Manatee County Partners with The Fire Watch to Prevent Veteran Suicide Through Community Training
Manatee County Government has joined forces with The Fire Watch to address the ongoing crisis of veteran suicide, launching a series of free training sessions through the Watch Stander program. This initiative is designed to educate community members on recognizing the signs of veteran distress and how to respond effectively to those in crisis.
The Watch Stander training is quick, accessible, and impactful, equipping residents with the tools needed to identify and support veterans who may be struggling with mental health challenges or suicidal ideation. By building a network of informed citizens, the program aims to establish a safety net for veterans in need.
Both in-person and virtual sessions are available over the coming months:
In-person sessions:
August 12 | Manatee County Government Administrative Building | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
September 9 | Manatee Community Foundation | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
October 7 | Manatee County Government Administrative Building | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Virtual sessions:
July 29 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
August 26 | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
September 29 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
October 28 | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Anyone interested in becoming a Watch Stander and helping safeguard the well-being of veterans in our community can sign up online: Watch Stander Registration
This partnership underscores Manatee County’s commitment to supporting those who have served, offering residents a meaningful way to make a difference—one life at a time.
