advocacy

The VMPI is a nonpartisan veteran and first responder charitable organization. James supported Proposition 1 for its restructuring of the Mental Health Services Act to the Behavioral Health Services Act. This proposition carves out $1 Billion for veteran issues such as housing, substance abuse and mental health services; creates 10,000 beds to address the issue of homelessness; and restructures funding mental health services at the state and local level. Want to go into the mental health profession? Prop 1 also addresses the shortage of mental health professionals. While no legislation is perfect for everyone this is the first major reform since the 1980's.

James is a staunch advocate for veterans, first responders and their families. A life of service takes its toll on service members, first responders and their family members. We recognize the need to advocate and support our brothers and sisters in arms with common sense advocacy that changes lives. 

Click on the photo for the video link. James is invited to speak around the 8 minute mark.

James proposed the idea for AB645 (2019) which required gun stores to post the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, now the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in stores and all firearms sold in the State of CA must have information on how to contact the 988 Lifeline, which is now 988.

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

The VMPI advocates for veterans, first responders, and their family members. Advocacy is an important part of outreach. Together we can make a difference. Whether is recommending a trusted resources, recommending a HERO for an award, or simply having a one on one conversation, these connections make a difference!

The VMPI regularly attends events to make meaningful connections with veterans, first responder, and their family members in areas all around the nation. We have travelled to Arizona, Tennessee, Florida, and all around the So Cal region to get the word out! America's heroes deserve mentoring support. We can save lives one at a time by preventing the crisis from ever occurring. If there has been a crisis, we refer out to culturally competent third party services.

The VMPI regularly attends speaking engagements to improve outreach and community connections. James has spoken in Arizona, Tennessee, North Carolina, Northern California, Southern California and can be booked for an event near you!

This photo was taken at the Whisky A-Go-Go with Dylan Garcia and the VMPI team!

https://issuu.com/hollywood/docs/joycep_v02/s/30100493

Click on the photo for a link to the PSA on Vimeo.

Also available @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myP6S1OYNX4

Click on the photo for a link to the article.

https://shoutoutarizona.com/meet-marie-johnson-president-founder/

Click on the photo for a link to the video @ 

https://youtu.be/hs-Y7h_NA6o?si=EwePjQUQBl-sblUa