Empowering Post-9/11 Combat Veterans Through Nature and Community Initiatives

Warriors & Quiet Waters Receives Grant from PenFed Foundation

In a remarkable initiative aimed at supporting post-9/11 combat veterans, the PenFed Foundation has awarded a grant to Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans thrive in their lives after service. This funding will significantly bolster the organization’s ‘Built for More’ program, which has garnered attention for its unique approach to wellness and community engagement.

A Program Designed for Success

The ‘Built for More’ program is an innovative nine-month initiative that focuses on empowering veterans through nature and meaningful relationships. According to PenFed Foundation President Andrea McCarren, this initiative is not merely about survival but fostering a thriving lifestyle.

“Our aim is to provide veterans with the tools and confidence necessary to rebuild their lives with a sense of purpose,” she states.

The program is structured to include outdoor expeditions in the breathtaking landscapes of Bozeman, Montana, which serve as the bookends for the participants' transformative journey. Each participant joins a cohort of seven veterans, ensuring personalized attention and support throughout the program. In 2025 alone, 24 cohorts are scheduled to participate, indicating the growing recognition of the need for such support systems.

Holistic Wellness and Growth

The ‘Built for More’ initiative operates on evidence-based wellness practices that focus on mental, physical, and spiritual health. Participants engage in various activities, from group discussions to guided reflections, all aimed at fostering holistic growth. This is further complemented by the Discovery Phase, during which veterans stay connected remotely, participating in videos and leadership development sessions that reinforce their journey toward flourishing in society.

This multifaceted approach combines the invigorating power of outdoor experiences with a structured path toward personal growth. Participants are guided to develop a clearer understanding of what it means to thrive, achieving clarity in their purpose beyond their military service.

Making a Difference

Retired U.S. Marine Colonel Brian Gilman, WQW’s CEO, expresses profound gratitude towards the PenFed Foundation for their generous support. “When veterans lead purpose-driven lives, they positively influence their communities and families,” he explains. This sentiment captures the essence of WQW’s mission — fostering a positive ripple effect that extends beyond individual veterans themselves.

The organization champions the belief that every veteran deserves the chance to build a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. They emphasize on the lasting relationships formed within cohorts, further ensuring that no veteran feels isolated during their transition back to civilian life. Each graduate of the program contributes to a growing alumni network, bolstering community ties and support systems.

Future Endeavors

As the next application window for the ‘Built for More’ program opens in January 2025, only time will tell how many more lives will be transformed through these empowering experiences. The PenFed Foundation and Warriors & Quiet Waters are paving the way for veterans to redefine their futures, reminding us all of the strength and resilience that lies within the veteran community.

The PenFed Foundation, established in 2001, stands as a beacon of support for veterans, having provided more than $55 million in financial assistance to military personnel and their families. Their commitment to covering the operational costs allows donors’ contributions to go directly towards impactful programs like WQW’s ‘Built for More’.

For veterans keen to join this life-changing program, detailed information on how to apply will be available soon. It’s a call to action for those who have served, ensuring that they never have to navigate their path to thriving alone.