No Barriers USA, which provides programs for Veterans with visible and invisible disabilities, is excited to launch its 2024 season with the opening of applications for its No Barriers Warriors program. The application period opened on Jan. 9.
In 2024, No Barriers Warriors will have several programs for Veterans with disabilities: basecamp experiences in Red Feather, Colorado, and backcountry expeditions in the Rocky Mountains of Wyoming and Northern Colorado, as well as the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina.
No Barriers Warriors enhances the lives of Veterans with disabilities through the No Barriers framework, a systematic and enduring approach for overcoming barriers. By integrating interactive online courses with an extraordinary multi-day, in-person, outdoor experience, the three-month program cultivates camaraderie and shifts mindsets, connecting Veterans to the following elements:
- Community: Strengthens sense of belonging;
- Identity: Develops a clear vision of who the Veteran is;
- Purpose: Creates a long-term impact with positivity about the future;
- Belief: What’s within you is stronger than what’s in your way.
Basecamp experiences: Colorado
Basecamp experiences at the No Barriers Mountain Campus feature a day of climbing on our accessible challenge course and/or rocky crag, a day of whitewater rafting, and a destination day hike to one of the amazing locations in the surrounding Rocky Mountains. All of this is wrapped up with our No Barriers Life curriculum, campfire conversations and a healthy amount of disconnect from the busy world.
Backcountry expeditions: Colorado, Wyoming, North Carolina
Backcountry expeditions lead Veterans into the wilderness as they embark on 12- to 15-mile physically demanding backpacking trips. As Veterans venture off the beaten path, they strengthen their bonds as a team and push themselves physically, emotionally and mentally to overcome challenges. Backcountry expeditions offer a multi-day, unique, demanding and unifying experience, all in front of nature’s most incredible backdrops.
The 2024 program season features four Basecamp trips in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado (June 28-July 2, July 12-16, July 26-30 and Aug. 1-5) and five backcountry trips: June 5-9 in Asheville, N.C., Aug. 13-19 in Wyoming, Aug. 22-28 in Colorado, Sept. 5-11 in Colorado, and Sept. 15-21 in Wyoming. Applications are currently available on the No Barriers USA website. Apply today! Please contact No Barriers Warriors with any questions at warriors@nobarriersusa.org or 970-484-3633, ext. 305.
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While I’d love to do one of these, all seem fairly hot weather with the dates chosen. Hot weather coupled with exertion is a definite migraine trigger for me, so until you find a cold-weather expedition, it looks like I’m out. I’d hate to sign up for one then miss most of it due to a migraine triggered on the first day.
Looking forward to the possibility of this experience. Just waiting for an interview.
I am an 81 year old veteran, do you have programs to fit my age.
I am a 100% disabled vet and I do like the idea of these sorts of expeditions and creating memories on various outdoor adventures. I’m not sure what I can handle exactly, however, I have recently been reviewing “guide based” Motorcycle tours here in America, even Alaska, to Europe. I have also been looking into Overlanding with 4×4’s, Snowmobiles and Motorcycles in various locations. I am very interested in motorized adventures.
Your program looks great, but I have some health issues including losing my sight.
Are these programs someone with physical along with vision lose be able to participate in.
I would love to be considered. I’m retired Army as well as my husband. Our son served in the Navy for 5 years and is currently at CU Boulder. This will be a great opportunity for him as well.
These adventures sound like really great experience. Will not be able to participate this year, because I have other plans, but I would very much like to participate next year. Jeniffer W.
Greetings, I am a Registered Nurse semi retired with twenty years experience at 20+ hospitals in the Chicago area.
I am also a former mountain climber having summitted places like DENALI and KILIMANJARO. i AM CURRENTLY NOT IN THE SHAPE THAT I WISH TO BE. THAT IS CHANGING. TO IMPROVE MY HEALTH, AS OF JANUARY 1, 2024, I BECAME A VEGAN FOR TWO MONTHS TO SEE IF IT WOULD HELP MY BODY AND MIND. I AM INTERESTED IN WHAT YOU OFFER.
I WILL BE GONE DURING THE LAST TWO WEEKS OF MARCH AND SOME DAYS IN THE SUMMER. THANKS, FRANK A YACKO R.N.
COLORADO, Start Dates: 28 June – 2 July 2024
Yeah, I’d like to know a bit more about your program and if it relates to me.
As a Veteran, I would like to go on a cruise to Alaska around the month of August. I would like also be able to see the Presidents statutes in South Dakota. These are on my bucket list. My wife and I would like to do these vacation trips with a couple (family) for companionship. Let me know what else you may have available this year of 2024. Thanks, I am 77 years old
Veteran of Air Force.
I have been out of work since August. This opportunity sounds like a wonderful time. One of the many questions I’ve seen is “how much would this cost?” Even if I could afford it I am sure I wouldn’t have enough PTO/vacation days saved up. BD (Before Divorce) my son and I would participate in earning his Eagle Scout Award. And out troop was always camping and hiking almost every month. It was great therapy for me and my son and I miss it. Seems she didn’t have the time to find my son a new troop or take him to gatherings. Oh well…
I am sure everyone will have a great time, you should reach out to your local Boy Scout Troop and ask for volunteers I am sure they would love to assist.
Michael
I would love to be considered
I would be honored to be considered
I 69 and would like to be considered for this adventure in Colorado .
I have 100 % rating thru the VA . I have aright hip replacement bu I get around pretty good . Thanks for your consideration.
How is this for “disabled vets”?
There is no mention of disabled accommodations. But it does say it’s “physically demanding”. I’m confused.
How is this for “disabled vets”?
There is no mention of disabled accommodations. But it does say it’s “physically demanding”. I’m confused. ?
I would love to try this if it’s not too late to sign up.
How do we get started on this?
I am interested, but I have limited mobility (both knees & lower back). I do walk with a cane. I would love to participate, but what is the cost of this? Is this a camping excursion or hiking trips with nights at a lodge?
Similar situation and question here. I can walk, but can’t stand long and fear carrying weight, even lifting grandchildren.
I love outdoor therapy, and encourage everyone to do what they can to their safe ability.
Thank God for the many Veterans non-profits & other orgs & donations for their encouragement and support.
Would be very interested to sign up for 2024 events.
How soon can I request a spot for your venues? Seasoned Scouter 5 years, son earned his Eagle Rank/Marine LCPL.
First son also Marine/Sargeant.
Can I sign them up also?
P.T.S.D.
Mobility Good.
interested in primitive camping, hiking, kayaking, Dutch oven cooking.
We are still interested in benefits for working vets with DAV,also.I’m in education.
I’m Dave Knott a 76 year old veteran with both active duty and ARNG time. I have limited sight and I walk with a cane. I can’t drive so I get rides to and from shopping and appointments. To me this sounds like a vacation I would like to try. I don’t have a lot of money so I need to know up front what a trip to Colorado will cost. But I really would like to try it out. Even though I am in my 70’s walking hasn’t hurt me yet. Thank you
I am a 100% service connected disabled veteran with severe balance problems. It would be wonderful if your support and service would be available here on Oahu, Hawaii where I live. I would really like assistance to help me walk some of the nature trails here. I realize assistance surfing is out of the question for me but would like the experience of walking through our natural forests. Please let me know I would love to walk some of the accessible trails here with assistance. Mahalo, Warren
Like to participate
The blue ridge mountains Was a goal for me and my other half of 23 years this year would have made 30 years retirement but unfortunately, on the 25th of December 2020 two, he died of a heart attack at would love to. See the Blue Ridge mountains on the behalf of my beloved. He was a good marine.
And I’m still a good army, buddy. would be a nice way to honor him
Are these actual camping excursions or hiking trips with nights at a lodge? The reason I ask is because I have a CPAP machine and while I would love to participate, I’d have to purchase a travel CPAP with solar charger.
Hi Morris:
I also am CPAP hinged. Experimented with Ryobi rechargeable batts and inverter, the 40 volt battery on the larger inverter operates about two and a half hours. I doubt you could carry enough batteries and large enough charger for backpacking.
How do I get there?
Sounds great! Getting kinda old here, though. When I was 22, a buddy and I dropped acid and climbed Pikes Peak together along with his stupid dog. Arf. We made it to treeline before buddy got altitude sickness and made our way back. Old men tell stories, Warriors. An easy two mile hike and shoot some rapids! Sounds great!
I am 75 years young and am still very much active. I am 100% Disabled Vietnam Veteran. I would love to be considered for the Backcountry Expedition in Colorado, and I would love to be a part of any of the 2024 locations. Thank you!
Would live to do this trip in North Carolina. I have replaced knees shoulder issues on left. I am up but what is the cost? When are the trips?
i use to live in the mountains, now 71 i live in Florida. i would really appreciate the opportunity to experience the mountains again.
i may be able to help other vets with my experience.
I’m a very fit 86 year old veteran. I volunteer at the Phoenix VA hospital 3 days a week and work out every other day.
I’m hearing and sight impaired, but I can walk your ass off.
Thanks Richard
I would enjoy the opportunity to participate in one of these activities.
Most of my time is just sitting watching TV or playing games on a computer.
hi, I have a walking disabiity and uneven terrrain slows..slows…me down (and every one around me). I do have the desire to try, do you think this is something I should look into?
Chris
I am a 72-year old 100% disabled Army Veteran with limited physical range and strength. Can I participate? I have the desire, but don’t want to be a burden on anyone. I do love the outdoors though!
I will leave a comment. Ill apply but to date after years of applying to various “we help veteran groups”, no one, I mean no-one has ever responded, maybe 1 or 2 said they will get back to me. Zero faith in all this eyewash. They simply raise funds to pay them selves, shame shame shame.
Drat. I have heard of such things, fellow warrior. Make your wallet fat off the suffering of others. For shame indeed! The Boise, Idaho VA hospital is a bit different. You got your ass shot off in battle? Damn right, we are going to look after you. A handshake across the miles.
When I retired in ‘21, I discovered a bunch of Veteran non-profits use Facebook.
I’ve gone on a couple hunting and fishing excursions with Veterans, most with a lot more experience at these activities and some who’ve been participating in similar activities for years.
I also recently found out the some American Legion’s have similar programs as well.
There are many things I can’t participate in safely without assistance. It is a lot of trolling and scrolling to find activities, and of course there’s limited slots and money (typically donated hunting areas or lease days, boats and gear, etc. ). And some states have way more opportunities than others.
I also recently reached out to our county and state VA reps to try and encourage collaboration with DNR and such to look into areas of opportunity.
All the best in your endeavors, and keep trying!
Disabled Viet Nam vet ,Purple Heart recipient from rpg…currently rated 80% disability .
Vietnam. A heck of a thing. Micromanaged by Washington and warriors were spat upon by the hippies at the airport. Baby killers! A Commie plot? The jury is out. An ancient tactic. Clever! Stir discontent in the home country and see what happens. Good one! I will admit.
The annual rice yield of Vietnam as of 2022? About 2.5 metric tons.
The Vietnamese adopted our finance ways. Who won?
Donovan, I hope that you are doing well. I cannot imagine what you experienced nor if you are able to cope with the past. I am post-Vietnam, while on recruiting duty for the United States Marine Corps I did witness flag burnings in the community where our offices were as well at the Federal Building in downtown Cleveland, OH. As a nurse with the Veterans Administration, I have hugged and shed some tears with Vietnam Veterans as they still struggled with wounds from their experiences. I pray that somehow, we can find a way to move on and find peace within our souls to be able to minimize any struggles that we still face. May the Lord continue to bless you.
I would love to be considered for the Backcountry Expedition in Colorado, but I would be thrilled with any of the 2024 locations. Thank you!
I wonder why the VA has no Silver Sneakers Program with Health Clubs? It would sure cut down on Veteran Deaths!
I was thinking the same thing.
It may be your VA that doesn’t have one, but here in Milwaukee we have on but it limited to certain times and days. Check with your provider and ask around. You might want to check with your world health section of the hospital. The VA does hide their benefits; you have to seek them out.
I’m a DAV with a 100 % unseen spinal cord injuries and would like information about the program.
USMC disabled veteran. I’ve lost 70 pounds with 50 more to go once I overcame my depression and trauma. I would love to get out there with veterans. I miss the military more than anything. I have kids so I would need shorter trips such as the back country expeditions!
Another manipulating mind game to make The Veteran Assassination Administration look like they care….. Theconly invites you will ever get that are not a scam are the ones to cause mental harm and aid in suicide and deathly addiction to street drugs and alcohol. THE VA will never help heal .. They don’t go by the standards of healing DO No HARM … Thiscis a sales tactic trickery to get interest in VA . VETERANS ARE DIEING,SEEKING MEDICAL CARE AND MENTAL CARE BY OTHER MEANS THE VA IS NOT CREDIBLE
My hubby would love to go, but can he bring his service dog?
If you go to their website it states that service animals are welcome
Love to do these outdoor experiences.
Would love to do some of these things.
Please sign me up what is required
you’ll never hear from them
I would lie to attend the trip to north Carolina trip . My name is Michael Knapp USN retired and a disabled vet.
I’m a retired Navy with 100% PTSD – please provide info as to how to apply to participate and if this is free.
forget about it, its a scam
Explain, why is this a scam?
I’m a veteran and interested.
For veterans not disabled, do you need volunteers to help run the camps ….. veterans with veterans at all stages. I did 8 years active duty …. USN and USCG. I’m 82 … I did the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim 24 miles as a 75th birthday present to myself.
Disabled Army veteran would like to do participate
It’s Jan. 25, 2024 and I’m just now hearing about this program!! As a 72 year old marine I would be interested but I only have a 20% disability and would never consider taking a spot from a brother or sister that really needs or would benefit from this cool program.
I’m a 75 yr.old combat wounded 100% disable vet. I’d like to inquire about an elk hunting trip in Colorado or Wyoming. I’ve always dreamed of one and want to go while I’m still able.
Good for you, Carl. That’s awesome that you did that, and 75 at that! Bravo!
Yes I would like to sign up for the climb
.
I would love to give this a try.
This sound like something I’d like to try. What expenses are paid, and what do expenses do we have to foot?
i would love to go have 100% dis but i walk and all love to see wyoming
i am disabled but walking doesn’t bother me
Do you offer motorcycle rides for PTSD vets?
That’s a good question. I’d bet a lot of vets would be interested. I rode for 30 years. Transitioned to horses. Gas mileage isn’t worth 5hit, though. ?
??
How does one sign up?
Must one be 100%, Service Connected to participate in this program?
Extension 305 does not work.
Please keep me on your mailing list, thank you.
I am 74 year old marine with 70 percent disability Ptsd . Do I qualify.
Here is the link to get more information: https://nobarriersusa.org/programs/warriors/
I would like to go but I am in a wheel chair does that put me I out of the running to go.
This is one of the best ways to heal connecting with others, and creating new experiences with safe people.
?
Is transportation provided?
I’d like to know this too!
how disable do you have to be and how do i sign up
How do I join. USMC Everything.
Are there Veteran hunts?
would like to know as well
I’ll hunt you if you want me to, Veteran meat is a little tough but, there is always meat tenderizer and spices, lol!!
I have to see
My privet care giver once a year l had to spend an over night thay thought I had a stroke because of double vision my privet doctor said l see a hart doctor I told the. VA 2 month ago and severely times and nothing has been dun l would like to know why thanks
How do sign up for this.
where are you located. Maybe I could provide insight/help. USAR retired. Don Bright
how much does it cost?
did you get a reply yet
Today is Jan 25. Why am I just now getting this offer? It seems to me that the programs will have been filled by now.
Good evening
I live in Oregon and volunteer and a DAV driver. I have heard from fellow vet’s that they wish they could go camping or fishing.
I know there are plenty of ADA access for all people in the area but there seems to be no Vet sponsored groups in the area here in Eugene Oregon. I have reached out to a couple from Roseburg but have not received any response from them.
I grew up in the area and I know of several areas that I think could benefit Veltrans who lack the transportation or gear to enjoy the outdoors.
I am looking for people like this group here in Oregon that have the resources to provide a way for local vets to get out and enjoy the opportunities available here.
I would like to receive any information on your program and what it would take to start a group here. If there is a group already here, please have them contact me so I can help support the vets in this area.
Thank you
Steve Allen
Have you heard anything? I’m in OR as well.
Try “Fly Fishing Veterans” in Roseburg. Go to their website for contact information and what they offer. Program is free to all veterans disabled or not. Includes outings, day trips, overnight trips, fly fishing, fly tying, rod building, all free to veterans. They are a 501c group all funded and operating.
Are the overly fat and q4d to get a breath invited? Louis Kunstek
I am 80% navy I won’t to do this
I am a 90 percent disabled veteran that would like more information on how to apply
I’m interested
Wow, what a good event the VA is offering.
With my hip replacement and ankle replacement I am in.no shape for backpacking, hiking etc. Is there any projects I could compete fo r?
well, I’m 80 years old. A veterans outing for me would be a one to 5 mile hike on level ground. It would be nice to have outings or camping with other veterans, as the military community is special. At some reasonable cost. This sounds like a great program, but I dont have a disability and anyway the activities sound beyond my physical condition. But what a great program for veterans.
I’m disabled 100% I’ve lost my two sons in past 2 years I have hiked with my son on Appalachian trail with him so would be good for my mental health I’m in very good shape please consider me it would be greatly appreciated thank you. Louis
I would love to do one of these adventures but back, hip, and knee problems would probably not allow me to do them.
But keep up the good work and God bless your efforts.
Is spouse allowed to go with veteran if they are the aid and attendant?
I am a Navy Viet Nam veteran 81 years old but still capable of many things. I hike 1.37 miles every morning. However I have a bad knee. It is bone on bone. Hiking down hill is more problematic than uphill. Otherwise I am very fit for my age. Is there anything in this program for me?
Hello,
Where do I sign up.
Thankyou
I would like to go
What about veteran hunting groups? I hear about them all the time but cannot seem to find them in my area.
I thought there is a gentleman name bill davis that takes Veterans hunting
Seems you can not be to disabled. I am 100% and the campfire chats is about all I can do. Just wondering am I missing something?
how much doe this cost a disabled veteran
Me and my marine vet close friend are very interested in participation, preferably Ashville. Please sendv nfo for application
Whst a great opportunity
Hello my name is Air Force Sgt James Santos. I’m an Iraqi combat veteran. I was the in the first Air Force civil engineering squad that was the First to work for the Army in Iraq. It was a top secret mission. Well that’s what we were told. We worked for the Army instead of the Air Force. The 2nd armor striker bergad. The the 1st cave. We were stationed outside of camp victory out side of Baghdad.
I’m 100% PTSD disabled. Along with many other disabilities because of the military.
I’m a drunk because of this shit. I hate people except my family and military personnel. I have been to scared to benefit from programs like this. My buddy Joey was blown up in Iraq and he told me I should do something like this because it has helped him. He has been hunting and fishing with the wounded warriors program. I lost my family because of my problems and being a drunk. I ve been to therapy and mental hospitals but I hate the VA.
I am a veteran with disability and I live in Washington state. Are there any programs that are more local.
Do you only take ” combat” veterans. I’m an old service connected disabled Veteran. And I’ d be interested in on of your adventures. I suffered a large hemmoragic Stroke march 1st. 2023. I’m still in late stage recovery but I’m pretty much back to normal. & I need to get out & reconnect with nature.
I’m interested
I am interested in participating. I reside in Wichita Kansas. What much will it cost to participate?
I would like to know more about this opportunity.
I run a small outting bussiness in south west wyoming useing goats as pack animals
most trips are in the Uinta mountains in Utah
fror a day hike to several days +
I have over 33 years in the UTANG
I am interested in these activities. How can I apply?
Hi, I am an 84 year old Marine Corps Veteren. I was wondering, Do you have to have a Service Connected disability to qualify for any of these excursions? I came down with prostate cancer in 2021 & was out of commission for about 8 months (Chemo therapy, etc. etc.) lost most of my energy. I have 44 Marathons under my belt & have gained back some of my energy, Can’t run anymore, but Swim a Mile every week. I would love to be able to go on one of these treks. Can I qualify? Please Inform?
thanks very much! Richard Ochoa
I am 100% service connected VA vet. I would give anything to be able to go out in the back woods again. But can no longer walk and I am tied to a wheel chair and electric scooter.
Charles. I am not associated with VA. I am a retired Navy Nurse but have seen lots of info about Wounded Warrior project and how they can help with similar opportunities. This is there number to call. 888-997-2586 or 904-405-1213. Hope this helps.
Let’s proscribe dangerous drugs to who ever gets onto the bad doctors list. Isn’t this how it’s been.
I’m tired just imagining this…
We are both veterans who met in Navy. He was prior service in Air Force. Richard has a service connected head injury since 1971. We could best do the event in NC. We’re north in Green Bay Area this winter with two working adult sons.
Do you need able bodied vets to help with these trips?
I suffer from PTSD and TBI. I could use a brain flush.
Sign me up.
My life is so full of horrible thoughts and negativities due to my situation past present, and perhaps future, I’m just saying venting. I would love to participate in this event because I do know your help. Will it be great for me.
looking for assistance
I am ready and very willing to go on any or of these expedition.
I’ve been trying to find something like to participate and get out of this empty dark hole I end up everyday. Our younger vets would benefit from this even if it’s for a few days. Thank you for investing in our vets.??
I’m 79 with a multitude of minor and less than minor disabilities. Are there any programs for Veterans like me?
Interested