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BEACON FOR COURAGE:
VETERANS SUPPORT PROGRAM
At Beacon for Courage, a program under Beacon for Hope, we recognize the unique challenges that veterans face when transitioning to civilian life, coping with service-related trauma, and finding support for mental health struggles. Our mission is to provide a lifeline to those who have served by offering resources, community connections, and crisis support tailored to veterans and their families
THE FACTS
suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in Veteran’s under the age of 45.
The VA’s 2024 Suicide Prevention Annual Report found that in 2022, there were over 6,000 suicides among Veterans, which is almost 18 Veteran Suicides per day. We must create a community that is knowledgeable about Veteran’s mental health and wellness and is supportive of saving the lives of those who are tasked with keeping us safe.
HOW WE SUPPORT VETERANS
Crisis Intervention &
Suicide Prevention.
24/7 Crisis Helpline: If you or a veteran you know is in crisis, reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988, then press 1. You can connect with trained peer support specialists who are veterans themselves and are available to talk and provide guidance. 988 also offers free, confidential counseling services for veterans and their families.
COMMUNITY & PEER SUPPORT
By engaging in community-driven support, veterans can build strong, supportive networks where they can , learn from one another, and offer encouragement during difficult times.
Veteran's Peer
Network
Connect with fellow veterans who understand your experiences and challenges.
support groups
Join in-person or virtual meetings where veterans can share stories, find encouragement,
and build resilience.
social
gatherings
We host social events where veterans can connect, share experiences, and build
lasting friendships in a relaxed setting.
recreation
Participation in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and disc golf to promote mental well-
being. Opportunities to step away from daily stress and focus on healing and camaraderie.
Emporia Area social opportunities for veterans
at VFW POST 1980 and AMERICAN LEGION POST 5
COUNSELING RESOURCES
confidential counseling available to veterans and their loved ones.
Military OneSource
Peer to Peer Support
HOTLINE - 800-273-8255 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
CHAT - Speak with a responder by using Lifeline Chat.
TTY - Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Emporia State
University
Offers counseling services for military and veteran students.
620-341-1200
SUPPORT FOR VETERANS' FAMILIES
The families of veterans play a vital role in supporting their loved ones through the challenges of military service. The sacrifices made by veterans’ families are often overlooked, but they too experience the challenges that come with military service.
Education & Career Support
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can present unique challenges, but veterans have access to a wealth of resources to help them pursue their educational and career goals.
resume building & Job search assistance
Tailored support for veterans transitioning into civilian careers.
connections with
veteran-friendly employers
Access job fairs, networking opportunities, and employment resources.
entrepreneurship programs
Guidance for veterans looking to start their own businesses.
state and local education and
career resources for veterans
Kansas veterans affairs commission
Assistance in accessing education benefits, non-service connected pension benefits, service-connected disability compensation benefits, spouse and dependent benefits, state VA benefits, VA health care benefits.
CONTACT
Jamie Potter
(620) 342-3347
jamie.potter@ks.gov
702 Commercial St, Suite 1D, Emporia, KS 66801
south east kansasworks
emporia workforce center
This center offers priority services to veterans, including: Comprehensive assessments of skills and abilities. Individual career coaching. Development of personalized employment plans. Access to job fairs and workshops.
CONTACT
(620) 342-3355
215 W. 6th Ave., Emporia, KS 66801
KANVET
KanVet provides direct access to State of Kansas employment and training resources for veterans, including: Job listings, Employment programs, Resources to assist in the transition to civilian employment. They also offer information on the KanSERVE program, which matches veterans military skills with civilian job opportunities.
flint hills technical college
veterans education services
FHTC accepts military educational
benefits and offers programs to help veterans gain skills for the civilian workforce. They provide
assistance with: Enrollment, Benefit utilization, Career counseling. For more information, contact
their admissions office.
EMPORIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Offers a variety of student veteran services and resources including a Student Veteran Center. The center serves discharged and retired veterans; active-duty military; members of National Guard and Reserves; spouses and dependents of active duty military and veterans; Gold Star family members; community veterans’ organizations and stakeholders; and prospective student-veterans visiting campus.
If you are a veteran or active duty military with questions about federal financial aid in order
to enroll at a Kansas university or community college, contact the Kansas Board of Regents
for assistance.
GET INVOLVED
Whether you are a veteran in need of support, a family member looking for resources, or someone who wants to
help, there are many ways to get involved:
● Volunteer as a peer mentor or crisis support advocate.
● Donate to fund mental health initiatives for veterans.
● Spread Awareness by sharing our mission and resources with others.
© 2025 • Beacon for Hope Suicide Prevention is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization EIN #82-1711721