Partnership & Progress
At Aiming For Zero, we understand that the challenges faced by veterans often extend beyond their military service. Recovery, reintegration, and finding a new sense of purpose can be lifelong journeys—especially for veterans living with life-altering injuries and the families who support them every step of the way.
That is why we are honored to announce a $10,000 donation to the Travis Mills Foundation, an organization that has become a national leader in supporting post-9/11 injured veterans and their families through innovative programs focused on healing, resilience, and connection.
The donation was presented during the recent Aiming For Zero Falling Steel Match hosted at the SIG SAUER Academy. While the event showcased outstanding competition and camaraderie, it also provided an opportunity to highlight organizations making a profound impact on the veteran community throughout New England and beyond.
Helping Veterans Recalibrate and Thrive
Founded by retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills, one of only a handful of surviving quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Travis Mills Foundation serves "recalibrated veterans"—a term Mills coined to describe veterans who have adapted to a new normal after experiencing life-changing injuries.
At the heart of the Foundation's mission is its nationally recognized Veterans Retreat located in Maine's Belgrade Lakes region. The retreat provides all-expenses-paid, barrier-free experiences where veterans and their families can participate in adaptive sports, wellness activities, outdoor recreation, and peer-to-peer engagement while building relationships with others who understand their journey.
Programs That Strengthen Veterans and Families
The Travis Mills Foundation offers a variety of programs designed to meet veterans and their families where they are in their recovery journey, all at no cost to participants. These programs include:
- HHERO (Helping Heroes Empower Recalibrate & Overcome) retreats that provide veterans and their families with opportunities for recreation, adaptive sports, relaxation, and connection.
- Caregiver Programs that support spouses, parents, siblings, and other caregivers through education, self-care, and peer support.
- Warrior PATHH, a transformative program focused on Post-Traumatic Growth, helping veterans turn struggle into strength and purpose.
- Recalibrate Programs that provide ongoing support and resources beyond the retreat experience.
- Ambassador and Outreach Programs that empower veterans to continue serving and inspiring others within their communities.
From adaptive kayaking and archery to wellness initiatives and family-focused activities, the Foundation creates environments where veterans can reconnect with loved ones, build confidence, and rediscover what's possible.
A Shared Commitment to Connection
The work of the Travis Mills Foundation aligns closely with Aiming For Zero's belief that connection saves lives.
Isolation, loss of purpose, and the challenges associated with transitioning to civilian life can significantly impact a veteran's mental well-being. Organizations like the Travis Mills Foundation help address these challenges by creating supportive communities where veterans and their families can build meaningful relationships, share experiences, and develop the resilience needed to move forward together.
Their commitment to strengthening both veterans and the family members who support them reflects a holistic approach to wellness that is critical to long-term success and quality of life.
Thank You to Our Supporters
This donation was made possible through the generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and participants who supported the Aiming For Zero Falling Steel Match.
Every sponsorship, volunteer, registration, raffle ticket, and contribution helps us invest in organizations that are changing lives and creating lasting impact throughout the veteran community.
We are proud to support the Travis Mills Foundation and the incredible work they do every day to help veterans and their families overcome obstacles, build resilience, and thrive.
Together, we are strengthening the veteran community.
Together, we are fostering connection and hope.
Together, we are Aiming For Zero.
To learn more about the Travis Mills Foundation and its programs, visit their website and follow their mission of helping veterans and families recalibrate, reconnect, and move forward.
