Guardian Revival Blog
Information & resources about our programs, outdoor adventures, dogs, music, peer support, mental health, and wellness.
Guardian Revival is a non-profit with free programs for guardians (active & retired):
Active Military, Veterans, Reserves, National Guard, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, Dispatchers, Corrections, and Federal Agents.
One Mile Challenge: Why We Walk
In September, we walk together for the One Mile Challenge to support & honor veterans and first responders affected by trauma and mental health struggles. Learn why we walk and share your own stories & reflections on OMC to help raise awareness and support suicide prevention in our community.
Remembering 9/11: Stories from Our Guardian Revival Community
On the anniversary of 9/11, Guardian Revival reflects on the day that changed the lives of many in our community. From veterans to first responders to civilians, we share some of our personal stories in honor of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those lost and the guardians who continue to serve.
One Mile Challenge: Good For Our Guardians, Good For You.
Walking one mile a day can significantly impact your mental, physical, and emotional health. By signing up for Guardian Revival’s One Mile Challenge, you can show your support for veterans and first responders and do something great for your well-being at the same time.
2023 Annual Report
2023 was a remarkable year of growth & service for Guardian Revival. We served thousands of guardians across the nation, established new capabilities, built substantial partnerships with other non-profit organizations, managed the NYS Outdoor RX Coalition, and more. See more milestones in our 2023 Annual Impact Report.
2024 Florida Sea to Sea Expedition Race
Keith, Jon, and Tyler — retired military veterans with over 40 years of combined service — took on the challenge of The Sea to Sea Race: navigating over 300 miles of rugged Florida terrain, from one coast to the other, using only a compass, a map, and their wits to get them to the finish line.
The Star-Spangled Banner: Our Tribute to the Sacrifice of Guardians on 9/11
The significance of our national anthem isn’t just confined to one historical event — it extends to moments throughout our history that remind us of what it means to be an American, like this heartfelt rendition of the song played by veteran Brian Freeman in honor of the guardians who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of others on 9/11.
2024 Outdoor Adventures with Another Summit
Elevate your outdoor experiences to new heights with Another Summit. We have an expansive array of thrilling opportunities designed to immerse veterans and first responders in the great outdoors — from day outings to fieldcraft survival skills courses to multiday canoe expeditions and epic backpacking trips!
Guardian Champion: Atlantic Ocean Row
Guardian Champion Keith Eckert has completed yet another incredible adventure with a mission of raising awareness & funds for Guardian Revival and mental health. Keith and 11 other rowers crossed the Atlantic Ocean — rowing from Tenerife to Antigua in 45 days.
A New Year: 2024
As we embark on another year, we stay humble and focused on our mission to improve the lives of our guardians. Our mindset for 2024 is to make the world a better place and help who we can. We look forward to another year dedicated to veterans & first responders, and we are grateful to have you be part of our journey. Happy New Year!
2023 Recap: A Year of Impact & Growth
We've hit so many measurable milestones this year, and there are countless more meaningful moments we can't quantify — in groups of guardians and one-on-one with individuals. Thank you for your support, for being part of our extended Guardian Revival family, and for helping us improve the lives of our veterans & first responders.
January 2024 Events
Start the year off right by joining us for outdoor adventures, a companion dog awarding, iRest meditation, mobility, yoga, peer support, music jams, and more. With both virtual events and in-person gatherings, there’s something for everyone.
Happy Holidays!
As we approach the end of the year, we wanted to share our gratitude for all of you — all the guardians, everywhere; our staff and volunteers; our donors, sponsors, and supporters. Thank you for everything you do for us, each other, and our guardians. Our team at Guardian Revival wishes you happy holidays!
Guardian Champions: TCS New York City Marathon
On November 5th, 2023, over 51,000 athletes from 148 countries came together for the iconic New York City Marathon. Among them were 5 runners competing as Guardian Champions: Mackenzie Burns, Rob Williams, Phil Schwarz, Brendan Melanophy, and Luke Norman — and they collectively raised over $52,000 for our Boots & Paws companion dog program!
2023 Best Gifts for Music Lovers
Our music program, Encore, provides opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share music. Program Executive Director Matthew Sorena has provided us with some of his favorite gear for performing and recording music so that you can find the perfect stocking stuffer or holiday gift for the music lover in your life.
2023 Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers
Our adventure program, Another Summit, leads outdoor adventure activities, including walking, hiking, backpacking, and paddling. Program Executive Director Aaron Leonard and the Another Summit team have put together this list of must-have gear for outdoor lovers this holiday season.
2023 Guardian Revival Holiday Gift Guide
Looking for gift ideas for your loved ones, friends, coworkers, adventure buddies, or furry friends? Our holiday gift guide is brought to you by the team at Guardian Revival. Thanks to our wide range of expertise (and hobbies!), we’ve got recommendations for those on a path for self-improvement & exploration, creatives, both aspiring & skilled musicians, outdoor lovers & athletes, and canine companions.
December 2023 Events
End your year on a high note by joining us for winter adventures, mobility, meditation, music, peer support, and more. With both virtual and in-person events available, there’s something for everyone.
9th Annual Veterans Appreciation Chow Down
The Veterans Appreciation Chow Down is a special annual event where we bring hundreds of local veterans together to show our appreciation, celebrate, and break bread together. Guardian Revival hosted the 9th Annual Veterans Appreciation Chow Down at the Putnam County Golf Course on November 5, 2023.
GR on TV: Veteran’s Playbook Episode
This episode of Veteran’s Playbook featured Guardian Revival & Alex Othmer as a “compelling story of a U.S. veteran entrepreneur and their unique life, career, and venture.” Originally aired on November 1, 2023, on Discovery Network’s Destination America channel.
One Mile Challenge 2023 Recap
It's been a week since we completed our second annual One Mile Challenge, and we're excited to share a review of how the month went. 919 people joined in to walk over 27,000 miles and raise over $115,000!