I had another opportunity to go serve our veterans out at camp Grotonwood in Groton, MA last weekend. I partner up with Project New Hope inc. each year as part of their program serving veterans. Myself and other boat captains bring them and their families out for some time on the water both boating and fishing.
We have a fantastic time on the water, catching fish, sharing stories and building relationships. I look forward to this event each year. It’s such an easy thing to do but yet so enriching and rewarding. I get such a charge seeing the veterans or their kids pulling in fish and having an enjoyable day outdoors. Many people don’t realize the things we take for granted. Not everyone has a boat or an opportunity to go out on a lake. Time and time again they will say things like “wow, I haven’t been on a boat since I was a kid” or “I’ve not been able to fish for years and it’s so much fun”.
These statements, in addition to providing a bit of relaxation are why we support PNH Inc. and will continue this service for as long as they’ll have us. What we do is only a small part of the overall weekend experience. Project New Hope offers all kinds of treatments & therapy sessions designed to assist our veterans and their families in dealing with issues such as P.T.S.D, brain trauma, sexual abuse etc. Some of these services are Yoga, Reiki, Acupuncture and council with therapist who have specialized training. Important to note all of these services and retreats are at no cost to the veterans who have sacrificed and served our GREAT country.
Please see below to read the PNH Mission Statement.
We are an organization that helps U.S. veterans and their families with addressing the challenges, fears and stigma that they face during and after they have served in our Armed Services. Project New Hope is committed to aiding our service members and their families by providing them the opportunity to get away and reconnect by attending one of our retreats. The organization offers tools for recognizing the symptoms and triggers of military-related occupational stress and injuries, as well as assist in developing coping mechanisms through holistic approaches to healing. All our staff and volunteers are committed to assisting our service members in their pursuit of New Hope and success in all they do.
Be sure to Thank A Veteran you may know. Let me also thank my sponsors, Dexter Russell Inc., New Balance & Waterfurnace for helping me support the veterans!
Until next time, God bless and Go Fish!
