Ohio nonprofit supports veterans' PTSD recovery through nature

A veteran from Ohio found peace during his first hunting trip and used that experience to help others. Jason Maxwell, who served 22 years in the Navy, started a nonprofit called Warriors 2 Wilderness. It aims to support veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through nature activities. Maxwell struggled with PTSD after his military service. He found it hard to sleep and felt anxious in quiet spaces. In 2021, he went bow hunting for the first time. Being in nature helped him relax and even fall asleep in a tree stand. When another veteran with severe PTSD tried his approach, she stopped stuttering after spending time in nature. This convinced Maxwell to pursue his passion further. Warriors 2 Wilderness operates from a house on 27 acres of land in Roseville. Maxwell has made it comfortable by adding cabins and a pond. The program includes various activities like archery, equine therapy, kayaking, and survival courses, all designed to help veterans reconnect with nature. It is free for participants, thanks to funding from sponsorships and donations. Last year, the nonprofit exceeded its goal by hosting 35 veterans instead of the planned 12. For 2025, the program will also welcome first responders. Maxwell began funding the nonprofit with his own savings and is seeking more sponsors to keep it running. Anyone interested in sponsoring or supporting Warriors 2 Wilderness can contact Maxwell directly. The nonprofit continues to grow, helping veterans find solace and community in nature.