Campfire Garage Foundation
Still Fighting. Still Here.
Support
Campfire Garage Foundation is currently in its build phase. We’re actively seeking Board Members and Advisors to help shape and guide this work as it grows. If this mission resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you: info@campfiregarage.com
Nonprofit • Nature-Based • Peer-Driven

Small cohorts. Nature-based healing. Real outcomes.

Campfire Garage Foundation supports veterans, first responders, and others navigating PTSD, moral injury, identity loss, and difficult life transitions through trauma-informed, nature-grounded, community-centered programming.

Explore Programs Support the Mission
What we do
10–12 week cohorts & 2-week intensive retreat experiences rooted in ecotherapy and peer support.
How we work
We track PTSD symptom reduction, reintegration, and wellbeing — and build community along the way.
Our Mission

Healing in the real world — especially in nature, and especially in community.

Campfire Garage Foundation exists to reduce PTSD symptoms, rebuild identity, and restore connection for trauma-impacted individuals through immersive, nature-based, small-cohort experiences.

Too many people come home from the fight only to lose themselves in the quiet — in the space between their former mission and who they’re allowed to be now. We create structured containers where participants can reconnect with their bodies, their values, and each other.

Our work is grounded in ecotherapy principles, trauma-informed frameworks, peer support, and an ongoing commitment to evaluation and learning.

Our Programs

Two core pathways: weekly cohorts and full-immersion retreats.

Both formats walk participants through the same core arc — just at different tempos. Each is designed for small groups, real connection, and measurable impact.

Flagship Program

10–12 Week Cohort Experience

A small-group, research-aligned journey for 8–10 participants, meeting weekly for 2–3 hours.

What we explore

  • Nature-based and outdoor grounding practices.
  • Mindfulness, breathwork, and nervous system regulation.
  • Identity, moral injury, and meaning-making conversations.
  • Somatic awareness and gentle movement.
  • Peer support, shared story, and community.
  • Creative and experiential exercises.
  • Integration, reflection, and real-world application.

Format & rhythm

  • 10–12 weeks, weekly group sessions.
  • 8–10 participants per cohort.
  • Optional weekend nature outings.
  • Pre and post PTSD measures (e.g., PCL-5).
  • Reintegration and wellbeing check-ins.
Best for local participants and those who benefit from slower, steady pacing.
Immersive Option

2-Week Intensive Retreat (In-House)

A 14-day, live-in experience for those who need a dedicated reset or cannot attend weekly sessions.

Daily flow

  • Morning grounding (breath, mindfulness, gentle movement).
  • Daily group sessions following the CG curriculum arc.
  • Ecotherapy and restorative outdoor practices.
  • Evening integration circles and reflection.
  • Unstructured time for rest, journaling, and connection.

Structure & support

  • Participants live onsite for 14 days.
  • Two “bookend” weekends for orientation & reintegration planning.
  • Pre/post PTSD measures and follow-up check-ins.
  • Designed for veterans on leave, first responders between rotations, and others needing full immersion.
Best for those needing a contained, immersive reset away from daily stressors.
Measuring Impact

Hope matters — and so do outcomes.

We’re committed to more than just good intentions. Each program includes optional, trauma-informed evaluation so we can demonstrate what works, improve what doesn’t, and contribute to the broader field.

Participants are invited (never forced) to complete pre and post assessments, weekly check-ins, and follow-ups. These measures help us understand symptom reductions, changes in functioning, and shifts in identity and connection over time.

Assessments
PCL-5 & reintegration scales
PTSD symptom tracking alongside identity, belonging, and wellbeing measures.
Time horizon
Pre, post, 3 & 6 months
We care about what happens after the campfire — not just during it.
Program feedback
Weekly check-ins
Fine-tuning content, pacing, and support based on participant experience.
Research potential
Future collaborations
Designed to support partnerships with universities, clinics, and research teams.
Get Involved

Help us keep the fire going.

Campfire Garage Foundation is in an early, high-impact phase. Founding support — from donors, volunteers, and partners — directly shapes how many people we can serve and how strong the evidence base becomes.

  • Donate to sponsor future participants in cohorts or retreats.
  • Become a founding supporter and help establish sustainable programming.
  • Volunteer to assist with retreats, outings, and behind-the-scenes logistics.
  • Serve on the Board or an advisory group, bringing governance, clinical, or lived-experience insight.
  • Partner on research with universities, clinics, or other organizations interested in ecotherapy and peer support.
  • Host a cohort or bring CG programming to your agency or community.