Hello to everyone here.  Not sure if this is the proper platform or place for this, but here goes. I am a veteran who has been battling PTSD for years now (used to self medicate with alcohol, which reeked havoc on my life in a very negative manner as well as my family) I have recently put the booze down (almost a year now) and reconnected with an old love for bass fishing.  getting out and fishing is my serenity these days, it really does wonders for me. now i was just wondering if there are any organizations out there that assist with providing gear, trips, seminars, or anything of the nature to get veterans out on the water and connected with other veterans who have a love for fishing as well. I live in the northern suburbs of Illinois by the way. thank you to all who read this post.

Krob, there are a number of them.  I'm involved with Heroes On The Water.  We provide kayak fishing opportunities for vets and active servicemen, with a keen focus on those who've sustained injuries.  Check out the Chicagoland Heroes on the Water Chapter on Facebook.

There's a number of others and I'm sure many here will chime in with more/better info specific to your region.  Welcome to BR.

1 hour ago, 19Krob said:

Hello to everyone here.  Not sure if this is the proper platform or place for this, but here goes. I am a veteran who has been battling PTSD for years now (used to self medicate with alcohol, which reeked havoc on my life in a very negative manner as well as my family) I have recently put the booze down (almost a year now) and reconnected with an old love for bass fishing.  getting out and fishing is my serenity these days, it really does wonders for me. now i was just wondering if there are any organizations out there that assist with providing gear, trips, seminars, or anything of the nature to get veterans out on the water and connected with other veterans who have a love for fishing as well. I live in the northern suburbs of Illinois by the way. thank you to all who read this post.

Hello brother. Its as if I wrote those words myself.

There are a few different groups, like already mentioned above but remember, until you find the right one, make your own.

Fishing has saved my life and marriage without a doubt. And I thank God my wife understands that as well.

Good luck in your search, tight lines. You aren't alone!

In your backyard http://takeavetfishing.org/  and  http://www.fishingforfreedomquincy.org/

Welcome to BR!

19Krob, there are many who support this sort of thing but first I wish to say thank you for your service, you and your families strength, determination and courage are truly admirable, God bless you all !!

I belong to a group that not only does this a few times a year via a gathering every so often but one that allows us to be only a phone call away throughout the year, we do have events but our goal reaches far beyond that, its called the Reel American Hereos Foundation, I don't know if we have any members in your neck of the woods but if you have any buddies that are also in need that might be in different states you might be able to offer them this website as well as others that have already been posted.

http://reelamericanheroes.org/

Good luck and God bless !!!

 

Check out The Fallen Outdoors on FB.

Man, you posted a month late but this organization in Oak Lawn, Illinois was being shared around Facebook looking for gear donations for their April event -

https://www.facebook.com/Helpingveteransgofishing/info/?tab=page_info

Maybe contact them and look into heading out next year, good luck!

@19Krob, you're not alone, brother. As you're probably aware by now, there are many organizations out there with a very specific goal of being an outreach for veterans. Whether it's just an annual event or a frost call type org offering a support system. The goal, is the same. To get veterans on the water.

-The serenity of open water offers an escape of mental sorts and away from the hustle and bustle of society.
-The inherent toughness to fishing provides a challenge.
-The angling community provides a sense of belonging and camaraderie. 

These are all things we are accustomed to while in the service. Whether you've recently transitioned out or have been out for decades, the mindset we develop while serving our country isn't something we can easily let go of and it's often a struggle finding something comparable to ease us along in the Civ Div.

My advice is to fill out your profile and stay awhile. BassResource is a phenomenal site - not only for the vast amount of knowledge throughout, but also for the members. If you're as passionate as you sound, you will develop a sense of belonging here and the members are always here to assist in anything you may need on your new journey.

Also, if you ever need anything, I'm always a PM away.

 

Regards,

SemperBass
USMC 0351