August is Breast Feeding and Lactation Month

During the month of August, VA's office of Women's Health (OWH) aims to increase awareness of breastfeeding and lactation resources available to Veterans.  Breastfeeding has powerful health benefits for mothers and babies, from fighting infection to lowering the risk of postpartum depression and certain diseases.  VA supports Veterans by offering breastfeeding and lactation supplies and services, which may include classes, counseling, supplies, peer support groups, and community resources.  

While breast milk is ideal for your baby, not everyone is able to breastfeed.  Regardless of how you choose to feed your baby, VA is here to provide personalized care and connect you with the support that's right for you.  VA can connect you to resources, like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). 

To learn more about available programs and resources through the Butler VA Women Veterans Program, please call 800-362-8262, ext. 6928. 

Resilience In Action

Butler VA invites Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors to attend an inspirational presentation by Eric McElvenny entitled "Resilience in Action: Turning Life's Greatest Challenges into your Greatest Strengths" on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at the Abie Abraham VA Health Care Center, auditorium,  located at 353 North Duffy Road, Butler, PA.  He will be offering two opportunities to attend: 2pm - 3pm or 5pm - 6pm. There is no cost to attend.

Mr. McElvenny graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2006 and served as a Marine Corps Infantry Officer. After three deployments, he lost his right leg to an IED. Determined to overcome this challenge, he set a goal to complete an Ironman Triathlon—ultimately finishing nine, including the World Championships in Kailua-Kona. He went on to become a two‑time Paralympian, representing the U.S. in Tokyo and Paris. Through his journey, he discovered that the resilience and strategies he developed apply to challenges we all face.

For more information about the event, call 878-271-6492. 

Mark Your Calendar

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Walk to Remember

Butler VA is hosting a walk and resource fair for local Veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month celebrated annually in September.  The event, known as "Walk to Remember", will show support for Veterans and loved ones who struggle with connecting with friends and family. VA enrollment assistance will be available for Veterans not currently enrolled in VA health care.  Please bring a copy of your DD-214 with you. The resource fair will be from 10am - 12 with the walk occurring at 12pm.  Food trucks will be available from 11:30am - 1:30pm.  

The event will take place on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Abie Abraham VA Health Care Center, 353 North Duffy Road, Butler, PA  16001.  

Everyone has a role to play in preventing suicide and there is hope. Go to https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/index.asp for additional information.

Please call the Butler VA Suicide Prevention Team at 878-271-6543 or 724-406-5601 for information regarding this event. 

Happy 79th Birthday U.S. Air Force 

The U.S. Air Force will celebrate its 79th birthday this year on September 18.  The U.S. Air Fore traces its origins back to 1907 when the U.S. Army Signal Corps established the Aeronautical Division to oversee military balloons, air vehicles, and other related items.  After WWI, the Air Service was re-organized as the Army Air Corps.  The National Security Act of 1947 established the U.S. Air Force as an independent military branch of service on September 18 that same year. 

Happy birthday to all U.S. Air Force service members and Veterans.  We are honored and proud to serve Veterans from all branches of service. 

Events 

Check out our events tab on our facebook page for all events and activities.  Upcoming events for August are:

• Summer Vet Fest, Tuesday, August 11, 10am - 2pm, Abie Abraham VA Clinic, Butler, PA
• Veteran Art Club, Tuesday, August 11, 5pm - 8pm, Steele's Brushes and Ceramics, Butler, PA
• Free Photography Classes, Wednesday, August 12, 5:30pm - 7pm, Butler Art Center & Gallery, Butler, PA
• Paint Like Bob Ross, Sunday, August 16, 11am - 2pm, Steele's Brushes & Ceramics, Butler, PA
• Woodturning Classes, Monday, August 17, 6pm - 8pm, The Butler Art Center & Gallery, Butler, PA
• Chaplain Table Talks, August 20, 11am - 12pm, Abie Abraham VA Clinic, Butler, PA
• Farmers Market, Tuesday, August 25, 10am - 2pm, Abie Abraham VA Clinic, Butler PA
• Free Photography Classes, Wednesday, August 26, 5:30pm - 7pm, Butler Art Center & Gallery, Butler, PA

Veteran Job Fair

Please join us September 18, 2026 for the Annual Veteran Job Fair.  Employers from the Butler County area will be on-site to share information on their employment opportunities.  The Job Fair is open to Veterans and their families.  

The event will take place at the Abie Abraham VA Health Care Center from 11am - 2pm.

Not enrolled in VA health care? 

Veterans are encouraged to use these occasions to learn more about available programs, services and start the enrollment journey.  Bring a copy of your DD-214.  Eligibility and enrollment information can be found at www.va.gov or by calling Butler VA's enrollment team at 878-271-6645.