Because of you, our HOW Friends...SPC Alyssa L. Nolan, HOW-Northwest Chapter participant has an uplifting story:

"I would like to express my gratitude to Heroes on the Water. In all the chaos and uncertainty of my military career and future after brain surgery, HOW gave me what no pill or therapy could possibly achieve. During my recovery, I was withdrawn, despondent, and resigned to believe that my life was over. I couldn't shake my depression, I found no joy in anything I did. 

That changed when my squad leader told me about an open slot for a kayak fishing event. Just having my kayak paddle in the water and fishing line cast out centered me. I felt safe and assured with the provided equipment and guides with military background, including an amazing cooked lunch. HOW not only offered a break from the daily military grind but also a sense of belonging. Truly, camaraderie was what I missed most after being assigned to the Warrior Transition Battalion and this organization had it in spades. It is not an exaggeration to say that Heroes on the Water saved my life with their encouraging support."

Since 2007, Heroes on the Water (HOW) has been helping veterans like Alyssa gain a renewed sense of well-being and camaraderie - 11,133* warriors served so far. With your support, we deliver safe, fun kayak fishing outings that do not require any prior experience and can be adapted for most disabilities. The best part is that warriors become part of an ongoing trusted social network that is there for them when they need it most.

We stand committed to ensuring more warriors have access to the benefits of the HOW program. Our planned expansion in 2015 will add chapter locations nationwide to scale up to serve 12,000+ warriors and their families per year. 

How can you help? Share Alyssa's story with family, friends, co-workers, community groups, and people who might be interested in the HOW program. Help expand our reach by following Heroes on the Water on Facebook and sharing our stories. Post our website link www.HeroesOnTheWater.org and suggest people check it out.

The more outreach can accomplish together... the more warriors will have the opportunity to realize a "sense of belonging" and know that their sacrifices for our freedom are truly appreciated.

Thank You!                                                                 *as of Aug 31, 2014

Heroes on the Water is now a proud member of the R4 Alliance, a membership of Programs of Excellence, providing community and therapeutic recreation service to Our Military Family (US service members, veterans, and their families), joining forces to overcome barriers in our industry.

"We are humbled to be included in the list of high quality Veteran Service Organizations. Partnering with the R4 Alliance is an honor. Together we will provide a positive experience giving warriors back the Freedom they fought to protect" said Jim Dolan, Executive Director.

R4 Alliance has stepped forward to provide a collaborative approach that enhances research, training, and standards of excellence throughout focused therapeutic and community recreation programs. This collaboration enables R4 Alliance to bring a wealth of knowledge and capability in meeting the growing needs of veterans and their families.

"Our efforts are focused on supporting all members of the family to better succeed at rehabilitation and reintegration. Through the collaborative approach by leveraging our combined knowledge and collective experience for the benefit of all members, we are creating a foundation that will provide evidence-based research, education, economic viability, and improve quality of care" said R4 Alliance Executive Director Chuck Steele.

The mission of the R4 Alliance is maximizing the potential for our military family through standards of excellence, Research, education/ training, and continuum of care, impacting Recreation and Rehabilitation to achieve Reintegration.

Click to read the full R4Alliance article.

Visit www.R4Alliance.org to learn more.