BVA is pleased to announce a new Buddy Check initiative to be carried out by the Association’s first two classes of graduate Ambassadors. The outreach effort connects veterans to check on well-being and offer support. Ambassadors are trained blind and low vision volunteers who are passionate about helping other veterans. They will reach out by phone or email simply to check in and provide information about BVA resources and services when appropriate. The Buddy Check is not a solicitation call. Ambassadors are serving to offer support and friendship.

BVA’s Buddy Checks are organized to coincide with National Buddy Check Week October 16-20, a now nationwide campaign supported and promoted by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), that encourages veterans to connect or reconnect with their veteran friends – just to check in. The campaign’s origin is The STRONG Veterans Act of 2022, which addresses mental health care provided by VA. It contains 27 sections requiring VA to work collaboratively with the Indian Health Service and other partners.

Buddy Check Week builds on the success of the American Legion’s Buddy Check program and the Veteran Wellness Alliance’s Get Involved program.

If you are interested in learning more about BVA’s Buddy Check initiative, please send an email to membership@bva.org, or call 800-669-7079 and press Menu Option 2 (Member Relations).