Here is what we have lined up for the meeting:
Hope for the Warriors
Deb McKay, VP for Well Being for Hope For The Warriors located in Springfield, VA will be in attendance and giving us an overview of the programs and services they provide to military and veterans.
Hope for the Warriors was founded by military families aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, NC in 2006 as they witnessed, firsthand, the effects war imparts on service members and their families. Hope For The Warriors has remained grounded in family values as the organization expands both the span of programs offered and the number of wounded, family members, and families of the fallen assisted.
The leadership of the organization remains in the dedicated hands of combat veterans and military family members. Together, our board of directors, staff, and volunteers work tirelessly to serve those who have sacrificed so much. The integrity of our organization is paramount and therefore our representatives are as honorable and noble as our mission and the people we serve.
Blue Star Families
Sandralee Jensen, Caregiver Manager, will also be in attendance to speak about the Blue Star Cares Avatar program. This program provides a toolkit for caregivers to learn successful communication strategies, especially as they are caring for their loved one.
Blue Star Families has partnered with United Health Foundation to bring you Blue Star Cares – a safe and empowering way for the caregiver to learn and practice successful communication styles through computer-based simulations. Best of all, they will be able to enter these simulations anytime, anywhere with a tablet, laptop or desktop.
These simulations let them interact with lifelike virtual humans – Avatars – who respond to statements in a very natural and realistic way. As they run through the simulations, it will feel like they’re in real conversation with family members. They’ll get immediate, constructive feedback not only from the Avatar, but also from a helpful coach who pops up to give friendly advice whenever situations start to get particularly challenging.
The Blue Star Cares Toolkit also includes a comprehensive workbook full of great resources, including advice, exercises, and self-care techniques. Together, the Avatar simulations and the workbook will help with gaining the knowledge, skills and confidence to successfully navigate life as a caregiver.
Military Member and Veteran Needs
Feel free to also come to the meeting and share any military member or veteran needs you might need assistance with. Utilize members of the collaborative to help with issues you are trying to solve with military, veterans and their families you might be working with!
And as always, please come share any events, annoucements or updates from your organization to the group!