Veterans 'Feel Alive' at Wounded Warrior Project Game Night with Stack-Up
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Aug. 10, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Video games brought warriors into a virtual world in Jacksonville as veterans charity Stack-Up teamed with Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) for a night filled with friendly competition, food, and fellowship. Stack-Up is a charity organization that brings veterans and civilian supporters together through a shared love of video gaming.
"Wounded Warrior Project provided me with the tools needed to be a functional veteran," said Air Force veteran Julio Quinones. "They've done some very big things in my life – so when I heard they were hosting a game night, which intrigued me. I wouldn't call myself a gamer, but I'm really interested in technology."
For many veterans, the experiences they had in the military were some of the best of their lives, filled with camaraderie, meaning, and direction. But upon the return to civilian life, isolation can be one of the most significant struggles wounded warriors deal with. That's why WWP and Stack-Up have hosted several game nights at WWP offices to provide bonding opportunities that extend beyond a single gathering.
"I'm always nervous about meeting new people, but when I saw the guys from the Peer Support Group I'm part of were going to attend, I was sold," Julio said. "Getting around those guys and spending some time with the staff allowed me to stay calm and really enjoy the event."
Oculus virtual reality headsets were among the video game consoles spread across the room where the warriors gathered. Julio spent a large part of the evening trying a virtual reality experience.
"It was incredible, like nothing I've ever tried before," Julio said. "Stepping back and watching the other warriors put on the headsets and try it out was hilarious. When you're in the game, you completely lose track of the outside world, but watching the others play the game, there's nothing graceful about it. We had some good laughs seeing each other flailing around."
To read more about this event, visit: https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/warrior-stories-and-more-features.
About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. Read more at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/mission.
SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project