The Institute for Military and Veteran Family Wellness (IMVFW) at UT Social Work has received funding for a third consecutive year to deliver suicide prevention training through its Veteran Spouse Network (VSN).
This support comes from Face the Fight, a national initiative founded by USAA, Reach Resilience, and the Humana Foundation to prevent veteran suicide. Veteran Spouse Network is proud to be among 27 organizations nationwide selected to receive $16.5 million in grants.
. According to dynamic data modeling, Face the Fight projects 6,500 lives to be saved by 2032
Transforming Research Into Action
VSN delivers free suicide prevention trainings that equips military spouses and community members with evidence-based tools to recognize warning signs, have compassionate conversations, and intervene during crises. To date, the program has trained over 1,250 participants, strengthening family support networks to prevent crises before they occur.
“This grant recognizes VSN’s track record of delivering programs that save lives,” said Dr. Elisa Borah, IMVFW director. “Our approach transforms research into action, connecting expertise with lived experience to meet the real needs of military and veteran families.”
UT Social Work continues to lead with evidence-based programs, trained practitioners, and partnerships that save lives when stakes are highest.
Facing the Crisis Head-On
Veteran suicide rates are 60% higher than the national average. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among veterans under 45. Face the Fight addresses this crisis through philanthropic grantmaking, public education, and awareness. To date, Face the Fighthas impacted over 931,000 lives, training 70,000 community members in suicide prevention strategies.