Calling All LGBTQ Vets to Share Your Inspiring Stories

Tucson LGBTQ Vets —  Please Come and Share Your Story to Support a Fellow Veteran!

Make the Connection is new the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ national mental health awareness campaign that is looking for LGBTQ Vets and their families who would like to share their stories.

VA’s Make the Connection team will be conducting live film interviews of Arizona LGBTQ Veterans retelling their stories of overcoming mental health issues and other challenges that plague this valued community.  The interviews will be held in Phoenix from Thursday, June 8 through Sunday, June 11.

More than 400 Veterans and family members have shared their inspiring stories.  Those same stories have helped many others to understand that there’s no shame in reaching out for support, and that seeking mental health treatment is a sign of strength, not a sign of weakness.

While all Veterans are encouraged to participate, the VA is particularly seeking participation from LGBTQ Vets so that their unique experiences will be heard and represented.

All interviews are conducted anonymously, with only first names are used on the web page. Veterans and their families will receive $100 compensation for their participation with an additional stipend being available for Veterans who have to travel great distances to participate.

If you are interested, please email outreach@maketheconnection.net or call 602-529-5075 with your name and age, military service affiliation and service dates, and discharge status as listed on your DD-214. This information will not be released publicly. Once you are confirmed for participation, you will be provided with the exact address of filming.

Join the more than 400 incredibly brave Veterans who have already shared their inspiring stories. Just think, your story could encourage another LGBTQ Vet who needs to get help.