Getting Veterans outside and engaging with nature.

SN Alex Tufail — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 20:10:18 -0400

I talk to a lot of people on a daily basis, and one question that always comes to my mind is how much time (does the person I'm talking to) spend outside? By outside I mean out in a natural surrounding and engaging away from technology and away from distractions. What if we were to design a program where Veterans could spend time outside and engaging with nature. Giving them a chance to get out of their own heads, and into the real world. To get people off the computer screens, and away from the cell phone. I spend sooooooooo much time on my computer so whenever I have a chance to get outside and climb, I take it. What if Veteran organizations got in touch with Adventure Travel companies and guide companies to take Veterans outside and get them engaged in activities that release stress, and anxiety. Activities that allow them to engage with other Veterans and individuals who are like minded. I wish I could take my company to the next level and get Veterans who hurt and spend too much time indoors; outside and active.

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Sep 23 at 2015 8:18 PM

CSM Michael J. Uhlig — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 20:18:15 -0400

Getting some "fresh air" is always good, doing something productive and having a purpose, a meaning helps the person have a sense of accomplishment. You are definitely going in the right direction SN Alex Tufail!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2015 10:02 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 22:02:08 -0400

Great idea SN Alex Tufail. Do research on what other programs are out there that assist veterans by using fresh air and sunshine. Their websites should have a wealth of information. Then you can start to design a program to assist veterans. Your program could be taking groups of veterans to local parks to walk, to a lake to fish, etc. I would think about what programs will help the most veterans. Rock climbing or river rafting down rapids might be too much for the majority of veterans. Contact the VFW and DAV for their input also. Please keep us posted on your wonderful idea!

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 23 at 2015 10:22 PM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 22:22:38 -0400

great post SN Alex Tufail

Response by PFC Robert Falk made Sep 24 at 2015 12:49 AM

PFC Robert Falk — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 00:49:59 -0400

I have 7.5 acres that I try to tend" when I got the fuel" a standard summer is spent outside in the winter is a different story.