Veterans Nonprofit Launched Outdoor Programs
Battlefield to Backwoods Veteran Outdoors began facilitating adventure trips for service members and first responders.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Military Jobs
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Battlefield to Backwoods Veteran Outdoors officially began operations on January 1, 2025, after receiving its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in November 2024. The organization organizes outdoor adventure trips for active-duty military, veterans, and first responders to foster camaraderie and improve mental health.
Why it matters
These programs aim to support the well-being of service members by providing access to outdoor activities at no personal cost. By connecting individuals with therapeutic recreational opportunities, the initiatives help bridge the gap in services often needed during the transition to civilian life.
Battlefield to Backwoods Veteran Outdoors facilitated events for 248 individuals across 11 states in 2025, nearing its annual target of 250 participants. The organization operates entirely on funding provided by community partners.
The players
Joel Burdett
He operates Battlefield to Backwoods Veteran Outdoors, a nonprofit that facilitates outdoor adventure trips.
Theresa Walters
She maintains the National Veterans Outdoor Resource Hub, a digital directory of free outdoor programs.
Battlefield to Backwoods Veteran Outdoors
This is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides outdoor adventure trips to veterans and first responders.
US Vet Connect
This entity operates the National Veterans Outdoor Resource Hub, which connects military families to recreational programs.
The details
Battlefield to Backwoods Veteran Outdoors operates with tax-exempt status granted in late 2024 to fund its mission of providing outdoor excursions. Simultaneously, US Vet Connect maintains the National Veterans Outdoor Resource Hub, an online directory that has grown to list 270 organizations dedicated to providing free outdoor services.
Timeline
The organization officially began its operations on January 1, 2025.
The nonprofit received its IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in November 2024.
The nonprofit served 248 individuals across 11 states throughout 2025.
Market Landscape
The expansion of the National Veterans Outdoor Resource Hub to 270 organizations reflects a wider industry move toward centralized digital databases for veteran services. This growth positions online directories as essential tools for scaling outreach beyond localized, independent nonprofit efforts.
Eligible veterans and first responders can access these programs at no personal cost, as all expenses are covered by community partners. The resource directory allows participants to independently research and connect with vetted organizations offering free outdoor activities in their area.
The takeaway
Participation in outdoor recreation offers a tangible way for service members to improve mental health and camaraderie through community-supported programs. Interested individuals should utilize the National Veterans Outdoor Resource Hub directory to find vetted groups offering services in their state.
Further reading
Learn more about support initiatives in Military Jobs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by abc15 Arizona.
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