There are resources to get started and dates to host an event.
American Legion posts are spreading the Be the One message through local events. According to the 2024-2025 Consolidated Post Report, there were 7,223 suicide-prevention events conducted by 2,917 posts in 2024-2025. These included 5K run/walks, in-person suicide prevention training for Legion Family and community members, displays at sporting events, and resource fairs with local suicide prevention experts and available support.
Start planning your Be the One event now, maybe even around the following dates:
• March 9-15: Buddy Check Week, ending with the Legion’s birthday
• May: Mental Health Awareness Month
• September: Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
• Nov. 9-15: Buddy Check Week, including Veterans Day
If your post, district or department wants to host a Be the One event, go to betheone.org/resources for materials on how to get started:
How-to videos. If you are coordinating an event for your post, district or department, two videos outline how to organize an event and engage the media.
Sample media advisory and press release. Download the documents, update them with your event information, and distribute to local media, community partners and others.
Sample speech. Use this prepared speech for any event to educate others on the Be the One mission and how they can support it.
Materials. Click on “Other Resources” for customizable content, including print-ready pop-up banners, flags, posters, table covers and more. Download the items you want and order from a local print shop.
- Be the One