OUR MISSION AT BOOMFESTS IS TO BRING AWARENESS TO THE ISSUE OF VETERAN SUICIDE

Chad Green, a Veteran of the Navy from 1990 - 1994 in Desert Storm is the Founder of boomfests.com. Chad is also an employee at the VA Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin and has been since 2017.

What is the goal of Boomfests?

I want to reach out to everyone and bring awareness of veteran suicide into current discussion. We must take an active role in helping our veterans, especially those that are at risk of or have already had thoughts of harming themselves. While most people are eager for the new season to get out and be with friends and family, enjoying the many indoor and outdoor activities, for some veterans this can be the most difficult times due to various effects from their/our military service.

I am a veteran, so I understand.

Some veteran signals go largely unnoticed and the impact of this can be difficult for the veteran. During military service, we are trained to be part of a team and, in that, strong bonds are formed. After service, the transition into civilian life can leave some feeling unimportant or even left out. I want to include everyone to come and be part of this thing called Boomfests.

Throughout the year Boomfests will be hosting various events designed to allow all of us former military and civilians alike, the opportunity to break out of the normal day-to-day routine. A chance to let loose and socialize under the backdrop of fireworks, cook outs, picnics, hiking trips, fundraising events, dog parades, etc. The possibilities are endless! All of these efforts are intended to create friendships and bonds of inclusion.

Hosting these events takes a lot of work and planning, then doing. If you wish to volunteer for an event you are more than welcome to. Submit volunteer inquiries to: [email protected]

Lastly, I want to make it clear that WE must spread awareness of veteran suicide! 22 veterans resort to suicide everyday!