Retreats, seminars, camps and programs for military veterans with PTSD or TBI
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Military Marriage Retreats & Conferences - LINK
AHERO
AHERO connects veterans through outdoor activities as a means to recover from their physical wounds and psychological trauma to reintegrate with American life.
American Warrior Assocation (Colorado and Georgia)
The AWA provides week-long Men's and Women’s programs in Colorado and Georgia for our military, veterans and first responders. These mountain retreats provide an opportunity for our nation’s warriors to confront and heal moral injuries.
Moral injuries have become the unspoken price paid by those protecting our freedoms and liberties at home and abroad. They are unseen and lead to catastrophic pain and loss of life after the war ends.
Through original curriculum and teaching sessions, prayer and meditation, horseback riding, outdoor adventure, and time for reflection, each warrior is able to encounter God in an entirely new way. They are equipped with the tools needed to face life’s challenges and are able to find brothers and sisters to have their back when the fight gets tough.
The programs are free of charge to our warriors and paid for by our generous donors who love those that serve our nation.
Arizona Heroes to Hometowns (Arizona)
AZ Heroes to Hometowns is designed to welcome home our Wounded Service Members who, because of injuries sustained, can no longer serve in the military. AZ Heroes to Hometowns is here to assist our wounded troops/veterans and their families in the transition back to their community and their new normal. Programming includes healing retreats.
Association of Amputee Surfers (Pismo Beach, CA)
AmpSurf™ is a non-profit organization established to Promote, Inspire, Educate, and Rehabilitate all people with disabilities and their families through adaptive surfing and other outdoor activities.
One in five Americans struggle with a life-long disability. Nearly two million men and women have served our country in Iraq and Afghanistan. They are coming home looking for ways to feel whole again and to fit back into normal life. Whether they are an amputee, visually impaired, suffer from PTS (post-traumatic stress), or have quadriplegia. Whether they served in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf war, Iraq or Afghanistan. Whether they are a child with autism, or a young woman who has lost a limb to cancer, AmpSurf™ offers a unique program to bring the healing power of the ocean and adaptive surfing together for an experience that is both mentally and physically one of the best forms of rehabilitation on the planet. Our goal is simple, we want to help our disabled veterans, adults and children focus on their abilities not their disabilities. To do this we strive to Promote, Inspire, Educate, and Rehabilitate (PIER™) these great Americans and the public by providing a quality program and the opportunity for the participants and volunteers to come together and feel the joy and healing of the ocean and surfing. AmpSurf™ has provided our Learn to Surf Clinics to hundreds of our disabled veterans, adults and children who probably never would have had this experience if it hadn’t been for our program.
AZ Heroes to Hometowns (Mesa, AZ)
AZ Heroes to Hometowns is designed to welcome home our Wounded Service Members who, because of injuries sustained, can no longer serve in the military. AZ Heroes to Hometowns is here to assist our wounded troops/veterans and their families in the transition back to their community and their new normal. Programs include healing retreats.
Base Camp Hope (St. Paul, MN)
Base Camp Hope is a faith-based 501(c)3 multi-functional therapeutic facility that helps veterans, service members and their families cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other re-integration issues.
Battle Dawgs (Willow, AK)
"Camp Battle Dawgs", our Alaska-based lodge, is situated on 650 pristine acres in the Alaskan wilderness. Along with our partnered remote outpost camps, warriors are able to relax, reset, and refocus. Our Programs Include Outdoor-Rehabilitation // Camaraderie // Mentorship // Volunteerism // Leadership // Much more... Our program is 100% FREE for service members struggling with combat related injuries. We focus on PTS, TBI, and separation anxiety.
Big Sky Bravery (Montana, Alaska)
PROACTIVE SUPPORT FOR ACTIVE DUTY SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES (SOF)
There are over 45,000 nonprofits in the United States that support our veterans. Big Sky Bravery focuses solely on active duty SOF - those who remain in the fight. This community makes up only 3% of the U.S. Armed Forces but has suffered over half of all combat casualties in recent years. These are the few who have shouldered our freedom, our safety, and the longest conflict in U.S. history.
Big Sky Bravery was founded in 2015 to provide weeklong programs (Task Forces) in Montana’s restorative surroundings. These Task Forces are an all-expense paid, world-class experience that grants these individuals the rare opportunity to decompress, rediscover what was lost on the battlefield, and experience the hope and freedom they are all fighting for.
Black Dagger Military Hunt Club (Tampa, FL)
Black Dagger Military Hunt Club Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides shooting, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor opportunities for veterans and active duty military (wounded and well). We are located in the greater Tampa Bay, Florida area but operate around the state. Many of our volunteers are retired or active duty military with a great deal of tactical and hunting experience. We co-labor with other veteran groups and nonprofits to support those who give their all for our nation!
We serve veterans from all eras without limitation to when or where they served. We work with the James A. Haley VA Hospital’s Adaptive Sports Program in Tampa, Florida, the USSOCOM Care Coalition, and active duty military members on MacDill AFB. In addition, on a case-by-case basis, we will work with veterans supported by other agencies to meet a specific need that our team can satisfy. We serve veterans recovering from and learning to adjust to life with spinal cord injuries (SCI), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), loss of sight, and post-traumatic stress (PTS). We have specialized equipment to accommodate some of the most injured military heroes thus helping our honored veterans find their “new normal”.
Blum's Landing (Millersburg, MI)
Blum's Landing is a place for military personnel who have endured physical and/or mental wounds from serving the country.
We are a non-profit bed and breakfast for military personnel and their families to relax, to recoup, and to re-energize from the stress of their current rehab and duties.
Boulder Crest Retreat (Virginia and Arizona)
COUPLES PATHH - Traumatic stress, and other challenges affecting the lives of our combat veterans and first responders are contagious. These struggles affect every member of the family. Couples PATHH is designed to give partners the chance to grow, reconnect, and find the love and joy they knew before trauma impacted their lives.
WARRIOR PATHH - Boulder Crest’s Warrior PATHH program is delivered at nine locations across the country — at our facilities in Virginia and Arizona, and nationally with our Mobile Training Team; and in partnership with GratitudeAmerica (Florida), Camp Southern Ground (Georgia), Travis Mills Foundation (Maine), Big Red Barn Retreat (South Carolina), Sheep Dog Impact Assistance (Arkansas), and Permission To Start Dreaming Foundation (Washington State).
Brave Women Veterans Retreats (Tennessee)
The mission of Brave Women Veterans Retreats is to provide holistic retreats for women veterans recovering from injuries related to military sexual trauma and domestic abuse. We use art, music, yoga, and equine assisted therapy to help women veterans in their recovery. Most of our educational groups are conducted by licensed art and music therapist or licensed counselors. We also have veteran life coaches to offer peer support to the veterans at our retreats. "We provide a safe place to heal all the invisible wounds of our female veterans."
Brian Bill Foundation Warrior Strengthening Retreat (Tampa, FL)
Therapeutic retreats for NSW/SOF warriors struggling with combat Post Traumatic Stress, mTBI and chronic pain. Please join us for an incredible weekend of outdoor activities and therapeutic support designed to combine our strengths to overcome our burdens.
Camp Hope - (Northwest Harris County, TX)
Camp Hope provides interim housing for our Wounded Warriors, veterans and their families suffering from combat related PTSD in a caring and positive environment.
The facility opened in 2012 and is located in a quiet and safe setting in Houston, Texas whereby veterans and their immediate family members can find healing, help and hope while benefiting from an intensive peer support and mentoring program for Post-Traumatic Stress. In addition to temporary housing, Camp Hope offers a 30 day PTSD recovery program in which residents: attend group lessons and support sessions with other combat veterans; conduct individual mentoring sessions with certified combat trauma mentors; participate in off-site small group interaction activities (fishing, hiking, local activities and events); and get involved with local churches, businesses and volunteer organizations to assist in their personal healing and educating the community on the invisible wounds of war.
The Camp Hope staff is a unique team of combat veterans and civilian pastoral staff trained in working with victims of trauma and post-traumatic stress. They understand that those who have served this nation continue to struggle with the invisible wounds of combat and are working to assist our troops in putting the pieces of their lives back together. The Camp Hope staff uses the necessary traditional counseling tools and incorporates a faith-based approach to help combat the effects of Post-Traumatic Stress. In addition, the staff assists veterans with a myriad of issues including job placement, coordination with the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and reputable veteran service organizations to assist with claims and benefits, transportation to appointments and peer support groups integration. The Camp Hope community embraces our troops, veterans and their families as they seek the rewarding and fulfilling lives they so richly deserve.
While we are continuing to expand, resident rooms at Camp Hope are currently limited and assigned based on first come first serve and need.
Camp Liberty, Inc. (Brighton, MI)
Camp Liberty provides inclusive outdoor recreation programs that aid in the reintegration of U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families, with an emphasis on assisting those with post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries and mobility disabilities.
Camp Southern Ground - Veteran Programs (Fayetteville, GA)
Camp Southern Ground is committed to serving the men and women who have fought to protect our country. Warrior Week and Warrior PATHH specifically care for the health and wellbeing of post-9/11 veterans while providing the necessary support in their transition to life after military service. Both are provided at no cost to veterans. If you or someone you know is a warrior struggling to find your new mission, we can help.
Camp Valor Outdoors (Escondido, CA)
Camp Valor Outdoors is a non-profit organization dedicated to our military veterans. We recognize and honor ill, injured, and wounded disabled veterans and their families through adaptive and competitive activities such as guided fishing, hunting, shooting, archery, 4-wheeling, or just simply relaxing around the campfire. All branches of the military services, from any generation, are welcome (to include active duty case by case). We understand the hurdles that veterans and their families face after military service, particularly with injuries and illnesses. Warriors are never alone on the battlefield and shouldn't be alone when they come back home. Healing in the great outdoors with Camp Valor Outdoors and reconnecting with fellow warriors is therapeutic and essential to healing.
Canyon Heroes - Colorado River (Ligonier, PA)
Canyon Heroes--an adventure in hope and healing. We serve veterans by providing an adventure therapy experience--hiking and rafting the Colorado River to help heal the psychological wounds of war. Trip participants are supported on their journeys by professional counselors with experience with the military community.
Adaptive outdoor recreation, combined with professional counseling, can help veterans adjust, decompress and shed the complex responses that are related to everyday events.
Challenge Aspen (Colorado)
Challenge Aspen Military Opportunities (CAMO) invites active duty, retired and veterans to Aspen Snowmass to participate in summer and winter outdoor adaptive recreation. Our professional sports instructors teach people with disabilities how to use adaptive equipment so they can re-engage in outdoor physical activity. Summer retreats include archery, hiking, mountain biking, equine therapy, and fly-fishing. Winter retreats focus on adaptive skiing, snowboarding, and ski biking.
For veterans who have experienced a life-changing injury during their military service, the resulting disability, in addition to the transition to civilian life, can be extremely difficult. CAMO programs provide an opportunity for disabled veterans to experience the camaraderie they knew while deployed, network with other veterans with the same issues, learn a new sport, and regain self-esteem and self-confidence. The lessons learned from professional adaptive sports instruction are ones CAMO participants can take home and are helpful for their transition to civilian life.
In addition to outdoor recreation, CAMO offers mental health and wellness opportunities. Each retreat includes break-out sessions that teach breath-work, yoga, emotional intelligence, and sleep therapy.
Coming Home Retreats for Veterans (Barrington, IL)
A comprehensive spiritual outreach and renewal program for our military men and women.
CORE Veterans (Coastal and Offshore Recalibration Experience) (San Francisco, CA and Honolulu, HI)
The Coastal and Offshore Recalibration Experience (CORE) is a San Francisco based non-profit organization which aims to help reduce veteran suicide by assisting in the continual and holistic healing process of our nation’s combat-wounded veterans. Through therapeutic activities including sailing, surfing, yoga, art, music, nature retreats and more, the program serves to re-inspire and re-engage the warrior spirit. Sailing and the other activities within CORE allow participating veterans to look beyond their newfound challenges to once again achieve their full potential while also re-establishing the camaraderie and sense of community that has been lost by many since leaving the battlefield. Utilizing both adaptive and conventional sailing vessels and other equipment, CORE is accessible to any veteran, regardless of the nature of their injury. Both peaceful and exhilarating in nature, CORE represents a unique medium which allows veterans to become fully adrenalized in a positive and sustainable setting. Opening participants’ eyes to the endless opportunity that exists in this world, we aim to equip attending veterans with tools that will help them continue to transition into the next stage of their lives, post-injury.
Dare to Dream Ranch, Inc. (Foster, RI)
Dare to Dream Ranch, Inc. is a holistic and alternative military retreat for service members, veterans and their families. The programs will include equine therapy, yoga, reflexology/massage, hypnotherapy/group therapy, horticulture therapy, nutrition education, healthy cooking and exercise for our US military veterans experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression and loss of job security. The produce from the garden will also be used to help feed Rhode Island's homeless and at-risk veterans.
Deep Sea Valkyries (Arizona and National)
Deep Sea Valkyries is dedicated to the mission of preventing veteran suicide by reducing the effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and the treatment of other combat-related injuries, while assisting each veteran in his/her transition from service member to civilian. Our retreats provide alternative forms of therapy to injured veterans as a method to combat veteran suicide and enhance lives post-service. Our unique week-long intensive counseling retreats provide veterans with more than 25 hours of group- and individual counseling sessions, helping them to define trauma, identify and recognize it in their lives, and discover tools to manage its effects.
Doose Outfitters Ministry (Gering, NE)
Healing our veterans past and present through the message of the cross and the outdoors hunting adventures.
EOD Warrior Foundation (Eglin AFB, FL)
The EOD Warrior Foundation provides support and resources to assist our EOD Warriors and families as they face challenges, changes, and uncertainty in their lives. We help create a network of connection through various retreat opportunities and programs that are updated yearly. These retreats can be recreational, educational, have a focus on mental health, wellness, trauma, and are all holistic in nature.
This meaningful support and assistance through retreats and programs fosters hope and wellness and builds community. If you are a graduate from NAVSCOLEOD, no matter the era, you and your family qualify for these programs! We believe the EOD Family is for life; including EOD Warriors and their families, Gold Star and White Star families; caregivers, children, and siblings. Our goal each year is to provide unique opportunities no matter where you fit into the EOD Family.
Fairways for Warriors (Nationwide)
We provide golf equipment, instruction, and outings to wounded warriors and their family members. Golf has proved to be an excellent tool for mental and physical rehabilitation. Fairways for Warriors has given these brave men and women the opportunity to heal from their most significant injuries – the injuries that we can’t see such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and others. Fairways for Warriors is a non-profit charity and is dependent on tax-deductible financial donations with 96% of the monies going toward the program!
Focus Marines Foundation - FOCUS Program (Augusta, MS)
The FOCUS program serves wounded warriors in various stages of transition and recovery. Participants suffer visible and invisible injuries and now faced with these challenges, are working to find a new reality.
FOCUS Marines Foundation conducts four, multi-faceted, seven-day, workshops each year in rural Augusta, Missouri. The course includes a host of motivational speakers that encourage participants to rise above challenges, reject victimization, and adopt positive habits. Participants realize they are not alone in their challenges while building a vast support network. Participants, who attend from throughout the U.S. at no expense to themselves, are encouraged to leave their comfort zone and set/realize the goals to which they aspire. They are also coached in practical life skills such as networking, resume writing, and other important abilities. Participants find renewed hope and direction, develop positive characteristics, experience enhanced self-worth, and commit to continuing self-improvement.
Freedom Alliance - Couples Retreat
Strong family relationships are vital to a service member’s rehabilitation. That’s why Freedom Alliance provides couples retreats to military families who are suffering from the wounds of war.
Freedom Waters Foundation (Naples, FL - South Florida)
The Freedom Waters Foundation veterans program, which began in 2012, provides boat outings and marine activities for veterans and their family members, offering the opportunity to relax, leaving their concerns on the dock as they cruise away to enjoy camaraderie with other veterans in a safe, enriching environment.
Gratitude America - Warrior PATHH (Fernandina Beach, FL)
Warrior PATHH (Progressive and Alternative Training for Healing Heroes) is the nation’s first non-clinical program designed to cultivate and facilitate Posttraumatic Growth amongst those struggling with PTSD and/or combat stress. Warrior PATHH enables these remarkable men and women to transform times of deep struggle into profound strength and growth. All Warrior PATHH instructors have walked this road from struggle to strength, and the blended team of trained combat veterans and civilians leverage their own experiences to guide attendees. This 18-month program begins with a 7-day retreat, initiating students into the Warrior PATHH.
Healing Warrior Hearts (Milwaukee, WI)
Healing Warrior Hearts retreats guide the wounded to the peace that heals and strengthens their hearts. The gathering of community, unconditional love and the absence of judgment create the safety required for healing to occur.
Veterans and families come together with civilians in retreats and other events
to tell their stories and heal their hearts. These programs are designed, led and staffed by experienced, committed and spirit-inspired individuals.
Heartbeat for Warriors - Scuba Warriors (Tumwater, WA)
Scuba Warriors is therapeutic scuba diving for wounded warriors. Heartbeat—Serving Wounded Warriors pays for therapeutic scuba diving for wounded service members of GWOT, the Global War on Terrorism. We call this program Scuba Warriors. Warriors with physical or psychological injuries, or both, can benefit from this healing activity.
Heroes Homestead (Clayton, WA)
Honoring Heroes, Fortifying Families and Celebrating Freedom. Heroes Homestead offers wrap around services to the families of veterans and first responders to overcome the challenges of PTSD.
Heroes on the Water (Nationwide)
Heroes on the Water helps wounded warriors relax, rehabilitate, and reintegrate through kayak fishing and the outdoors.
For thousands of wounded warriors, kayak fishing has become a powerful and liberating source of rehabilitation. It shatters the perceived limits of their injuries and creates an openness to interact, learn new skills, and focus on the bright future ahead.
We offer injured military personnel and veterans an outdoor recreational experience where they are taught kayaking and kayak fishing basics and participate in kayak fishing excursions – a new sport despite their injuries that provides camaraderie and a lifetime of enjoyment that they can do with family and friends.
As a national organization based in Allen, TX, we have chapters across the country led by volunteers that take wounded veterans out kayak fishing on an ongoing basis, at no cost to them or their families.
Hiatus Ranch (Shoshone, ID)
Our mission is to restore the mental, physical, emotional health and vitality of veterans, active duty, first responders, rescue horses, and animals in a tranquil, structured environment while providing housing, meals, optional mental health services, financial management as a part of a rehabilitation program.
Hiatus Ranch sits on 40 acres that will include living quarters for up to 5 participants. The Ranch currently has a hay barn, a ranch house, glamping tents and an indoor riding arena.
We provide weekend, 14-day, and up to 30-day retreat experiences for veterans, active duty service members and first responders. Retreat participants stay on the ranch, interact and care for horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, donkeys, goats, and other rescue animals.
Participants have daily chores and projects to accomplish. Also the opportunity to participate in various forms of recreational therapy.
When humans are able to take space in an environment that is supportive, structured, and secure, we are able to breathe deeply and pause to reflect our lives–where we’ve been, and where we want to go.
At Hiatus Ranch, we are working hard to be a world-renowned provider of safe spaces that allow some of the most vulnerable of us to regain control of their lives.
Higher Ground USA (New York and Los Angeles)
Higher Ground USA uses recreation, therapy, and continuing support to give people of all abilities a better life. Together we bridge the gap between disability and belonging.
Homeward Bound Adirondacks (Malone, NY)
Homeward Bound Adirondacks has sponsored 12 healing retreats to date during the 2021 season. We now have our own facility and plan to hold at least one to two retreats a month year round. These retreats included equine assisted PTSD work, hiking, canoeing, bon fires and team building exercises. Each retreat is designed to meet the needs of the participants with the main focus being on the healing properties of the Adirondacks.
Honoring our Veterans (Jackson Hole, WY)
Honoring Our Veterans' mission is to improve the quality of life for combat wounded veterans by offering them activities that strengthen their physical, cognitive, emotional,and social functioning.
Currently, we offer six week-long sessions each year. Honoring Our Veterans covers the cost of airfare, transportation, lodging, meals, activities and equipment, so there is no cost to the wounded veteran. During our sessions we maximize the healing potential of nature. We are fortunate to have an amazing staff of expert instructors and guides who are constantly willing to help with this mission.
All activities are designed to build trust, increase confidence, and improve memory, concentration, and fine and gross motor skills. Honoring Our Veterans allows disabled veterans to interact with others in a safe and welcoming environment. The reintegration process can be a slow and painful one. Housing our veterans in the same unit promotes sharing and understanding and can lead to lifelong friendships and support. We have found that the brotherhood bond is one of the most significant factors in helping combat wounded veterans heal.
H.O.O.V.E.S. (Swanton, OH)
H.O.O.V.E.S. enlists rescue horses to help veterans transform Post Traumatic Stress into Post Traumatic Growth. H.O.O.V.E.S. saves the lives of both horses and hero's by informing, inspiring, and guiding veterans towards finding their purpose so they can improve their lives and the lives of their families. Through retreats and workshops with rescued horses, H.O.O.V.E.S. empowers veterans to WIN their battles
Lakeshore - Lima Foxtrot (Birmingham, AL)
Operation Refocus is a female-only camp for military servicewomen who have sustained spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, vision impairments, amputations, burns and/or disfigurements while serving our country. As a female-only camp, we create a comfortable environment to address needs that are specific to women with activities that focus on the mind, body and spirit.
Operation Rise and Conquer is an extended outdoor adventure weekend for servicemen and women who have sustained a significant injury or vision loss. The weekend begins at Lakeshore and moves on to Lake Martin, located near Alexander City, Alabama, for a variety of challenging outdoor recreation activities. Qualifying injuries included but not limited to spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, vision impairments, amputations, burns, and/or disfigurements. Participants are welcome to bring a guest.
LZ-Grace Veterans Retreat (Virginia Beach, VA)
Landing Zone Grace is not just a destination; it’s a disposition. It is a place of respite for combat weary warriors and their families; it is a secure and confidential place for our Warriors and Rescuers to come home to. The goal of this family farm is to provide a sanctuary of rest, renewal and hope to Special Operations Forces (from all branches of the military) transitioning from combat to life at home, as well as Tier One First Responders (firefighters and law enforcement). Brother to brother, husband to wife, family to family - around the dinner table, at the fire pit, spending time with horses and companion dogs, tending to home-grown gardens and farmland, fishing, kayaking, reading, playing hard or just resting – the need to isolate may lesson, the stress will dissipate, and a solid new beginning will be found through and with each other
Mayslake Ministries Veterans' Retreat (Racine, WI)
Coming Home: A free Christian retreat program designed to help military men and women come to spiritual healing and reconciliation with God, themselves and with one another. There is NO charge for this retreat for our vets.
Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs (Nationwide)
Mighty Oaks Foundation is committed to serving the brokenhearted by providing intensive peer-based discipleship through a series of programs, outpost meetings, and speaking events. Our Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs host such programs as Fight Club and Marriage Advance Programs and take place at multiple locations from four to seven days. The Warriors who attend are fully sponsored with travel arrangements, meals, and lodging needs to ensure that upon arrival to the ranch, each Warrior is focused solely on his recovery and identifying purpose moving forward.
Our instructors have the unique ability to connect with the Warriors and their families. Since all instructors are program alumni, they each have experienced tragedy and hardships through their service to America. Having endured deployments, family separations, learning to handle the effects of Post-Traumatic Stress (both in war and at home), the instructors are able to connect to the students on a peer level, opening a forum that is not found in clinical environments.
MARRIAGE ADVANCE: LOVE NEVER GIVES UP - Our three-day Marriage Advance Program is designed for couples to gain a better understanding of the struggles they each face from dealing with PTS. We structure conversations around needs, expectations, goals and forgiveness to help couples move forward. Provided with the necessary support to regain the strength that is required of a healthy unit, each couple learns to engage successfully with the recovery process in order to have a successful marriage.
Mission Outdoors (Washington state)
Mission Outdoors is here to save lives. It’s about giving vets a purpose and something to look forward to. It’s about helping them see that it’s not all about what they’re dealing with today, but about looking forward to tomorrow.
Mountains Move (Central Colorado)
The mountains we face are overcome by faith. We use faith-based outdoor adventure and horsemanship programs to strengthen faith, restore purpose, and provide fresh perspectives in Colorado's scenic backcountry.
Warrior Summits - With a staff composed of veterans, we have a heart for those who serve as well as their families. The Warrior Summits Program is a 7 or 14 day retreat focused on healing and recovery. With outstanding meals, a cabin, some time in front of a campfire with friends, and a blend of rest and adventure, this program is designed to gain perspective, build community and serve our servicemembers. Intended for active duty, guard, reserve and veterans of all services.
The Journey - Jesus demonstrated a pattern of retreat, prayer, and return to society for powerful ministry. Whether you're dealing with transition, a big decision, family struggles, day-to-day stresses or sorrows, or just need downtime in the wilds, this week in the wilderness will give you perspective. Great food, amazing vistas, and a pace that supports your processing. Great for anyone needing to 'walk off their war'.
Music Therapy of the Rockies (Retreat locations - Nashville, TN, Dickerson, MD, Milford, IA, Cleveland, OH, Atlanta, GA)
Music Therapy of the Rockies (MTR) is a nonprofit organization and our mission is to help heal those who have experienced trauma. Music Therapy of the Rockies helps people with trauma, especially veterans, find healing through music therapy. Our retreats are run by board-certified music therapists and incorporate mindfulness, self-expression, and therapeutic songwriting with professional songwriters — plus, the gift of a guitar to learn new coping skills.
My Warrior's Place - Forever a Warrior Retreat (Ruskin, FL)
My Warrior's Place is a Retreat Center for our veterans, military service members, law enforcement officers, fire fighters, Gold Star, Blue Star, and Silver Star families. Additionally, My Warrior’s Place offers several amazing programs for those who have put their life on the line for our safety and well-being, endured the death of a fallen warrior, and/or experienced the horrors of war. Each program offered by My Warrior’s Place plays an important role in the healing and coping process, and the support that is obtained through these programs is priceless!
National Veterans Wellness and Healing Center (Angel Fire, NM)
PTS is an anxiety disorder that can develop after a terrifying event in which the person was physically harmed or felt threatened. Symptoms can range from flashbacks to problem drinking and beyond.
The natural setting of Angel Fire in the Sangre de Cristo mountains is the perfect location to bring couples to a place where healing in nature is optimal. The Veteran couples experience Native American hand washing ceremony and storytelling of the warrior culture. These retreats are only possible with the help from our generous donors and grant funding.
NorthWest Fishing Partner Registry (based in Everett WA and serving WA, OR, ID and Western Montana)
NorthWest Fishing Partner Registry (NWFPR) is a 501(c)3 Foundation that facilitates piscatorial therapy for those that serve or have served our country that may suffer from PTSD, TBI and other stress-related illnesses.
Many of those we serve see tragedy on a daily basis. Our group allows our members to get the relaxation needed.
Fishing or piscatorial therapy is one of the few non evasive, non drug therapies that actually get the brain working on both sides. This is such an important avenue for many.
Operation Heal Our Patriots (Alaska)
Operation Heal Our Patriots, a ministry project of Samaritan’s Purse, focuses on bringing spiritual refreshment, physical renewal, and marriage enrichment to wounded and injured U.S. military service members and their spouses. To thank these brave men and women for their service and sacrifice, we offer programs uniquely developed to strengthen the marriage relationship and build hope for the future through the transforming power of God’s Word.
Samaritan Lodge Alaska stands peacefully within the great wilderness of America’s last frontier. It is here, among mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife that we minister to the needs of America’s own victims of war. Military service members and their spouses have the opportunity to stay for one week, including travel time.
Each day, our on-site staff chaplain leads devotions and our Marriage Resiliency Workshop. This weeklong course offers couples time away from daily pressures and distractions to study the primary dynamics that have the greatest impact on a marriage. The workshop concludes with a worship service, which affirms and celebrates couples’ relationship with God and one another, amid the marvels of His creation.
Operation Open Arms (SW Florida, Eastern Maryland)
Operation Open Arms connects active-duty US Servicemen/women who are battling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, with the mental help they need.
Operation Red Wings Foundation
Operation Red Wings Foundation’s mission Is to provide veterans and their families with a path to healing from their invisible wounds.
Operation Restored Warrior (Colorado Springs, CO)
The cost of sustaining the freedoms we so cherish as a people and a nation are increasingly carried upon the shoulders of the men and women of our Armed Forces.
Their immense personal cost is only just now being recognized in our nation through catchwords like PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Combat Related Stress (CRS), as well as physically wounded warriors, suicide and other classifications. Their battles are real, the life wounds often deep, and never has a clear path to restoration been more needed yet found so scarce.
Operation Restored Warrior is open to all faiths and brings together mission, healing and ministry to places and memories within the warrior’s heart that need the hope, the healing and the power of God through our experiential, multiple day, wilderness setting “counterattacks”.
Our cornerstone 5-day program is called the “Drop Zone” and for over 5 years has proven to help service members from all branches of our military. From intelligence analysts to Navy SEALs and Delta Force, and from Chaplains to Surgeons and everyone in between – healing knows no boundaries. Participants have experienced the freedom, restoration and healing their hearts and lives have longed for and so desperately needed. We don’t renovate, we restore the warrior to what was intended.
Operation: Tohidu (Upper Marlboro, MD)
Operation: Tohidu is a 5-day retreat. The retreat is designed around eight pillars of treatment with the goal of enabling participants to gain or begin to gain mastery of their post-deployment situation through education, experiential learning, peer support, group therapy, spiritual experiences and other alternative therapies and interventions.
Over the last fourteen years, America's Global War on Terror has produced more than a half million veterans with service-related injuries. Thousands more are coping with invisible wounds, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These valiant warriors struggle to recover not only their health, but also their civilian lives finding jobs, rebuilding family relationships, and figuring out their new place in our communities. Their path is far from easy, and many need our support. Melwood's Operation: Tohidu program is a series of retreats designed for wounded veterans and active duty military to help them overcome obstacles to their recovery and support their successful reintegration into their homes and communities.
“Tohidu” is a Cherokee word meaning peace of mind, body, and spirit. Operation: Tohidu's experiential rehabilitation program focuses on confidence-building, outdoor activities, and group discussion in a relaxed, positive environment using proven techniques for the self-management of symptoms, stressors, and responses. Our highly trained staff of certified recreational support professionals strategically implement activities that highlight individual abilities, leading to an overall improvement in quality of life. By many accounts, it is one of the most intensive programs for veterans and active duty personnel with PTSD that is currently available in the eastern United States.
Painted Paws for Veterans (Peyton, CO)
Painted Paws for Veterans is a Colorado non-profit senior and disabled canine sanctuary and therapy program. At Painted Paws for Veterans, we believe that everyone can benefit from owning or spending time with a canine companion. We offer several programs to veterans and the general public, including adoption services, therapy visitations and a monthly pet pantry.
Patriots Cove (Noxen, PA)
Patriots Cove is a native brook trout sanctuary nestled in the mountains of northeast Pennsylvania. We were established in 2017 to protect a threatened fish species, and provide a place for veterans, first responders, and their caregivers to enjoy a therapeutic fishing outdoors experience. Our organization gives injured veterans and first responders a place to reconnect with nature and heal within.
Fishing retreats are held year-round, and private group events are also encouraged, to give much-deserved individuals a tranquil outdoors experience. Regardless of injuries or illnesses incurred from the line of duty, our guests can enjoy easy access to stream-side trout fishing. Patriots Cove is designed to accommodate any injury- our trails, docks, fishing areas, and lodging are wheelchair friendly.
To enjoy a free fishing event where your fishing clothing, equipment, and meals are provided, please sign-up at patriotscove.org. We look forward to having you at our next event!
Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs (Dripping Springs, TX)
The mission of Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs is to create a permanent retreat and resource base for Veterans of all ages and military branches to connect and find support.
Patriots’ Hall of Dripping Springs aims to help bridge this gap by welcoming veterans of all ages and military service to explore therapeutic workshops, art classes, weekend campouts, education and employment seminars, family gatherings, land stewardship, VA Claims Assistance and Wellness Clinic.
Project New Hope Inc. (Worcester, MA)
Project New Hope Inc. mission is to assist veterans and their families with PTSD, TBI, Military Sexual Trauma, Marital Issues, Chronic Pain Issues and Suicidal thoughts, and other issues that might arise. We are an organization that helps U.S. veterans and their families with addressing the challenges, fears and stigma that they face during and after they have served in our Armed Services. Project New Hope is committed to aiding our service members and their families by providing them the opportunity to get away and reconnect by attending one of our retreats. The organization offers tools for recognizing the symptoms and triggers of military-related occupational stress and injuries, as well as assist in developing coping mechanisms through holistic approaches to healing. All our staff and volunteers are committed to assisting our service members in their pursuit of New Hope and success in all they do.
Rivers of Recovery (Jackson, WY)
Rivers of Recovery provides rehabilitation to physically and psychologically injured U.S. combat veterans using innovative, outdoor-based therapies and pioneering research.
Rivers of Recovery works to help heal U.S. combat veterans suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), minor Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI), stress, anxiety and depression.
Salmon for Soldiers (Union, WA)
The mission of Salmon for Soldiers is to offer a sense of normalcy and relaxation to our returning veterans by providing them with opportunities to engage with other sports fishermen. Salmon for Soldiers’ fishing events and opportunities are designed to help reduce stress and to open participants up to new relationships; while they learn a skill that can bring them many hours of fun and relaxation. Our events are designed to accommodate veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury and other physical challenges.
Second Chance Rehabilitation Ranch (Houston, TX)
Helping veterans and first responders on their path to recovery and peace through special events and healing retreats.
Soldier's Heart (Troy, NY)
At Soldier’s Heart retreats, you have an opportunity to face the dark times in your military service in the company of the community in whose name you acted. Looking straight at the past may help restore your hope in the future.
Soldier’s Heart retreats create places where you can share your stories safely. Our retreats help society accept its responsibility for your actions.
At our retreats, we will
- listen to you deeply
- tend to you lovingly
- honor your truths
- share your burdens
Most of our retreats are for both men and women. This provides the opportunity for the whole community to learn from and grow with each other. We sometimes hold separate men’s retreats or women’s retreats.
Civilians attend our retreats in order to listen to and learn from you. They are honored to hear your true stories and to share your hard-earned knowledge of the best and worst of human nature.
Special Liberty Project (California, Arizona, North Carolina)
The Special Liberty Project fosters and maintains a supportive community focused on nurturing our nation’s Gold Star Families and healing veterans by connecting with nature. We provide outdoor, educational experiences, spark true camaraderie and encourage strength, both emotionally and physically.
The Special Liberty Project provides outdoor adventures to healing veterans and Gold Star Families. Family survivors of active-duty and veteran suicides also are welcomed and embraced at all of our events and programs just like all traditional Gold Star Families. These adventures include a wide variety of activities ranging from hunting and fishing to hiking and camping.
The Special Liberty Project focuses on stress free educational opportunities that not only tailors to enriching the lives of those served but provides much needed relaxation as well.
Through these outdoor adventures, the Special Liberty Project is able to create opportunities for participants to work through common struggles together, within their community, through an environment which fosters camaraderie and understanding.
Tactical Retreat Unplugged (Southwest Virginia)
Tactical Retreat Unplugged promotes, creates, and delivers transformational and creative off-grid experiences to support, educate and provide wellness services for first responders, veterans, and their spouses living with the challenges of cumulative trauma. We also are a remote venue where artists, musicians, and wellness practitioners can unplug, create and thrive.
Tadpole Foundation (Escondido, CA)
The Edward P. Furlani Tadpole Foundation invites active duty military, veterans and first responders affected by PTS / TBI to join them for extreme outdoor adventure.
Team Overland (Southern Oregon)
Team Overland is a veteran led, non-profit organization that uses outdoor expeditions as an outlet to overcome challenges associated with Post-Traumatic Stress.
Overlanding is self-reliant adventure travel to remote destinations where the journey is the primary goal. We offer veterans a chance to go on our overlanding trips at no cost.
The Maj. Steven Roy Andrews Fishing Outreach Program Inc. (Cheshire, CT)
The Maj. Steven Roy Andrews Fishing Outreach Program Inc. is a non-profit program that was started in 2008 out of a need to help veterans and at risk and needy kids. The purpose of this program is to get veterans and kids hooked on fishing. For veterans it gives them a way to deal with issues from their service, be it mental or physical ones.
Joe Kowalski takes a vet or kid out on the boat for a day of fishing. “It's a lot like a one-day fishing lesson. I try and teach them all I know about this great sport.” explains Kowalski. Each vet or kid receives a rod and reel and a tackle box full of the latest baits. This is theirs to keep free of charge. Also included are contacts for local fishing clubs in the area they live so they can continue on if they wish, or they can call Joe anytime with questions.
The Warrior Connection - Warrior Retreat for Men, Warrior Retreat for Women, Warrior's Spouse Retreat (Brattleboro, VT)
If you are a combat veteran ready, willing and wanting to overcome your PTSD, then consider applying to our Warrior Connection Program.
At the core of this program is a residential Warrior Retreat to connect you with yourself. You will discover why you are not your PTSD and how to replace the anger, frustration and loss that frequently raise its ugly head with compassion for yourself and others. You will learn simple yet powerful techniques for creating balance and harmony in your life, so you can be more of the man, father, husband and community contributor you want to be.
You will journey home — that place within you that is always peaceful and always available to you. So become the New Warrior that is your true destiny. These Warriors live by an honorable Code of Conduct, a code that brings them inner peace, joy and renewed self-worth. They honor themselves, others, and the natural world.
Veteran support continues after the retreat with celebration dinners, monthly follow-up meetings, and community-based personal growth classes. All services are offered free to veterans.
The Welcome Home Initiative Retreat (Virginia Beach, VA)
A free 3–5-day retreat for members of the Armed Forces and their families
- Talks by veterans and trauma specialists
- Discussion groups
- Opportunities for reflection and healing prayer
- 600 Beautiful acres for recreation and relaxation
- Handicapped-accessible facilities
- Optional marriage and family counseling
Our goal is to minister practically and prayerfully to members of the Armed Forces and their families, providing support and resources to help them heal and thrive.
Our mission is to show our appreciation for the men, women, and families serving in the Armed Forces. To help those who have suffered trauma in combat, be it physical, psychological, or spiritual, by providing ministry and resources for health and healing.
To preserve the confidentiality of every person. To connect combat veterans with appropriate specialist agencies and resources including:
- Combat stress and trauma experts
- Critical incident debrief specialists
- Marriage and family life counselors
- Suicide prevention counselors
- Prayer teams
Trauma and Resiliency Resources' (TRR) Warrior Camp (New York, NY)
TRR's Warrior Camp® is for suicide prevention and trauma resolution. It is designed to heal trauma, prevent suicide, support force preservation and enhance resilience. We do this by focusing on Moral Injury as a core component of Combat Trauma. TRR's Warrior Camp® programs are open to active duty, Guard, Reserves and combat veterans of ALL eras without regard to discharge status.
Veterans Expedition Therapy (Denver, CO)
Veterans Expedition Therapy is a nonprofit organization incorporated in Colorado committed to helping veterans in a non-traditional wilderness therapy setting. We are founded and operated by combat veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan
Our mission is dedicated to improving mental health in the veteran community by connecting veterans and their families with the outdoors, improving quality of life, and reducing social isolation by creating meaningful personal connections.
Veterans on Deck (Charleston, SC)
Veterans on Deck is a non-profit maritime initiative for Veterans with PTSD, Military Sexual Trauma, or Serious Mental Illness. VOD uses the forum of sailing as a therapeutic mileu to foster experiences of empowerment, mastery, and successful social interaction. Veterans will work together as a team, under conditions that are often stressful, new and even sometimes frightening, to overcome fear and build relationships to make the boat go… When the boat goes there is a concrete manifestation of success…
Warriors and Quiet Waters (Bozeman, MT)
BUILT FOR MORE. Matter even more. As a post-9/11 combat service member, you made a difference — to your comrades, to your country, and to history. And that’s just what you’ve done so far. What’s next begins with Built for More — a life-changing expedition into nature and self. This close-knit small-group program launches with an inspiring nature experience, spans months of expert-driven personal growth online, and wraps with a reunion of familiar faces where no participant is the same as before.
Challenging yet doable, with all costs covered, Built for More guides you to your next critical mission—finding a deeper connection to yourself, your people, and your purpose.
HUNT FOR PURPOSE - Guiding combat veterans to purpose through archery elk hunting. Hunt for Purpose is designed to guide post-9/11 combat veterans to a greater sense of clarity around their identity, values, potential, and purpose. For many post-9/11 combat veterans, purpose is found by rising to meet a meaningful challenge. Our newest alumni program, Hunt for Purpose, is an intensive, 6 month pursuit to plan, prepare for, and execute a successful archery elk hunt in Montana’s backcountry. Along the way, participants will learn the basics of elk hunting and backcountry survival, improve their physical fitness, and work alongside fellow Warriors and loved ones toward a common goal.
Warriors for Freedom Foundation (Oklahoma City, OK)
Warriors for Freedom Foundation is a resource dedicated to supporting and improving mental, physical and holistic wellness for our nation's active military, veterans and their families. We partner with communities and supporting sponsors to create exciting, empowering events. We salute your service and we’re honored to serve you. Find out more about our programs for: golf, hunting, motocross, fishing, and cycling.
Warriors on Cataract (Boulder, CO)
Warriors On Cataract sponsors 4-day whitewater trips on the Colorado River through Canyonlands National Park from Moab to Lake Powell for our disabled veterans. We accommodate veterans with very significant levels of disability, such as severe PTSD, traumatic brain injury, orthopedic injuries, multiple amputations, burns, depression, substance abuse, and those with wheelchairs and service dogs.
Wounded Warriors Family Support Programs (Pierre, SD and Orlando, FL and more)
Wounded Warriors Family Support sponsors three PTSD retreats a year with The Ranch Ministries in Pierre, South Dakota.
Wounded Warriors Family Support provides vacation retreats to wounded veterans and their families. The family retreats are a chance for wounded veterans to heal and reconnect with their loved ones in a peaceful, non-stress environment.
Our family retreats give wounded veterans and their families a break from the pressures of everyday life to take time to become stronger as individuals and families. Wounded veterans are given the opportunity to decompress and share in positive experiences with their spouses and children, strengthening the bonds of their families and making lasting memories. The Retreats Program includes Universal Resorts Orlando, Staycations, Children’s Camps, and specialized retreats through our partners.
Wounded Warrior Project - Project Odyssey (Nationwide)
With its name derived from Homer's epic poem about overcoming adversity and finding the way home, Project Odyssey helps you overcome combat stress through outdoor, rehabilitative retreats that encourage a connection with nature, your peers, Project Odyssey staff, and trained counselors.
You have three opportunities to participate:
- Project Odyssey: Regional - Take the first steps toward recovery during this 5-day event with fellow warriors in your area.
- Couples Project Odyssey - Learn to rebuild trust and relationships affected by your combat experiences during a 5-day couples retreat.
- Project Odyssey: International - Start your healing process while still on active duty and recovering at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Germany. WWP plans to offer this event to Warrior Transition Units (WTUs) throughout Europe as well.
Through outdoor, recreational activities, you will discover inner strength and find the courage to continue your journey to recovery. The experiences gained from Project Odyssey help you work through challenges related to combat stress and improve mental attitudes and outlook. Activities include horseback riding, canoeing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, a high ropes course, fishing, skeet shooting, sled hockey, and skiing at retreats held in various locations across the country. You are encouraged to build new skills, connect with peers, and find support for combat stress among Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) staff and trained counselors.
The program does not end with the retreat. In fact, it is only the beginning as we facilitate continued support through WWP and other local combat stress resources. To participate, you must be approved by a Project Odyssey staff member, and register for our Alumni program.
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