Adventure Blog August 2026
August 2026 Mission Update
RECONNECTING WARRIORS • RESTORING PURPOSE
As summer begins to wind down, our momentum continues to grow.
July was one of the busiest and most exciting months in the history of the Special Operations Adventure Foundation. Thanks to the incredible support of our donors, volunteers, corporate partners, and community, we expanded our reach, strengthened existing partnerships, and continued creating opportunities for Special Operations veterans to reconnect through adventure.
None of this would be possible without your support. Every mile traveled, every event attended, and every veteran we serve is made possible because of people like you who believe in our mission.
Outdoor Market Alliance Recognizes SOAF
We're honored to announce that the Special Operations Adventure Foundation has been selected as a recipient of funding through the Outdoor Market Alliance.
Since its inception, the Outdoor Market Alliance has donated more than $110,000 to nonprofit organizations working to expand access to the outdoors and strengthen outdoor communities. To be included among this outstanding group of organizations is both humbling and inspiring.
This support is far more than a financial contribution—it represents a shared belief that time spent outdoors has the power to heal, build resilience, and reconnect people with purpose.
As we continue developing therapeutic outdoor programs specifically designed for Special Operations veterans, partnerships like this allow us to expand our impact and reach more warriors who need our support.
We are incredibly grateful to the Outdoor Market Alliance and everyone involved in making this possible.
Appalachian 1000: More Than Just a Motorcycle Ride
In July, SOAF proudly participated in the Backroads of Appalachia Appalachian 1000 Endurance Rally.
Over the course of the event, we covered more than 1,000 miles through the mountains and backroads of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio while raising awareness for the unique challenges faced by America's Special Operations veterans.
The riding itself was unforgettable.
We crossed mountain passes, explored remote communities, and experienced some of the most beautiful scenery the Appalachian region has to offer.
Of course, every adventure has a story...
Mine came during a river crossing where I misjudged the line, tipped the motorcycle over, and found myself completely underwater—along with the bike. While it certainly wasn't the graceful crossing I had envisioned, moments like these become the stories that bring everyone together around the campfire at the end of the day. Sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected.
Most importantly, because of your generosity, our Appalachian 1000 campaign raised $6,800 to directly support future veteran retreats and programs.
We're also excited to share that this partnership is just getting started. We fully intend to continue participating in future Appalachian 1000 events and are currently exploring the possibility of establishing an East Coast base of operations alongside Backroads of Appalachia. Doing so would dramatically increase our ability to serve Special Operations veterans throughout the eastern United States.
The future is incredibly exciting.
Looking Ahead
Women's Rocky Mountain Retreat
Planning continues for our upcoming Women's Rocky Mountain Retreat.
Women who served alongside America's Special Operations Forces remain one of the smallest and least recognized veteran communities in the country. Our retreat is designed specifically to provide these remarkable women with an opportunity to reconnect, build lasting relationships, and experience the therapeutic benefits of adventure in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Hosted at the beautiful Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort in Colorado Springs, participants will enjoy mountain biking, hiking, outdoor recreation, and meaningful conversations with others who truly understand their unique experiences.
We can't wait to welcome this incredible group of veterans later this year.
Why We Continue This Mission
Transitioning out of Special Operations isn't simply about finding another career.
For many veterans, it means losing a lifelong identity, a close-knit team, and the daily sense of purpose that defined decades of service.
At the Special Operations Adventure Foundation, we believe adventure can become a pathway back to connection.
Our retreats aren't vacations—they're opportunities for Special Operations veterans to reconnect with peers who understand their experiences, rebuild confidence, and rediscover purpose through shared challenge.
That mission remains at the heart of everything we do. soafoundation
Ways You Can Help
Every contribution makes a difference.
You can support the Foundation by:
Donating to fund veteran retreats
Sharing our mission with your friends and family
Introducing us to businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities
Volunteering at future events
Following and sharing our social media content
Together, we are building a community where no Special Operations veteran has to navigate life after service alone.
Stay Connected
Visit our website to learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support our mission.
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