VETCONNECT NETWORK
Reconnecting Veterans to hope, purpose, and resources through film, art and media.
VETCONNECT NETWORK AT A GLANCE
A Bit of Background
VetConnect is a nonprofit that is focused on lowing the 22 per day suicide rate within the veteran community. It is our goal to find and share success stories from veterans who have overcome struggles and found a way to keep moving forward. These stories will soon be released on various platforms (Podcast, YouTube, Film etc).
The VetConnect Team's first feature film production ("The Epic Mile") was completed in 2016.
"THE EPIC MILE"
An Injurred Veteran's 2,650 Mile Walk Through The Darkness
VetConnect's 1st feature film documentary, “The Epic Mile”, is a story about perseverance, determination and the power of the human will.
After years of chronic pain and facing a 6th surgery for a Military service-ending injury, Zack Starr’s life was at a crossroads. Determined to no longer allow his injury to define him, Zack sets off on an intense 2,650 mile solo hike along “The Everest of Hiking Trails” (The Pacific Crest Trail). This documentary film follows his journey as he navigates daily challenges, extreme weather and tenacious terrain. But when word reaches him on trail that doctors cannot offer any relief from his escalating pain, Zack is forced into a familiar dark place of hopelessness which threatens his finish. In a powerful twist of events, he uncovers a truth that will forever change his life.
ACTIVITIES
Making A Difference
OHIO STATE SHAKESPEARE & VETERANS THEATER PROJECT
In Spring 2016, VetConnect teamed up with The Ohio State University Theater Department to launch the universities 1st Shakespeare & Veterans Project. This initiative allowed veterans and caretakers to journey into a world of art by creating a safe environment which allowed them to tap into emotions under the mask of another character.
KEYNOTE SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
As a professional Speaker, VetConnect founder, Zack Starr has made it a personal mission to reach as many veterans as he can, and to share with them the tools that he has used to battle depression and suicide even while dealing with chronic pain and physical limitations. The most difficult battle for most veterans is the transition home. if they also return home with emotional or physical injuries, then the road back to civilian life can easily lead to darkness. Zack is passionate about showing these veterans how they can take an active part in recovery and how to not allow an injury to define you.
“Every man is guilty of all the good he did not do”
Voltaire
