Wounded Warrior Project, REI Empower Veterans at Wilderness Class

WASHINGTON, April 17, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Backpacking in the wilderness and maintaining your bicycle are activities that require a certain level of preparation and technique. That's why Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) recently teamed up with outdoor retailer REI to host an afternoon class on how to master these activities.

Like many others at the event, Army veteran Stephanie Hornedo was a newcomer to backpacking.

"I have done some beginner hikes, but nothing requiring the equipment or tools that REI was demonstrating," Stephanie said. "That was really interesting to see – what I thought was essential for a hike was way different from what the professionals say is essential."

REI staff taught the group the basics of how to select the best backpacking equipment for height, weight, and distance being traveled.

"I love being outdoors, but cycling is really my therapy," Stephanie said. "I was introduced to it through a Soldier Ride^® event. Every day I am grateful for the opportunity Wounded Warrior Project gave me with that ride. That event gave me the confidence and desire to branch out more and try new things. I recently completed my first half marathon!"

During the REI gathering, warriors also learned bicycle maintenance skills.

"The most helpful tip of the class for me was learning how to change a flat tire," Stephanie said.

WWP's programs not only equip warriors with knowledge and skills to live a healthy and active lifestyle, but they also support warriors as they manage their mental health through physical activity and connecting with other veterans. In a WWP survey of the injured warriors it serves, 29.6 percent of survey respondents expressed physical activity helps them cope with stress and emotional concerns.

"It's a breath of fresh air to be surrounded by people who are seeking help or are interested in the same things I am," Stephanie said. "It's also nice to be surrounded by people who experience some of the same daily struggles that I do. I know I can reach out to these fellow warriors for support, or the other way around."
 

To read the rest of this story and learn how WWP's programs and services connect, serve, and empower wounded warriors, visit https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/Wounded-Warrior-Project-REI-Empower-Veterans-at-Wilderness-Class.

About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. Read more at https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project