Be Connected

Patriot Day - September 11
2023-09-11
September 11, often referred to as 9/11 or Patriots Day, is a day of remembrance that commemorates the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001. On that day, terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes and carried out coordinated suicide attacks against the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. A fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers attempted to overpower the hijackers. Nearly 3,000 people lost their lives in the attacks, including first responders who rushed into the burning buildings to save others. The significance of 9/11 lies in its lasting effect on American society and the world, including how it transformed the nation’s foreign policy, national security, and sense of safety. The day is observed with moments of silence, tributes to the victims and their families, and ceremonies to honor the first responders and military personnel who risked their lives to save others.

Veteran StandDown – Williams
2023-09-08 08:00 - 2023-09-09 17:00 (America/Phoenix)
4th Annual Matthew J. Broehm Memorial Williams StandDown
​September 8, 2023
9 AM – 2 PM
300 W. Railroad Avenue
Williams, Arizona
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 including:

VA Services
Hygiene Kits
Clothing & Surplus
Employment Services
Job Search Information
Dental, Vision & Medical Assistance
Haircuts
Pet Food & Pet Care
Veterans’ Court Information
Notary
Housing Support Services
Disability, Pension & Survivors Benefits
Women Veterans Reception

FOR GENERAL INFORMATION:
928-286-7446 or nazveteranstanddowns@aol.com
TO VOLUNTEER AT THE EVENT CONTACT:
Rodger Ely, 928-380-6027 or juggy64@aol.com

National Service Dog Month
2023-09-01 - 2023-09-30
National Service Dog Month is a time to recognize and honor the contributions of service dogs in the lives of people with disabilities, veterans, and others who rely on the assistance of these highly trained animals. This month-long observance every September also raises awareness about the need for more service dogs to help people with a range of disabilities, including those with physical impairments, hearing or vision loss, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Service dogs are trained to assist with everyday tasks, such as opening doors, turning lights on and off, and retrieving items, and they can also provide emotional support and a sense of security for their handlers. National Service Dog Month is an opportunity to show appreciation for the valuable work that service dogs do and to support organizations that train and provide these dogs to those in need.

Suicide Prevention Month
2023-09-01 - 2023-09-30
Suicide Prevention Month is observed during the month of September to raise awareness of the issue of suicide and promote efforts to prevent it. The month-long observance works to increase awareness of the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help, and promote access to mental health resources and support. The significance of Suicide Prevention Month lies in its recognition of the devastating impact that suicide has on individuals, families, and communities, as well as the importance of taking action to prevent it. The month is marked by events and activities that aim to educate the public about suicide prevention and provide resources and support for those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health challenges. It is an opportunity to come together as a community to support one another and promote mental health and well-being.

Community Helper Training
2023-09-01 - 2023-09-30, 2023-08-01 - 2023-08-31, 2023-07-01 - 2023-07-31, 2023-06-01 - 2023-06-30
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

Aug 30 Resource Navigation Training
2023-08-30 09:00 - 11:30 | 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.

Veteran StandDown – Payson
2023-08-19 10:00 - 15:00
Rim Country (Payson) StandDown
​Greater Payson Moose Lodge #852
​4211 E Hwy 260
Star Valley, AZ 85541
August 19, 2023
10:00 am – 3:00 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

ACMF Birthday
2023-08-19
Today we celebrate 14 years since the Arizona Coalition for Military Families was launched on August 19, 2009.
The Arizona Coalition for Military Families (ACMF) is a nationally recognized public/private partnership focused on building Arizona’s statewide capacity to care for, serve and support service members, veterans, their families, and communities.

Learn more.
Get involved.
Save this number: 866-4AZ-VETS
Share our resources.
Attend an event.

Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus: Military Culture Training
2023-08-18 10:00 - 11:30
This training is provided at no cost for the employees, staff, faculty, and leadership of colleges, technical schools, universities, and other higher education organizations that have earned or are working to earn the Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus (AVSC) designation from the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. Staff and faculty of current and prospective Arizona Veteran Supportive Campuses are invited to participate in this no-cost, virtual training focused on military/veteran culture and related topics to best support military-affiliated students. The training course is offered three times in 2023:

Friday, January 20, 2023, from 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Friday, August 18, 2023, from 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Friday, October 20, 2023, from 10 – 11:30 a.m.

To sign up, visit: https://bit.ly/AVSC2023
For questions or more information, email Community@ArizonaCoalition.org

Veteran StandDown: Cochise County
2023-08-18 09:00 - 14:00 | 2950 E. Tacoma St, 2950 E. Tacoma St, Sierra Vista, AZ, 85635
Cochise County Veteran StandDown
August 18, 2023
9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Ethel Berger Center
2950 E. Tacoma St., Sierra Vista
StandDown events are a great way for veterans to access a variety of resources all in one place. Veterans are encouraged to attend this event to connect with other veterans, community leaders, and resources.
All veterans are invited to attend and access:
• Benefit Assistance
• Mental Health Services
• Picture ID Services
• Haircuts
• Housing Assistance
• Clothing Assistance
• Legal Assistance
• Personal Care Supplies
• Employment Resources
For a complete listing of services, view the event flyer.
For more information on other upcoming StandDown events and the Arizona Veteran StandDown Alliance, visit https://www.azhousingcoalition.org/avsa.html

Arizona Faith Gathering
2023-08-16 09:00 - 10:30
Join us virtually on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, from 9 – 10:30 a.m. for the Arizona Faith Gathering of 2023.
Arizona Faith Gathering 2023 Flyer
Hear from a renowned expert in this area, our keynote speaker Dr. Harold G. Koenig. Dr. Koenig is the author of Spiritual Readiness and numerous research projects. Dr. Koenig is a Professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and the director of the Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health at Duke University.
Dr. Koenig will share insights about spiritual resiliency and the ways to attain it. Following Dr. Koenig’s keynote address will be a panel of chaplains from each of the services to share their insights on spiritual resiliency. Topics discussed will include:

What is spiritual resiliency?
What can our service members and veterans do to possess it?

Register at: https://bit.ly/AZFaith23

This virtual event strongly encourages your contributions to the discussion.
Share your insight and ask questions.
There is no cost and all are welcome to attend.

About the Keynote Speaker
Dr. Harold G. Koenig is a professor of psychiatry and behavioral science and the director of the Center for Spirituality, Theology, and Health at Duke University.
About the Be Connected Faith Network
The Arizona Coalition for Military Families is working to build a strong, statewide network of caring and compassionate people who offer support for all who serve or have served our country, and their families who support them. Please subscribe for news and event invitations and stay connected to the Be Connected Faith Network and the other resources and programs offered through Be Connected.
Visit www.ConnectVeterans.org/Faith to learn more about the Be Connected Faith Network and to get more involved! View past Faith Network events on our YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@BeConnectedAZ

Veteran StandDown – White Mountain
2023-08-12 10:00 - 15:00
White Mountain StandDown
​620 E McNeil
Show Low, AZ 85902
August 12, 2023
10am – 3pm
>>>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

Purple Heart Day
2023-08-07
Purple Heart Day is observed on August 7 to honor and remember the men and women who have been wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. military. The Purple Heart is a military decoration awarded to those who have been wounded or killed in action, and it is the oldest military award still given to U.S. service members. On Purple Heart Day, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of those who have been wounded or killed while serving their country, and we recognize the ongoing impact of their service and sacrifice. Purple Heart Day serves as a reminder to us all of the sacrifices made by those in the U.S. military, and the importance of supporting and honoring our service members and veterans.

U.S. Coast Guard Birthday
2023-08-04
This annual observance celebrates the establishment of the United States Coast Guard on August 4, 1790. This day recognizes the dedication and service of the Coast Guard’s brave men and women who have protected the country’s maritime interests for over two centuries. The Coast Guard is responsible for enforcing laws at sea, protecting maritime borders, conducting search and rescue operations, and preventing environmental hazards. As such, the day is an opportunity to honor the Coast Guard’s contributions to national security and to express gratitude for their unwavering commitment to protecting the country’s coastlines and waterways.

National Hire a Veteran Day
2023-07-25
National Hire a Veteran Day is observed on July 25 to encourage employers to consider hiring and supporting veterans in the workforce. The day is an opportunity to recognize the valuable skills, experience, and dedication that veterans bring to the workplace, as well as the unique challenges they may face in transitioning to civilian careers. National Hire a Veteran Day serves to raise awareness about the importance of hiring veterans, and to encourage businesses to provide support and resources for veterans as they enter the civilian workforce. By hiring veterans, businesses not only gain skilled and dedicated employees, but also contribute to the successful transition of veterans to civilian life, and support the ongoing well-being of our service members and their families.

Independence Day
2023-07-04
July 4th, also known as Independence Day, is a federal holiday that commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The Declaration of Independence announced the separation of the 13 American colonies from British rule, marking the birth of the United States of America as a new nation. The day is celebrated with parades, fireworks displays, picnics, and other festivities that honor our country’s history and values. The significance of July 4th lies in its recognition of the American ideals of liberty, democracy, and self-determination, which have become a cornerstone of our nation’s identity. The holiday is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for American independence and to renew the country’s commitment to upholding the principles enshrined in the Declaration of Independence.

Veteran StandDown - FlagStaff
2023-06-29 09:00 - 16:00 | Twin Arrows Casino, 22181 Resort Boulevard, Flagstaff, AZ, 86004
Veterans- you’re invited to the Inaugural George Willie Sr. Memorial Veterans StandDown in Flagstaff on Thursday, 6/29 from 9 am – 4 pm at the Twin Arrows Resort and Casino, 22181 Resort Blvd, Flagstaff. Multiple agencies will be on site. Get help with VA enrollment & housing. Haircuts, hygiene kits, employment services, Veterans Court & much more will be available.

To participate as a business, call 928-286-7446.
To volunteer for the event, call 928-266-3378.
For general information, call 928-286-7446.

Jun 28 Resource Navigation Training
2023-06-28 09:00 - 11:30 | Virtual Event via Zoom

AZ Statewide Virtual PTSD Awareness Summit
2023-06-27 15:00 - 17:00
Learn about Posttraumatic Stress and how it may be impacting you or your loved ones. Explore VA and community resources available to help Service Members, Veterans, family members, and caregivers. The summit will include a general session with important information about PTSD treatment and the PACT Act. There will also be breakout sessions to discuss special topics with our VA providers about PTSD and its impact.
PTSD Summit Flyer
Join the Webex

PTSD Awareness Day
2023-06-27
PTSD Awareness Day, also known as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Day, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the condition and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic event and can affect anyone, including military service members, first responders, and civilians. The day is observed on June 27 each year, and its purpose is to encourage people to learn about the symptoms of PTSD, seek help if they need it, and support those who are living with the condition. It also aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and promote understanding and compassion for those affected by PTSD.
Get Help (resource info) – https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/crisis_help.asp and
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/about/what-is-988/
Veterans can use this new option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1—by text (838255), and through chat (VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat).
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/find-resources/spread-the-word/

Flag Day
2023-06-14
Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the American flag on June 14, 1777. The significance of this day lies in the recognition of the importance of the flag as a symbol of national unity, pride, and freedom. The observance of Flag Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have fought for and defended the flag, as well as the values and ideals it represents. To honor the flag on this day, it is important to follow proper flag etiquette. Here are the top 5 flag etiquette rules:

Display the flag from sunrise to sunset, unless it is illuminated during the night.
Do not let the flag touch the ground or floor.
Raise the flag briskly and lower it ceremoniously.
Do not use the flag as clothing or decoration.
When the flag is no longer in good condition, it should be disposed of in a respectful manner, such as by burning it in a special ceremony.

U.S. Army Birthday
2023-06-14
The U.S. Army Birthday is an annual observance that commemorates the formation of the United States Army on June 14, 1775. The significance of this observance lies in the recognition of the Army’s contributions to the nation’s defense and its enduring commitment to protecting American values and interests at home and abroad. The U.S. Army Birthday also provides an opportunity to honor the sacrifices and dedication of the soldiers who have served and continue to serve in the Army, as well as to celebrate the spirit of service and commitment that is at the core of the Army’s mission. This observance is an important reminder of the Army’s vital role in safeguarding the nation and its citizens. The mission of the United States Army is: to deploy, fight, and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt, and sustained land dominance as part of the joint force of all U.S. military.

National Women Veterans Day
2023-06-12
National Women Veterans Day is observed on June 12. This day recognizes and honors the service and sacrifices of women veterans. Even though women have served in the U.S. military since the Revolutionary War, their contributions have often overlooked or undervalued. National Women Veterans Day seeks to correct this by highlighting the important role that women have played in defending the country and protecting its freedoms. It also aims to raise awareness of the unique challenges that women veterans face, such as gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and lack of access to female-oriented resources. By recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of women veterans, National Women Veterans Day honors their service and inspires future generations of women to pursue careers in the military and to advocate for gender equality in all aspects of society.

D-Day
2023-06-06
D-Day is not a United States holiday, but rather a significant event in American history. It refers to the day of the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944, during World War II. On that day, Allied forces, including American troops, launched a massive invasion of German-occupied France by sea and air. The operation was a critical turning point in the war, as it allowed the Allies to establish a foothold in Europe and begin to push back against the Axis powers. The significance of D-Day lies in its role in the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany and the liberation of Europe from tyranny. The sacrifices made by the soldiers who participated in the invasion are remembered and honored, as their bravery and determination helped to shape the course of history. Observing D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II, is an opportunity to remember and honor the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers who fought and died for freedom.

PTSD Awareness Month
2023-06-01 - 2023-06-30
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness Month is observed during the month of June to raise awareness about the impact of PTSD and promote efforts to support those affected by it. PTSD is a mental health condition that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat, sexual assault, or a natural disaster. The month-long observance aims to increase awareness of the symptoms and effects of PTSD, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and promote access to resources and support for those with PTSD and their families. The significance of PTSD Awareness Month lies in its recognition of the importance of understanding and addressing the mental health needs of those who have experienced trauma, and supporting their recovery and well-being. The month is marked by events and activities that aim to educate the public about PTSD and promote initiatives to help those affected by it, including veterans, first responders, and others who have experienced trauma.
Get Help (resource info) – https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/crisis_help.asp and
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/about/what-is-988/
Veterans can use this new option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1—by text (838255), and through chat (VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat).
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/find-resources/spread-the-word/

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
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
