Healing in Nature

As an ardent outdoors enthusiast, hunting, fishing, and nature's healing essence resonate deeply with me. These passions not only symbolize my love for the outdoors but also evoke cherished memories of bonding with my father during our annual hunting trips. Embracing nature's therapeutic qualities, I merge these experiences with my advocacy for veterans' well-being and involvement in outdoor groups like Project Healing Waters, The Fallen Outdoors, and Patrol Base Abbate. 

Continue reading for more information on these incredible organizations. 

The Fallen Outdoors is a non-profit committed to fostering healing and camaraderie among veterans through outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and more. By organizing free outdoor adventures, they provide therapeutic experiences, support mental health, and build a strong community of veterans, aiming to honor their service while aiding their transition to civilian life.

Patrol Base Abbate is a Marine Corps-founded nonprofit offering outdoor experiences, community, and resources to active duty military, veterans, and their families. Founded by Major Thomas Schueman, it focuses on fostering camaraderie, support, and healing through varying clubs - like reading clubs, fight clubs, and hunting clubs.  The organization emphasizes mental health support, providing a space where veterans can connect, heal, and find a supportive community while honoring their service. 

Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing is a leading nonprofit in the area of therapeutic outdoor recreation, using the sport of fly fishing as an intervention. The restorative healing powers of nature and the outdoors are well-documented: for their Veteran and military participants, the Camaraderie, Connectedness, and community found in their programs, alongside the symbiotic relationship between veteran and volunteer, directly correlate to increased sense of belonging, resilience, and post-traumatic growth.