Watch three new Be the One how-to videos

The American Legion has created new Be the One videos as a resource for posts wanting to equip members to know how to respond to, and help, veterans in crisis and bring awareness to veteran suicide. The videos and more resources are available at betheone.org/resources. 

Check out the following three new videos:

Host a Be the One walk. Department of Wisconsin Commander Jim Johnson gives best practices to how to conduct a Be the One walk, from picking a route to advertising and promotion. Johnson has successfully conducted four suicide awareness walks in his department, including one recently. “I’m trying to bring in exercise to increase our overall wellness, both physically and mentally,” Johnson said. “It breaks the stigma of all of us just sitting in a bar. It gets us out in the community, they see what we’re doing, and it brings everybody together for Be the One to bring awareness to suicide.”

Order activation kits. New Be the One post activation kits are available through Emblem Sales via special order. There are three kit options, including one designed for suicide awareness walks/runs that Post 180 in Vienna, Va., used for its 5K walk in June. It includes a pop-up banner with carrying case, a 3-foot-by-5-foot flag and 100 coins. Post 180 Athletics Officers Michael Paruit said, “The kit is absolutely worthwhile. Everyone saw the banner and I saw people scanning the QR code (to learn more about Be the One). It’s important to advertise this message and (the activation kit) is a very easy way to do so.”

Identify a veteran in crisis. Be the One Program Manager Tony Cross shares how to identify a veteran at risk of suicide and ask the right questions to get them the help they need.

Additional Be the One branded resources at betheone.org/resources include:

- sample media advisory and press release

- sample speech

- social media graphics

- table banner

- customizable brochures

- posters

- wallet cards

- merchandise