Beyond the Battlefield: Organizations Empowering Veterans in Civic and Community Leadership

In the heart of our nation's narrative, veterans hold a place of honor, embodying the spirit of service, sacrifice, and commitment. As they transition from active duty back to civilian life, many seek avenues to continue their service, finding purpose in supporting not just their fellow veterans but their communities at large. A myriad of organizations across the country are dedicated to harnessing this unwavering spirit, focusing on empowering veterans, aiding their reintegration, and ensuring they have the tools to thrive.

This piece shines a light on these commendable organizations, showcasing their vital work in creating meaningful opportunities for veterans to contribute, thrive, and lead in the next chapters of their lives. Through their efforts, these organizations not only honor the contributions of our nation's heroes but also amplify their role as pivotal community pillars, demonstrating the enduring value of service and the profound impact of veterans beyond the battlefield.

Military Veterans in Journalism

Military Veterans in Journalism’s mission is simple: get more military veterans working in America’s newsrooms. The United States has been at war for more than 18 years at a cost of more than 7,000 lives, about 50,000 wounded, and billions in tax dollars. Yet military veterans are vastly underrepresented in our nation’s newsrooms. While about 7 percent of Americans have served in the armed forces, only 2 percent of media workers are military veterans, according to U.S. Census data. Veterans bring perspective, nuanced understanding, and on-the-ground experience about the military and veteran affairs that ultimately benefit newsrooms and news consumers. Learn how you can get involved here.

We The Veterans

We the Veterans and Military Families is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization created by veterans and military family members to empower the veteran and military family community to strengthen American democracy. Get involved here.

Sound Off

Sound Off is a mobile resource connecting people seeking help with anonymous, long-term mental health support. Sound Off is the first and only mental health resource for Veteran, Service Members and Intelligence Officers that allows both anonymity and repeat contact with clinicians or peers. All interactions between those seeking support and those offering it are contained entirely within the app. Get involved here.

Vet the Voice Foundation

Founded in 2009, the mission of VVF is to empower Veterans across the country to become civic leaders and policy advocates by providing the support, training, and tools they need to continue their service and find new missions at home. VVF seeks to harness the energy and drive of the dedicated men and women who have served their country and put it to work at home and in their communities.

Veterans for All Voters

They are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to build and mobilize a community of military veterans to advocate for election innovations that unlock competition, make U.S. politics less polarizing and our government more effective. Learn more here.