Purpose of the CHPC Identifies redundancies and voids, evaluates population needs, assess existing programs and coordinate targeted interventions to optimize the well-being of the Total Force. Provides an umbrella approach for coordinating activities of garrison, medical and mission operations. Provides a mechanism for raising systemic issues and give Commanders the flexibility to balance readiness and quality of life, ensure management of health promotion, risk reduction and suicide prevention initiatives. Working Groups within the Council include ‘Spiritual Resiliency’ as Its own committee – chaired by a Chaplain https://phc.amedd.army.mil/organization/hq/dhpw/Pages/HealthPromotionOperation.aspx

Yellow Ribbon Communities A Yellow Ribbon Community unites all areas within a community to create a comprehensive network that involves our Family Assistance Centers and connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, resources and employers for the purpose of proactively supporting Service members and military families.   The Minnesota National Guard continues to reach out to cities, towns, counties, companies and other organizations that strive to earn this designation.

Objectives of “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” 1. Every Minnesota combat veteran and family successfully deals with combat operational stress. 2. Every Minnesota community is trained to support combat veterans and families to deal with combat operational stress. 3. Under the Governor’s leadership, a coalition of Federal, State, County and local agencies are networked to assist combat veterans and their families. Yellow Ribbon Recognition Program 16 Step Process http://www.btyr.org/yellow-ribbon-community-campaign.html

Chaplains “are there in times of deep despair and hopelessness, speaking into the storm our people are facing and helping them reframe their struggles so that it’s not a question of taking their life but taking control of their life.” Rear Admiral Margaret Grun Kibben