Wellness in the Wild Veteran programs
PROJECT
Fiscal Host: The Open Circle Foundation
Support Veterans regain their sense of purpose through experiential wilderness retreats.
Budget
Transparent and open finances.
-$506.88USD
Completed
Balance transfer
Credit from Shipley Coaching to Wellness in the Wild Veteran programs •
+$250.00USD
Completed
Contribution #711576
Credit from Rod to Wellness in the Wild Veteran programs •
+$200.00USD
Completed
Contribution #708532
$
Today’s balance--.-- USD
Total raised
$506.88 USD
Total disbursed
$506.88 USD
Estimated annual budget
$534.38 USD
About
Wellness in the Wild supports Veterans in college to reignite their sense of mission and purpose in the civilian world as they continue to serve in new ways.
See full program details HERE
See full program details HERE
Nature is a powerful teacher. Numerous studies confirm the mental health benefits of being in the wild and “off-the-grid.” Wellness in the Wild takes a group of veterans off-the-grid for five - ten days to reset their mental models and restore a sense of psychological well being, connection and belonging.
In collaboration with the University of Utah Applied Cognition Lab, we are conducting rigorous assessments to measure the outcomes of our programs and the effects of community nature experiences on long-term health and community engagement.
Our research has already demonstrated significant results in the following areas:
- Social Connectivity
- Positive Affect
- Mental Health
- Stress Reduction and Restorativeness
- Self-Efficacy and the ability to lead purposeful, meaningful lives
“Going into this trip, I was hoping for a life changing experience, but I didn't know the depths of that change and what would be required to elicit it. From the very beginning of this program, I was faced with challenges, both physical and mental, but the guides "lead without leading" and steered me up the mountain. During our fireside circles, we delved deep into pain points and unpacked years of suffering and trauma. In only 6 days I came out with a renewed belief in myself and what I was capable of. This trip definitely changed my life and I am now putting in the work to ensure others receive value from the work that was done up there.”
– Antonio DeAscanis, Marine Corps Veteran
– Antonio DeAscanis, Marine Corps Veteran
Our wilderness expeditions evoke a profound sense of belonging and unity. The program builds on this with ongoing bi-weekly/monthly listening, learning, and navigating sessions. These sessions equip program participants with the tools and skills to merge the transformations they undergo in the wild with their roles as students.
Outcomes of Wilderness Component:
Outcomes of Wilderness Component:
- Re-discover the power of belonging to a world outside the military
- Develop a veteran community to continue to connect, learn and collaborate
- Empower growth through vulnerability
- Reconnect with mission and service in a new context
- Create new structures and tools for wholistic health and wellness
Program Outcomes For Participants:
- Better able to handle stress and navigate new obstacles
- Clear vision of career path and self efficacy in pursuing purpose
- Cross the threshold – translating strengths into the civilian community
- Restoring sense of camaraderie experienced in the military
Our team
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