Heroes Outreach Program volunteers gather to participate in a Waynesville parade.
Heroes Outreach Program
Heroes Outreach Program’s vision is to have, “A country free of veteran and first responder suicides.”
All can gather with fellow veterans 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Mondays at Route 66 Diner in St. Robert.
The group’s mission is, “Recognizing isolation and loss of camaraderie as factors contributing to the tragedy of 20 military veterans committing suicide each day, Heroes Outreach Program (HOP) establishes local outreach gatherings in communities to provide awareness, education and prevention resources.”
“I’m so grateful that J.T. (Teets) and his wife introduced me to the Heroes Outreach Program,” said Maggie Espinoza in an interview about the program. “Like so many veterans, the military and those I served with were my family. After my enlistment was complete, I no longer had that support system to rely on. It’s nice to have somewhere to go where I feel understood and comfortable. I’m with my people. No judgment, no animosity, just sitting around laughing and reminiscing. It gives me something to look forward to each week.”
J.T. Teets is the area coordinator.
HOP was created to give veterans and first responders a place to go where they feel understood. No one is required to talk about anything if they attend but may, and there will be people who will listen and understand.
The group’s belief is as John L. Morlock, founder of the organization, wrote, “We all lived by the creed of ‘Leave no man/woman behind.’ As our oath that we took when we enlisted hasn't expired, this creed has not expired either. I refuse to leave anyone behind, and I ask you to please stand with me, and let's bring them all back. We are all brothers and sisters in arms. I promise not to leave any of you behind.”
Program organizers would like to give veterans and first responders points of connection with other like-minded people. The goal is also to create a support system for people who might not have one. HOP also has resources and services that they can give to attendees in need.
According to their website, officials hope other meetings will be held, stating, “It is our intention, and goal, to have a gathering every day within 20 miles of every veteran and first responder in the United States.”
If you would like to start a program in your town, contact the group at administrator@heroesoutreachprogram.org.
The Heroes Outreach Program is a verified 501 (c) (3). It was founded by a veteran that attempted to commit suicide and was recognized as medically deceased three times in the ambulance to the hospital. He did end up surviving. He has chosen to use the rest of his life to focus on doing the things that he knows would have stopped him from trying to commit suicide.
For more information, visit Facebook and on the web at https://www.heroesoutreachprogram.org/.
Sorry, an error occurred.
Already Subscribed!
Cancel anytime
Thank you .
Your account has been registered, and you are now logged in.
Check your email for details.
Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password.
An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account.
No promotional rates found.
Secure & Encrypted
Thank you.
Your gift purchase was successful! Your purchase was successful, and you are now logged in.
| Rate: | |
| Begins: | |
| Transaction ID: |
A receipt was sent to your email.
