Our Impact

See firsthand how Shields & Stripes is helping military members and first responders reclaim their lives, restore their sense of self-worth, and move forward with purpose. This work is made possible through the generosity of those who believe in healing the heroes who serve our communities.

At Shields & Stripes, we provide a comprehensive healing program at no cost for veterans and first responders nationwide. Using a holistic, team-based approach, we address both visible and non-visible trauma while restoring the body, mind, and spirit.

We serve veterans and first responders, active or retired, who are facing trauma, PTSD, TBI, or anxiety disorders. Through two to three program cycles each year, we create space for healing, resilience, and renewed purpose.

Since launching in 2021, we have served 73 participants across 10 programs, with 95% of alumni reporting improved mental health and resilience.

Our Approach

Our immersive three-month program is built to support deep, lasting healing. We take a holistic, team-based approach that combines physical rehabilitation, emotional therapy, peer support, and purposeful team-building—recognizing that true restoration requires care for the body, mind, and spirit.

Participants are supported by a dedicated team with more than 150 years of combined military and first responder experience. This shared background fosters trust, understanding, and authenticity, creating a safe environment where healing can begin and growth can continue.

Real Healing. Measurable Change. Lasting Impact.

These outcomes reflect measurable improvements across key areas affected by trauma, including mental health, sleep and recovery, physical mobility, and overall well-being. Participants in the Shields & Stripes program engage in a comprehensive, team-based model of care that includes individual and group mental health therapy, physical and occupational therapy, nutrition support, strength and conditioning, yoga, mentor support through athlete advocates, and structured peer support. Together, these integrated therapies and modalities contribute to demonstrated reductions in PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms, as well as improvements in sleep quality, physical function, and daily life engagement for veterans and first responders nationwide.

*Results shown are based on self-reported and program-collected data from Shields & Stripes program participants and reflect outcomes observed within our programs.

Mental Health & Emotional Resilience

Stronger minds | Steadier ground

28% ↓ depression symptoms

29% ↓ PTSD symptoms

27% ↓ anxiety symptoms

Physical Health & Mobility

Movement with confidence

33% ↑ mobility

33% ↓ physical health limitations

13% ↓ pain

Sleep & Recovery

Rest that supports healing

+0.5 hours of sleep each night

17% improvement in sleep quality

Sleep and recovery outcomes are supported through our new partnership with Oura, providing objective, data-backed insights into participant rest and recovery.

Daily Life & Well-Being

Better days | Stronger connections

33% reduction in emotional limitations

20% improvement in social functioning

23% increase in energy and fatigue management

26% improvement in overall health perception

25% improvement in general health

17% improvement in emotional well-being

Powered by Donors & Partners

The impact of Shields & Stripes is made possible through the generosity of donors and partners who believe in restoring the lives of veterans and first responders. Contributions directly support room and board, clinical services, and comprehensive programming, allowing participants to focus fully on healing while keeping programs accessible and free for those who need them most. By supporting and sharing our mission, you help ensure Shields & Stripes can continue providing life-changing, trauma-informed care to those who have served our communities.