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Veteran Buddy ChecksU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs2026-10-01T10:06:59-04:00

Veteran Buddy Checks

Veteran Buddy Checks encourage Veterans to connect or reconnect with their Veteran friends–just to check in. As part of the effort, Veteran Buddy Check Week builds on the success of the American Legion’s Buddy Check program and the Veteran Wellness Alliance’s Get Involved program.

National Buddy Check Week

What You Can Do

Veteran Buddy Checks aim to enhance peer-to-peer connections, improve mental health, and increase access to VA and non-VA resources. Take the pledge–take the training–find buddies. Take the training before reaching out and talking to your buddies. The training helps you recognize signs of distress and educates you on available resources you can recommend if needed.

Veteran Buddy Checks

Take the pledge

Sign up to take the pledge
to talk to ten and reach out.

Find training. Two hands holding phone with cogs on screen.

Take the training

Watch the Buddy Check Week
peer wellness training video.

Check out Face the Fight

VetResources Community Network (VRCN) is partnering with Face the Fight to promote Suicide Prevention and Buddy Check Week.
Check out Face the Fight
Face the Fight

More Resources

Check back later for important updates to our webpage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What other suicide prevention resources are available?

Developed in collaboration with VA, Psycharmor’s VA S.A.V.E. training addresses how to identify a Veteran who may be at risk and teaches viewers what to do to help. Face the Fight is a coalition of corporations, foundations, nonprofit, and Veteran-focused organizations that aim to raise awareness and support for Veteran suicide prevention.

Can Veteran caregivers participate in Veteran Buddy Check Week?

Absolutely! We’ve teamed up with the American Red Cross Military and Veteran Caregiver Network to share resources with caregivers as well as the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, whose Hidden Heroes Campaign brings vital attention to the untold stories of military and Veteran caregivers.

Can Veteran survivors participate in Veteran Buddy Check Week?

Yes! We’ve teamed up with the Tragedy Assistance program for Survivors (TAPS) to provide peer-based emotional assistance and resources to Veteran loss survivors and their families through the TAPS National Survivor Helpline, available 24/7, at 202-959-TAPS (8277) and taps.org. Watch the TAPS 2024 National Buddy Check video on YouTube.

Will Veteran Buddy Check Week be an annual event?

Yes! If you have any questions or ideas, please reach out to us.

OPR: Veterans Experience Office

Date last updated October 1, 2026