By Scierra Bratton
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs partnered with the Charlotte Hornets at its Community corner on Wednesday, April 8 during the Toronto Raptors game. The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat or text. Veterans and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online or send a text message to 838255 to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. During the Hornets game on April 8, a Suicide Prevention Coordinator was available to speak to fans about the Veterans Crisis Line and distributed a variety of free outreach materials including wallet cards, coasters, bracelets, magnets, brochures, phone stickers and tote bags to spread the word. Visit www.va.gov for more information about the Veterans Crisis Line.
RIGHT MOVES FOR YOUTH
Right Moves for Youth will partner with the Charlotte Hornets at its Community Corner on Monday, April 13 during the Houston Rockets game. A school-based prevention program, Right Moves for Youth collaborates with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office and other community partners. Right Moves for Youth uses a weekly, group mentoring model and utilizes a standardized curriculum focusing on life skills. Students in grades 6-12 are served at 26 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools sites. Students referred to Right Moves for Youth programs are often at-risk youth who come to the program with a myriad of challenges placing them at greater risk for dropout. Right Moves for Youth utilizes group support, adult and peer mentoring, life skills development and career exploration to reengage students in the academic process while empowering them to make the right moves. Hornets fans can visit Right Moves for Youth staff members at the Hornets Community Corner to learn more about the impact the organization is having in the Charlotte community. Fans will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive games and t-shirt giveaways. For more information about Right Moves for Youth visit www.rightmovesforyouth.org.