Warriors Build Confidence, Find Veteran Support at Indoor Rock Climb

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WWP Adventure Rock

MILWAUKEE, Oct. 5, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Injured veterans and guests faced the challenge of rock climbing one step at a time with Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP).

photo courtesy of Adventure Rock - veterans rock climb

"I was looking for something that I can do, since I use a cane to walk," said National Guard veteran Amanda Kloepfer. "I see a lot of cycling events, but I can't keep up. I liked being a part of the group. There was so much camaraderie among everyone."

"It's been a long, cold winter up here, and to have what is normally an outdoor activity on the inside was refreshing," said Army veteran John Stuhlmacher. "The group of warriors felt an instant connection. When we see and hear directly from other individuals with similar challenges about how they are making a positive impact in the community, it betters everyone."

Warriors experienced veteran peer support firsthand and networked with other veterans in the area, including some with Team Rubicon, which handles disaster response with veteran volunteers in communities all over the globe. WWP partners with organizations like Team Rubicon to help reach more veterans throughout the country.

"I signed up because I wanted to network with other warriors," said Army Reserve veteran Jose Villanueva. "I'm also afraid of heights, so I wanted to challenge myself."

In a WWP survey (https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/survey) of the injured warriors it serves, 80 percent of survey respondents expressed social engagement and support led to them registering with WWP.

"I got a chance to be around people that are experiencing some of the stuff I'm going through," Jose said. "I feel safer when I'm with them."

"I love being part of a group that makes me feel welcome," Amanda said. "Despite the cane and my speech disorder, other warriors are very accepting."

"Wounded Warrior Project, to me, is an organization that brings brother and sisters together," John said. "It reminds us we are not alone."

WWP has been connecting, serving, and empowering wounded warriors for 15 years. To learn more, visit http://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org.

About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers – helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more: http://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.

Wounded Warrior Project is recognizing 15 years of impactful programs and services. Independence Program helps seriously injured warriors live more meaningful lives. Learn more at woundedwarriorproject.org. (PRNewsfoto/Wounded Warrior Project)