When the 2024 hurricane season passed through Florida, it caused significant impact, damaging communities, displacing families, and upending organizations that serve those in need. Operation Warrior Resolution (OWR), a nonprofit dedicated to providing holistic mental health care for veterans, was among those affected. Hurricane Debby devastated their facility with several feet of flood damage which forced them to rethink their space, operations, and future. But in the face of adversity, OWR saw an opportunity to create something even better.
Now, OWR has found a new home and created their veteran healing center, a peaceful and nature-rich sanctuary that perfectly aligns with their mission. This transition marks a significant step forward in the organization’s commitment to moving away from sterile, clinical environments and into spaces that foster deep healing. It’ll be the first of its kind.
For years, OWR has been redefining mental health care for veterans, offering innovative programs that prioritize natural and holistic healing methods. This location provides the ideal backdrop for this work—surrounded by lush greenery, serene walking paths, and tranquil spaces designed for reflection and restoration. Unlike traditional clinical offices, this setting helps veterans feel at ease, making the healing process more effective and deeply personal.
The new space supports OWR’s Tactical Healing Program, which utilizes brain-based healing to clear trauma efficiently and effectively, without the need to relive traumatic experiences. OWR’s program allows veterans to foster the camaraderie that is integral in the military by bringing together groups of veterans to connect and heal. This is a factor that is often missed by members after service. The retreat setting enhances this process by providing a calming, immersive experience that fosters breakthroughs, transformation and connection through a variety of services, including equine therapy with horses. OWR has documented a 80 percent improvement rate in mental health symptoms due to their services and they perform in the top 10 percent of clinics nationwide. Reflecting on his experience, Tim Baldwin, a US Navy Veteran shared, “What OWR is doing is absolutely amazing. You couldn’t ask for a better group to help you if you are struggling.” He added, “They even help your spouse and your kids.”
Beyond its therapeutic benefits, the veterans healing center allows OWR to expand its vision. OWR is able to serve 30 percent more veteran families thanks to the new location. The center’s thoughtfully designed spaces also accommodate community-building, peer support, and ongoing wellness initiatives, where veterans can continue to come back and take part in all that OWR has to offer. This holistic approach addresses not only emotional challenges for both the veteran and their family members, but also creates long-term resilience and connection.
OWR’s move represents more than just a new location—it’s the realization of a vision that prioritizes veterans’ well-being in a space that truly supports their healing journey. From the chaos of the storm has come a foundation stronger than ever, ensuring that those who have served can find peace, restoration, and hope in a place that feels like home.
For more information about Operation Warrior Resolution and the ways you can support their mission, please visit www.operationwarriorresolution.org or contact Kaitlyn at kaitlyn@operationwarriorresolution.org.
