Veterans in the Cincinnati VA Medical Center (CVAMC) community recently took part in a powerful journey toward better health and deeper connection through the second annual 6-Service Challenge. This 10-week wellness initiative brought together more than 110 Veterans from all six branches of the military, blending physical activity, nutrition awareness, and social support into a meaningful experience. Designed to promote healthy habits and camaraderie, the challenge offered Veterans a structured yet flexible path to improved well-being. I found this detail striking: for many participants, even simple daily routines became opportunities for movement and mindfulness.

At its core, the 6-Service Challenge encouraged Veterans to increase their daily activity and form sustainable wellness habits. Key elements included weekly group walks, Whole Health visits, and the use of smartwatches to track steps. But the impact went far beyond numbers. According to the original report, Veterans noticed improvements in energy, sleep, and diet. Some began drinking water first thing in the morning, while others made conscious shifts toward healthier meals—opting for “less starches, more salads.” These small but consistent changes reflected the challenge’s broader goal: to inspire long-term lifestyle improvements that support physical and emotional health.

The initiative also emphasized the importance of community. Veterans repeatedly highlighted the motivation they felt from seeing fellow service members show up week after week. One participant remarked on the value of shared accountability, saying, “The benefit of connecting with other Veterans—to continue support—was huge.” Another offered a more candid reflection: “Sitting on the couch is waiting for the undertaker.” These comments underscore how social connection can be just as vital to wellness as physical activity or nutrition.

The program culminated in the VA2K Walk & Roll during the week of May 12, followed by a celebration and Whole Health Fair at CVAMC on May 14. Veterans who completed at least 10 Whole Health group visits received a commemorative Challenge Coin, a tangible symbol of their commitment and progress. For many, this token represented more than just participation—it marked a renewed dedication to self-care and community engagement.

Support for the 6-Service Challenge came from the Digital and Remote Health Center and the VA Office of Connected Care. These organizations play a crucial role in shaping the future of Veteran health care, particularly through initiatives that prioritize accessibility, innovation, and long-term outcomes. Their involvement ensured that the challenge was not only well-coordinated but also aligned with broader efforts to integrate digital tools and holistic care into the VA system.

One of the most encouraging aspects of this year’s challenge was the high level of engagement from new participants. Of the more than 110 Veterans involved, 75 were first-timers, and 65 earned their Wellness Coin. These numbers suggest a growing interest among Veterans in proactive health programs that combine physical activity with emotional support and community connection. The challenge’s success also points to the value of inter-service collaboration, as Veterans from different military branches came together with a shared purpose.

What makes the 6-Service Challenge particularly noteworthy is its emphasis on sustainable change. The program didn’t ask Veterans to overhaul their lives overnight. Instead, it offered manageable steps—literally and figuratively—toward better health. As one Veteran observed, “It doesn’t take much to increase your activity over time.” This simple insight captures the spirit of the challenge: consistent, small actions can lead to meaningful transformation.

In a time when many Veterans face complex health challenges, programs like the 6-Service Challenge offer a hopeful model. By combining technology, peer support, and holistic care, the initiative helped participants not only improve their physical well-being but also find renewed purpose and connection. It’s a reminder that wellness is not a solitary journey, and that community can be one of the most powerful motivators for change.

As the VA continues to explore new ways to support those who have served, the work of the Digital and Remote Health Center for Innovation and the VA Office of Connected Care will remain essential. Their commitment to improving outcomes through innovative, Veteran-centered programs suggests a promising path forward—one where health and camaraderie go hand in hand.

Read more at news.va.gov