Be Connected

National Day of the Deployed
2023-10-26
The National Day of the Deployed is observed on October 26 to honor and show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of deployed military personnel. The day’s observance works to raise awareness of the important role that deployed service members play in defending the country and protecting America’s interests abroad, as well as the sacrifices they and their families make. Deployments can be difficult and challenging, and service members often face prolonged periods of separation from their loved ones, exposure to danger and harsh conditions, and other hardships. The significance of the National Day of the Deployed lies in its recognition of the sacrifices and contributions of deployed service members, as well as the need to provide them with support and resources to help them fulfill their mission and return safely to their families. The day is marked by various activities and events that aim to honor and support deployed service members and their families, 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 deployed service members do, and to advocate for policies and initiatives that support their well-being and the well-being of their families.

Lake Havasu City StandDown
2023-10-21 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Phoenix)
Saturday, October 21
10 AM – 2 PM
Aquatic Center – Relics and Rods Hall
100 Park, Ave, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
Event Flyer

Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus: Military Culture Training
2023-10-20 10:00 - 11:30, 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

Mental Health Summit
2023-10-19 08:00 - 16:30
Mental Health Summit
Thursday, October 19
8 AM – 4:30 PM
Schedule:

Virtual Session: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Arizona time

Attend virtual presentations

Onsite Session = 120 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Arizona time

Attend in-person presentations at your nearest Arizona VA location

REGISTER
EVENT FLYER

Step 1: Register for the virtual session
Step 2: View confirmation email containing additional details for the in-person afternoon events

This is a special opportunity for you to connect with VA and community leadership and collaborate on solutions within the mental health space.

Veteran StandDown: Pinal County
2023-10-14 09:00 - 14:00 | 5497 West McCartney Road, 5497 W. McCartney Road, Coolidge, AZ
Pinal County
11th Annual Veteran Stand Down & Resource Fair
October 14, 2023
9:00 am -2:00 pm
HOHP Veteran Transition Center
5497 West McCartney Rd., Coolidge, AZ
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:
• VA Benefit Assistance
• Social Security Administration Services
• Driver License & State ID Services
• Veterans Court Services
• Haircuts, Showers
• Housing Assistance
• Clothing Assistance
• Pet Assistance
• Women Veteran Services
• Employment & Training 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

U.S. Navy Birthday
2023-10-13
This annual observance commemorates the establishment of the United States Navy on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress authorized a few small ships. This day recognizes the courage and commitment of the Navy’s sailors and their pivotal role in defending America’s interests on the high seas. The U.S. Navy is a powerful force capable of projecting American interests across the world. It is responsible for protecting American interests at sea, maintaining freedom of navigation, conducting maritime operations, and promoting stability and security in international waters. The observance is an opportunity to honor the proud history and traditions of the Navy, its values of Honor, Courage and Commitment, and to express gratitude for the service and sacrifice of its sailors, both past and present.

Community Helper Training
2023-10-01 - 2023-10-31, 2023-09-01 - 2023-09-30, 2023-08-01 - 2023-08-31, 2023-07-01 - 2023-07-31
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

Gold Star Mothers/Family Day
2023-09-24
Gold Star Mothers/Family Day is observed on the last Sunday in September. This day honors and recognizes the families of U.S. military members who have died while serving their country. The term “Gold Star” comes from the tradition of displaying a service flag with a blue star for each immediate family member serving in the military, and a gold star if that family member died in service. Gold Star Family Day is an opportunity to show support and gratitude for the families of fallen service members, and to recognize the sacrifices that they have made. It is also a reminder to the broader community of the ongoing impact of military service on families, and the importance of supporting them during and after their loved one’s service.

U.S. Air Force Birthday
2023-09-18
The United States Air Force birthday is an annual observance that commemorates the establishment of the U.S. Air Force as a separate branch of the U.S. military on September 18, 1947. This day recognizes the vital role played by the Air Force in national security and defense, including air and space superiority, global strike, rapid global mobility, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The Air Force has a long and distinguished history, with its members serving bravely in every major conflict since World War II. The U.S. Air Force Birthday is an opportunity to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served in this branch of the military, as well as to honor their dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting the nation’s airspace and global interests.

Veteran StandDown - Yavapai County
2023-09-15 08:00 - 2023-09-16 12:00
Yavapai County StandDown
1040 Whipple St
Prescott, AZ 86305
September 15, 2023, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
September 16, 2023, 8:00 am – 12:00 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

POW/MIA Recognition Day
2023-09-15
POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday in September. This day honors and remembers the sacrifices and contributions of U.S. prisoners of war (POWs) and those missing in action (MIA) while serving their country. The day was first observed in 1979 to raise awareness about the plight of American prisoners of war and those missing in action. POW/MIA Recognition Day serves as a reminder that the U.S. government is still working to bring home those who are missing, and to provide support and care for those who were held captive. It also recognizes the families of POWs and MIAs, who continue to carry the burden of uncertainty and grief. Through ceremonies, vigils, and other events, POW/MIA Recognition Day honors the sacrifices and service of all U.S. military personnel, and reminds us to never forget those who have not yet returned home.

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
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.

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.

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.
