VA has extended a call to action to every U.S. state and territory to join the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families.
VA and Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) have partnered since 2018 to facilitate community and state-level efforts to prevent Veteran suicide, starting with the Mayor’s Challenge.
The Mayor’s Challenge grew into the Governor’s Challenge, with 35 states currently participating. VA and SAMHSA have extended the invitation to join the Governor’s Challenge to all remaining states and territories.
The Governor’s Challenge advances a public health approach to suicide prevention by bringing together key state leaders to develop strategic action plans focused on Veteran suicide prevention. Governor’s Challenge teams receive support from VA and SAMHSA that includes technical assistance, consultation with subject matter experts, and sharing of best practices and innovations with other teams across the nation.