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As the nation honors its heroes this Veterans Day, one New Jersey-based program is marking an impressive milestone.
Vets4Warriors, a 24/7 peer support network housed at Rutgers University, has counted 1 million connections with veterans, service members and their families.
Founded nearly 14 years ago, Vets4Warriors offers confidential support provided by veterans who understand firsthand the challenges of military life and the transition that follows. Every call, text, or chat is answered live within 30 seconds by a trained peer, according to the program.
“One million connections is a humbling milestone,” said retired Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, executive director of Vets4Warriors. “It shows that veterans, families, and service members are willing to reach out for support. We talk with them no matter what they’re calling about, and we stay connected as long as they need.”
Graham said the most common issues callers share are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, financial strain and other resource challenges.
The goal of the program is to help each person find stability, improve well-being, and begin thriving again. Every call is answered by a veteran, which Graham said helps break down barriers to communication and trust. Licensed mental health professionals are also available as part of the broader team.
“A veteran will open up more easily to another veteran,” Graham said. “It’s a confidential line where they can feel free to talk. Our peers share their stories when it helps, and they follow up to make sure callers are getting the support they need.”
The stigma around asking for mental health support has run deep within the military and first-responder communities for generations. But Graham said that’s changing, and Vets4Warriors’ 1 million connections are proof.
“There’s still stigma, but it’s coming down,” he said. “A million connections show that people are talking about mental health more openly. Programs like ours help normalize reaching out before things reach a crisis point.”
Vets4Warriors is open to all veterans and service members, from those currently deployed to those who served decades ago in Vietnam or Korea. The network also supports military families.
Anyone can reach Vets4Warriors by calling 855-838-8255 or visiting its website.
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