Jeff Buum’s Post

Operation Delta Dog, an organization SWAM proudly supports, rescues dogs and trains them as service companions for Veterans experiencing PTSD and related challenges, at no cost. They are a finalist for a $50,000 grant from SpotOn Fence, which will go a long way to assist more Veterans on their waiting list. But they need to first show community support with votes. Please take a moment to watch their video and cast your vote before June 26th! How to Vote: 1. Visit this link: https://loom.ly/diJDfak 2. Click the heart icon below the video to vote. That's it! One simple action can help more Veterans! 🇺🇸 https://lnkd.in/eKkDHMha

What a lovely video to showcase the skills and expertise of both the trainers and the PTSD Assistance Dogs. Not only have I witnessed the life-changing impacts that dogs like Edith have had on their veteran handlers but we now also have the research evidence to prove it. Our longitudinal mixed-methods research study followed up 44 veterans and emergency service personnel from See Differently with the Royal Society for the Blind and Assistance Dogs Australia over a two year period to examine the mental health benefits of having a PTSD assistance dog. Results at the 1 year follow-up showed significant reductions in Anxiety, Depression, Stress and PTSD all of which were sustained over time. These impacts also extended to family members including partners and adult children. Assistance Dogs are not intended to replace existing treatments but serve as a valuable adjunct to current evidence-based care for veterans with PTSD. For more information please see our two recently published articles: https://lnkd.in/g2Zxs3Mk and https://lnkd.in/gkC2nTQg. University of Adelaide, Military and Emergency Services Health Australia, Em Bould, Libby Callaway, Marie Iannos, Melissa Sherman, Dr. Henry Bowen, Amanda Hutchinson.

ValorWell community, let's journey through grief together. Our virtual support program for coping with loss offers compassionate guidance and understanding during life's most challenging moments. With no upfront costs, accessing support is a relief during difficult times. Join us in finding solace and healing in community. #CHAMPVA #VETERANS #MENTALHEALTH #CHAMPVASupport #VeteransHealth #MentalHealthMatters #CHAMPVACare

For U.S. Army veteran Kyle, being partnered with FSD Service Dog Merengue was a sign of hope. Merengue assists Kyle with his symptoms of PTSD and a brain tumor by interrupting anxious behaviors, awakening Kyle from nightmares, turning lights off and on, and more. More than his service dog, Merengue has helped Kyle on his journey to finding light, love, and new possibilities. To read more about Kyle and Merengue, visit my story!

Veteran Buddy Check Week is October 21–25, 2024. Please support Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors. 🇺🇸 Whether it’s a call, text, or coffee break, reaching out can make all the difference! Veteran Buddy Check is a call to action for all Veterans to reaffirm their bonds and the connections that unite them across the nation. For more info and resources please visit: https://lnkd.in/gHwitUKR #Veteran #VeteranSupport #VeteransDay #BuddyCheckWeek

The “shake” command is more than just a trick—it’s a powerful tool our service dogs use to support veterans and first responders with PTSD. When a handler asks their service dog to “shake” during a conversation with a stranger, it shifts the focus from the handler to the dog. This simple act can help ease anxiety in unexpected public interactions, offering comfort and control to the handler. Plus, since service dogs aren’t to be petted while working, the “shake” allows for a positive interaction with the dog—under the handler’s permission—giving the public a chance to connect in a meaningful way. As we celebrate International Assistance Dog Week, we’re shining a light on the incredible training and skills that make these dogs such invaluable partners. To learn more about our service dog program, click here: https://lnkd.in/gnZRBKHf #AmericasVetDogs #Veterans #FirstResponders #ServiceDog #MentalHealth #AssistanceDog

As business leaders, we're in a unique position to make a difference in the lives of veterans who have PTSD. Many veterans with PTSD face lengthy waits for service dogs. By allowing employees to bring future service dogs to work, we enable more people to participate in training them, shortening that wait. It's a win-win. The presence of these dogs fosters an environment of care and support, improves communication, and makes for a happier workplace. Wondering where to start or how to boost your own corporate community involvement program? Get tips in this #Insperity guide: https://lnkd.in/g8XQSvzT. #Volunteering #Veterans #ServiceDogs #CorporateSocialResponsibility https://lnkd.in/g2swf5Ak

As we enter September, we enter Suicide Awareness Month.  At Project Healing Waters, we stand with our veterans and active duty service members every day, not just during this month as we work to bring awareness to the mental health challenges our community faces. Did you know that our community is 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than non-veterans. These numbers are more than just statistics, they are reminders of the deep scars that many carry. Our mission is to support and uplift these individuals through fly fishing, camaraderie, and community. Suicide prevention isn't just a monthly focus, it's a daily commitment within our organization and for all of our participants and volunteers. Let's continue to foster connections, offer support, and show that help is always here.  At PHW, we use the art of fly fishing to aid in the physical and emotional rehabilitation of veterans through the powers of the outdoors. Through hands-on instruction, mentoring, and time spent in nature, we create a healing environment where participants can find peace, purpose, and most importantly, a renewed sense of community. Save the Veterans Crisis Line: If you or someone you know is struggling, don't wait, be sure to reach out. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7. Call 988, then press 1, or text 838255 to get help. Everyone should have this number saved in their phone. #veteranshelpingveterans #flyfishingsaveslives #community #projecthealingwaters #veterans

As business leaders, we're in a unique position to make a difference in the lives of veterans who have PTSD. Many veterans with PTSD face lengthy waits for service dogs. By allowing employees to bring future service dogs to work, we enable more people to participate in training them, shortening that wait. It's a win-win. The presence of these dogs fosters an environment of care and support, improves communication, and makes for a happier workplace. Wondering where to start or how to boost your own corporate community involvement program? Get tips in this #Insperity guide: https://lnkd.in/e7T2dHvc. #Volunteering #Veterans #ServiceDogs #CorporateSocialResponsibility https://lnkd.in/eWn5PkSj

As business leaders, we're in a unique position to make a difference in the lives of veterans who have PTSD. Many veterans with PTSD face lengthy waits for service dogs. By allowing employees to bring future service dogs to work, we enable more people to participate in training them, shortening that wait. It's a win-win. The presence of these dogs fosters an environment of care and support, improves communication, and makes for a happier workplace. Wondering where to start or how to boost your own corporate community involvement program? Get tips in this #Insperity guide: https://lnkd.in/gMCv_izH. #Volunteering #Veterans #ServiceDogs #CorporateSocialResponsibility https://lnkd.in/gvUzBxr5