Cohen Veterans Network Launches "Call to Honor" Initiative
The struggle to adequately acknowledge the sacrifices of veterans isn't new, but Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) is trying something a little different this time. "Call to Honor," a gratitude hotline, isn't just another method of saying "thanks"—it's a more profound communication channel for Americans to express their appreciation for military veterans and families.
A More Personal Way to Express Gratitude
Here's the rub: with just 6% of Americans being veterans and a mere 1% actively serving, it's easy to see how personal connections might be lacking. CVN, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health for post-9/11 veterans, unveiled this hotline as a bridge across that gap. Call 1-248-VETERAN (248-838-3726) and take your pick:
- Option 1: Share your gratitude message, unscripted and personal, for veterans to hear.
- Option 2: Play recorded messages, offering veterans a chance to listen to heartfelt expressions from across the nation.
“There is real value in expressing gratitude," said Dr. Anthony Hassan, president and CEO of CVN. "Call to Honor gives veterans a way to hear firsthand how their service is valued."
The Broader Impact of Gratitude
Sure, the project isn't just about feel-good rhetoric. Research dangles a carrot—properly expressed gratitude boosts mental health, elevates social bonds, and even shores up self-esteem. For a veteran grappling with life's weight, these small notes of appreciation may be the lift they didn't know they needed.
Since its inception in 2016, CVN has seen over 109,000 clients, offering nearly a million clinical sessions. That's one hefty number right there. Their therapy includes tackling everything from depression to PTSD, military transition concerns to grief, and family issues to interpersonal relationship repairs.
The Voices Behind the Gratitude
Real voices have already started adding depth to this project:
- "Thank you for the sacrifices. It doesn't matter what branch you're from; you're the top 1% of this country."
- "My heartfelt gratitude for services rendered. May every soldier return safely."
- "I've seen the sacrifices veterans make first-hand, and I am beyond grateful."
National Reach and Future Outlook
With 23 clinics in 22 states and global reach through telehealth, CVN isn't just dabbling at the edges—it's shaping mental health care into an inclusive service platform.
And here's where it gets interesting: The Call to Honor isn't a standalone gimmick. It fits into CVN's broader mission—to uplift the wellbeing of veterans, one message at a time. As Americans, we might step up to the call, but CVN is laying the pathway and proving that gratitude isn't just about words; it's about action and shared experience.
So, if you feel a twinge of gratitude or an urge to voice thanks—take that call. Whether you're leaving a message or simply ingesting the shared appreciations, there's healing and authenticity in participating.
