Veterans finding connection through social and physical activities
SUMMARY
Did you know that there are 3.5 million post-9/11 veterans nationwide, and that 250,000 more service members will leave active duty this year to join them? These veterans often face isolation, lack of physical fitness, and a lack of purpose in a world that doesn't understand the military.
Team Red, White & Blue's mission is to enrich the lives of America's veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Utilizing a nationwide network of chapters, Team RWB hosts and participates in events designed to bring veterans together and engage in the communities where they live and work.
Whether it's workouts, races, social activities or community service projects, Team RWB members, also known as Eagles, support each other through shared values and experiences; there's probably an RWB chapter near you.
Joining Team RWB is easy
Visit the Team RWB homepage to sign up. New members also receive a free Team RWB Nike t-shirt ( shipping and handling charge). New eagles are also quickly connected to their local chapter to learn about upcoming local activities. More than 160K veterans, their families, and non-military supporters have already joined Team RWB.
Team Red, White Blue is a nonprofit founded by veterans working to solve the epidemic of loneliness through physical activity. Team RWB is the bridge connecting communities where veterans and civilians work together to gain common understanding.
Team RWB takes the best of military service–the camaraderie and physical challenges–and creates a new family of Eagles connected through physical activity.
"Staying active both physically and socially is key for a lot of veterans, especially those who have been wounded, ill or injured," said Tampa VAMC Chief of Recreation and U.S. Army veteran Geoff Hopkins. "It's very important for those veterans with 'invisible wounds,' such as PTSD, to engage in activities in the community, to draw them out of their dark places and get them interacting with others."
Take the 1776 Challenge
Independence Day is for celebrating our nation's freedom. This summer, Team Red, White Blue will showcase their commitment to the men and women who have fought for our freedom with the 1776 Challenge.
Team RWB invites you to join all Team RWB Eagles across the nation. Whether you do it with someone else or weave it into your workout, you will know that thousands of others will be taking on that day's unique challenge with you! Dedicate your hard work and sweat to celebrate our nation's veterans and their commitment to this great nation. Every time you "check in," you will be entered into a chance to win prizes!
This article originally appeared on VAntage Point. Follow @DeptVetAffairs on Twitter.
