Resources by state
Resources in Michigan
Local
Michigan-Specific Resources
Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors
Partnership with the Michigan DNR centered on Sharonville State Game Area and Camp Liberty, connecting wounded veterans and people with health challenges to accessible hunting and outdoor recreation as part of recovery and peer support.
Partnership with the Michigan DNR centered on Sharonville State Game Area and Camp Liberty, connecting wounded veterans and people with health challenges to accessible hunting and outdoor recreation as part of recovery and peer support.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Wounded veterans and individuals with health challenges or disabilities.
Croton Sportsmen for Youth and Disabled Veterans
All-volunteer Michigan nonprofit serving the Croton River area since 2010, offering disabled veterans no-cost fishing, shooting sports, and archery while developing accessible facilities for participants with mobility limitations.
All-volunteer Michigan nonprofit serving the Croton River area since 2010, offering disabled veterans no-cost fishing, shooting sports, and archery while developing accessible facilities for participants with mobility limitations.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Michigan Outdoor Wishmakers
Michigan nonprofit providing no-cost hunting and fishing adventures — including a dedicated veterans' whitetail hunt — for veterans and others living with a life-threatening illness or limiting disability, using specialized equipment and accessible lodges and charters.
Michigan nonprofit providing no-cost hunting and fishing adventures — including a dedicated veterans' whitetail hunt — for veterans and others living with a life-threatening illness or limiting disability, using specialized equipment and accessible lodges and charters.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Participants must have a life-threatening illness or life-limiting disability; nominated via the organization's website.
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency — Recreation Benefits
State portal covering free hunting and fishing licenses and free state-park (Recreation Passport) access for qualifying disabled veterans, plus links to programs like Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors.
State portal covering free hunting and fishing licenses and free state-park (Recreation Passport) access for qualifying disabled veterans, plus links to programs like Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Free hunting/fishing license: Michigan resident veteran rated 100% permanently and totally disabled (for a disability other than blindness) or individually unemployable by VA. Free Recreation Passport: Medal of Honor recipients, 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans, and ex-POWs.
Frontline Strong Together (FST5)
Statewide Michigan initiative led by Wayne State University's Department of Psychiatry with first-responder unions, offering trained peer supporters, confidential clinical care, wellness training, and a 24/7 crisis and resource line for police, fire, EMS, dispatch, and corrections personnel and their immediate families. Funded by a State of Michigan grant, with regional peer maps and provider directories covering all 83 counties.
Statewide Michigan initiative led by Wayne State University's Department of Psychiatry with first-responder unions, offering trained peer supporters, confidential clinical care, wellness training, and a 24/7 crisis and resource line for police, fire, EMS, dispatch, and corrections personnel and their immediate families. Funded by a State of Michigan grant, with regional peer maps and provider directories covering all 83 counties.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 crisis and resource line; regional peer-support teams matched through the site's map
Eligibility: Michigan police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, correctional officers, and 911 dispatchers, plus their immediate families
Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF)
State emergency-grant program created in 1946 that helps Michigan veterans and eligible dependents weather short-term financial crises such as utility bills, rent or mortgage help, home repairs, and medical bills, with applications reviewed by local county committees. The same MVAA page takes an Emergency Assistance resource form answered within 48 hours and points to other aid such as county Soldier and Sailor Relief Funds.
State emergency-grant program created in 1946 that helps Michigan veterans and eligible dependents weather short-term financial crises such as utility bills, rent or mortgage help, home repairs, and medical bills, with applications reviewed by local county committees. The same MVAA page takes an Emergency Assistance resource form answered within 48 hours and points to other aid such as county Soldier and Sailor Relief Funds.
Category: Financial Assistance
Eligibility: Michigan residents honorably discharged with 180 days of wartime active duty, or an expeditionary medal, or fewer days due to a service-incurred disability; peacetime-era veterans 65 and older qualify under the 65+ Peacetime Program; dependents may apply if the veteran is eligible
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency — Veteran Service Officers
Statewide finder for VA-accredited Veteran Service Officers — MVAA staff, county offices, and the Michigan Veterans Coalition (American Legion, DAV, Vietnam Veterans of America, and VFW) — who help veterans and dependents gather evidence, file and track claims, take appeals, and get referrals on education, employment, and death benefits. Veterans may choose any VSO in their county regardless of affiliation.
Statewide finder for VA-accredited Veteran Service Officers — MVAA staff, county offices, and the Michigan Veterans Coalition (American Legion, DAV, Vietnam Veterans of America, and VFW) — who help veterans and dependents gather evidence, file and track claims, take appeals, and get referrals on education, employment, and death benefits. Veterans may choose any VSO in their county regardless of affiliation.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: Michigan veterans and their dependents; no requirement to stay with a particular VSO or organization
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency — Veteran Legal Services
MVAA's legal-help hub for Michigan military members and veterans, pointing to law-school Veteran Legal Clinics (including Wayne State's Free Legal Aid Clinic), the Attorney General's Michigan Military and Veterans Legal Services Guide, local legal-aid offices, expungement tools, and phone intake through the Counsel and Advocacy Law Line.
MVAA's legal-help hub for Michigan military members and veterans, pointing to law-school Veteran Legal Clinics (including Wayne State's Free Legal Aid Clinic), the Attorney General's Michigan Military and Veterans Legal Services Guide, local legal-aid offices, expungement tools, and phone intake through the Counsel and Advocacy Law Line.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: Michigan veterans and military personnel; income rules vary by the legal-aid provider listed
Michigan LEO — Veterans' Employment Services
Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity runs Veterans' Employment Services through the Michigan Works! network, giving veterans, transitioning service members, and eligible spouses one-on-one career advising, resume and interview support, connections to registered apprenticeships and training, and employer outreach. It also runs the Michigan Incarcerated Veterans' In-Reach Program at seven correctional facilities.
Michigan's Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity runs Veterans' Employment Services through the Michigan Works! network, giving veterans, transitioning service members, and eligible spouses one-on-one career advising, resume and interview support, connections to registered apprenticeships and training, and employer outreach. It also runs the Michigan Incarcerated Veterans' In-Reach Program at seven correctional facilities.
Category: Career & Education
Eligibility: Veterans with at least one day of active military service and eligible spouses receive Priority of Service; career services focus on veterans and eligible persons facing barriers to employment
Michigan Veterans Foundation
Detroit nonprofit serving veterans since 1989 that runs the Detroit Veterans Center transitional housing facility and resource center at 4626 Grand River Ave., with nine core services: housing, a veteran rescue program, life-skills and employment support, health-care access, PTSD counseling, transportation and meals, substance-use support, legal assistance, and permanent housing placement.
Detroit nonprofit serving veterans since 1989 that runs the Detroit Veterans Center transitional housing facility and resource center at 4626 Grand River Ave., with nine core services: housing, a veteran rescue program, life-skills and employment support, health-care access, PTSD counseling, transportation and meals, substance-use support, legal assistance, and permanent housing placement.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Availability: Detroit Veterans Center is accepting referrals (banner on the org's site)
Eligibility: Homeless veterans seeking transitional housing and wrap-around support services
Volunteers of America Michigan — Veteran Services
Michigan branch of Volunteers of America running veterans transitional housing in Detroit plus a menu of programs: Supportive Services for Veteran Families for homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing, the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program for job training and placement, a Veteran Food Security Project, GPD case management, and SERV suicide-prevention engagement funded by the Staff Sgt. Parker Gordon Fox grant.
Michigan branch of Volunteers of America running veterans transitional housing in Detroit plus a menu of programs: Supportive Services for Veteran Families for homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing, the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program for job training and placement, a Veteran Food Security Project, GPD case management, and SERV suicide-prevention engagement funded by the Staff Sgt. Parker Gordon Fox grant.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Program-specific: transitional housing by referral for homeless veterans; SSVF for very low-income veterans and their families; HVRP for veterans needing employment training; SERV for at-risk veterans in 17 southern Michigan counties
Fisher House Michigan
Michigan's two Fisher Houses, at the Ann Arbor and Detroit VA medical centers, let military and veterans' families stay free while a loved one receives treatment — the site states there is never a lodging fee. Together the houses can offer up to 11,680 nights of free lodging annually and have hosted more than 14,000 military and veteran caregivers.
Michigan's two Fisher Houses, at the Ann Arbor and Detroit VA medical centers, let military and veterans' families stay free while a loved one receives treatment — the site states there is never a lodging fee. Together the houses can offer up to 11,680 nights of free lodging annually and have hosted more than 14,000 military and veteran caregivers.
Category: Family Support
Availability: Detroit Fisher House is newly open (site banner); combined capacity up to 11,680 nights annually
Eligibility: Military and veterans' families who need lodging while a loved one is receiving treatment at the medical center the house serves
Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund
Bloomfield Hills-based, all-volunteer Michigan nonprofit founded in 2006 that supports Michigan-based soldiers injured in service with living expenses and assists the families of the fallen. The org states that 97% of donations go directly to the veterans and families it serves, funded through events and private giving.
Bloomfield Hills-based, all-volunteer Michigan nonprofit founded in 2006 that supports Michigan-based soldiers injured in service with living expenses and assists the families of the fallen. The org states that 97% of donations go directly to the veterans and families it serves, funded through events and private giving.
Category: Financial Assistance
Eligibility: Michigan-based soldiers injured in service and the families of the fallen, per the org's mission; application process is not described on the site
West Michigan Veterans Coalition
Coalition serving veterans, service members, and families across 13 West Michigan counties with the Military Family Assistance Fund for emergency aid on housing, utilities, and critical repairs, a Share-a-Meal food program, no-cost rides to medical appointments and essential trips, employment connections, and three annual scholarships. The org reports more than 100 scholarships awarded and over 2,000 people fed.
Coalition serving veterans, service members, and families across 13 West Michigan counties with the Military Family Assistance Fund for emergency aid on housing, utilities, and critical repairs, a Share-a-Meal food program, no-cost rides to medical appointments and essential trips, employment connections, and three annual scholarships. The org reports more than 100 scholarships awarded and over 2,000 people fed.
Category: Financial Assistance
Availability: Scholarships awarded annually; community meetings, workshops, and a speakers series run through the year on the site's calendar
Eligibility: Veterans, service members, and families in the 13 counties served; scholarships cover those currently or formerly serving (active duty, Guard, reserves, retired, honorably discharged) plus spouses and dependents up to age 26
Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America
Michigan chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America, serving the state since 1961 from its Brighton headquarters, with an adaptive Loan Closet, Sports and Recreation grants of up to $5,000 per cycle, Rollin' Traveler and membership grants, educational scholarships, veteran benefits services, and peer support for veterans with spinal cord injury or disease.
Michigan chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America, serving the state since 1961 from its Brighton headquarters, with an adaptive Loan Closet, Sports and Recreation grants of up to $5,000 per cycle, Rollin' Traveler and membership grants, educational scholarships, veteran benefits services, and peer support for veterans with spinal cord injury or disease.
Category: Equipment & Grants
Eligibility: Sports and Recreation Grant: Michigan residents with spinal cord injury or disease who are voting MPVA members, a member's spouse or child, or a Michigan nonprofit building inclusive sports programs; other programs carry their own rules
Veterans Adventure League
Michigan 501(c)(3) that uses tabletop gaming to end social isolation and prevent suicide among veterans, service members, and their families, with game tables located throughout the state and a virtual peer-support meeting. New players, Game Masters, and volunteers can join or start a table in their area.
Michigan 501(c)(3) that uses tabletop gaming to end social isolation and prevent suicide among veterans, service members, and their families, with game tables located throughout the state and a virtual peer-support meeting. New players, Game Masters, and volunteers can join or start a table in their area.
Category: Purpose & Community
Availability: Recurring game tables across Michigan plus a virtual peer-support meeting for veterans and service members
Eligibility: Veterans, service members, and their families; membership takes many forms and new local tables can be started on request
No Veteran Left Behind
Lincoln Park, Michigan nonprofit founded in 2014 offering evidence-based mental health care for veterans and their families — screening, assessment, and individual, couples, family, and group therapy from master's-level clinicians — plus career programs such as VET2WORK and cyber and medical certification training, a youth empowerment program for military kids, and benefits and claims support.
Lincoln Park, Michigan nonprofit founded in 2014 offering evidence-based mental health care for veterans and their families — screening, assessment, and individual, couples, family, and group therapy from master's-level clinicians — plus career programs such as VET2WORK and cyber and medical certification training, a youth empowerment program for military kids, and benefits and claims support.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans and their families; VET2WORK requires a DD-214 (other-than-honorable accepted in most cases), state ID, and proof of education level
Sailor's Manifesto
West Michigan nonprofit founded by Army combat veteran Sue Fisher providing veteran-focused suicide prevention and mental wellness through a four-part program of mental-health education, peer support, and shared sailing experiences, followed by a 33-day guided workshop journal. Other services include adaptive sailing for veterans dealing with PTSD or MST and women's sailing retreats.
West Michigan nonprofit founded by Army combat veteran Sue Fisher providing veteran-focused suicide prevention and mental wellness through a four-part program of mental-health education, peer support, and shared sailing experiences, followed by a 33-day guided workshop journal. Other services include adaptive sailing for veterans dealing with PTSD or MST and women's sailing retreats.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: Bookable programs — sailing experiences, full-day retreats, workshops, and classes
Eligibility: Veterans; the program is educational and peer-based and does not provide clinical treatment or diagnosis
Operation Injured Soldiers
South Lyon-based Michigan nonprofit founded in 2005 that gives injured veterans and their families free, individually tailored outdoor and community experiences — hunting and fishing trips, sporting, racing and concert tickets, family weekend getaways, skydiving, golf outings, and kayaking, some with lodging and transportation provided. It runs programs including Brave Hearts Estate, Operation Sisterhood, OIS Riders, Walk for Warriors, and Operation Renewed Hope, and reports having helped more than 8,000 veterans.
South Lyon-based Michigan nonprofit founded in 2005 that gives injured veterans and their families free, individually tailored outdoor and community experiences — hunting and fishing trips, sporting, racing and concert tickets, family weekend getaways, skydiving, golf outings, and kayaking, some with lodging and transportation provided. It runs programs including Brave Hearts Estate, Operation Sisterhood, OIS Riders, Walk for Warriors, and Operation Renewed Hope, and reports having helped more than 8,000 veterans.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Injured veterans and their families.
Blue Star Service Dogs
Pinckney, Michigan nonprofit that rescues shelter dogs, professionally trains them for about six months, and pairs them with combat veterans diagnosed with invisible wounds, continuing training together to build a service-dog partnership. It is a fully accredited member of Assistance Dogs International and also serves first responders through a dedicated program.
Pinckney, Michigan nonprofit that rescues shelter dogs, professionally trains them for about six months, and pairs them with combat veterans diagnosed with invisible wounds, continuing training together to build a service-dog partnership. It is a fully accredited member of Assistance Dogs International and also serves first responders through a dedicated program.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: Programs open in application windows — the org's site listed programs opening November 2, 2026
Eligibility: Combat veterans diagnosed with invisible wounds; the org also lists a first-responder program and a Bring Your Own Dog option for qualifying previously owned dogs.
Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors (MI-C.O.P.S.)
Michigan chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors that provides resources and peer support to help rebuild the lives of surviving families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, as determined by federal criteria. It also trains law enforcement agencies on survivor victimization issues and educates the public about supporting the profession and its survivors.
Michigan chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors that provides resources and peer support to help rebuild the lives of surviving families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, as determined by federal criteria. It also trains law enforcement agencies on survivor victimization issues and educates the public about supporting the profession and its survivors.
Category: Family Support
Eligibility: Surviving families and affected co-workers of Michigan law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, per federal criteria.
Journey Equus
Stanwood, Michigan nonprofit where people learn, heal, and grow through safe, relationship-based experiences with horses. It offers a dedicated Veteran & First Responder Support program described as a quiet place to reset, connect, and build trust, alongside equine-guided healing sessions and inclusive programs; most activities happen on the ground and riding is not required.
Stanwood, Michigan nonprofit where people learn, heal, and grow through safe, relationship-based experiences with horses. It offers a dedicated Veteran & First Responder Support program described as a quiet place to reset, connect, and build trust, alongside equine-guided healing sessions and inclusive programs; most activities happen on the ground and riding is not required.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: Programs run on a scheduled basis; the org asks visitors to contact it before visiting so it can plan a safe, welcoming time
Eligibility: Veterans, first responders, and their families, among the other groups the org serves.
Vets Returning Home
Roseville, Michigan nonprofit and non-government-funded organization that houses homeless veterans in crisis in an 11,000-square-foot facility with 43 beds, six of them reserved for women. It provides a stable, sober living environment plus onsite employment readiness training, job placement aid, disability benefit connection, legal support, and life-skills training, and reports transitioning on average 250 veterans a year.
Roseville, Michigan nonprofit and non-government-funded organization that houses homeless veterans in crisis in an 11,000-square-foot facility with 43 beds, six of them reserved for women. It provides a stable, sober living environment plus onsite employment readiness training, job placement aid, disability benefit connection, legal support, and life-skills training, and reports transitioning on average 250 veterans a year.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Availability: 43-bed facility (6 female beds); program is volunteer-operated and receives no government funding
Eligibility: Homeless veterans in crisis seeking a stable, sober living environment; 6 of the 43 beds are dedicated to women.
906 Warrior Relief Fund
All-volunteer 501(c)(3) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula that provides financial assistance to Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, and veteran service members in time of crisis, having begun in 2011 out of Marquette. The org reports helping 43 service members and veterans with $59,511 from 2015 to October 2022 and states that 98% of donations go directly to the people it serves.
All-volunteer 501(c)(3) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula that provides financial assistance to Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, and veteran service members in time of crisis, having begun in 2011 out of Marquette. The org reports helping 43 service members and veterans with $59,511 from 2015 to October 2022 and states that 98% of donations go directly to the people it serves.
Category: Financial Assistance
Availability: Assistance is requested by mailing the org's application form to its Little Lake, MI address
Eligibility: Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, and veteran service members in time of crisis in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
WMK9 Foundation
Veteran-founded West Michigan 501(c)(3), established in 2019, that provides professionally trained service dogs to veterans and first responders and police K9s to communities in need — funding the professional training, matching, placement, and ongoing veterinary care so that financial barriers never prevent access. The org states that every dollar of every donation goes to training and the fulfillment of its purpose, with no compensated board members, employees, or volunteers.
Veteran-founded West Michigan 501(c)(3), established in 2019, that provides professionally trained service dogs to veterans and first responders and police K9s to communities in need — funding the professional training, matching, placement, and ongoing veterinary care so that financial barriers never prevent access. The org states that every dollar of every donation goes to training and the fulfillment of its purpose, with no compensated board members, employees, or volunteers.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: Requests are submitted through the org's site and reviewed by the Foundation board, which states it typically responds within a few business days
Eligibility: Veterans and first responders seeking a service dog; the Foundation also provides police K9s to agencies and communities.
Freedom River
Brighton, Michigan 501(c)(3) building a 94-acre comprehensive outdoor recreation center on the Huron River and Gill Lake in Livingston County to assist in the re-assimilation of U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families. The center is designed as a peaceful place to relax, recover, and rejuvenate, with outdoor activities, community building, and programs intended to combat isolation and support mental well-being.
Brighton, Michigan 501(c)(3) building a 94-acre comprehensive outdoor recreation center on the Huron River and Gill Lake in Livingston County to assist in the re-assimilation of U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families. The center is designed as a peaceful place to relax, recover, and rejuvenate, with outdoor activities, community building, and programs intended to combat isolation and support mental well-being.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: Center is under development; the org holds community events such as its annual Fall Festival and H.E.R.O. Freedom Run while fundraising
Eligibility: U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families.
VETLIFE
Howell, Michigan 501(c)(3) founded in 2018 by veteran families that empowers veterans and their families with resources, community, and guidance through free programs and in-person events, including the Battle Buddy mobile platform connecting veterans to housing, employment, mental health, and VA benefits, the annual Vet Fest, and Warmth for Warriors aid for homeless veterans. It reports more than 30,000 Battle Buddy downloads and holds a State of Michigan Governor Service Award.
Howell, Michigan 501(c)(3) founded in 2018 by veteran families that empowers veterans and their families with resources, community, and guidance through free programs and in-person events, including the Battle Buddy mobile platform connecting veterans to housing, employment, mental health, and VA benefits, the annual Vet Fest, and Warmth for Warriors aid for homeless veterans. It reports more than 30,000 Battle Buddy downloads and holds a State of Michigan Governor Service Award.
Category: Purpose & Community
Availability: Offers the free Battle Buddy app year-round plus in-person events, including an annual Vet Fest
Eligibility: Veterans and their families.
Michigan Veteran Homes
State-administered system of three home-like communities — at Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and D.J. Jacobetti in Marquette — that for over 135 years has provided Michigan veterans with long-term and short-term skilled nursing care, rehabilitation and therapy, dementia and memory care, and palliative care, along with recreational outings and a No Member Dies Alone volunteer program.
State-administered system of three home-like communities — at Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and D.J. Jacobetti in Marquette — that for over 135 years has provided Michigan veterans with long-term and short-term skilled nursing care, rehabilitation and therapy, dementia and memory care, and palliative care, along with recreational outings and a No Member Dies Alone volunteer program.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Availability: Admissions accepted at three homes; apply through the home's admissions office
Eligibility: Eligible Michigan veterans needing long-term or short-term skilled nursing care, dementia and memory care, or palliative care.
Michigan Rural EMS Network — SHIFT
Statewide initiative of the Michigan Rural EMS Network (MiREMS) that strengthens the mental wellness, resilience, and retention of Michigan's EMS personnel by helping first-responder agencies embed trauma-informed, psychologically healthy practices into everyday operations. SHIFT equips agencies with practical tools, strengthens peer support, expands behavioral health education, and guides leaders through a ten-principle SHIFT Values Framework, implemented with select rural EMS agencies and supported by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.
Statewide initiative of the Michigan Rural EMS Network (MiREMS) that strengthens the mental wellness, resilience, and retention of Michigan's EMS personnel by helping first-responder agencies embed trauma-informed, psychologically healthy practices into everyday operations. SHIFT equips agencies with practical tools, strengthens peer support, expands behavioral health education, and guides leaders through a ten-principle SHIFT Values Framework, implemented with select rural EMS agencies and supported by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Michigan EMS agencies and their personnel; the initiative is being implemented with select rural EMS agencies, with plans to expand
Michigan Military Family Relief Fund
State program established by Public Act 363 of 2004 and amended by Public Act 62 of 2014 that provides grants to Michigan families of certain reserve-component service members called to active duty, funding financial assistance for clothing, food, housing, utilities, medical services or prescriptions, insurance payments, vehicle payments, and other daily-living necessities.
State program established by Public Act 363 of 2004 and amended by Public Act 62 of 2014 that provides grants to Michigan families of certain reserve-component service members called to active duty, funding financial assistance for clothing, food, housing, utilities, medical services or prescriptions, insurance payments, vehicle payments, and other daily-living necessities.
Category: Financial Assistance
Availability: Complete the Michigan Military Family Relief Fund application with a hardship letter and required documentation; submit it to the Michigan National Guard Family Assistance Center Coordinator or the DMVA Office of Financial Services
Eligibility: Families of certain reserve-component service members called to active duty by the President or Secretary of Defense in response to the national emergency following September 11, 2001 or a federally funded declared national emergency.
Michigan National Guard Service Member, Veteran & Family Assistance Center
Lansing-based center providing a comprehensive, one-stop set of services to Service Members, Veterans, Retirees, and Families of any military branch — including ID card and DEERS/TRICARE assistance, retirement counseling, transition assistance, survivor outreach, child and youth programs, and financial, employment, and non-medical counseling through Military OneSource and the Joint Family Support Assistance Program.
Lansing-based center providing a comprehensive, one-stop set of services to Service Members, Veterans, Retirees, and Families of any military branch — including ID card and DEERS/TRICARE assistance, retirement counseling, transition assistance, survivor outreach, child and youth programs, and financial, employment, and non-medical counseling through Military OneSource and the Joint Family Support Assistance Program.
Category: Family Support
Availability: Center operations Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; ID card and transition services have specific walk-in and appointment hours
Eligibility: Service members, veterans, retirees, and families of any military branch of service.
Detroit Vet Center
VA community-based counseling center in Detroit offering confidential help for veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting, including individual, group, couples, and family counseling for PTSD, depression, grief, and the effects of military sexual trauma, plus bereavement counseling and connection to VA and community resources. Many services are available on a walk-in basis and through telehealth.
VA community-based counseling center in Detroit offering confidential help for veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting, including individual, group, couples, and family counseling for PTSD, depression, grief, and the effects of military sexual trauma, plus bereavement counseling and connection to VA and community resources. Many services are available on a walk-in basis and through telehealth.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: Many services available on a walk-in basis; non-traditional hours by appointment
Eligibility: Veterans and service members (including National Guard and Reserve) who meet Vet Center service requirements — such as combat-theater service, military sexual trauma, certain emergency or mortuary service, or current use of covered VA education benefits — and their families; no need to be enrolled in VA health care or have a service-connected disability.
Nationwide
Available in Every State
These programs aren't specific to Michigan, but every one of them is open to residents here.
Team Red, White & Blue
Nonprofit that organizes thousands of weekly and monthly running, cycling, and fitness events nationwide to build community and improve veterans' health and well-being.
Nonprofit that organizes thousands of weekly and monthly running, cycling, and fitness events nationwide to build community and improve veterans' health and well-being.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Wounded Warrior Project — Soldier Ride
Multi-day adaptive cycling program — road bikes, hand cycles, and recumbent trikes — that has served roughly 2,000 veterans and family members annually since 2004.
Multi-day adaptive cycling program — road bikes, hand cycles, and recumbent trikes — that has served roughly 2,000 veterans and family members annually since 2004.
Category: Sports & Fitness
IRONMAN Foundation — Gold Star Initiative
Pairs veterans and active-duty service members with Gold Star Families; participants carry a flag during select IRONMAN run legs and present it to the family at the finish line.
Pairs veterans and active-duty service members with Gold Star Families; participants carry a flag during select IRONMAN run legs and present it to the family at the finish line.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Spartan — Service Member Discounts
Discounted race registration and merchandise for current and former military, law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders (verified via GovX ID).
Category: Sports & Fitness
California Police Athletic Federation
Administers the U.S. Police & Fire Championships — Olympic-style competition across roughly 40 sports — for active and retired law enforcement and fire personnel.
Administers the U.S. Police & Fire Championships — Olympic-style competition across roughly 40 sports — for active and retired law enforcement and fire personnel.
Category: Sports & Fitness
First Responder Games
Annual Olympic-style multi-sport competition in Florida for police, fire, EMS/paramedics, military, and federal agents, run by the nonprofit First Responder Sports.
Annual Olympic-style multi-sport competition in Florida for police, fire, EMS/paramedics, military, and federal agents, run by the nonprofit First Responder Sports.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Firefighter Challenge League
Sanctioned league of fire-service athletic events — stair climb, hose hoist, forcible entry, victim rescue — open to junior through veteran/retired firefighters.
Sanctioned league of fire-service athletic events — stair climb, hose hoist, forcible entry, victim rescue — open to junior through veteran/retired firefighters.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Catch A Lift Fund
Free 8-week wellness program for post-9/11 combat veterans with a 50%+ VA disability rating — one-on-one coaching, in-home gym equipment grants, and veteran-led mentorship.
Free 8-week wellness program for post-9/11 combat veterans with a 50%+ VA disability rating — one-on-one coaching, in-home gym equipment grants, and veteran-led mentorship.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Operation WarriorFit
501(c)(3) providing free or heavily discounted race entries — 5Ks, marathons, Spartan races, triathlons — to veterans, active duty, reservists/Guard, and first responders as a mental-health tool.
501(c)(3) providing free or heavily discounted race entries — 5Ks, marathons, Spartan races, triathlons — to veterans, active duty, reservists/Guard, and first responders as a mental-health tool.
Category: Sports & Fitness
DAV 5K
Annual run/walk/roll/ride event series, in person and virtual, from Disabled American Veterans, with free entry for veterans and active-duty service members.
Category: Sports & Fitness
GORUCK
Rucking-events company built on Special Forces values; commits 1% of revenue to vetted nonprofits serving veterans and first responders, and hosts community ruck events. A commercial company, not a nonprofit — its events are paid.
Rucking-events company built on Special Forces values; commits 1% of revenue to vetted nonprofits serving veterans and first responders, and hosts community ruck events. A commercial company, not a nonprofit — its events are paid.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Warrior WOD
Six-month program pairing veterans with certified trainers and a peer support network across 38+ states, combining gym-based fitness with mental-health support and serving 100–120 veterans a year.
Six-month program pairing veterans with certified trainers and a peer support network across 38+ states, combining gym-based fitness with mental-health support and serving 100–120 veterans a year.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Eligibility: Application-based
Veteran Golfers Association
National 501(c)(3) supporting veteran golfers with local chapter events, tournaments, and national championships, bringing active-duty members, veterans, Guard/Reserve, retirees, and their families together through the game.
National 501(c)(3) supporting veteran golfers with local chapter events, tournaments, and national championships, bringing active-duty members, veterans, Guard/Reserve, retirees, and their families together through the game.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Eligibility: Active duty, Guard/Reserve, retirees, and honorably discharged veterans; spouses and dependents 18 and older
National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic
Annual week-long adaptive skiing and rehabilitation clinic in Snowmass, Colorado, co-sponsored by the VA and DAV, serving nearly 400 profoundly disabled veterans each year with world-class instruction (2027 clinic: March 27–April 3).
Annual week-long adaptive skiing and rehabilitation clinic in Snowmass, Colorado, co-sponsored by the VA and DAV, serving nearly 400 profoundly disabled veterans each year with world-class instruction (2027 clinic: March 27–April 3).
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Annual — 2027 application posted on the site
Eligibility: Veterans with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, orthopedic amputations, visual impairments, or CVA with residual effects
Veterans and Athletes United (VetsAU)
Runs accessible retreats, adaptive sports and recreation events, and a memorial initiative for fallen service members, to empower wounded, injured, and ill veterans.
Runs accessible retreats, adaptive sports and recreation events, and a memorial initiative for fallen service members, to empower wounded, injured, and ill veterans.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Achilles International — Achilles Freedom Team
Provides adaptive equipment and training so wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans can train for and complete mainstream marathons.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Wounded Warrior Project — Adaptive Sports
Single- and multi-day clinics that teach adaptive-equipment use and athletic skills tailored to each warrior's abilities.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Oscar Mike Foundation
Veteran-founded nonprofit providing adaptive programs — off-roading, skydiving, wheelchair rugby, obstacle courses — and expeditions for wounded veterans.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Paralyzed Veterans of America — Sports & Recreation
Adaptive sports, outdoor recreation, and wellness programming for veterans with mobility challenges — some programs open to family and caregivers too.
Category: Sports & Fitness
VA National Veterans Sports Programs
The VA's own national adaptive sports program — clinics, competitions, and therapeutic arts for veterans with disabilities. Not a charity, but a direct VA benefit.
The VA's own national adaptive sports program — clinics, competitions, and therapeutic arts for veterans with disabilities. Not a charity, but a direct VA benefit.
Category: Sports & Fitness
S.H.O.W. Swimming
Swimming and water-safety program founded to serve wounded warriors and Gold Star families, with a team across FL, MD, NJ, and GA plus online training sessions.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Eligibility: Wounded warriors and Gold Star families (per the org's mission)
Adaptive Adventures — Adaptive Skiing & Snowboarding (Military Outreach)
Adaptive ski and snowboard program — day lessons, clinics, and multi-day camps at partner resorts across the country — with dedicated military outreach for veterans and service members with physical disabilities. Stand-up skiing, sit-skiing, snowboarding, and ski biking; equipment and instruction included.
Adaptive ski and snowboard program — day lessons, clinics, and multi-day camps at partner resorts across the country — with dedicated military outreach for veterans and service members with physical disabilities. Stand-up skiing, sit-skiing, snowboarding, and ski biking; equipment and instruction included.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Seasonal winter day lessons, clinics, and multi-day camps; dates posted in the org's events list
Eligibility: People with physical disabilities (and their family, friends, or caretakers), including veterans and service members through the org's military outreach
Move United — The Hartford Ski Spectacular
One of the nation's largest adaptive winter sports festivals (39th annual, Dec 7–13, 2026, Breckenridge, CO) with 800+ participants in alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, biathlon, sled hockey, and curling. More than 60 wounded veterans, active service members, family members, and military medical staff attend from military medical centers and VA facilities across the U.S.
One of the nation's largest adaptive winter sports festivals (39th annual, Dec 7–13, 2026, Breckenridge, CO) with 800+ participants in alpine and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, biathlon, sled hockey, and curling. More than 60 wounded veterans, active service members, family members, and military medical staff attend from military medical centers and VA facilities across the U.S.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Annual — 39th edition Dec 7–13, 2026 at Breckenridge, CO
Eligibility: Wounded military veterans, active service members, family members, and military medical staff, alongside the general adaptive-sports community
Challenge Accepted
Nonprofit running helicopter-accessed backcountry snowboarding (and monoskiing) retreats for veterans with physical and/or invisible injuries — recent retreats in Sun Valley, ID and Alaska with backcountry safety instruction, small-group cohesion, and wellness planning. Nationwide veteran applicants; next retreat planned for Feb 2027.
Nonprofit running helicopter-accessed backcountry snowboarding (and monoskiing) retreats for veterans with physical and/or invisible injuries — recent retreats in Sun Valley, ID and Alaska with backcountry safety instruction, small-group cohesion, and wellness planning. Nationwide veteran applicants; next retreat planned for Feb 2027.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Next: Heli Snowboarding Retreat, February 2027, Sun Valley, Idaho
Eligibility: U.S. veterans with a physical disability and/or invisible injury or mental health condition who were honorably discharged, plus active service members with such conditions; must snowboard at an intermediate-to-advanced level
National Ability Center — Military Winter Camps
Park City, UT military camps for veterans (18+), each 5 days, no prior experience required, with all equipment, instruction, and support provided: Military Nordic Ski Camp (cross-country skiing plus biathlon practice and a backcountry yurt ski — Cost: $0), Military Spring Experience Camp (spring ski/snowboard for beginner/intermediate veterans — Cost: $0), and Military Beginner Winter Camp (alpine ski/snowboard with adaptive lessons plus sled hockey, yoga, climbing, and biathlon — Cost: $1000; scholarships offered).
Park City, UT military camps for veterans (18+), each 5 days, no prior experience required, with all equipment, instruction, and support provided: Military Nordic Ski Camp (cross-country skiing plus biathlon practice and a backcountry yurt ski — Cost: $0), Military Spring Experience Camp (spring ski/snowboard for beginner/intermediate veterans — Cost: $0), and Military Beginner Winter Camp (alpine ski/snowboard with adaptive lessons plus sled hockey, yoga, climbing, and biathlon — Cost: $1000; scholarships offered).
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: 5-day winter and spring sessions each season; register through the org's registration portal
Eligibility: Veterans, 18+ (camp pages list veterans only); no prior experience required
Back on My Feet
National nonprofit that uses running and walking as a platform for mentorship and community, pairing participants with volunteer coaches for early morning workouts and goal-setting support.
National nonprofit that uses running and walking as a platform for mentorship and community, pairing participants with volunteer coaches for early morning workouts and goal-setting support.
Category: Sports & Fitness
PGA HOPE
Flagship military program of PGA REACH (the PGA of America's charitable foundation): a developmental 6–8 week golf curriculum led by PGA of America Golf Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency, enhancing veterans' physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Active in every U.S. state at roughly 670 program locations and has served 71,000+ veterans since 2015; a VA Memorandum of Understanding allows recreational therapists to refer veterans as a therapeutic resource.
Flagship military program of PGA REACH (the PGA of America's charitable foundation): a developmental 6–8 week golf curriculum led by PGA of America Golf Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency, enhancing veterans' physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Active in every U.S. state at roughly 670 program locations and has served 71,000+ veterans since 2015; a VA Memorandum of Understanding allows recreational therapists to refer veterans as a therapeutic resource.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: 6–8 week developmental sessions; register online and connect with the local PGA Section office for clinic schedules
Eligibility: Veterans and active-duty service members of any branch, era, or ability level, including veterans with disabilities
Soldiers To Sidelines
501(c)(3) that trains veterans, service members, military spouses, and Gold Star family members to become certified character-based sports coaches in their communities. Free virtual coaching certification seminars are step one, followed by free in-person coaching workshops and clinics for young athletes, coaching webinars, and a continuing-development program for certified Soldier Coaches — 2,093 Soldier Coaches nationwide, with certified coaches in 41 states and 6 countries.
501(c)(3) that trains veterans, service members, military spouses, and Gold Star family members to become certified character-based sports coaches in their communities. Free virtual coaching certification seminars are step one, followed by free in-person coaching workshops and clinics for young athletes, coaching webinars, and a continuing-development program for certified Soldier Coaches — 2,093 Soldier Coaches nationwide, with certified coaches in 41 states and 6 countries.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Free virtual certification seminars run as step one, with dates listed on the site; workshops, webinars, and the annual STS Summit follow
Eligibility: Veterans, active service members, military spouses, and Gold Star family members
US Military Endurance Sports (USMES)
501(c)(3) division of American Servicemembers Amateur Sports supporting cycling, triathlon, running, and adventure racing teams for amateur athletes of all abilities, including wounded-veteran and adaptive programs. Offers camps, clinics, races, and gatherings plus a mentoring program with discounted coaching and skill development, along with gear discounts, event reimbursement, and limited competition grants.
501(c)(3) division of American Servicemembers Amateur Sports supporting cycling, triathlon, running, and adventure racing teams for amateur athletes of all abilities, including wounded-veteran and adaptive programs. Offers camps, clinics, races, and gatherings plus a mentoring program with discounted coaching and skill development, along with gear discounts, event reimbursement, and limited competition grants.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Year-round membership with regional club events, camps, clinics, and a national events calendar
Eligibility: Current, retired, and veteran members of the United States Uniformed Services; military credentials affirmed during membership application
Fit First Responders
Tulsa-founded 501(c)(3) delivering strength-and-conditioning, nutrition, and mental-conditioning coaching to first responders and veterans through a 24/7 digital platform and mobile app, a 12-week Fit for Duty. Fit for Life challenge, and Certified FFR Training Facilities whose staff are trained on the FFR curriculum. Own site states the program is accessible in all 50 states, with a network of 5,000+ first responders across 100+ partner agencies and 4,000+ served.
Tulsa-founded 501(c)(3) delivering strength-and-conditioning, nutrition, and mental-conditioning coaching to first responders and veterans through a 24/7 digital platform and mobile app, a 12-week Fit for Duty. Fit for Life challenge, and Certified FFR Training Facilities whose staff are trained on the FFR curriculum. Own site states the program is accessible in all 50 states, with a network of 5,000+ first responders across 100+ partner agencies and 4,000+ served.
Category: Sports & Fitness
Availability: Digital platform available 24/7; 12-week challenge has run twice a year since 2015; individual intake via contact form
Eligibility: Police officers, firefighters, paramedics, National Guard, and veterans
Challenged Athletes Foundation — Operation Rebound
Grants for U.S. military, veterans, and first responders with permanent physical injuries, covering adaptive sports equipment, competition costs, and training.
Category: Equipment & Grants
High Fives Foundation — Empowerment Fund
Grants covering adaptive sports equipment, medical equipment, and living expenses for people with life-altering injuries, including service-connected veterans.
Category: Equipment & Grants
Semper Fi & America's Fund
Case management, adaptive equipment, and financial/family assistance for critically wounded, ill, and catastrophically injured service members and veterans from every branch.
Case management, adaptive equipment, and financial/family assistance for critically wounded, ill, and catastrophically injured service members and veterans from every branch.
Category: Equipment & Grants
Getting Back Up
Financial assistance for people with spinal cord injuries, including veterans, to fund exercise-based recovery programs and adaptable products that support independence.
Financial assistance for people with spinal cord injuries, including veterans, to fund exercise-based recovery programs and adaptable products that support independence.
Category: Equipment & Grants
Hope For The Warriors — Warrior's Wish
Grant program that has funded hundreds of individual wishes, including adaptive sporting and exercise equipment, for post-9/11 veterans and military families.
Category: Equipment & Grants
The Independence Fund
Mobility equipment, casework, and caregiver support for catastrophically wounded and disabled veterans.
Category: Equipment & Grants
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
The federally designated national crisis line — free, confidential support for anyone in suicidal or emotional distress, available by call or text at any hour.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — call or text
Veterans Crisis Line
Official 24/7 crisis line for veterans and their loved ones, run in partnership with the VA. Dial 988 and press 1, or chat/text.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — call, chat, or text
CopLine
24/7 confidential hotline staffed by retired law enforcement officers, exclusively for active and retired law enforcement and their families.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7
Eligibility: Active and retired law enforcement and their families only
Responder Health (Safe Call Now)
24/7 peer advocate hotline for all first-responder disciplines and their families — confidential support and referrals from people who've done the job.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7
Boulder Crest Foundation — Warrior PATHH
Free, science-based 90-day Posttraumatic Growth program for combat veterans and first responders, beginning with a week-long immersive training and followed by ongoing peer support.
Free, science-based 90-day Posttraumatic Growth program for combat veterans and first responders, beginning with a week-long immersive training and followed by ongoing peer support.
Category: Mental Health
Save A Warrior
A structured intervention plus long-term peer-supported care for active-duty military, veterans, and first responders dealing with complex PTSD and suicidal ideation.
A structured intervention plus long-term peer-supported care for active-duty military, veterans, and first responders dealing with complex PTSD and suicidal ideation.
Category: Mental Health
Mighty Oaks Foundation
Peer-led intensive programs for veterans, active military, and select first-responder groups, centered on faith, responsibility, and purpose as a path through combat trauma and reintegration.
Peer-led intensive programs for veterans, active military, and select first-responder groups, centered on faith, responsibility, and purpose as a path through combat trauma and reintegration.
Category: Mental Health
Cohen Veterans Network
In-person and telehealth mental health clinics for post-9/11 veterans, service members, and their families, regardless of discharge status or insurance.
Category: Mental Health
The Headstrong Project
Confidential, no-cost trauma-focused mental health treatment for veterans, service members, and their families, with no insurance or paperwork required.
Category: Mental Health
Home Base
Clinical care and intensive treatment programs for the invisible wounds of war — PTSD, TBI, and related conditions — for veterans, service members, and their families.
Clinical care and intensive treatment programs for the invisible wounds of war — PTSD, TBI, and related conditions — for veterans, service members, and their families.
Category: Mental Health
ResponderStrong
Responder-informed mental health education, self-assessments, and resource navigation built specifically around the realities of emergency response work.
Category: Mental Health
First Responder Support Network — WCPR
Residential post-trauma retreat, treatment, education, and peer support for first responders affected by work-related trauma. This is a paid, tuition-based program — not a free service — though agency or sponsor support may be available.
Residential post-trauma retreat, treatment, education, and peer support for first responders affected by work-related trauma. This is a paid, tuition-based program — not a free service — though agency or sponsor support may be available.
Category: Mental Health
VA Vet Centers
Community-based VA counseling centers offering readjustment counseling, bereavement support, and military sexual trauma counseling, separate from VA medical centers.
Community-based VA counseling centers offering readjustment counseling, bereavement support, and military sexual trauma counseling, separate from VA medical centers.
Category: Mental Health
K9s For Warriors
Trains and provides service dogs, at no cost, to veterans living with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or military sexual trauma.
Category: Mental Health
Patriot PAWS Service Dogs
Trains and places service dogs, at no cost to the veteran, for mobility disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and PTSD.
Category: Mental Health
Creative Forces: NEA Military Healing Arts Network
National Endowment for the Arts initiative, in partnership with the VA and Department of War, delivering creative arts therapies (art, music, dance/movement, drama therapy) at military and VA clinical sites nationwide — including telehealth — plus community-based arts programming for service members, veterans, and their families and caregivers exposed to trauma or traumatic brain injury.
National Endowment for the Arts initiative, in partnership with the VA and Department of War, delivering creative arts therapies (art, music, dance/movement, drama therapy) at military and VA clinical sites nationwide — including telehealth — plus community-based arts programming for service members, veterans, and their families and caregivers exposed to trauma or traumatic brain injury.
Category: Mental Health
Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP)
Free art and comedy classes — visual arts, writing, music, storytelling, improv, acting, dance, comedy — for veterans, service members, military spouses, family members, caregivers, and survivors, taught by veterans, in person in five city chapters or online.
Free art and comedy classes — visual arts, writing, music, storytelling, improv, acting, dance, comedy — for veterans, service members, military spouses, family members, caregivers, and survivors, taught by veterans, in person in five city chapters or online.
Category: Mental Health
CreatiVets
Nonprofit teaching veterans to process trauma through visual art and songwriting, including a Visual Arts Program and Astrophotography Program; has served 4,500+ veterans through a network of nonprofit partners.
Nonprofit teaching veterans to process trauma through visual art and songwriting, including a Visual Arts Program and Astrophotography Program; has served 4,500+ veterans through a network of nonprofit partners.
Category: Mental Health
Patriot Art Foundation
Free watercolor and drawing instruction plus free art materials for veterans, through online classes (Watercolor Boot Camp, Drawing Boot Camp) and in-person workshops at partner VA hospitals and clinics.
Free watercolor and drawing instruction plus free art materials for veterans, through online classes (Watercolor Boot Camp, Drawing Boot Camp) and in-person workshops at partner VA hospitals and clinics.
Category: Mental Health
Give an Hour
National network of volunteer licensed mental health professionals providing confidential, no-cost care to the military community through one-on-one counseling, peer support groups, and wellness training.
National network of volunteer licensed mental health professionals providing confidential, no-cost care to the military community through one-on-one counseling, peer support groups, and wellness training.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Active duty, Reserve, Guard, and veterans; spouses and caregivers in certain programs
PsychArmor
Free, donor-funded online courses that teach people how to support service members, veterans, and their families — used by more than 500 organizations nationwide.
Free, donor-funded online courses that teach people how to support service members, veterans, and their families — used by more than 500 organizations nationwide.
Category: Mental Health
Make the Connection
VA-run site featuring thousands of veteran video stories alongside mental health information and a way to find local VA and community resources.
Category: Mental Health
Military OneSource
The Department of Defense's free, confidential support for the entire military community — non-medical counseling, peer support, and referrals by phone (800-342-9647) or secure chat.
The Department of Defense's free, confidential support for the entire military community — non-medical counseling, peer support, and referrals by phone (800-342-9647) or secure chat.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — phone and secure chat
Eligibility: Active duty, Guard/Reserve (including non-activated), families, wounded warriors, caregivers, and survivors; retirees and those within 365 days of separation
SAMHSA National Helpline
Confidential treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental health or substance use challenges — call 1-800-662-HELP (4357), TTY 1-800-487-4889.
Confidential treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental health or substance use challenges — call 1-800-662-HELP (4357), TTY 1-800-487-4889.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — call, 365 days a year
Crisis Text Line
Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support by text for anyone in emotional distress — text HOME to 741741 to reach a trained crisis counselor.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — text HOME to 741741
Disaster Distress Helpline
SAMHSA's national hotline for people experiencing distress related to disasters, serving survivors, first responders, rescue workers, and their families — call or text 1-800-985-5990.
SAMHSA's national hotline for people experiencing distress related to disasters, serving survivors, first responders, rescue workers, and their families — call or text 1-800-985-5990.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — call or text
Vets4Warriors
24/7 confidential peer support staffed by veterans for every member of the military community — call 855-838-8255, chat online, or request a call anytime.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — call, chat, or request a call
Stop Soldier Suicide — ROGER
Stop Soldier Suicide's ROGER service provides free virtual counseling, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention for U.S. veterans and service members — 100% free regardless of discharge status, age, or years of service.
Stop Soldier Suicide's ROGER service provides free virtual counseling, suicide prevention, and crisis intervention for U.S. veterans and service members — 100% free regardless of discharge status, age, or years of service.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — call
Eligibility: U.S. veterans and service members only — welcome regardless of discharge status
NAMI HelpLine
Free, confidential nationwide helpline offering one-on-one emotional support, mental health information, and referrals — call 1-800-950-6264 or text NAMI to 62640.
Free, confidential nationwide helpline offering one-on-one emotional support, mental health information, and referrals — call 1-800-950-6264 or text NAMI to 62640.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM ET (closed federal holidays)
Real Warriors Campaign
Department of Defense public health campaign, established in 2009, that encourages help-seeking among service members, veterans, and military families; its Psychological Health Resource Center gives free, confidential 24/7 guidance at 866-966-1020.
Department of Defense public health campaign, established in 2009, that encourages help-seeking among service members, veterans, and military families; its Psychological Health Resource Center gives free, confidential 24/7 guidance at 866-966-1020.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 — phone and live chat
Man Therapy
Evidence-based men's mental health campaign featuring the 20-Point Head Inspection self-assessment, plain-spoken topic guides, and a provider directory, with dedicated resources for military members and veterans.
Evidence-based men's mental health campaign featuring the 20-Point Head Inspection self-assessment, plain-spoken topic guides, and a provider directory, with dedicated resources for military members and veterans.
Category: Mental Health
Code Green Campaign
First responder mental health organization offering education, training, department consulting, and a national database of behavioral health resources for responders.
First responder mental health organization offering education, training, department consulting, and a national database of behavioral health resources for responders.
Category: Mental Health
All Secure Foundation
Programs for the special operations community, including one-on-one coaching, family retreats like Camp Homefront, and VIRAGO support for spouses — focused on military family wellness and transitions.
Programs for the special operations community, including one-on-one coaching, family retreats like Camp Homefront, and VIRAGO support for spouses — focused on military family wellness and transitions.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Special operations warriors and their families
NVFC Share the Load — First Responder Helpline
The NVFC's Share the Load program pairs a 24/7 First Responder Helpline (offered through Provident) with a Directory of Behavioral Health Professionals and toolkits for fire and EMS departments.
IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health
Residential behavioral health treatment for IAFF members living with PTSD, addiction, depression, and anxiety — designed by firefighters, with 24/7 admissions and in-network coverage with most major insurers.
Residential behavioral health treatment for IAFF members living with PTSD, addiction, depression, and anxiety — designed by firefighters, with 24/7 admissions and in-network coverage with most major insurers.
Category: Mental Health
Availability: 24/7 admissions — call 855-900-8437
Eligibility: Active and retired IAFF members across North America
Mission 22
National nonprofit offering no-cost recovery programs for veterans and families dealing with PTSD, TBI, MST and isolation — including Recovery + Resiliency coaching, family support, and a volunteer ambassador network; 6,222+ veterans and families served.
National nonprofit offering no-cost recovery programs for veterans and families dealing with PTSD, TBI, MST and isolation — including Recovery + Resiliency coaching, family support, and a volunteer ambassador network; 6,222+ veterans and families served.
Category: Mental Health
Boot Campaign
Dallas-based nonprofit providing individualized health-and-wellness care for the physical and emotional wounds of war — TBI, PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain — plus gift-box support through its Seasons of Service program; in 2025 it served 2,168 veterans and military family members in 47 states.
Dallas-based nonprofit providing individualized health-and-wellness care for the physical and emotional wounds of war — TBI, PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain — plus gift-box support through its Seasons of Service program; in 2025 it served 2,168 veterans and military family members in 47 states.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans and military family members, including active-duty families
Paws for Purple Hearts
Places mobility and PTSD/TBI service dogs with veterans and active-duty service members and runs Canine-Assisted Warrior Therapy — 24,134 lives directly improved; facility dogs are also placed with counselors serving military-connected individuals.
Places mobility and PTSD/TBI service dogs with veterans and active-duty service members and runs Canine-Assisted Warrior Therapy — 24,134 lives directly improved; facility dogs are also placed with counselors serving military-connected individuals.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Service members and veterans with mobility issues or diagnosed PTSD or TBI; staff determine fit through an application process
Freedom Service Dogs of America
Rescues and trains service dogs for veterans, active-duty military, and first responders living with PTSD, plus adults with mobility limitations and young adults with autism — hundreds of client-dog teams since 1987.
Rescues and trains service dogs for veterans, active-duty military, and first responders living with PTSD, plus adults with mobility limitations and young adults with autism — hundreds of client-dog teams since 1987.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans, active-duty military, and first responders with PTSD; adults with mobility limitations; young adults with autism
Blue H.E.L.P.
National nonprofit that reduces mental health stigma in law enforcement through education, maintains the largest database of officers lost to suicide, and supports their families after a loss.
National nonprofit that reduces mental health stigma in law enforcement through education, maintains the largest database of officers lost to suicide, and supports their families after a loss.
Category: Mental Health
First H.E.L.P.
National 501(c)(3) that reduces first-responder mental-health stigma, supports families after a first-responder suicide, and maintains the largest known database of first responders lost to suicide — police and corrections since 2016, fire, EMS and dispatch since 2021. Runs the congressionally recognized National First Responder Suicide Awareness Days each September.
National 501(c)(3) that reduces first-responder mental-health stigma, supports families after a first-responder suicide, and maintains the largest known database of first responders lost to suicide — police and corrections since 2016, fire, EMS and dispatch since 2021. Runs the congressionally recognized National First Responder Suicide Awareness Days each September.
Category: Mental Health
One More Wave
Surf nonprofit funding custom adaptive surfboards and surf therapy for veterans from coast to coast, with local chapters in CA, HI, NC, VA, and FL; 748 grants awarded since 2015.
Surf nonprofit funding custom adaptive surfboards and surf therapy for veterans from coast to coast, with local chapters in CA, HI, NC, VA, and FL; 748 grants awarded since 2015.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Wounded and disabled veterans
The SWEL
Provides free surf missions for uniformed heroes, first responders, active-duty military, and veterans from across the country.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Uniformed heroes, first responders, active-duty military, and veterans
Waves of Impact
Adaptive surf-camp programs for wounded veterans held in California, Texas, New Jersey, and Massachusetts at no cost to participants.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Wounded veterans
Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation
Runs military ocean-therapy sessions — surfing, ocean safety, and water confidence — free of charge for veterans, active-duty military, and first responders from San Diego up the coast to Oregon, with satellite operations in Hawaii.
Runs military ocean-therapy sessions — surfing, ocean safety, and water confidence — free of charge for veterans, active-duty military, and first responders from San Diego up the coast to Oregon, with satellite operations in Hawaii.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Military (veterans and active duty) and first responders
AmpSurf
Adaptive-surfing nonprofit with chapters in California, New England, New York, and the Pacific Northwest (plus a Puerto Rico program), teaching adaptive surfing to disabled veterans and first responders.
Adaptive-surfing nonprofit with chapters in California, New England, New York, and the Pacific Northwest (plus a Puerto Rico program), teaching adaptive surfing to disabled veterans and first responders.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Disabled veterans and first responders (per the org's own published policy)
PATH International — Equine Services for Heroes®
Accreditation body behind Equine Services for Heroes®, PATH Intl. works to make mounted and unmounted equine-assisted services available to any veteran or military personnel within or near their home communities, with certified instructors trained to serve veterans and referral relationships in all U.S. territories; its Find a Program tool searches member centers nationwide.
Accreditation body behind Equine Services for Heroes®, PATH Intl. works to make mounted and unmounted equine-assisted services available to any veteran or military personnel within or near their home communities, with certified instructors trained to serve veterans and referral relationships in all U.S. territories; its Find a Program tool searches member centers nationwide.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans and military personnel, served through PATH Intl. member centers in or near their home community; VA education benefits can reimburse CTRI/ESMHL certification exam fees for veterans, servicemembers, National Guard, Selected Reserve, and eligible dependents
Eagala Military Services
Eagala's Military Services Designation credentials equine-assisted psychotherapy providers with mandatory military-culture and clinical training (30 hours each) for active duty, reserves, veterans and their families; its Find A Program tool locates designated providers.
Eagala's Military Services Designation credentials equine-assisted psychotherapy providers with mandatory military-culture and clinical training (30 hours each) for active duty, reserves, veterans and their families; its Find A Program tool locates designated providers.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Active duty, reserves, veterans, and their families seeking the Eagala Model with military-designated providers
BraveHearts
Illinois/Wisconsin nonprofit that describes itself as the largest equine-assisted services program for veterans in the country, offering recreational riding plus mental health and wellness therapy while serving veterans nationwide and helping veterans outside IL/WI get connected to a center near them.
Illinois/Wisconsin nonprofit that describes itself as the largest equine-assisted services program for veterans in the country, offering recreational riding plus mental health and wellness therapy while serving veterans nationwide and helping veterans outside IL/WI get connected to a center near them.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans, plus one accompanying immediate family member or caregiver; veterans who do not live in IL or WI are helped to find a center near them
Hounds & Heroes
National nonprofit founded in 2011 that rescues animals and serves veterans, active-duty members, first responders and military families through service/therapy dog placements, equine therapy with rescued horses, outreach and disaster relief, with locations in Los Angeles and San Francisco, CA and Dallas, TX.
National nonprofit founded in 2011 that rescues animals and serves veterans, active-duty members, first responders and military families through service/therapy dog placements, equine therapy with rescued horses, outreach and disaster relief, with locations in Los Angeles and San Francisco, CA and Dallas, TX.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and military families
Horses4Heroes
Las Vegas nonprofit (The Ranch Las Vegas) offering mental health and wellness programs with horses for veterans and first responders with PTSD — including the Back in the Saddle™ workshop for veterans with PTS/MST/TBI and family members — alongside affordable youth camps, supported by a network of affiliates listed in 13 states.
Las Vegas nonprofit (The Ranch Las Vegas) offering mental health and wellness programs with horses for veterans and first responders with PTSD — including the Back in the Saddle™ workshop for veterans with PTS/MST/TBI and family members — alongside affordable youth camps, supported by a network of affiliates listed in 13 states.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Veterans, first responders, active duty members and their families; kids' programs are for children of active duty, veterans and first responders
Horses for Mental Health
National 501(c)(3) that expands access to equine-assisted mental health services through its Find a Program directory, partner funding and awareness campaigns, and a VA Adaptive Sports Grant that expanded life-changing services to U.S. veterans across the country in 2024; its fifth annual campaign united 130 organizations across 36 states and six countries.
National 501(c)(3) that expands access to equine-assisted mental health services through its Find a Program directory, partner funding and awareness campaigns, and a VA Adaptive Sports Grant that expanded life-changing services to U.S. veterans across the country in 2024; its fifth annual campaign united 130 organizations across 36 states and six countries.
Category: Mental Health
Eligibility: Anyone can search the directory; veterans are served through VA Adaptive Sports Grant-funded partner programs
Camp HERO
All-volunteer nonprofit running multi-day Appalachian Mountain retreats — hiking, ATV riding, fishing, campfire fellowship — for wounded veterans and first responders, at no cost to participants.
All-volunteer nonprofit running multi-day Appalachian Mountain retreats — hiking, ATV riding, fishing, campfire fellowship — for wounded veterans and first responders, at no cost to participants.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Warriors Renewal Coalition — Rest, Reset, Renewal
Fully-funded resort-style retreats (flights, lodging, meals, activities included) for combat-injured post-9/11 veterans, couples, and caregivers to reconnect and decompress.
Fully-funded resort-style retreats (flights, lodging, meals, activities included) for combat-injured post-9/11 veterans, couples, and caregivers to reconnect and decompress.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Huts for Vets
No-cost wilderness therapy retreats in the Colorado Rockies — guided hikes, group discussion, and community — to support veterans' mental, physical, and emotional health.
No-cost wilderness therapy retreats in the Colorado Rockies — guided hikes, group discussion, and community — to support veterans' mental, physical, and emotional health.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing
Fly fishing, fly tying, rod building, mentoring, and outings for military and veterans — equipment and instruction provided at no cost through local chapters.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Heroes on the Water
Kayak fishing and outdoor recreation therapy for veterans, first responders, and their families through local chapters nationwide.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Outward Bound Veterans Expeditions
Tuition-supported wilderness expeditions and transition-focused courses for veterans and active-duty service members.
Category: Outdoor Programs
No Barriers Warriors
Multi-phase outdoor challenge and personal-development programs for veterans with a VA disability rating.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Sierra Club Military Outdoors
Sierra Club program running outdoor outings — camping, hiking, climbing, and paddling — for veterans, service members, and their families through local chapter events nationwide.
Sierra Club program running outdoor outings — camping, hiking, climbing, and paddling — for veterans, service members, and their families through local chapter events nationwide.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Wilderness Inquiry — Military Families Outdoors
Nonprofit behind the Military Families Outdoors program (launched 2024 with the Defense Health Agency, National Park Service, and Blue Star Families) that brings service members and their families to outdoor experiences at national parks — 9,000+ participants at 43 NPS sites in its pilot year.
Nonprofit behind the Military Families Outdoors program (launched 2024 with the Defense Health Agency, National Park Service, and Blue Star Families) that brings service members and their families to outdoor experiences at national parks — 9,000+ participants at 43 NPS sites in its pilot year.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Team River Runner
Largest adaptive and therapeutic paddling program in the nation for veterans, active duty, and their families — local chapters plus national and regional clinics, certification training, adaptive series, and virtual training.
Largest adaptive and therapeutic paddling program in the nation for veterans, active duty, and their families — local chapters plus national and regional clinics, certification training, adaptive series, and virtual training.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Wake for Warriors
All-volunteer nonprofit running therapeutic wakeboarding and wakesurf events for wounded veterans and their families, with a 2026 schedule of events across roughly 19 states, plus multi-day adaptive ski and snowboard events with partner providers (NSCD at Winter Park, Challenge Aspen at Aspen, Park City, UT) that include adaptive equipment rental, coaching, lodging, and meals.
All-volunteer nonprofit running therapeutic wakeboarding and wakesurf events for wounded veterans and their families, with a 2026 schedule of events across roughly 19 states, plus multi-day adaptive ski and snowboard events with partner providers (NSCD at Winter Park, Challenge Aspen at Aspen, Park City, UT) that include adaptive equipment rental, coaching, lodging, and meals.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: Application-based; 2026 event schedule published by state, plus an annual winter event series
Eligibility: Veterans and active-duty military; personnel with service-related injuries have priority — participants may have physical disabilities, PTSD, or traumatic brain injury
Warrior Sailing
National adaptive sailing program offering camps and clinics for wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans
US Patriot Sailing
Sailing program open to all veterans and active duty, with teams in Annapolis and Solomons, Maryland; San Diego and Los Angeles, California; and Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, plus no-cost ASA sailing courses for participating veterans.
Sailing program open to all veterans and active duty, with teams in Annapolis and Solomons, Maryland; San Diego and Los Angeles, California; and Seattle and Tacoma, Washington, plus no-cost ASA sailing courses for participating veterans.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: All veterans and active duty
Wind Sports for Wounded Warriors
Free, community-driven adaptive wind-sports retreats — kiteboarding, sailing, wakesurfing, and foiling — held along the East Coast (NC, SC, GA, FL).
Category: Outdoor Programs
WAVES Project
Temecula, California-based nonprofit providing adaptive scuba experiences for wounded American veterans and a companion, with trips to Nevada, Florida, and Hawaii.
Temecula, California-based nonprofit providing adaptive scuba experiences for wounded American veterans and a companion, with trips to Nevada, Florida, and Hawaii.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Wounded American veterans, each accompanied by a companion
Patriots for Disabled Divers
Covers 100% of the cost to train disabled veterans to scuba dive through a network of 16 affiliate dive shops nationwide.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Injured veterans with a VA disability rating of 30% or higher (per the org's own blog)
Diveheart
Adaptive-scuba nonprofit serving people with disabilities including veterans, with trips to Key Largo, Florida and international destinations and a training-affiliate network.
Adaptive-scuba nonprofit serving people with disabilities including veterans, with trips to Key Largo, Florida and international destinations and a training-affiliate network.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: People with disabilities, including veterans with disabilities (per the org's mission)
VetsBoats
Builds a nationwide network of chapters and partner vessels to heal veterans through on-the-water camaraderie, with partner boats in San Francisco Bay, San Diego, Springfield, Ohio, and Annapolis; 1,000+ veterans served.
Builds a nationwide network of chapters and partner vessels to heal veterans through on-the-water camaraderie, with partner boats in San Francisco Bay, San Diego, Springfield, Ohio, and Annapolis; 1,000+ veterans served.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Eligibility: Veterans and their families; focus on veterans healing from PTSD and addiction
Freedom Waters Foundation
Offers no-cost therapeutic boating, sailing, and fishing experiences for veterans, active-duty military, and their families — year-round in Southwest and Southeast Florida with yearly events in Georgia and Indiana.
Offers no-cost therapeutic boating, sailing, and fishing experiences for veterans, active-duty military, and their families — year-round in Southwest and Southeast Florida with yearly events in Georgia and Indiana.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: Year-round events in Southwest and Southeast Florida, with yearly events in Georgia and Indiana
Eligibility: Veterans, active-duty military, and their families — all ages, backgrounds, and abilities; no prior boating experience required
SUDS — Servicemembers Undertaking Disabled Sports
501(c)(3) providing adaptive/adventure sports — including snow skiing, scuba, rock climbing, and mountain biking — to wounded, injured, and ill Iraq/Afghanistan veterans and to post-9/11 police, firefighters, and EMTs. Trips cover airfare, lodging, meals, and training expenses.
501(c)(3) providing adaptive/adventure sports — including snow skiing, scuba, rock climbing, and mountain biking — to wounded, injured, and ill Iraq/Afghanistan veterans and to post-9/11 police, firefighters, and EMTs. Trips cover airfare, lodging, meals, and training expenses.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: Multiple adventure trips per year across disciplines; see the org's events calendar
Eligibility: Wounded, injured, and ill veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, plus post-9/11 police, firefighters, and EMTs
No Boundaries Military — Winter Trip
Six-day adaptive winter trip at Snowbird, Utah with Wasatch Adaptive Sports — adaptive downhill skiing, snowboarding, mono-skiing, ski-biking, and snow tubing — with travel, meals, lodging, and activities covered for combat-wounded veterans recruited nationwide.
Six-day adaptive winter trip at Snowbird, Utah with Wasatch Adaptive Sports — adaptive downhill skiing, snowboarding, mono-skiing, ski-biking, and snow tubing — with travel, meals, lodging, and activities covered for combat-wounded veterans recruited nationwide.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: 2027 winter trip: Feb 28 – Mar 5, 2027
Eligibility: Active duty or retired combat-wounded veterans who are independent in their care (e.g., amputees, PTSD, TBI)
Vail Veterans Program — Winter Therapeutic Outdoor Programs
Winter programs at Vail Mountain providing private adaptive ski, snowboard, and ski-bike instruction for wounded service members plus group lessons for spouses, caregivers, and children — part of the org's year-round therapeutic outdoor programming for military families.
Winter programs at Vail Mountain providing private adaptive ski, snowboard, and ski-bike instruction for wounded service members plus group lessons for spouses, caregivers, and children — part of the org's year-round therapeutic outdoor programming for military families.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: Annual winter programs (2026: Winter Family Program in January, Winter Mountain Adventure Mar 1–6); dates published per season
Eligibility: Wounded/injured military service members and their spouses, caregivers, and children
Unbroken Spirit — Adaptive Sports Program
Yearlong veteran program whose in-person phase is a 7-day adaptive sports week at the National Ability Center in Park City, Utah — alpine ski/snowboard days, a Nordic ski and snowshoe yurt excursion, biathlon, and sled hockey — bracketed by virtual training and mentorship phases.
Yearlong veteran program whose in-person phase is a 7-day adaptive sports week at the National Ability Center in Park City, Utah — alpine ski/snowboard days, a Nordic ski and snowshoe yurt excursion, biathlon, and sled hockey — bracketed by virtual training and mentorship phases.
Category: Outdoor Programs
Availability: Team 1 – 2027: Phase 1 Jan 6 – Mar 17 (virtual), Phase 2 Mar 19–25 in Park City, Phase 3 Mar 31 – Sep 29 (virtual)
Eligibility: Any veteran or active-duty military member (no disability rating or proof-of-service requirement stated); adaptive sports applicants must provide documented proof of their condition on request; teams of 12–15
Willing Warriors — Warrior Retreat at Bull Run
A 37-acre, fully handicapped-accessible respite retreat in Northern Virginia where wounded, injured, and ill service members and their families get a therapeutic break from the hospital environment.
A 37-acre, fully handicapped-accessible respite retreat in Northern Virginia where wounded, injured, and ill service members and their families get a therapeutic break from the hospital environment.
Category: Family Support
Project Sanctuary
Six-day therapeutic family retreats blending outdoor recreation with counseling and relationship-building, plus two years of follow-on family support, for veterans, spouses, caregivers, and children.
Six-day therapeutic family retreats blending outdoor recreation with counseling and relationship-building, plus two years of follow-on family support, for veterans, spouses, caregivers, and children.
Category: Family Support
Operation Second Chance
All-inclusive retreats — individual, couples, family, caregiver, and Gold Star Family — for combat-wounded, injured, and ill service members to relax and reconnect outside hospital settings.
All-inclusive retreats — individual, couples, family, caregiver, and Gold Star Family — for combat-wounded, injured, and ill service members to relax and reconnect outside hospital settings.
Category: Family Support
Elizabeth Dole Foundation — Hidden Heroes
Peer support, resources, advocacy, and financial assistance built specifically for military and veteran caregivers — a group that often doesn't think to search for help meant for them.
Fisher House Foundation
No-cost lodging near military and VA medical centers for the families of patients receiving care, so they can stay close during treatment.
Category: Family Support
Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.)
Peer support, retreats, survivor services, and agency training for those affected by a line-of-duty law enforcement death.
Category: Family Support
First Responders Children's Foundation
Financial assistance, bereavement support, scholarships, and family mental-health programs for the children and families of first responders.
Category: Family Support
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
Family support, peer groups, retreats, and line-of-duty-death resources for the families and colleagues of fallen firefighters.
Category: Family Support
TAPS — Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
24/7 survivor support, grief programs, peer care, and benefits navigation for anyone grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one — regardless of cause or how long ago.
24/7 survivor support, grief programs, peer care, and benefits navigation for anyone grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one — regardless of cause or how long ago.
Category: Family Support
Our Military Kids
National nonprofit that has awarded $38 million in extracurricular activity grants — 107,000 grants total — covering sports, arts, and tutoring for children ages 1–18 of deployed National Guard/Reserve members and of post-9/11 combat-wounded, ill, or injured veterans in treatment.
National nonprofit that has awarded $38 million in extracurricular activity grants — 107,000 grants total — covering sports, arts, and tutoring for children ages 1–18 of deployed National Guard/Reserve members and of post-9/11 combat-wounded, ill, or injured veterans in treatment.
Category: Family Support
Eligibility: Children ages 1–18 of deployed National Guard or Reserve members, or of veterans receiving care for combat-related injuries or illnesses
USO
Since 1941, the USO has supported service members and military families through a global network of 260+ centers, programs and 27,000 volunteers — from airport lounges and deployment support to one-on-one transition coaching; programs were used 11.7+ million times in 2025.
Since 1941, the USO has supported service members and military families through a global network of 260+ centers, programs and 27,000 volunteers — from airport lounges and deployment support to one-on-one transition coaching; programs were used 11.7+ million times in 2025.
Category: Family Support
Blue Star Families
Nationwide nonprofit building community for military and veteran families through local chapters, the Blue Star Neighborhood digital community, spouse career programs, caregiver and peer-support networks, and Blue Star Outdoors — 450,000+ members reaching 1.5 million military family members annually.
Nationwide nonprofit building community for military and veteran families through local chapters, the Blue Star Neighborhood digital community, spouse career programs, caregiver and peer-support networks, and Blue Star Outdoors — 450,000+ members reaching 1.5 million military family members annually.
Category: Family Support
National Military Family Association
Serving military families since 1969, runs the free Operation Purple summer camp for children ages 7–17, the Bloom military teen program, and military spouse scholarships of $500–$2,500, advocating for families across all uniformed services.
Serving military families since 1969, runs the free Operation Purple summer camp for children ages 7–17, the Bloom military teen program, and military spouse scholarships of $500–$2,500, advocating for families across all uniformed services.
Category: Family Support
Eligibility: Families of all uniformed services — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force, National Guard, Reserve, NOAA, and Public Health Service
Armed Services YMCA
Provides no- or low-cost programs for active-duty military families, especially junior enlisted ranks, including the free Operation Little Learners early-learning program, Operation Kid Comfort quilts, and food assistance.
Provides no- or low-cost programs for active-duty military families, especially junior enlisted ranks, including the free Operation Little Learners early-learning program, Operation Kid Comfort quilts, and food assistance.
Category: Family Support
Military Child Education Coalition
Serves the children of those who serve, connecting them to schools, organizations and resources so they can be college-, work- and life-ready, including free parent webinars.
Serves the children of those who serve, connecting them to schools, organizations and resources so they can be college-, work- and life-ready, including free parent webinars.
Category: Family Support
Operation Shower
Hosts joyful group baby showers for military families nationwide, celebrating expectant moms and delivering community and support for families navigating pregnancy and parenthood while serving.
Hosts joyful group baby showers for military families nationwide, celebrating expectant moms and delivering community and support for families navigating pregnancy and parenthood while serving.
Category: Family Support
United Through Reading
Keeps military families connected during separation by recording deployed service members reading storybooks aloud for their children, supported by a free app and literacy resources.
Keeps military families connected during separation by recording deployed service members reading storybooks aloud for their children, supported by a free app and literacy resources.
Category: Family Support
Sesame Street for Military Families
Free bilingual resources and videos from Sesame Workshop that help military and veteran families — especially young children — navigate deployments, homecomings, relocation, injuries and grief.
Free bilingual resources and videos from Sesame Workshop that help military and veteran families — especially young children — navigate deployments, homecomings, relocation, injuries and grief.
Category: Family Support
The Comfort Crew for Military Kids
Has impacted more than 1 million military children, delivering 450,000+ comfort kits and school presentations that help kids navigate deployments, moves and reintegration.
Has impacted more than 1 million military children, delivering 450,000+ comfort kits and school presentations that help kids navigate deployments, moves and reintegration.
Category: Family Support
Military Family Advisory Network
Researches military family needs and runs direct programs like PCS Pantry Restock, which sends grocery gift cards to families undergoing costly permanent-change-of-station moves to combat food insecurity.
Researches military family needs and runs direct programs like PCS Pantry Restock, which sends grocery gift cards to families undergoing costly permanent-change-of-station moves to combat food insecurity.
Category: Family Support
Snowball Express (Gary Sinise Foundation)
Five-day healing and remembrance experience for children and surviving spouses of fallen military and first-responder heroes at Walt Disney World Resort — 28,057 loved ones served to date.
Five-day healing and remembrance experience for children and surviving spouses of fallen military and first-responder heroes at Walt Disney World Resort — 28,057 loved ones served to date.
Category: Family Support
Eligibility: Families of a fallen military or first responder hero who served on or after 9/11
Gold Star Wives of America
National membership organization supporting surviving spouses of fallen service members through advocacy, community and connection.
Category: Family Support
FOCUS
Families OverComing Under Stress provides resilience training to military children, families and couples, teaching practical skills to communicate, adapt and thrive through stress and change.
Families OverComing Under Stress provides resilience training to military children, families and couples, teaching practical skills to communicate, adapt and thrive through stress and change.
Category: Family Support
Folds of Honor
Provides K-12 and higher-education scholarships to spouses and children of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders — more than 73,000 scholarships awarded since 2007, based on unmet need.
Provides K-12 and higher-education scholarships to spouses and children of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders — more than 73,000 scholarships awarded since 2007, based on unmet need.
Category: Family Support
Availability: Annual application window — February 1 through March 31; award notifications emailed by end of July
Eligibility: Spouses and/or dependents of fallen or disabled U.S. service members, or of fallen or catastrophically injured first responders; higher-education awards require a 2.0 term GPA
wear blue: run to remember
Weekly no-cost community runs plus a Gold Star & Survivor Endurance Program, built around remembrance and peer support for military families, veterans, and Gold Star families.
Weekly no-cost community runs plus a Gold Star & Survivor Endurance Program, built around remembrance and peer support for military families, veterans, and Gold Star families.
Category: Purpose & Community
9/11 Heroes Run — Travis Manion Foundation
Nationwide 5K series across 100+ communities each September, honoring 9/11 and the veterans and first responders who've served since, from the Travis Manion Foundation.
Nationwide 5K series across 100+ communities each September, honoring 9/11 and the veterans and first responders who've served since, from the Travis Manion Foundation.
Category: Purpose & Community
Team Rubicon
Veteran-led disaster-response volunteering — training, deployment, and a service-oriented community built for the next mission after military service.
Category: Purpose & Community
The Mission Continues
Veteran-led community service platoons and leadership programs — a structured way to keep serving locally after leaving the military.
Category: Purpose & Community
IAVA
Founded in 2004, nonpartisan national organization supporting post-9/11 veterans through community and peer support, career programs and policy advocacy.
Category: Purpose & Community
The American Legion
Chartered in 1919 and the nation's largest veterans service organization, providing free help understanding and applying for benefits through accredited service officers and appeals representatives — $23 billion minimum in federal benefits secured for veterans in FY2025 — plus local posts and the "Be The One" suicide-prevention mission.
Chartered in 1919 and the nation's largest veterans service organization, providing free help understanding and applying for benefits through accredited service officers and appeals representatives — $23 billion minimum in federal benefits secured for veterans in FY2025 — plus local posts and the "Be The One" suicide-prevention mission.
Category: Purpose & Community
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
Chartered in 1899, the VFW provides emergency financial-assistance grants of up to $2,500 — paid directly to creditors, not loans — to eligible active-duty service members including activated Guard and Reserve, plus free VA-claims help through more than 2,200 accredited service officers and direct support through its posts.
Chartered in 1899, the VFW provides emergency financial-assistance grants of up to $2,500 — paid directly to creditors, not loans — to eligible active-duty service members including activated Guard and Reserve, plus free VA-claims help through more than 2,200 accredited service officers and direct support through its posts.
Category: Purpose & Community
Eligibility: Financial assistance: active-duty service members, including activated National Guard and Reserve units; claims help is open to veterans, service members, families and survivors
AMVETS
Provides free assistance filing VA claims, plus career centers and programs supporting veterans' reintegration, delivered through local departments and posts nationwide.
Provides free assistance filing VA claims, plus career centers and programs supporting veterans' reintegration, delivered through local departments and posts nationwide.
Category: Purpose & Community
Vietnam Veterans of America
Serves and advocates for Vietnam-era veterans, offering claims and benefit counseling, Agent Orange exposure support and outreach programs through chapters nationwide.
Serves and advocates for Vietnam-era veterans, offering claims and benefit counseling, Agent Orange exposure support and outreach programs through chapters nationwide.
Category: Purpose & Community
RallyPoint
The military's largest social and professional network, with 2 million registered members — combining peer discussion of military life with a job board and veteran-recruiting marketplace.
The military's largest social and professional network, with 2 million registered members — combining peer discussion of military life with a job board and veteran-recruiting marketplace.
Category: Purpose & Community
Together We Served
Free-to-join online community of 2.6 million+ veteran members where veterans reconnect by unit, ship, squadron or era through unit pages, photo galleries and memorials.
Free-to-join online community of 2.6 million+ veteran members where veterans reconnect by unit, ship, squadron or era through unit pages, photo galleries and memorials.
Category: Purpose & Community
Operation Gratitude
Has shipped 4 million+ care packages to service members, veterans and first responders over 23+ years, built by more than 250,000 volunteers each year.
Category: Purpose & Community
Soldiers' Angels
Provides free support including food assistance, holiday adopt-a-family programs, deployed-soldier care packages and letters, caregiver aid and virtual baby showers for veteran families.
Provides free support including food assistance, holiday adopt-a-family programs, deployed-soldier care packages and letters, caregiver aid and virtual baby showers for veteran families.
Category: Purpose & Community
America's Warrior Partnership
Partners with communities to improve and save veteran lives through one-size-fits-one support — Community Integration, the AWP Network and local Warrior Partnership branches — with 7,874 cases closed at an 84% success rate.
Partners with communities to improve and save veteran lives through one-size-fits-one support — Community Integration, the AWP Network and local Warrior Partnership branches — with 7,874 cases closed at an 84% success rate.
Category: Purpose & Community
American Corporate Partners
One-on-one professional mentorship pairing veterans and active-duty spouses with experienced corporate mentors.
Category: Career & Education
IVMF — Onward to Opportunity
Free career training and industry certifications for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses, run by Syracuse University's Institute for Veterans and Military Families.
Free career training and industry certifications for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses, run by Syracuse University's Institute for Veterans and Military Families.
Category: Career & Education
Hiring Our Heroes
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation program offering fellowships, hiring events, career resources, and direct employer connections for the military community.
Category: Career & Education
SkillBridge
Department of Defense program that lets service members in their final months of service work civilian jobs at approved industry partners as a full-time duty assignment during their last up to 180 days before separation, with hundreds of partner companies across career fields.
Department of Defense program that lets service members in their final months of service work civilian jobs at approved industry partners as a full-time duty assignment during their last up to 180 days before separation, with hundreds of partner companies across career fields.
Category: Career & Education
Eligibility: Service members with 180 days or fewer remaining before separation, at least 180 continuous days of service, and commander approval
Helmets to Hardhats
National program connecting veterans, transitioning service members, and Guard/Reserve members with registered apprenticeships and careers in the building trades — earn while you learn toward well-paid careers with wages, benefits, and GI Bill support usable during the apprenticeship.
National program connecting veterans, transitioning service members, and Guard/Reserve members with registered apprenticeships and careers in the building trades — earn while you learn toward well-paid careers with wages, benefits, and GI Bill support usable during the apprenticeship.
Category: Career & Education
FourBlock
Nonprofit offering a free, ten-week Career Readiness Program that teaches veterans to build professional relationships and land meaningful careers, with spring and fall cohorts held both in person and online (serving veterans since 2010).
Nonprofit offering a free, ten-week Career Readiness Program that teaches veterans to build professional relationships and land meaningful careers, with spring and fall cohorts held both in person and online (serving veterans since 2010).
Category: Career & Education
Availability: Ten-week cohorts in spring and fall
VET TEC 2.0
VA program that pays tuition and fees directly to approved technology-training providers (bootcamps, coding schools, certification courses) for eligible veterans and transitioning service members, plus a monthly housing allowance and book stipend — limited to 4,000 paid participants per fiscal year.
VA program that pays tuition and fees directly to approved technology-training providers (bootcamps, coding schools, certification courses) for eligible veterans and transitioning service members, plus a monthly housing allowance and book stipend — limited to 4,000 paid participants per fiscal year.
Category: Career & Education
Eligibility: Veterans with other-than-dishonorable discharges or service members within 180 days of separating, with at least 36 months of active duty, and under age 62
Tillman Scholars
Merit-based scholarship covering full tuition, books, living expenses and more for military veterans, active-duty service members, Guard/Reserve members, and military spouses (including surviving spouses) pursuing full-time degrees — nearly 1,000 scholars supported to date, with up to 60 selected each year.
Merit-based scholarship covering full tuition, books, living expenses and more for military veterans, active-duty service members, Guard/Reserve members, and military spouses (including surviving spouses) pursuing full-time degrees — nearly 1,000 scholars supported to date, with up to 60 selected each year.
Category: Career & Education
Availability: Annual selection cycle of up to 60 scholars
Eligibility: Veterans, active-duty and Guard/Reserve service members, and military spouses (including surviving spouses) enrolled full-time
VetsinTech
National nonprofit connecting veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses to technology careers through education (VIT Academy courses in cybersecurity, web development, data science, cloud, and AI), employment, and entrepreneurship — supported by 30+ local chapters.
National nonprofit connecting veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses to technology careers through education (VIT Academy courses in cybersecurity, web development, data science, cloud, and AI), employment, and entrepreneurship — supported by 30+ local chapters.
Category: Career & Education
Operation Code
Largest community of military veterans, service members, and spouses pursuing software development careers — 15,000+ members get mentorship, scholarships, and tech-partner connections through a members-only Slack community and local meetups.
Largest community of military veterans, service members, and spouses pursuing software development careers — 15,000+ members get mentorship, scholarships, and tech-partner connections through a members-only Slack community and local meetups.
Category: Career & Education
Code Platoon
Software engineering training for veterans, military spouses, and service members — a 15-week full-time immersive program or a 28-week evening/weekend program (fully remote options), plus a free self-paced intro-to-coding course.
Software engineering training for veterans, military spouses, and service members — a 15-week full-time immersive program or a 28-week evening/weekend program (fully remote options), plus a free self-paced intro-to-coding course.
Category: Career & Education
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
VA education benefit providing up to 36 months of tuition and fees (full in-state tuition at public schools), a monthly housing allowance, and a yearly book stipend for service members and veterans with qualifying post-9/11 active duty — benefits can be transferred to dependents.
VA education benefit providing up to 36 months of tuition and fees (full in-state tuition at public schools), a monthly housing allowance, and a yearly book stipend for service members and veterans with qualifying post-9/11 active duty — benefits can be transferred to dependents.
Category: Career & Education
Eligibility: At least 90 days of aggregate active duty on or after September 11, 2001 (or a Purple Heart after 9/11 with any length of honorable service, or 30 continuous days discharged with a service-connected disability), or a dependent using transferred benefits
RecruitMilitary
Veteran-owned military-to-civilian recruiting company (30+ years) connecting veterans, transitioning service members, Guard/Reserve, and military spouses with employers through a job board, direct placement services, and more than 100 career fairs a year across 30+ cities, military bases, and virtual spaces.
Veteran-owned military-to-civilian recruiting company (30+ years) connecting veterans, transitioning service members, Guard/Reserve, and military spouses with employers through a job board, direct placement services, and more than 100 career fairs a year across 30+ cities, military bases, and virtual spaces.
Category: Career & Education
Sentinels of Freedom
Helps wounded and transitioning veterans rebuild their lives with comprehensive support — including the Bridge for Education Program, Veterans' Resource Centers, mentoring and STEM tutoring grants.
Helps wounded and transitioning veterans rebuild their lives with comprehensive support — including the Bridge for Education Program, Veterans' Resource Centers, mentoring and STEM tutoring grants.
Category: Career & Education
Student Veterans of America
National nonprofit helping veterans succeed in higher education through 1,500+ on-campus chapters, a free MySVA platform with 600,000+ peers, scholarships, career resources and an annual national conference.
National nonprofit helping veterans succeed in higher education through 1,500+ on-campus chapters, a free MySVA platform with 600,000+ peers, scholarships, career resources and an annual national conference.
Category: Career & Education
Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
The nation's oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children, covering post-high school, undergraduate, and career/technical programs — more than $260 million awarded since 1962; Children of the Fallen receive a guaranteed $30,000 over four years.
The nation's oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children, covering post-high school, undergraduate, and career/technical programs — more than $260 million awarded since 1962; Children of the Fallen receive a guaranteed $30,000 over four years.
Category: Career & Education
Availability: Application opens January 1, deadline March 1; award decisions emailed by May 31. Career & Technical Education scholarships accepted year-round
Eligibility: Child or stepchild of an active, Reserve, or veteran Marine (honorable discharge) or Navy Corpsman/Chaplain/Religious Program Specialist attached to a Marine unit; minimum 2.00 GPA; family adjusted gross income of $134,000 or less (2025 tax year) for the 2027–2028 application
Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)
Country's largest uniformed-services officers' association, providing career-transition resources (career fairs, résumé critiques, seminars), one-on-one benefits counseling, legislative advocacy, and dependent college scholarships through local councils and chapters.
Country's largest uniformed-services officers' association, providing career-transition resources (career fairs, résumé critiques, seminars), one-on-one benefits counseling, legislative advocacy, and dependent college scholarships through local councils and chapters.
Category: Career & Education
Eligibility: Open to active duty, former, retired, and National Guard/Reserve commissioned and warrant officers of the uniformed services, and their surviving spouses
Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA)
Microsoft's full-time, 17-week technical training program in cloud development, cloud administration, and cybersecurity operations for transitioning service members and veterans, with mentorship and job-search support — 4,400 graduates and a 96% employment rate among graduates seeking employment.
Microsoft's full-time, 17-week technical training program in cloud development, cloud administration, and cybersecurity operations for transitioning service members and veterans, with mentorship and job-search support — 4,400 graduates and a 96% employment rate among graduates seeking employment.
Category: Career & Education
Availability: Cohort windows published on site; monthly virtual briefings the first Tuesday of each month
Eligibility: Military veterans and retirees, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reserve members, and U.S. or UK MoD service members within six months of separation or retirement; separate Military Spouse track
Fisher House Foundation — Scholarships for Military Children
A minimum of one $2,000 scholarship is awarded at every commissary location receiving qualified applications — 500 scholarships in the most recent round — to unmarried military dependents under age 23; awards may run up to four years.
A minimum of one $2,000 scholarship is awarded at every commissary location receiving qualified applications — 500 scholarships in the most recent round — to unmarried military dependents under age 23; awards may run up to four years.
Category: Career & Education
Availability: Application period for 2027–2028 opens December 2026
Eligibility: Unmarried dependents under age 23 with a valid USID card whose sponsor is active duty, reserve/guard, deceased, or retired; full-time undergraduate enrollment; not for U.S. Service Academy appointees or students holding a full scholarship
Freedom Alliance
Has awarded $33 million in college scholarships to 2,500 students over 36 years and supported 5,000 combat veterans since founding, plus mortgage-free Heroes to Homeowners homes, customized wheelchairs, non-emergency financial assistance, outdoor adventures, and caregiver retreats.
Has awarded $33 million in college scholarships to 2,500 students over 36 years and supported 5,000 combat veterans since founding, plus mortgage-free Heroes to Homeowners homes, customized wheelchairs, non-emergency financial assistance, outdoor adventures, and caregiver retreats.
Category: Career & Education
Availability: Presents for Patriots application period: Oct. 9 – Nov. 9; other programs by application
Eligibility: Wounded service members, combat veterans, and military families; college scholarships go to the sons and daughters of military heroes
Special Operations Warrior Foundation
Founded in 1980 after Operation Eagle Claw, funds the total cost of attendance at any accredited school for the children of fallen special operations forces and of all Medal of Honor recipients — no application required — supporting a USSOCOM community of roughly 70,000 service members.
Founded in 1980 after Operation Eagle Claw, funds the total cost of attendance at any accredited school for the children of fallen special operations forces and of all Medal of Honor recipients — no application required — supporting a USSOCOM community of roughly 70,000 service members.
Category: Career & Education
Eligibility: Surviving children of fallen special operations forces and children of all Medal of Honor recipients
Army Emergency Relief
The U.S. Army's official nonprofit — supporting Soldiers and their families since 1942 — offering zero-interest emergency loans and grants for rent, utilities, car repairs, medical bills, and funeral expenses, plus college scholarships, applied for through an online portal.
The U.S. Army's official nonprofit — supporting Soldiers and their families since 1942 — offering zero-interest emergency loans and grants for rent, utilities, car repairs, medical bills, and funeral expenses, plus college scholarships, applied for through an online portal.
Category: Financial Assistance
Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society
Founded in 1904 and staffed by roughly 90% volunteers, provides interest-free loans and scholarships to Navy and Marine Corps families — often disbursed the same day — along with emergency travel assistance, financial counseling, a visiting-nurse service, and nationwide thrift shops.
Air & Space Forces Aid Society
The official aid society of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, providing no-interest emergency loans, grants, and education assistance — about $11.6 million in support across roughly 12,600 assists in 2025 — through an online Request Assistance portal.
The official aid society of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, providing no-interest emergency loans, grants, and education assistance — about $11.6 million in support across roughly 12,600 assists in 2025 — through an online Request Assistance portal.
Category: Financial Assistance
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
The Coast Guard's official mutual-aid society — 100% donation-funded — offering interest-free loans and grants for emergencies, education, and everyday needs, with more than $260 million in assistance disbursed to date.
The Coast Guard's official mutual-aid society — 100% donation-funded — offering interest-free loans and grants for emergencies, education, and everyday needs, with more than $260 million in assistance disbursed to date.
Category: Financial Assistance
Eligibility: Active-duty and reserve Coast Guard members, retirees, spouses, surviving spouses, civilian employees, Auxiliary, chaplains, and PHS personnel
American Red Cross — Hero Care Network
The only organization chartered by Congress to independently verify emergencies for the U.S. military, providing emergency communications, referrals, and financial-assistance facilitation through the military aid societies — more than 1,300 emergency communications a day across 380+ military installations.
The only organization chartered by Congress to independently verify emergencies for the U.S. military, providing emergency communications, referrals, and financial-assistance facilitation through the military aid societies — more than 1,300 emergency communications a day across 380+ military installations.
Category: Financial Assistance
Eligibility: Active-duty members of all branches, activated National Guard/Reserve, their immediate family members, military retirees and their spouses/widow(er)s; veterans (unless medically retired) and non-activated Reserve/Guard are not eligible
Green Beret Foundation
Supports pre- and post-9/11 Green Berets and their families with emergency financial assistance, scholarships, casualty support, and family programs — "our programs and services are free of charge" — having invested $28 million and served more than 26,000 members of the Special Forces community.
Supports pre- and post-9/11 Green Berets and their families with emergency financial assistance, scholarships, casualty support, and family programs — "our programs and services are free of charge" — having invested $28 million and served more than 26,000 members of the Special Forces community.
Category: Financial Assistance
Eligibility: Pre- and post-9/11 U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers (Green Berets) and their families
Operation First Response
Provides emergency financial assistance to active-duty service members, active-duty first responders (law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, paramedics, 911 dispatchers), and Gold Star families — 45,611 served since 2004 — plus no-cost IT certification training and inpatient PTSD/substance-use treatment funding for qualifying veterans.
Provides emergency financial assistance to active-duty service members, active-duty first responders (law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, paramedics, 911 dispatchers), and Gold Star families — 45,611 served since 2004 — plus no-cost IT certification training and inpatient PTSD/substance-use treatment funding for qualifying veterans.
Category: Financial Assistance
Availability: By email to info@operationfirstresponse.org — inquiries evaluated individually
Eligibility: Emergency program: active-duty service members (all branches), active-duty first responders, Gold Star families, and families of fallen active-duty first responders; veterans are served through the training and treatment programs
Coalition to Salute America's Heroes
Founded in 2004 to rebuild the lives of severely wounded post-9/11 veterans, pays urgent expenses directly — utilities, rent, mortgage, auto loans, groceries — and runs the Veteran's Caregiver Alliance for primary caregivers.
Founded in 2004 to rebuild the lives of severely wounded post-9/11 veterans, pays urgent expenses directly — utilities, rent, mortgage, auto loans, groceries — and runs the Veteran's Caregiver Alliance for primary caregivers.
Category: Financial Assistance
Eligibility: Post-9/11 disabled American veterans; Veteran's Caregiver Alliance membership requires a DoD/VA disability rating of 30% or greater from a single sustained injury and that the caregiver lives with the veteran
Operation Homefront
Provides short-term Critical Financial Assistance for overdue bills, home repairs, and other urgent family needs — nearly $50 million in assistance to military families since 2011 — plus mortgage-free homes through Permanent Homes for Veterans (700+ deeded since 2012), transitional housing, family events, and Military Child of the Year.
Provides short-term Critical Financial Assistance for overdue bills, home repairs, and other urgent family needs — nearly $50 million in assistance to military families since 2011 — plus mortgage-free homes through Permanent Homes for Veterans (700+ deeded since 2012), transitional housing, family events, and Military Child of the Year.
Category: Financial Assistance
Availability: Year-round — applications submitted online through the My Operation Homefront portal
Eligibility: Military families experiencing financial hardship; documentation depends on category (deployment orders, line-of-duty records, or DD-214)
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV)
The only national organization solely focused on ending veteran homelessness, operating a referral helpline (1-877-424-3838) that connects veterans to a national network of community providers — NCHV does not provide direct housing or case management itself.
The only national organization solely focused on ending veteran homelessness, operating a referral helpline (1-877-424-3838) that connects veterans to a national network of community providers — NCHV does not provide direct housing or case management itself.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness, plus community partners seeking training and technical assistance
U.S.VETS
Housing-first nonprofit operating emergency, transitional and permanent veteran housing across sites in California, Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas and Washington, D.C., with wraparound career, mental-health and case-management services.
Housing-first nonprofit operating emergency, transitional and permanent veteran housing across sites in California, Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada, Texas and Washington, D.C., with wraparound career, mental-health and case-management services.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Availability: Intake by phone; emergency, transitional and permanent housing at sites in seven locations
Eligibility: Veterans and their families needing shelter; emergency beds are low-barrier
Homes For Our Troops
Builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 veterans — 448 homes completed and 63 projects underway, with no financial cost to the veteran.
Builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 veterans — 448 homes completed and 63 projects underway, with no financial cost to the veteran.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Post-9/11 veterans with severe service-connected disabilities who are eligible for a VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH/SHA) grant and will use the home as their primary residence
Veterans Community Project
Villages of tiny homes with full wraparound services for homeless veterans — seven villages in Dallas, Glendale, Kansas City, Longmont, Milwaukee, Sioux Falls and St. Louis — with a published 85% success rate and $0 rent for residents.
Villages of tiny homes with full wraparound services for homeless veterans — seven villages in Dallas, Glendale, Kansas City, Longmont, Milwaukee, Sioux Falls and St. Louis — with a published 85% success rate and $0 rent for residents.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Veterans experiencing homelessness
Habitat for Humanity — Veterans Build
Volunteer, homeownership, home-repair and employment program for U.S. veterans, service members and their families — 9,097+ veterans and families have partnered with Habitat since 2013 through 350+ participating affiliates.
Volunteer, homeownership, home-repair and employment program for U.S. veterans, service members and their families — 9,097+ veterans and families have partnered with Habitat since 2013 through 350+ participating affiliates.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: U.S. veterans, active service members and their families
Helping A Hero
Specially adapted homes for veterans severely injured in the post-9/11 war on terror — more than 100 homes awarded across 24 states, with developers donating lots and builders constructing at cost so the home fits the veteran's injuries. Also runs marriage and caregiver retreats.
Specially adapted homes for veterans severely injured in the post-9/11 war on terror — more than 100 homes awarded across 24 states, with developers donating lots and builders constructing at cost so the home fits the veteran's injuries. Also runs marriage and caregiver retreats.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Veterans severely injured in the post-9/11 Global War on Terror; nomination or application through Helping A Hero
Operation Finally Home
Builds mortgage-free homes and funds home modifications for veterans, first responders and surviving spouses — over 500 projects completed across 41+ states since 2005.
Builds mortgage-free homes and funds home modifications for veterans, first responders and surviving spouses — over 500 projects completed across 41+ states since 2005.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Veterans, first responders and surviving spouses; application required
Tunnel to Towers Foundation
Provides mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen-first-responder families, specially adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, and homeless-veteran housing services — more than 20,000 veterans housed and $1 billion+ committed to programs.
Provides mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen-first-responder families, specially adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, and homeless-veteran housing services — more than 20,000 veterans housed and $1 billion+ committed to programs.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Program-specific: smart homes for post-9/11 catastrophically injured veterans and first responders; mortgage-free homes for Gold Star families and families of fallen first responders; homeless-veteran services for veterans in need
VA Veterans Transportation Service
VA program offering free rides to and from VA-approved health appointments, reimbursement of mileage and other travel expenses, and special modes of transportation such as stretcher or wheelchair van service.
VA program offering free rides to and from VA-approved health appointments, reimbursement of mileage and other travel expenses, and special modes of transportation such as stretcher or wheelchair van service.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Veterans enrolled in VA health care with a VA-approved health care appointment
DAV Transportation Network
Volunteer-staffed fleet providing free transportation to and from VA medical facilities for injured and ill veterans at more than 247 VA locations — DAV departments and chapters have donated 4,183 vehicles since 1987.
Volunteer-staffed fleet providing free transportation to and from VA medical facilities for injured and ill veterans at more than 247 VA locations — DAV departments and chapters have donated 4,183 vehicles since 1987.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Ill and injured veterans needing rides to and from VA medical facilities
Gary Sinise Foundation
National nonprofit honoring and serving veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders through 100% mortgage-free custom homebuilding for the severely wounded, home modifications, mobility devices, adapted vehicles, first-responder equipment grants, and mental-wellness retreats — 106 mortgage-free homes and 23,112 pieces of equipment donated since 2011.
National nonprofit honoring and serving veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders through 100% mortgage-free custom homebuilding for the severely wounded, home modifications, mobility devices, adapted vehicles, first-responder equipment grants, and mental-wellness retreats — 106 mortgage-free homes and 23,112 pieces of equipment donated since 2011.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: Severely wounded heroes, families of fallen military and first responders, first-responder communities, veterans of every conflict, and active-duty service members
Volunteers of America — Supportive Services for Veterans and Their Families
National human-services nonprofit serving 27,000 veterans annually — including over 10,000 homeless veterans — through VA-funded SSVF outreach, case management and rapid rehousing, and DOL-funded Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program job services.
National human-services nonprofit serving 27,000 veterans annually — including over 10,000 homeless veterans — through VA-funded SSVF outreach, case management and rapid rehousing, and DOL-funded Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program job services.
Category: Housing & Transportation
Eligibility: SSVF: very low-income veteran families living in or transitioning to permanent housing. HVRP: homeless veterans seeking employment services
National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP)
National nonprofit law firm fighting for veterans' benefits — $7.2 billion in benefits delivered since 1981 and a 98%+ win rate in cases argued before the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.
National nonprofit law firm fighting for veterans' benefits — $7.2 billion in benefits delivered since 1981 and a 98%+ win rate in cases argued before the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.
Category: Legal & Benefits
ABA Military Pro Bono Project
American Bar Association project that places civil legal cases for junior-enlisted active-duty servicemembers with volunteer attorneys, with referrals routed through military legal assistance offices. Also runs Operation Stand-By for attorney-to-attorney advice.
American Bar Association project that places civil legal cases for junior-enlisted active-duty servicemembers with volunteer attorneys, with referrals routed through military legal assistance offices. Also runs Operation Stand-By for attorney-to-attorney advice.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: Junior-enlisted active-duty servicemembers and their families; cases must be referred by a military legal assistance attorney
GI Rights Hotline
Free, confidential and accurate information on U.S. military regulations and discharges since 1994, for servicemembers, veterans, potential recruits and their families — call 1-877-447-4487. Staffed by a consortium of nonprofit counselors, including veterans and lawyers.
Free, confidential and accurate information on U.S. military regulations and discharges since 1994, for servicemembers, veterans, potential recruits and their families — call 1-877-447-4487. Staffed by a consortium of nonprofit counselors, including veterans and lawyers.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: Servicemembers, veterans, potential recruits and their families — no membership or eligibility screening stated
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) — VA Benefits Help
DAV benefits experts located across the country help veterans file VA claims and appeals and counsel them through the process — all at no cost to the veteran — plus free medical transportation to VA appointments, transition and employment services, and caregiver support, helping more than a million veterans every year.
DAV benefits experts located across the country help veterans file VA claims and appeals and counsel them through the process — all at no cost to the veteran — plus free medical transportation to VA appointments, transition and employment services, and caregiver support, helping more than a million veterans every year.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: Veterans of all generations, their families, and survivors
The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program
National nonprofit founded in 1992 by the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, The American Legion, DAV, NVLSP and PVA that trains law-firm and corporate attorneys to represent veterans free of charge — 7,500+ attorneys trained, 89,000+ service members given free legal advice, and an 83% win rate through end of 2025.
National nonprofit founded in 1992 by the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, The American Legion, DAV, NVLSP and PVA that trains law-firm and corporate attorneys to represent veterans free of charge — 7,500+ attorneys trained, 89,000+ service members given free legal advice, and an 83% win rate through end of 2025.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: Veterans with a final Board of Veterans Appeals decision (120-day CAVC window), OTH discharges linked to PTSD/TBI/MST, women veterans, and naturalization applicants
Blinded Veterans Association
Congressionally chartered 501(c)(3) (est. 1946) serving veterans who are blind or have low vision; its Veterans Service Program uses VA-accredited National Service Officers for free claims help nationwide, plus VetTech and education support, scholarships, ambassador peer visits and regional groups. In 2026 BVA partnered with Meta to deliver Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses to 130,000 blinded veterans.
Congressionally chartered 501(c)(3) (est. 1946) serving veterans who are blind or have low vision; its Veterans Service Program uses VA-accredited National Service Officers for free claims help nationwide, plus VetTech and education support, scholarships, ambassador peer visits and regional groups. In 2026 BVA partnered with Meta to deliver Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses to 130,000 blinded veterans.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Availability: Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 7 PM ET (claims line)
Eligibility: Honorably discharged or active-duty service members who qualify for VA Blind Rehabilitation Service — legal blindness or low vision
Paralyzed Veterans of America — Benefits, Claims & Advocacy
Congressionally chartered VSO providing free VA benefits help through accredited National Service Officers co-located at 25 SCI/D centers and 100+ VA medical centers, plus career counseling, caregiver support, accessible home-design assistance and federal disability advocacy — nearly 27,000 claims filed in FY25.
Congressionally chartered VSO providing free VA benefits help through accredited National Service Officers co-located at 25 SCI/D centers and 100+ VA medical centers, plus career counseling, caregiver support, accessible home-design assistance and federal disability advocacy — nearly 27,000 claims filed in FY25.
Category: Legal & Benefits
Eligibility: NSO help open to all veterans and their families; specialized expertise in SCI, MS, ALS and other spinal cord disease/injury
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If you know a program, grant, or community local to this state that belongs here, send it our way — every submission is reviewed before it's added. The directory is focused on nonprofit, government, and official veteran/first-responder programs, not commercial services or individually licensed professionals.