Project NK OK Returns to the channel

NK OK - Brother Rodeo revisits the studio to update us on the program

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Rodeo comes back on the podcast, and we pick up the conversation where we left off.

As promised, we are making NK OK a regular segment on the channel.

We start by talking about the power of checking in on brothers, friends, and family. We challenge everyone to go through their phone contacts and connect with someone they haven't talked to in a while.

Brother Rodeo amplifies the point by pointing out that "most of the time it's just someone willing to listen to you and to know that on the other end of the line someone cares about you."

Rodeo reports that they are working on developing an in-person program. He believes there is no better way of healing than being outside amongst your peers and people who understand your position.

He's quick to point out that the new endeavor does not take away from the phone calls and conversations. NK OK has been hugely successful in connecting people inside and outside the club. Additionally, there are alot of professional resources available that already deliver those services, so there's no need to duplicate those efforts.

Instead, he's putting his energy into an idea that's gaining speed, something he's called Operation Resilience, healing in the mountains. As he gets the pieces together, he's got a location in mind that provides options for camping and uses that as a base for the program. He wants to integrate activities like fishing, rafting, and hiking to encourage the participants to be active and get outdoors. At the end of the day, the group returns to the camp to network and connect versus returning to the hotel, where everyone is plugged back into their devices and isolated.

He says that as people get a chance to decompress, they have a greater appreciation of those around them.

The chapter just had an amazing day white rafting with a local company that is already on board for the idea. Rodeo talks about the Team Building that occurs while rafting on the river.

The area offers so much potential. He's thinking about a Thursday through Sunday program.

He wants to tie in some professional staff to be available if needed.

Expense is a big challenge to overcome. Whether its sponsorship or something else, he hopes that other organizations can help offset those obstacles.

He emphasizes that this is not a program exclusively for Nam Knights, but expects a wider audience.

We wrapped up by talking about how idle minds are not conducive to being in a healthy place. "That's what I get out of the club."

He recommends that everyone find their own voice and run with it. "Ain't no body going to tell you no, so long as it's positive" and in line with what we're supposed to be doing.