American Freedom Fund (AFF) announced an expansion of its military and Veteran programming with the launch of Patriots Outdoors at a launch party hosted by Rebellion on the Pike, Arlington, VA.
Patriot Outdoors members are active duty, reserve and veterans who train for new challenges but also lead promoting conservation and a passion for the outdoors. While the concept of the program was formed by a group of veterans who enjoyed getting away for the weekends, once on the back trails of the mountains and the curves of the rivers they found that many of these areas had been neglected. This common ground provided them with an opportunity to come together in the spirit of camaraderie away from the distractions of a daily routine to rise to new challenges, find a sense of fulfillment and pursue a mission of bettering the environment.
In the first month since its inception, the program has experienced a tremendous outpouring of support and interest from area Veteran outdoor enthusiasts and their allies. This brand-new program has already seen its first two events at New River Gorge, WV and Harpers Ferry, MD. which included climbing, white water kayaking and off-trail mountain biking. Program Coordinator and Army Veteran, Cody Hoefer commented, “Noticing a gap in local organizations that focus on conservation, these veterans began to look for ways to assist. Through AFF, these same veterans now look to increase participation in the veteran community but to also lead in conservation while seeking new challenges from the rivers to the mountains. Patriots Outdoors provides that opportunity.
During the launch party, AFF Executive Director, Donald Bramer commented, “I am thrilled by the launch of this new program. Not everyone is a fan of traditional sports but the outdoors provides the same type of inclusive atmosphere that is fundamental in all our programs – strength and healing through community. Whether it’s a baseball diamond, range or category 3 rapids, we want everyone to know they are welcome.”
About Rebellion DC
Rebellion is owned & operated by Veteran, Brian Westlyena NAVY Aviation Machinists Mate, who after leaving active duty formed, PROOF hospitality which owns Rebellion DC, Rebellion NC, and Rebellion on the Pike. Rebellion DC has quickly become a neighborhood favorite in DC, offering a unique atmosphere of camaraderie and community combined with traditional hand-crafted burgers, area delicacies and some of the finest American bourbons, whiskeys and distilled spirits, many of which are veteran owned and operated.
About American Freedom Fund
The mission of American Freedom Fund is to empower Veterans through our athletic, educational, and advocacy programs in Washington, D.C. and across America. AFF empowers Active Duty, Reserve and Separated Service Members through its mission with a simple goal: provide a place for active duty and Veteran service members to come together in a spirit of camaraderie to participate in recreational AND competitive sports; to afford the means and opportunity for student Veterans who seek a career in defense or public policy to achieve the next step in their goals; and to raise awareness and financial support for Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) that are providing crucial resources for Veterans in the community.
AFF brings together the veteran community with events and competitions from Washington, DC to Washington, DC with tournaments and outings in more than 16 States, including softball tournaments, shooting completions, golf outings, R.E.D Friday Socials and the signature event of the holiday season, for the past 5 years, Manhattans, Martinis & Manhattans Veterans Awards Gala.
For more information on Patriots Outdoors, please visit AmericanFeedomFund.org.