The “Race to End Veteran Suicide”

On average, 22 veterans take their own lives every day.  This is a terrible toll that we can end.

The Veterans Administration and a number of no-profits have developed programs to help veterans in distress but a critical step is raising awareness of this trend.  Awareness is the pathway for people to recognize veterans suffering from depression or PTSD and to point them to the resources that can help.

As an American Legion life member – and a motorsports fan – I’m thrilled about the new partnership between the American Legion and Chip Ganassi Racing.

Below is an interview between RACER Studio creative director George Tamayo talks with American Legion Chief Marketing Officer Dean Kessel about how this program came together and why motorsport became the catalyst.

You may not know this, but DVEN has our own car out on the amateur motorsports circuit with the same mission.   We compete primarily in California in SCCA autocross and time trial events but we are expanding to the East Coast with our VetsRally4Vets event at Summit Point Raceway on October 10, 2021.  Click this link for details – 2021 VetsRally4Vets at Summit Point Raceway.

picture of the Disabled Veteran Empowerment Network's 1997 Miata public awareness car

If you are an American Legion member, you will find the interview interesting.  If you’re a vet and not already an American Legion Member, check out the great things the Legion does – The American Legion.

Click the image below for the story about how the American Legion teamed up with Chip Ganassi Racing and the role veteran driver Jimmie Johnson will play in the program.  #funwithcars