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.
How to Support Veterans & First Responders This Holiday Season
This year, Guardian Revival is giving you two ways to ditch the holiday crowds and make a difference, starting with our Opt Outside hike on Black Friday and continuing with our Get Out, Give Back campaign on Giving Tuesday. Together, these two events can help you bring a sense of peace and purpose to your holiday season.
2024 Marine Corps Marathon Recap
The 2024 49th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) brought thousands of runners together in Arlington, VA, and Washington, D.C., to celebrate “A bond that bridges generations – women who serve our Nation and communities.” This year, Guardian Revival was proud to have 13 incredible runners take on The People’s Marathon as Guardian Champions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What is a Guardian Revival Champion?
Champions are athletes who compete under the Guardian Revival banner to break mental health stigmas & raise awareness so we can improve the lives of veterans & first responders. No matter what sport you play, course you race, or endeavor you take on, we are honored that you want our wings on your back — and that you have our guardians’ backs.
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!
One Mile Challenge 2022 Recap
We just completed our first annual One Mile Challenge! Thank you to the participants who showed up for yourselves, the guardians we've lost, and those still with us. Thank you all for supporting us and helping us help others. It truly makes a difference, and we appreciate it.