By Larry Whitmore, MSW | Veteran Outreach Manager | Home Base Florida

When a Veteran transitions to civilian life, many struggle with a lack of purpose and sense of belonging when they return home without the structure and community that comes with the military culture. This can lead to isolation, depression, anxiety, PTSD and addiction when unaddressed. But different forms of wellness—physical, mental, and emotional—can significantly improve the lives of Veterans. 

The impact of comradery on wellness is a recurring theme in the Veteran and Military Community. Defined as mutual trust, friendship, and emotional support, comradery is a cornerstone of military life. Veterans understand the profound value of teamwork and the deep bonds formed through shared experiences and mutual support.

Home Base Florida, a non-profit dedicated to healing the invisible wounds of war through clinical care, wellness, education and research – all at no cost for Veterans, Service Members, and their Families, aims to bridge this gap by providing a platform for Veterans to reconnect with these essential elements of their military experience. The Adventure Series is a program dedicated to supporting Veterans through a variety of free events and activities. In collaboration with businesses and non-profit organizations throughout Florida, Home Base offers year-round opportunities for Veterans to connect, engage, and thrive to improve their wellbeing.

The Adventure Series offers a variety of activities, ensuring there is something for everyone. For those feeling a loss of purpose, Home Base provides volunteer opportunities in partnership with organizations such as Humane Society, Habitat for Humanity, and Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Veterans seek out these opportunities to give back to the community, continuing their legacy of service. Regaining this sense of purpose enhances their well-being, allowing them to play vital roles in society.

Other social events such as bingo nights, pizza parties, boat rides and sporting events, foster a sense of community and engagement. While serving, one is constantly surrounded and supported by their fellow service members, and losing this close-knit support system can create social challenges after exiting the military. These events help Veterans build a supportive network of peers with similar experiences. These interactions provide opportunities for personal growth and development, as Veterans learn from each other and build lasting friendships. Involving families in these activities strengthens family ties and support systems, recognizing that when a Veteran serve, Their Family serves as well.

Home Base helped Alberto Padron, a US Airforce Veteran, carry the weight of the void of no longer serving in the military, by offering a renewed sense of belonging and community by working with fellow Veterans through the Warrior Health and Fitness Program and Adventure Series. The impact of Home Base extended beyond Alberto, when his wife also entered the Warrior Health and Fitness Program. This Spring, their entire family enjoyed an Adventure Series event at a Red Sox Spring Training game where Alberto got to threw out the ceremonial first pitch and his family was privileged to kick off the game, officially declaring, “Play ball!”

“Home Base is a haven for all Veterans in need of support, regardless of their individual journeys,” said Padron. “What I enjoy most about Home Base is the sense of community. With Veterans, the connection is often instantaneous. Home Base creates these community-building opportunities bringing with it a sense of belonging that we all need for our overall wellness. I’m better for it. I believe our community is better for it, too.” 

Local businesses can support Veterans by sponsoring, donating in-kind services, or hosting an Adventure Series event. Community support ensures continuous engagement, accessibility and healing for all. Together, we can support each other on the journey to wellness. To learn more, click here.