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For many veterans, service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. The bonds built during military life often last a lifetime, and in some cases, those connections can be lifesaving.
That’s the spirit behind Buddy Check Week, an annual campaign led by Face the Fight, a coalition of companies and organizations working together to combat veteran suicide. The initiative encourages veterans, friends, and family to check in with one another via text, a call, or a simple conversation, reminding each other that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
This year, Babs Chase, Vice President of Partnerships for Face the Fight, took that message nationwide. Featured on Fox News, Babs shared how Buddy Check Week empowers veterans to reach out to their peers, creating a ripple effect of connection and hope. Her message was simple but powerful:
“Sometimes the best way to help someone is just to check in. It doesn’t take much time, but it can make all the difference.”
Watch the full interview below:
Support for veterans comes in many forms, and this year, one of the most visible came from Starbucks. As part of Buddy Check Week, Starbucks launched a national campaign encouraging customers to participate in the movement, pledging to donate $10 for every person who joined in.
The partnership reflected Starbucks’ long-standing commitment to veterans and military families while amplifying the Face the Fight mission. Together, they demonstrated how major brands can use their platforms to turn awareness into action.
“Starbucks’ support shows how simple moments, like a cup of coffee or a quick conversation, can spark change,” said Face the Fight leaders. “It’s a reminder that community is built one interaction at a time.”
Veteran suicide remains a critical issue in the United States, but efforts like Buddy Check Week show what’s possible when the public, private, and nonprofit sectors come together. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, consistent outreach and peer connection are among the most effective tools in preventing crisis situations.
By inviting everyone, veterans and civilians alike, to participate, Buddy Check Week reframes support as a shared responsibility. It’s not just about awareness; it’s about taking meaningful action that strengthens relationships and saves lives.
Driving Impact Through Digital Storytelling
Social Driver has been proud to help amplify the Face the Fight campaign, working alongside leaders in the military, corporate, and nonprofit worlds to elevate their message and expand their reach. The initiative embodies what we believe at Social Driver: that digital platforms can create human impact when used with purpose.
From strategic storytelling to social campaigns, our team has been inspired by how Face the Fight turns awareness into empathy and empathy into measurable action.
Carrying the Connection Forward
As Face the Fight continues its mission, Buddy Check Week stands as a reminder that small actions can lead to big change. Whether through a text, a phone call, or a shared cup of coffee, every connection counts.
If you or someone you know is a veteran, take a moment today to check in. Ask how they’re doing. Listen. Remind them they matter.
And if you want to get involved with Face the Fight or learn how to host your own Buddy Check, visit facethefight.org.
