day to honor and recognize the contributions and sacrifices of military spouses. Military spouses play a vital role in supporting their service member and their family, often making significant sacrifices of their own in the process. The day’s observance aims to raise awareness of the unique challenges that military spouses face and to show appreciation for their selflessness, resilience, and dedication. The significance of Military Spouse Appreciation Day lies in its recognition of the sacrifices and contributions of military spouses, as well as the need to provide them with support and resources to help them thrive. The day is marked by events and activities that aim to honor and support military spouses, provide education and resources for them, and promote advocacy on their behalf. It is an opportunity to show gratitude and support for the essential work that military spouses do, and to advocate for policies and initiatives that support their well-being and the well-being of their families.

Veteran StandDown – Kingman
2023-05-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Mohave County Fairgrounds, 2600 Fairgrounds Blvd, Kingman, AZ, 86401
Kingman StandDown
Friday, May 5, 2023
10 am – 2 pm
View the flyer
Mohave County Fairgrounds
2600 Fairgrounds Blvd
Kingman, AZ 86401
Multiple agencies will be on site. For more information, please contact jennifer.burch@javc.org
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Veteran StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend to connect with other veterans, community leaders, and resources.
While each event is tailored to the needs of the local community, Veteran StandDown events typically offer resources related to:

Healthcare and mental wellness
VA benefits
Housing resources
Legal resources
Employment resources
Pet services

VA Women Veteran Health Information Session
2023-05-01 - 2023-05-21, 2023-04-01 - 2023-04-30
View the Event Flyer
Women veterans- you won’t want to miss this. The VA is hosting virtual information sessions to share more about the women-centered VA healthcare services available to you.
Sign up for VA’s Women’s Health Reengagement Training workshop, designed and taught by women veterans! Connect with women in your area and learn what veteran and women-centered services are available to you:

Preventive care and wellness
Women’s health services
Whole health & mental health services
How to determine VA care eligibility and enroll in VA

For more information on VA Women’s heaRT, visit https://www.womensheart.info
Find a complete list of information session dates and register at https://www.womensheart.info/register
Contact info@womensheart.info for more information.

Loyalty Day
2023-05-01
National Loyalty Day is observed on May 1 each year to reaffirm and celebrate American loyalty to the United States and its values. This day has its roots in the Cold War era and was established as a way to combat communist ideology and promote patriotism. Today, National Loyalty Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the fundamental principles of freedom, liberty, and democracy that define America and to reaffirm our commitment to upholding these values. On this day, Americans are encouraged to display the American flag and to participate in activities and events that promote patriotism and loyalty to the nation. It is also a reminder to honor and support the men and women who have served and continue to serve in the U.S. military and to show appreciation for the sacrifices they make to protect our freedoms and way of life.

Veteran StandDown – Maricopa County/Phoenix
2023-04-28 07:00 - 16:00 | Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
Maricopa County StandDown
Friday, April 28, 2023
7 am – 4 pm
View the flyer
Arizona State Fairgrounds
Phoenix, AZ
Visit a variety of booths at this community resource fair to find assistance with employment, healthcare, legal needs, pets, VA benefits, housing, and much more.
For more information on the Arizona Veteran StandDown Alliance, visit https://www.azhousingcoalition.org/avsa.html

13th Annual Statewide Symposium
2023-04-19 - 2023-04-20 | Desert Willow Conference Center, 4340 East Cotton Center Blvd., Phoenix, AZ, 85040, United States
April 19 & 20, 2023
8 AM – 4:30 PM

Desert Willow Conference Center
4340 E. Cotton Center Boulevard
Phoenix, Arizona 85040
The 2023 Statewide Symposium will return to an in-person event held once again at the Desert Willow Conference Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The event, taking place April 19-20, 2023 will be the 13th year that the Arizona Coalition for Military Families has hosted the Statewide Symposium. The focus remains the same – connecting with partners to strengthen how we collectively care for, serve, support, employ, educate, and assist the more than 500,000 service members, veterans, and military-affiliated family members who call Arizona home. All are welcome and scholarships are available. For more information, visit www.ArizonaCoalition.org/Symposium.

Register Here
2023 Agenda
2023 Event Packet

Purple Up! Day
2023-04-15
Purple Up Day is a special day of recognition for military children that is observed on April 15. On this day, people are encouraged to wear the color purple as a symbol of support for military kids and their families. The color purple was chosen as it is a combination of the colors of all branches of the military. Purple Up Day serves to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by military children, including frequent moves, deployments, and separations from their loved ones. It also serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of military kids, who often face challenges that are not experienced by their civilian peers. The day is an opportunity for everyone to show their appreciation and support for these brave young people, and to recognize their service and sacrifices for our country.

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day
2023-04-09
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day is observed on April 9 each year to honor and recognize the sacrifices and courage of prisoners of war (POWs) and their families. This day commemorates the brave men and women who have endured the hardships and atrocities of being held captive during times of conflict. It also acknowledges the sacrifices and strength of the families who have supported and waited for their loved ones to return home. On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, Americans are encouraged to fly the POW/MIA flag and participate in ceremonies and events to honor and remember these veterans. It is also a reminder to support and care for those who have returned home as well as those who are still missing in action or held as prisoners of war.

Gold Star Spouses Day
2023-04-05
Gold Star Spouses Day is observed annually on April 5 to honor the surviving spouses of fallen service members. The day recognizes the sacrifices made by Gold Star Spouses who have lost their partner in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The Gold Star is a symbol of the sacrifices made by military families, and the spouses of fallen heroes bear a significant burden of loss and grief. On this day, the nation pays tribute to the strength, resilience, and courage of these spouses who have endured the ultimate sacrifice. It is a day to show support for these families and to honor the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Military Saves Month
2023-04-01 - 2023-04-30
Military Saves Month is a national campaign that takes place each year during the month of April to encourage military service members, veterans, and their families to save money, reduce debt, and build wealth. The campaign is a partnership between the Department of Defense and the Consumer Federation of America, and provides resources, tools, and support to help military families achieve financial stability and security. The month-long effort includes a variety of activities, events, and promotions designed to raise awareness about the importance of financial planning and saving for the future, and to help service members and their families take concrete steps toward achieving their financial goals. The ultimate goal of Military Saves Month is to promote financial readiness and resilience among military families, and to support their overall well-being and success.

Military Child Month
2023-04-01 - 2023-04-30
Military Child Month is observed in the United States during the month of April to recognize and honor the sacrifices and resilience of the children of military families. The month-long observance acknowledges the unique challenges that military children face, including frequent moves, deployments of parents, and other disruptions to their daily lives. Military children also shoulder significant responsibilities and often demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability. The significance of Military Child Month lies in its recognition of the important role that military children play in supporting their families and contributing to the nation’s defense. The month is marked by events and activities that celebrate military children and provide support for them and their families, as well as increase awareness and advocacy on their behalf. Month of the Military Child is sponsored by the Department of Defense Military Community and Family Policy and supported by many other organizations.

Vietnam War Veterans Day
2023-03-29
Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29 to honor the sacrifices and service of the men and women who served during the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War lasted from 1954 to 1975. Many Vietnam veterans were not properly recognized or appreciated upon their return home, and this day serves as an opportunity to thank them for their service and to recognize the sacrifices they made. On this day, Americans are encouraged to fly the American flag and participate in ceremonies and events to honor Vietnam veterans. It is also a day to reflect on the lessons learned from the war and to promote healing and reconciliation among veterans, their families, and the nation as a whole.

National Medal of Honor Day
2023-03-25
National Medal of Honor Day is a holiday observed annually on March 25. The Medal of Honor is the highest military decoration that can be awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and National Medal of Honor Day is a day to recognize and honor the brave individuals who have received this prestigious award. The Medal of Honor is awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves through acts of valor and heroism above and beyond the call of duty, often at great personal risk. National Medal of Honor Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by these individuals, and to honor their legacy of service and sacrifice in defense of our nation. It is also an opportunity to recognize and thank all members of the U.S. military for their service to our country.

Veteran StandDown – Verde Valley / Clarkdale
2023-03-22 09:00 - 14:00 | Clarkdale Auditorium, 39 North 9th St, Clarkdale, AZ
Verde Valley StandDown
Wednesday, March 22, 2023
9 am – 2 pm
View the flyer
Clarkdale Auditorium
39 North 9th St
Clarkdale, AZ
Veterans can receive hygiene kits, clothing, community services, employment support with a job fair on site, healthcare (dental, vision, and wellness), haircuts, pet food, VA services, legal assistance, housing support, and much more. For more information, call 928.286.7446 or email verdevalleystanddown@gmail.com

Legal Assistance - Maricopa County Veteran Stand Down
2023-03-21 08:00 - 2023-04-21 17:00
No-cost legal assistance is available through 4/21 for service members, veterans & their families in Maricopa County through the Maricopa County Veteran Stand Down event. Call 866-429-8387 Mon-Fri 8 AM-5 PM and ask for a legal screening to start the process.
VSD BeConnected 2023 Flyer (1)

Rosie the Riveter Day
2023-03-21
Rosie the Riveter Day is celebrated on March 21 each year in honor of the iconic cultural icon that represented the hardworking women who supported the American war effort during World War II. Rosie the Riveter symbolized the millions of women who entered the workforce to replace male workers who were fighting in the war. These women worked in factories and shipyards, building airplanes, tanks, and other supplies that were essential to the war effort. Their contributions not only helped win the war but also paved the way for women’s rights and opportunities in the workplace. Rosie the Riveter Day celebrates the courage, strength, and determination of these women and serves as a reminder of their important role in American history. The day encourages people to recognize and honor the achievements of women in the workforce and to continue to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.

National Women's Military History Week
2023-03-19 - 2023-03-26
National Women’s Military History Week is observed annually from March 19 – March 25. This observance recognizes the contributions of women in military service throughout American history. The week-long celebration honors the women who have served in the U.S. armed forces, both in times of war and peace, and highlights their sacrifices, bravery, and achievements. It increases awareness and understanding of the challenges that women have faced in pursuing military careers and how their service has shaped the country’s history and defense. By recognizing the important role that women have played in the U.S. military, National Women’s Military History Week seeks to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in the military and to advocate for gender equality in all fields.

Supreme Sacrifice Day
2023-03-18
Supreme Sacrifice Day is observed on March 18 each year to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. This day recognizes the bravery and selflessness of military personnel, police officers, firefighters, and other first responders who have given their lives while performing their duties. The sacrifices of these individuals and their families are a testament to the true meaning of courage and dedication. On Supreme Sacrifice Day, people are encouraged to take a moment to remember and honor those who have given their lives for their country, and to show support for the families and loved ones of fallen heroes. It is also a reminder to appreciate the sacrifices made by those who continue to serve and protect our communities.

Veteran StandDown – Tucson
2023-03-15 09:00 - 2023-03-16 14:00 | Grand Luxe Hotel, 1365 West Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ
Tucson StandDown
View the flyer
Wednesday, March 15, 2023 | 9 am – 2 pm (StandDown)
Thursday, March 16, 2023 | 10 am – 2 pm (Career Fair)

Business casual attire
Bring extra copies of our resume

Both events are held at the Grand Luxe Hotel
1365 West Grant Rd
Tucson, AZ
This event is open to ALL veterans, National Guard, and Reservists in the area. Find assistance with clothing, haircuts, housing, legal assistance, mental health services, spiritual counseling, employment, disability claims, benefits, pet care, and much more. Lunch will be served. For more information, call 520.909.4660 or email azvet4u@gmail.com.

American Legion Birthday
2023-03-15
The American Legion is a nonpartisan organization of U.S. wartime veterans that was founded in 1919. Its mission is to support and advocate for veterans, promote patriotism and national security, and support youth and community programs. Over the years, the American Legion has been instrumental in advocating for veterans’ benefits and services, including the GI Bill, and has provided support for veterans and their families through a variety of programs and initiatives.
