Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for the American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the upcoming 106th National Convention in Tampa, Fla., the organization's efforts in disaster recovery and its ongoing suicide prevention campaign.
The American Legion's National Convention will feature various activities, including a career fair, business workshops for veteran entrepreneurs and a Department of Veteran Affairs claims clinic. Stoffer detailed the Legion's participation in a VA hackathon aimed at improving healthcare access and efficiency. Additionally, he noted the convention will include a gaming center, which recognizes the therapeutic benefits of gaming for veterans seeking camaraderie and mental health support.
Reflecting on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Stoffer discussed the American Legion's role in disaster recovery efforts. He highlighted how Legion posts served as civil defense shelters, provided essential services and distributed over $2.1 million in cash grants through their National Emergency Fund. Stoffer emphasized the importance of community preparedness and collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations in disaster response.
The Be the One suicide prevention campaign remains a top priority for the American Legion. Stoffer reported that over 20,000 people have been trained in suicide prevention protocols through their partnership with the Columbia University Lighthouse Project. The program aims to equip Legion members with the skills to recognize suicide risk and provide appropriate support. Stoffer stressed the importance of destigmatizing mental healthcare and highlighted the program's success in saving veterans' lives.
To learn more about the American Legion's initiatives and upcoming convention, listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast.