Chris Kolenda Saber Six Foundation

2024 self-directed programs: purpose: the foundation connected with veteran paratroopers who fought with task force saber in afghanistan; these individuals inspired the establishment of the organization. Due to the reported 22 veteran suicides a day, there is a push to personally connect with our members and families to check on their well-being and establish a supportive relationship.

2024 virtual events: belonging: the foundation conducted stable calls and fiddler's green virtual check-ins. Stable calls are once a month capacity building video calls connecting surviving members and families with each other. During the calls, the foundation conveys useful information by inviting professionals to talk, asking veterans to share stories of current successes or challenges, introducing new members, and sharing foundation news and/or upcoming events. Fiddler's green virtual check-ins are more fluid and organic virtual get togethers with break-out rooms for more intimate discussion focused on veterans' physical/emotional/mental health, challenges, rehashing shared stories, and are used as needed to be a way for veterans to commemorate a newly lost comrade to suicide, health issues, or untimely death.