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Getting outside, competing, creating something, or just moving your body again is not a luxury after service — it is part of how people heal. The programs below use adaptive sports, paddling, fishing, and creative arts to help veterans rebuild strength, confidence, and community, at no cost and with no requirement that you be an athlete or "fully recovered" to take part.
Getting back outside or back in motion can be part of finding your footing again — and we can help you find the right program for where you are. One confidential conversation is all it takes.
We're a connector, not a provider. Tell us what you're looking for and we'll point you to real people running real programs.
Where to start
These are publicly available resources anyone can use — VRA isn't affiliated with any of them, and listing them here isn't an endorsement, just a starting point. If you'd rather not sort through it alone, reach out and we'll do it with you.
The VA runs national events like the Wheelchair Games, a Winter Sports Clinic, and a Golf Clinic where veterans with disabilities can compete and try new sports, and it also gives grant money to local adaptive sports groups so more veterans have somewhere to play close to home.
Every VA medical center has recreation therapists who use activities like fishing, cycling, art, music, and games to help you regain strength, confidence, and independence after an injury or illness. Ask your VA doctor or care team for a referral to get started.
The VA hospital in Manchester, NH (part of VA New England Healthcare System) has its own recreation therapy team who can build an activity plan around your interests — for example fishing, hiking, art, or yoga — to help you socialize, reduce stress, and feel stronger.
Move United (formerly Disabled Sports USA) runs free adaptive sports programs all over the country — things like skiing, cycling, and dozens of other sports — specifically for veterans and service members with a lasting physical disability.
Team River Runner teaches veterans and their families how to kayak and paddle, starting in a pool and working up to rivers, lakes, and the ocean. All the boats, gear, and instruction are free, paid for by donors.
Project Healing Waters teaches disabled active-duty military and veterans how to fly fish, tie flies, and even build fishing rods — free of charge, including trips and gear. There are programs in every New England state; this page helps you find the one nearest you.
Wounded Warrior Project offers free coaching, group wellness events, and support to help veterans get moving again, sleep better, manage pain, and reduce stress — in person or online if there's no office nearby.
Reconnecting doesn't have to wait until everything else is figured out. Reach out today, free and confidential.
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