The Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation Inc. (WWIA) serves our nation’s combat-wounded Purple Heart recipients by providing world-class outdoor sporting activities as a means to recognize and honor their sacrifice, encourage independence and connections with communities, and promote healing and wellness through camaraderie and a shared passion for the outdoors.
This has been the most incredible experience imaginable. Coming in as a first-time guide, I did not know what to expect and it has been more than I could have hoped for. Getting to know these ladies has been the best part of the whole weekend! It was like we have known each other forever. The hospitality provided by Dennis and Shelley is top notch. They truly are the most loving and kind individuals. I am so grateful for this organization and what they do for these veterans that are each so deserving. Jared and Jason were the best guys to have tame all of us crazy girls. Their knowledge of all things hunting and their stories made for great conversations. This has been by far one of the best weekends of my life and one I will never forget. I am grateful for this opportunity and thankful for the friendships made that will continue on now after this weekend. God Bless the WWIA and God Bless America!
N. Ferrell, Volunteer
This past weekend was my first opportunity to volunteer with WWIA. I was so excited to be a part of the first all-women’s hunt albeit a little apprehensive. I am usually very much an introvert until I get to know people, so it made me a little nervous to dive in not knowing 90% of the folks at the event. However, from the very first night I felt a sense of companionship with everyone that I have not felt in a long time. I am so glad I was able to spend time with some amazing women who gave so much of themselves to our country. This was a wonderful way to start out Christmas week and I look forward to participating in another event again.
K. Chunn, Volunteer
This was my first experience as a volunteer and by far one of the most amazing times I have had. Meeting the Warriors and other volunteers as well as Shelley, Dennis, Jared and Jason was great. It was humbling and heartwarming. I look forward to returning to help as well as meeting more deserving veterans.
V. Connors, Volunteer
Thank you so much for having me on this hunt. I had an amazing time, and I got my first buck! It was such a wonderful experience. Everyone was so nice and truly caring. I cannot thank Shelley and Dennis enough for sharing their home and farm with me. They really went all out to accommodate us. All of the volunteers were great, especially mine, Natalie. She really helped me get the buck. Natalie was so caring and friendly. She is a true blessing, a true gem. Vickie and Kaitlyn were just as friendly and funny and compassionate. I really enjoyed my time at DoubleCreek. Not just the hunting but spending time with all the ladies. Jason and Jared were phenomenal. My husband Todd (also a Purple Heart recipient) came last year. We want to volunteer for additional hunts at DoubleCreek so that other veterans can have as good of a time as we have. The food was delicious and plentiful. This memorable experience will last my lifetime. Thank you for everything.
C. Shaw, US Army, Purple Heart recipient
I had an amazing time at the TN whitetail hunt. It was one of the best events I have been on. All of us really bonded within the first few hours. I haven’t laughed this hard in a long time and I really needed it. My guide Kaitlyn was amazing. I really hope I stay in contact with all these women because of how we all got along. Dennis and Shelley made us feel at home from the moment we walked in the door. All of the food was amazing, if you leave hungry from this event then that is a you issue. Thank you so much.
W. Shaw, US Army Purple Heart recipient
One of the most exciting experiences I have ever had. I would go on this trip again. Very knowledgeable people and very experienced. It was like family; they made us all feel welcome into their families and homes.
-J. Eberly, US Army, Purple Heart Recipient
This was an amazing experience; each hunt was a unique experience and completely different than the day prior. I loved watching the dogs work tracking the hogs. All of the volunteers were selfless and willing to share their time and knowledge. As a novice hunter this was an educational experience for me, and I learned so much this weekend. Thank you.
-A. Gilbert, USMC, Purple Heart Recipient
I want to thank everyone involved in this event. I cannot put into words the time spent gathering with a group of some of the best people I could ever meet. These gatherings are more about bonding with those who can relate, joking, and telling stories that we may not have otherwise. These experiences will be forever remembered. I personally feel the hunt is a reason to gather, but the bonding between us is what makes it a success. I am grateful and blessed to have met you, thank you for everything you do. Thank you, Matt, for taking your time and dedication to everything you do, you change lives.
C. Moore, US Army Purple Heart recipient
This was by far one of the best hunts I have been on. William was an amazing host and treated us amazingly. From the food to the hunting , he always made sure we were happy. On top of all of that the chance to hang out with other veterans and create new bonds was the best. With these events, the hunting is always great but the bonding and fireside chats is what makes it better.
J. Watts, US Army, Purple Heart recipient
This trip and time spent with other veterans and the local hunt club has been nothing short of amazing! Really being able to get out and not only meet others but to learn from them is truly a blessing. I hope to one day pass down the things I have learned here to my family (hospitality, kindness and respect). Being able to sit in a stand/blind and not only hunt but to reflect on life’s ups and downs has allowed me to clear my mind and be appreciative of the life I have. Thank you to the WWIA staff for allowing me to be a part of this family. I hope to see you all again.
R. Joseph, US Army, Purple Heart recipient
The camaraderie developed through nature and hunting is second to none. I have new life long friends and I will never forget them. I didn’t get a deer but I learned a ton.
S. Tichenor, US Army, Purple Heart recipient
Your thoughtfulness in organizing everything did not go unnoticed. It is clear how much effort you put into making everyone feel welcome and comfortable. You created an atmosphere of warmth and connection that I will remember forever. Thank you for your generosity and kindness. I feel so fortunate to have been a part of such a memorable experience.
J. Hooker, US Army, Purple Heart recipient
We are committed to healing the lives of America’s veterans and reducing veteran suicide. For the past 17 years, we have been changing lives and saving lives! We have over 1,500 testimonials from Heroes who have expressed how the WWIA events they attended have dramatically impacted their health, healing, happiness, and overall well-being. This isn’t hype or hyperbole, it’s evidence-based! We have partnered with Cornell University to study the results of the work we are doing and how it combats veteran suicide, and it has shown some remarkable results. The bottom line is THIS STUFF WORKS!
This Stuff Works: Reducing Veteran SuicideWWIA provided real services to 166 Purple Heart recipients this past year. WWIA encourages American Heroes to get back in action; hunting and fishing provide excellent opportunities to assist our wounded veterans in recovering— mentally, physically, and spiritually—from their wartime experiences.
TestimonialsIn 2023, WWIA held 36 events across 17 states. Through opportunities like whitetail deer hunting in Tennessee, halibut fishing in Alaska, and bear hunting in Wisconsin, these Heroes experience a wide variety of opportunities that fulfill lifelong dreams.
EventsWWIA prides itself on fiscal responsibility, financial transparency and maintaining a very low overhead. Ninety percent (90%) of all donations directly support field activities. Independent Charities of America (ICA), a nonprofit association of America's best charities, has recognized WWIA as meeting the highest standards of public accountability and program effectiveness. We were also awarded a gold seal of financial transparency from Guide Star.
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