Televeda, a digital health platform dedicated to reducing social isolation and increasing digital inclusion for veterans, seniors, and underserved communities, has partnered with the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (ADVS) to launch the Tribal Connectivity Project, “Roger That.”
Indigenous veterans have honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces for generations, yet many still face barriers to healthcare, peer support, and culturally aligned services, largely due to limited internet access in rural areas.
To address this, the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services has partnered with Televeda through the Tribal Connectivity Project, “Roger That,” to bring Starlink internet kits for virtual benefits assistance, peer support groups, and traditional Talking Circles to Native veterans, ensuring that no veteran is left without access to care and connection.
“The Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services is thrilled to bring internet access to our rural and tribal communities, ensuring Veterans can easily access the benefits they have rightfully earned through their honorable service. Partnering with community organizations to deliver this vital resource is deeply rewarding and aligns perfectly with our mission. We look forward to expanding this impactful initiative alongside our partners at Televeda.” – Lupita Santellano, Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
Expanding Digital Access for Veterans
Through this initiative, Starlink internet kits are being deployed across Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes. Four tribes have already benefited from this endeavor: the Gila River Indian Community, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, the San Carlos Apache Tribe, and the Navajo Nation.
The impact is immediate:
“Having access to Wi-Fi will be a great benefit for veterans, allowing them to connect through their phones, tablets, and TVs—at no cost to them. We hold veterans’ meetings on the last Tuesday of every month, with nearly 800 members strong. Expanding this to Bylas, Arizona, is a major milestone for our community.” – San Carlos Apache Tribe’s Veteran Service Officer (VSO)
“This technology is especially valuable for younger veterans while also helping older veterans connect. The real benefit is the ability to interact and build camaraderie, just like our weekly Thursday meetings.” – Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community’s VSO
Cultural Healing Through Peer Support
Beyond digital access, “Roger That” supports Televeda’s Hero’s Story Project, a suicide prevention initiative backed by the VA to help prevent veteran suicides. The Hero’s Story Project fosters cultural healing through Talking Circles, both online and in person, where veterans connect with peers, traditional resources, and other veteran benefits.
Veterans who have participated in Televeda’s Talking Circles hosted at the Navajo Nation have shared:
“The Talking Circle provided a space for veterans to open up about personal struggles and healing. I felt the support of my fellow veterans and hope these circles continue.” – Northern Agency Veteran Participant
“Veterans helping veterans has been the most effective form of support. These circles give us a space to discuss military experiences in ways that family and friends may not fully understand.” – Fort Defiance Veteran Participant
“The Talking Circle helps me feel supported—like we’re all helping one another ‘climb out of the hole together.’” – Eastern Agency Veteran Participant
A Measurable Impact
The results from the Hero’s Story Project, launched with the Navajo Nation in 2024, have been promising. Veterans in the talking-circle programs have reported significant benefits from a six-month pilot between June and December 2024, with 100 percent feeling happier and more connected, 96 percent experiencing greater relaxation and overall well-being, and 95 percent stating they feel less lonely.
To date, 285 veterans have been connected to the Televeda platform, increasing access to virtual peer support and essential resources. Among participating veterans, 60 percent have scheduled appointments with the state’s Veteran Benefits Counselors for additional support services.
Funding Opportunities for Tribal Veteran Programs
Televeda is proud to support Indigenous veterans by serving as a sub-grantee for funded pilot opportunities that enhance peer support, digital connectivity, and cultural healing. These grants empower tribal communities through initiatives like talking circles, digital literacy training, traditional healing programs, and community-led veteran projects. Funding is available for tribal veteran service organizations and tribal governments, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis. Televeda remains committed to ensuring these resources strengthen veteran well-being and social connection while uplifting the incredible work already happening in Indigenous communities.
