$200k donation to help save Nevada National Guard members from suicide
CARSON CITY, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — The nonprofit, Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW!, gave the Nevada Department of Veterans Services $200,000 to pay for two more Psychological health counselors focused on caring for the mental health of men and women serving in the Nevada National Guard.
Nevada Army National Guardsman Chase Rauchle, the namesake for the nonprofit, lost his battle to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, dying by suicide in Sept. 2019.
His family hopes their efforts with the nonprofit will save the lives of other veterans fighting the inner battle he lost.
"These men and women need to know that we are here and we will always be here for them. Not only do they need it, but they deserve it. They put their lives on the line every day for us," said Alyssa Rauchle, Chase's widowed wife.
Chase's father, Craig Rauchle, says this donation is just the first step in a long journey for the organization.
"This is not going to be a one and done, here's the check, and we're finished. This is a very long journey we will continue through my lifetime and hopefully it will continue on through the family name into the future," he said.
Major General Odra Berry, Adjutant General for the NVNG, said at the check presentation ceremony at the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home in Sparks, that everyone can do something small to help veterans and active members feel cared for.
"I ask everybody, whether you're in the military or the community, when you see those in uniform, thank them for their service. Take time to have conversations with them and spend time hearing what's on their mind. Listen to what they have to say."
The Major General said 22 veterans die by suicide every day. Military members are twice as likely to die by suicide, and the National Guard has the highest rate of suicide out of all military branches.
