“Fly fishing has helped more than any drug or VA therapy in the past 45 years.”
Your donation enables Project Healing Waters to expand the reach of its fly fishing programs for Veterans across the U.S.
“Truly, the waters can heal a lost soul.”
In their service to our country, our nation’s Veterans experience trauma. They may see combat. They may undertake dangerous, life-threatening missions. They may be part of training accidents. Or they may be afflicted with chronic physical injuries.
The United States is home to 4.9 million Veterans who are classified as disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs—but the need for programs that address the physical and emotional well-being of our nation’s heroes goes far beyond. The journey of healing and transition to civilian life is frequently lonely and frustrating and can result in a loss of hope. One need only look at the devastating statistics surrounding preventable Veteran deaths to understand the scope of this issue: According to a joint study by Duke University and the University of Alabama, 44 Veterans die each day from preventable causes such as suicide and drug overdose. There is a crucial need to support and strengthen Veteran resilience to ensure continued well-being.
Supporting Veterans on their journey of healing requires a multifaceted approach—and for Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc., program participants, time spent with their fellow Veterans experiencing the restorative activities of fly fishing is key to recovery. “Fly fishing has helped more than any drug or VA therapy in the past 45 years,” says a retired Marine and Project Healing Waters participant. “It’s the sound and sights of the water, being around other veterans, and beholding the beauty of Mother Nature. Truly, the waters can heal a lost soul.”
Each year, Project Healing Waters programs serve more than 6,200 Veterans through on-going, year-round fly fishing instruction, classes, and trips. With your donation, we can serve even more, helping our nation’s heroes find their way to peace and recovery.