Photo Credit: Walk the Talk America
This is the first post in a series where I’ll be explaining why I’ve partnered and/or affiliated with the various organizations that I have since 2021. With that said, I’ll be beginning this series with Walk the Talk America (WTTA).
To begin with, when I first heard of Walk the Talk America, I didn’t know what to think. I wasn’t sure if they were absolutely pro-2A or a campaign by anti-2A organizations like Everytown for Gun Safety, particularly as you include mental health and gun rights in the same discussion.
As I researched the organization more, I found myself agreeing with their goal of “bridging the gap between mental health and responsible firearm ownership.” However, I didn’t fully commit myself to supporting the organization until I came across their booth at the 2023 USCCA Expo in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where I met Michael Sodini – the CEO and Founder of WTTA – and learned more about their story. We had exchanged our business cards and I had reached out to him shortly after the weekend event to discuss the possibility of partnering with WTTA. As a laissez-faire capitalist, I appreciate organizations like Walk the Talk America and Hold My Guns because they’re taking control and grabbing the bull by the horns to come up with real solutions as it relates to mental health support without violating an individual’s rights. For example, WTTA provides free and anonymous mental health screenings, as well as, a national healthcare provider directory of professionals that are 2A-friendly. With the rise in tele-health options, these are great resources for those that need help.
It’s legislation like Red Flag Laws that, I believe, ultimately discourage individuals from seeking the help that they need. Why would anyone – particularly gun owners – seek help with their mental health if they believe that their rights will be violated? Since Red Flag Laws have been implemented in Michigan and even prior to it being introduced here, I’ve had no desire to seek professional help because I’ve had trouble trusting people given past experiences – personally and professionally. However, I’ve utilized the resources that has been provided by WTTA and can confidently say that I’ve found them to be beneficial!
T-shirt fundraiser for WTTA
During our partnership, we’ve offered support in a couple different ways up to this point: 1) giving out pamphlets explaining what WTTA is in our classes and how to support them and 2) we recently began a T-shirt fundraiser where the net profits will be donated to WTTA.
With the fundraiser that we’ve organized, each one of our logos are placed on each sleeve with the phrase “We’re all in this together” on the chest to signify the importance of both the 2A and mental health communities to partner together to tackle the solution of bridging the gap. These shirts are being sold for $25 with sizes ranging from small – 3XL.
In July, we had the honor and privilege to sponsor an episode of Battleline Podcast as the hosts were interviewing the folks from WTTA. I had been communicating with Ian Scotto – co-host of the podcast with Kris “Tanto” Paronto – regarding sponsoring their podcast. When Ian had suggested sponsoring their interview with WTTA, I was all in!
I hope this post encourages you to support Walk the Talk America, whether directly with donations or purchasing the T-shirt, utilizing their resources, sharing their podcast or becoming a trusted provider so that you can service individuals in need. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this more, feel free to contact me on Minnect or Smeeple, or sign up for a class.
