VETERANS RETREAT, (VR) PROVIDES PHYSICALLY CHALLENGING SPORTING ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS TO MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES WHO HAVE BEEN WOUNDED WHILE SERVING IN THE IRAQ OR AFGHANISTAN WARS. VR PROGRAMS HELP BUILD CONFIDENCE, STRENGTHEN THE BODY AND PROVIDE INSPIRATION FOR THESE HEROIC MEN AND WOMEN. WE STRUCTURE EACH EVENT AROUND THE PARTICIPANTS SPECIFIC NEEDS, DESIRES AND ABILITIES.
Participant's learn the fundamentals of aviation to include licensing requirements, aerodynamics, airspace, weather briefings, traffic patterns, flight planning, spatial orientation, medical waivers, careers in aviation, and much more. After an intensive pre-flight briefing, each student pilot flies an airplane with an FAA certified flight instructor. The flight portion gives VR student pilots experience in communicating with the control tower, using flight instruments, and controlling the aircraft. Each student pilot also receives their own logbook with instructor endorsements and instruction on how to continue their flight training at a hometown airport, seek a career in aviation, or simply fly with an instructor whenever they want an adventure. We have the ability to offer these courses throughout the country at airports close to almost any qualified service member who wants to participate in our Introduction to Aviation and Flight Instruction course. More Information.
There are 11 million recreational sailors in the United States. Each year another 600,000 new sailors take to the water, some of these new sailors will be introduced to the great sport of sailing through their experiences with Veterans Retreat.
Participant's learn the basics of a sail plan, weather considerations, navigation, rules of the road, piloting techniques, emergency procedures, mechanical and electrical systems, winds and currents, docking and anchoring, captains' licensing requirements, and much more while cruising on the open ocean. Sailing requires tactical and strategic thinking in addition to physical and mental stamina. More information.
Participant's will receive a resort certification and dive the crystal clear waters off South Florida, once they complete and pass a rigorous classroom and pool training course with specific instruction on buoyancy, dive tables, equipment selection, diving techniques, emergency procedures, situational awareness, underwater wildlife, and certification requirements. After successfully completing the classroom instruction and pool training exercises, each student will take several deep-sea dives with a certified instructor. The benefits are both physical and physiological. A scuba diver experiences a weightless environment that is like that of an astronaut - without the space suit. In the water, any limitations an individual may have can be adapted for, as water is a great equalizer. Scuba diving enhances limb movement and reduces the force of gravity on the body. Muscles that may not be used every day are active underwater.
The National Sporting Goods Association lists fishing as the 6th most popular sport in America with over 40 million anglers supporting over 1 million jobs.
Participant's learn all of the fundamentals of fishing to include analyzing fishing trends, weather considerations, navigation, tackle and bait selection, rigging, tides and currents, boat handling, conservation efforts, plus insider tips from a seasoned professional captain. Our catch and release policy ensures that these magnificent creatures will be around for future generations to enjoy. In Miami, our preferred partner is Billin Office with Capt. Nelson. More information.
Some of our veterans are avid skydivers and we want to help them get back in the air with our Skydiving Re-Certification course. Expert instructors offer a refresher course on skydiving and accompany veterans on their first jump since being wounded.
The intense focus and the pump of adrenaline clears the mind and energized the body.
Recent research indicates that adrenaline surges in the body may imprint memories to ones consciousness. Many of our participants' last adrenaline surge was when they suffered their injury. We want to provide positive, exciting experiences that will gradually help service members overcome their Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Skydiving is a full-throttle adrenaline rush - not for the weak or timid.
Paddle sports offer participan'ts an opportunity to get on the water in a relaxing and social environment while benefiting from the therapeutic effects of water, sunshine, and exercise. Paddling burns approximately 400 calories per hour and requires about 500 strokes per mile. Our slow pace of 3 mph equates to about 1,500 strokes per hour of low impact muscle development and strengthening. We also supply canoes that have been equipped with foot peddles for those with upper body amputations. Veterans who suffer from traumatic brain injuries or hearing loss can work on their balance in the safety of the water. Paddling is a great way to connect with nature, sooth the soul, and improve ones cardiovascular and physical fitness.
Participant's will learn the fundamentals and technical details of professional race car driving and enjoy classroom and driving instruction on skid control, accident avoidance, drifting, braking, lead & follow, pro karts, hot laps, military and tactical skills training and more. Bondurant has specialized hand-control equipment to allow lower limb amputees and those suffering from paralysis the opportunity to get behind the wheel again. This is the premier race car driving school in America - our vets deserve the very best. Walter Reed Medical Center sees the benefit of these types of programs and we will work closely with them to provide a rewarding experience for our recovering auto enthusiasts. Bondurant has helped Veterans Retreat create a special program for our recovering veterans. We applaud their support. More information.
Veterans Retreat is seeking a retreat facility in Miami or the Florida Keys where our programs and activities can take place in a tropical and tranquil environment. Myriad other programs and activities are in the planning stages and will be available soon.
The founders of Veterans Retreat are donating some of their personal assets and real estate to help kick-start the funding of the facility. We are enlisting public support to help us reach our goals by supporting our raffle drawings and other promotional endeavors. Our success and the amount of assistance we can offer members of the armed services will be based on YOUR support.
