Ep. 69 The Wilderness Retreat Changing Veterans' Lives Forever

Welcome to the "Militarily Speaking" podcast with Tom McLean and Jodi Vickery.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Chris Joyce, a Marine Corps veteran and the Program Director for Huts for Vets, a nonprofit organization offering therapeutic wilderness experiences for veterans. He shares his personal journey, the impactful programs, and how Huts for Vets supports veterans in transitioning to civilian life, and highlights the unique healing journey that veterans undergo in nature.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Ep. 69 – The Wilderness Retreat Changing Veterans' Lives Forever

Founded in 2013 by journalist Paul Anderson, Huts for Vets provides U.S. veterans and active-duty service members with therapeutic experiences at no cost. Based in Aspen, Colorado, the organization uses the wilderness to help veterans adjust to civilian life by equipping them with tools to enhance their mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health.

The Healing Power of Wilderness

Chris Joyce elaborates on how Huts for Vets centers its program around the natural beauty of the White River National Forest. Participants engage in a five-day program, three of which are spent in the backcountry using the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association huts. These retreats offer veterans a chance to disconnect from their daily stresses and reconnect with nature, aiding in holistic healing.

The program features a curriculum of readings relating to nature and service, fostering group discussions that allow veterans to dive into deep conversation. Complementing these discussions are yoga, qigong, nutritious meals, and structured solo time for introspection and relaxation.

Building a Community for Military Members

Huts for Vets serves a unique blend of veterans, offering trips specifically tailored for men, women, and coed groups. Typically, each trip hosts 10-12 participants, a size optimal for fostering open dialogue and camaraderie. The organization also includes a mental health professional as part of the trip staff, providing additional support as needed.

Overwhelming Support and Growing Demand

The nonprofit heavily relies on sponsorships and donations from partners and sponsors. With a growing number of veterans expressing interest in their programs, Huts for Vets hosts around six trips yearly during the summer months but faces more applicants than they can accommodate, highlighting the increasing demand for such valuable programs.

Veterans Overcoming Obstacles

Participants like "Justin," an Army veteran who overcame devastating injuries to regain basic skills, embody the transformative impact of Huts for Vets programs. His story of perseverance, courage, and resilience resonates with the mission to provide veterans with a renewed sense of purpose and community.

Expanding Opportunities for Veterans

Looking ahead, Huts for Vets aims to integrate family units into their programs, recognizing the dynamic challenges that military life poses to families. By expanding their offerings to include spouses, the organization hopes to strengthen family bonds and promote healing together.

As an organization dedicated to the well-being of veterans, Huts for Vets stands as a beacon of healing and hope, leveraging the unique, restorative power of nature. For veterans interested in participating, and for potential sponsors looking to contribute, more information is available at hutsforvets.org.

Military Minute

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

● Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the percentage of clients who come for a first session that return for further treatment?

● Answer: 97%

● This week’s Military Minute question: What is John Denver’s original last name?

● Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

● Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

● After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

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