Serving Those Who Served Us – And Saving Lives Along the Way

Greenville County is home to nearly 30,000 veterans. They’ve worn the uniform in every conflict since World War II, representing every branch of the military and every walk of life. They’ve stood for us. Now it’s our turn to stand for them.

VetForward, a flagship program of Upstate Circle of Friends, is dedicated to helping veterans and their families build strong, stable, and fulfilling lives after service. Through support in housing, mental health, career development, financial literacy, and community connection, VetForward ensures veterans feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

But there’s a challenge we cannot ignore:
Veterans die by suicide at a rate 1.5 times higher than the general population. Many never get connected to the right help in time. Often, the difference between life and loss is whether someone nearby knows what to do, who to call, and where to send them.

That’s why this Suicide Prevention Referral Training on Saturday, May 30, 2026 is so important.
This isn’t about turning you into a counselor—it’s about giving you the skills to:

Recognize when someone may be at risk
Start a compassionate, safe conversation
Connect them to the right professional or crisis resource
Understand the unique challenges veterans face, including the stigma around seeking help

When more people know how to guide someone in crisis to life-saving support, our community becomes safer—not just for veterans, but for everyone.

Government resources alone cannot meet the need. This is where neighbors, friends, coworkers, and community members step in. Together, we can create a network of awareness and action strong enough to catch those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

On May 30th, you can be part of that network.
Come ready to learn. Leave prepared to save a life.

Suicide Prevention/Intervention Training