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Melwood Veterans Services announced earlier this year the expansion of its Operation Tohidu® retreat program. The most recent retreat was held at the Leadership on the Move camp in Ponder, Texas in July. The retreats are typically held at the Melwood Recreation Center in Najemoy, Maryland. The idea behind hosting additional retreats across the U.S. is to reach as many veterans as possible coping with service-related trauma, such as PTS(d), traumatic brain injury, depression, substance abuse, and more. The program’s expansion is in line with Melwood’s 5-year strategic goals to increase its overall programming and services. Nine veterans participated in the four-day camp, which introduced new challenge course elements, such as a spider webbed ropes course, team wall, and a trust fall platform. During each retreat veterans participate in a combination of educational and experiential activities using an adventure-based counseling model and the challenge-by-choice principle.
The program now also offers specialized retreats, including one specifically for female veterans struggling with military sexual trauma, and a couples retreat, focusing on training and support for spouses or caregivers. Since enhancing the program, we’ve seen a 200 percent increase in program applications.
The program is run by veterans, and is fully funded by Melwood. “Tohidu” is a Cherokee word meaning peace of mind, body, and spirit.
To support Melwood Veterans Services, please visit, www.OperationTohidu.org.
In case you missed it! Melwood Veterans Services was featured by USVets TV:
WATCH the interview with David Blackledge, Executive Vice President, Melwood Veterans services.
WATCH the interview with Travis Trahill, Operations Manager, Operation Tohidu®
