Charities

Those Benefitting From Swim With A Mission

Since being founded in 2017, Swim With A Mission has given almost $8.5 Million to service and support organizations that provide critical services to our Veterans.

Our mission at Swim With A Mission is to strengthen the Veteran community. Every year we select worthy Veteran service and support organizations to support by providing funds that will have a meaningful and differential effect on their ability to help Veterans. These organizations provide services and support including  scholarships for children of a parent who died in service, taking care of homeless veterans, providing rides and financial assistance to Veterans, providing health care services to Veterans, providing permanent housing for Veterans, K9’s for Veterans, and help with PTSD.

Beginning in 2022, organizations MUST apply for funding that will be distributed in November/December of 2022.  If you are part of an organization that fits within our mission of helping Veterans and their families and would like to be considered as a beneficiary of money raised in 2022 please fill out the form below before Sept 1st, 2022.

2023 Application Form

(Application Period Opens March 1, 2023 and ends September 1, 2023)

2022 Beneficiaries

National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Equine Immersion Project

Hidden Battles Foundation

Azimuth Check Foundation

Harbor Care

Operation Delta Dog

Hero Pups

Art For Vets

Camp Resilience

House In The Woods

Veterans Count

MET Foundation

The Salute Military Golf Association

Honor Flight New England

Liberty House

M.A.P.K9

Portsmouth Elks Club

The Coast Guard Foundation

MISSION 22

Travis Mills Foundation

Vouchers for Veterans

The Homeland Heroes Foundation

New Hampshire Suicide Prevention Council

2020 Beneficiaries

National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Veterans Count

Harbor Care

Vouchers for Veterans

Elite Meet

CreatiVets

Camp Resilience

Equine Immersion Programs

Fisher House Boston

Hidden Battles Foundation

National Coast Guard Museum

Liberty House

M.A.P.K9

K-9 With A Mission

The Coast Guard Foundation

The Homeland Heroes Foundation

Annie’s Angels

Operation Delta Dog

The Currier Museum

Hero Pups

Northeast Passage

Warrior Health Foundation

2019 Beneficiaries

National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Veterans Count

Children of the Fallen Patriots

The Dan Healy Foundation

Elite Meet

War Paints

CreatiVets

Equine Immersion Programs

Shadow Warriors Project

Shadow Warriors Project

Vouchers For Veterans

Vouchers for Veterans

MAPK9

Manchester Association of Police K-9’s

Grant Awarded to Veterans Count/Easterseals

In 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Veterans Count (a program of Easterseals NH) with a check for $1,120,225 to provide resources, programs and services to veterans, service members and their families to combat homelessness and mental health issues made worse by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Easterseals Military and Veterans Services, in conjunction with Veterans Count, developed a one-of-a-kind program which has a proven track record of helping service members and their families with a wide range of family, personal and financial needs. To date Swim With A Mission has given $1,310,275 to Veterans Count.

Grant Awarded to Liberty House Transitional Veterans Home

On October 13, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Liberty House Veterans Transitional Living with a check for $1,000,000 to break ground on Phase II of Mission Renovate and Restore. This money will help create a much anticipated recreational center that will enable Liberty House to help their residents along with 1,000 community Veterans who live off-site with critical services unable to be offered during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include providing a larger space for community Veterans to receive COVID-19 safe mental health services, case management and service referrals for employment, medical and dental care. The center will also help to reduce isolation and loneliness for both residential and community veterans through COVID-19 safe engagement with others.

Grant Awarded to The Currier Museum of Art

On October 7, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented The Currier Museum of Art with a check for $717,500 to to construct a dedicated programming space for Veterans. This space will allow Veterans and their families from all over the state to take part in art therapy programs.The center will also help to reduce isolation and loneliness for community veterans through COVID-19 safe engagement with others. To learn more about this project and The Currier Museum of Art, go to https://currier.org.

Grant Awarded to The Currier Museum of Art

On October 7, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented The Currier Museum of Art with a check for $717,500 to to construct a dedicated programming space for Veterans. This space will allow Veterans and their families from all over the state to take part in art therapy programs.The center will also help to reduce isolation and loneliness for community veterans through COVID-19 safe engagement with others.

Donations to Hero Pups

In 2021, Swim With A Mission presented Hero Pups with a check for $50,000. On October 27, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Hero Pups with a check for $261,353 to train and pair service dogs with our New Hampshire Veterans who have been diagnosed with service-related, psychological challenges. Hero Pups has a high demand for support dogs in normal times when veterans with psychological challenges experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and night terrors. In periods of high stress and during situations that are uncontrollable, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, symptoms are exacerbated, and triggers intensify. With the lack of access to face-to-face, mental health care and cancellation of group counseling sessions, veterans on the Hero Pups’ wait list have reported feeling helpless and isolated as they struggle to maintain connections with healthcare providers, peers and engage in positive relations with family members. This money, which was made possible by Governor Chris Sununu and the Governor’s Office for Emergency Relief and Recovery, will allow every Veteran on the waiting list to receive a support dog and facilitate the recipients’ recovery by allowing them to regain confidence, independence, and purpose as well as alleviate some of the symptoms of their mental health challenges. We are thrilled to grant this money to Hero Pups, an organization which makes a huge impact on our Veterans here in New Hampshire!

Grant Awarded to Hero Pups

On October 27, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Hero Pups with a check for $261,353 to train and pair service dogs with our New Hampshire Veterans who have been diagnosed with service-related, psychological challenges. Hero Pups has a high demand for support dogs in normal times when veterans with psychological challenges experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and night terrors. In periods of high stress and during situations that are uncontrollable, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, symptoms are exacerbated, and triggers intensify. With the lack of access to face-to-face, mental health care and cancellation of group counseling sessions, veterans on the Hero Pups’ wait list have reported feeling helpless and isolated as they struggle to maintain connections with healthcare providers, peers and engage in positive relations with family members. This money, which was made possible by Governor Chris Sununu and the Governor’s Office for Emergency Relief and Recovery, will allow every Veteran on the waiting list to receive a support dog and facilitate the recipients’ recovery by allowing them to regain confidence, independence, and purpose as well as alleviate some of the symptoms of their mental health challenges. We are thrilled to grant this money to Hero Pups, an organization which makes a huge impact on our Veterans here in New Hampshire!

Grant Awarded to Hero Pups

On October 27, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Hero Pups with a check for $261,353 to train and pair service dogs with our NH Veterans who have been diagnosed with service-related, psychological challenges. Hero Pups has a high demand for support dogs in normal times when veterans with psychological challenges experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and night terrors. In periods of high stress and during situations that are uncontrollable, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, symptoms are exacerbated, and triggers intensify. With the lack of access to face-to-face, mental health care and cancellation of group counseling sessions, veterans on the Hero Pups’ wait list have reported feeling helpless and isolated as they struggle to maintain connections with healthcare providers, peers and engage in positive relations with family members. These funds will allow every Veteran on the waiting list to receive a support dog and facilitate the recipients’ recovery by allowing them to regain confidence, independence, and purpose as well as alleviate some of the symptoms of their mental health challenges. To learn more visit https://www.heropups.com.

Grant Awarded to Operation Delta Dog

On January 12, 2021, Swim With A Mission presented Operation Delta Dog with a check for $300,000 to serve our veterans throughout the state of New Hampshire. Operation Delta Dog is a nonprofit based out of Hollis, NH that rescues homeless dogs and trains them to become service dogs for veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), and other related challenges. Most service dog training organizations use trainers or prison training programs to train their service dogs, and then veterans must travel to their facility for a short period of time at their own expense to learn how to work with their new service animal. The veteran then returns home with the animal and little is done by way of follow-up with their success or struggles. Operation Delta Dog takes a hands-on role in the training of their service dogs and continues support throughout the life of the dog and beyond. Veterans are matched with a dog after the dog goes through an extensive twelve-week foundation training program with Operation Delta Dog’s training director, dog trainers and kennel assistants. Veterans then start attending classes with their dog at least twice per week to make sure the match is a good one for both the veteran and dog. After another four to six weeks, if the match works, the dog will move in with the Veteran and they will continue to come to classes together, have one-on-one home training sessions, and attend educational opportunities and meetings with veteran caseworkers until the dog is fully trained. This money will allow Operation Delta Dog to assist all of the Veterans that are currently on their waiting list as well as hundreds more Veterans and their families by providing community related classes and programs! To learn more visit https://operationdeltadog.org.

Donation Awarded to Camp Resilience

In 2021, Swim With A Mission awarded Camp Resilience with a $75,000 check donation. The Patriot Resilient Leader Institute (PRLI), a 501 (c)(3) organization, recognizes that those who have served their country and communities often need a helping hand in order to recover and maintain their mental and physical health. By running Camp Resilience retreats for service members, veterans, first responders, and their loved ones, PRLI does its part to help those who have served bounce back in mind, body, and spirit. Located in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Camp Resilience retreats combine outdoor experiential learning activities, facilitated peer-to-peer counseling, and life skills workshops and are often facilitated by active/retired VA clinicians. PRLI is devoted to tackling an array of issues affecting veterans and first responders—we offer a wide variety of tailored retreats that take the healing process out of the clinic and stress the importance of camaraderie and wellness in fostering resilience and recovery. We have found great success in running retreats for families, couples, and veterans coping with military sexual trauma, post traumatic stress, or moral injury. To learn more about Camp Resilience visit https://www.camp-resilience.org/

Donation Awarded to EIP

In 2021, Swim With A Mission awarded Equine Immersion Project with a $25,000 check donation. Equine Immersion Project offers hope to those who feel the weight of service/support to our country. Their mission is to support service members and their families through the power of horses. Service members and their families experience growth and learning in these areas: Behavioral, Social, Familial and Emotional. To learn more about Equine Immersion Project visit https://equineimmersionproject.com/

Donation Awarded to Azimuth Check Foundation

In 2021, Swim With A Mission awarded The Azimuth Check Foundation with a $5,000 check donation. ACF helps our injured warriors achieve wellness in an atmosphere of camaraderie by providing veterans with challenging and rewarding events, including; hiking, mountaineering, deep sea fishing, rock climbing, ice climbing, snowshoe hiking, sporting events & tournaments, and much more. To learn more about The Azimuth Check Foundation visit https://azimuthcheckfoundation.org.

Donation Awarded to Operation Renewed Freedom

In 2021, Swim With A Mission awarded Operation Renewed Freedom with a $10,000 check donation. Operation Renewed Freedom is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit that helps veterans, military members, first responders and their families discover the FREEDOM to LIVE ABUNDANT LIVES. They offer hope and healing using a model of immersion and experiential learning while partnering with horses. To learn more about Operation Renewed Freedom visit https://www.facebook.com/operationrenewedfreedom/about.

Donation Awarded to NH Young Veterans Network

In 2021, Swim With A Mission awarded The NH Young Veterans Network with a $5,000 check donation. New Hampshire Young Veterans Network was founded July 25th, 2018, coincidentally National Hire a Veteran Day. Their mission is to energize, engage, and connect young veterans in the Granite State. Transitioning out of military service and into civilian life is a process that seems easy while in the military. However, when veterans are out of service, it proves to be more difficult than anticipated. NHYVN was founded to assist young veterans with building their professional networks, in the hopes of making this transition easier. We look to host networking events where young veterans can meet business leaders in their community as well as more established veterans who’ve made the transition successfully. To learn more about The NH Young Veterans Network visit https://nhyvn.org.

Grant Awarded to Harbor Care

On December 15, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Harbor Care with a check for $200,000. This money will be utilized to pay for the construction of an outdoor space for service providers at Boulder Point Veterans Housing in Plymouth, NH. Boulder Point is a permanent supportive veteran housing facility that offers 25 one-bedroom apartments for veterans who are low-income, disabled and/or experiencing homelessness, as well as 5 two-bedroom apartments for low-income veteran families. This outdoor space will impact all 450 veterans Harbor Care serves annually, but especially the 30 high-risk veterans and 10 family members living at Boulder Point. They will now all have access to a dedicated space that is safe to receive the social and behavioral supports they need!

Grant Awarded to Harbor Care

On December 15, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Harbor Care with a check for $200,000. This money will be utilized to pay for the construction of an outdoor space for service providers at Boulder Point Veterans Housing in Plymouth, NH. Boulder Point is a permanent supportive veteran housing facility that offers 25 one-bedroom apartments for veterans who are low-income, disabled and/or experiencing homelessness, as well as 5 two-bedroom apartments for low-income veteran families. This outdoor space will impact all 450 veterans Harbor Care serves annually, but especially the 30 high-risk veterans and 10 family members living at Boulder Point. They will now all have access to a dedicated space that is safe to receive the social and behavioral supports they need! To learn more about this project and Harbor Care visit https://www.harborcarenh.org.

In 2019, Swim With A Mission also donated $75,000 to The Harbor Care Boulder Point Housing Project in Plymouth NH. The Veterans Housing project was completed on September 5, 2019 with 25 one-bedroom apartments for low income Veterans and 5 two-bedroom apartments for low income Veteran families.  In all, 30 apartments were built on a 12-acre subdivision on Boulder Point Drive in Plymouth, NH.  The 29,000-square-foot apartment building now provides essential community space for the delivery of support services and case management for Veterans through Harbor Care and White River Junction VA Medical Center. After years of determination and hard work, the first permanent residences for homeless veterans and their families in Northern NH are now open and providing living spaces for Veterans and their families.

To Date Swim With A Mission has given $335,000 to Harbor Care. 

Grant Awarded to Northeast Passage/Clear Path New England

On December 14, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Northeast Passage and Clear Path New England with a check for $46,530 to team up and create recreational therapy retreats for Veterans. These activities include archery, bowling, and off-road cycling just to name a few. One veteran said, ”This is good that you are doing this. We all have our safety plan if we feel suicidal but it’s important to have a plan to get engaged with things and to create safe places to allow that to happen. I know a lot of Veterans have stopped going to telehealth groups. It’s important to get out and to be active…COVID has been hard on a lot of Veterans who struggle with depression and suicide thoughts”. These programs have been able to make a huge impact and we are so grateful to play a role in making this happen throughout these difficult times.

Grant Awarded to Northeast Passage/Clear Path New England

On December 14, 2020, Swim With A Mission presented Northeast Passage and Clear Path New England with a check for $46,530 to team up and create recreational therapy retreats for Veterans. These activities include archery, bowling, and off-road cycling just to name a few. One veteran said, ”This is good that you are doing this. We all have our safety plan if we feel suicidal but it’s important to have a plan to get engaged with things and to create safe places to allow that to happen. I know a lot of Veterans have stopped going to Telehealth groups. It’s important to get out and to be active…COVID has been hard on a lot of Veterans who struggle with depression and suicide thoughts”. These programs have been able to make a huge impact and we are so grateful to play a role in making this happen throughout these difficult times.

Grant Awarded to Homeland Heroes Foundation

Swim With A Mission presented The Homeland Heroes Foundation with a check for $50,000. Homeland Heroes is based out of Salem, NH and does incredible work helping Veterans who are acclimating to civilian life after active duty and helping their families to get back on their feet. Some of the amazing things the organization does is to provide furniture, new mattresses and box springs, gas and food cards, and housing support for Veterans among many other things. This money will allow the organization to assist hundreds more Veterans and their families in a time where help is extremely needed.

Grant Awarded to Homeland Heroes Foundation

Swim With A Mission presented The Homeland Heroes Foundation with a check for $50,000. Homeland Heroes is based out of Salem, NH and does incredible work helping Veterans who are acclimating to civilian life after active duty and helping their families to get back on their feet. Some of the amazing things the organization does is to provide furniture, new mattresses and box springs, gas and food cards, and housing support for Veterans among many other things. This money will allow the organization to assist hundreds more Veterans and their families in a time where help is extremely needed. To learn more about this grant and the Homeland Heroes Foundation visit https://www.homelandheroesfoundation.org.

Grant Awarded to Annie’s Angels Memorial Fund

Swim With A Mission presented Annie’s Angels Memorial Fund with a check for $200,000 to fund 6 service and support K9’s for New Hampshire Veterans. Chris’ Pets For Vets (a program of Annie’s Angels) works with local animal shelters to adopt animals and train them to be paired with a Veteran in need so they can more easily deal with PTSD and help heal the deep emotional scars caused by war and their military service. This fund was created in honor of Christopher Journeau for PTSD awareness. Chris served with the US ARMY, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team while fighting in Operation Iraqi Freedom. At the age of 23 and six months after his return home to Stratham, NH, he took his own life. The end result was he had been suffering from PTSD and nobody knew it until it was too late.

Grant Awarded to Annie’s Angels Memorial Fund

Swim With A Mission presented Annie’s Angels Memorial Fund with a check for $200,000 to fund 6 service and support K9’s for New Hampshire Veterans. Chris’ Pets For Vets (a program of Annie’s Angels) works with local animal shelters to adopt animals and train them to be paired with a Veteran in need so they can more easily deal with PTSD and help heal the deep emotional scars caused by war and their military service. This fund was created in honor of Christopher Journeau for PTSD awareness. Chris served with the US ARMY, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team while fighting in Operation Iraqi Freedom. At the age of 23 and six months after his return home to Stratham, NH, he took his own life. The end result was he had been suffering from PTSD and nobody knew it until it was too late. To learn more about this grant and Annie’s Angels Memorial Fund visit https://www.anniesangels.org.

Gift to National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

From the Patrol Boat Riverines – PBRs – that enabled the Navy SEALs in navigating and dominating the maze of rivers and canals in Vietnam, to a replica of Osama Bin Laden’s compound in Abbottabad Pakistan, the Navy SEAL Museum houses an array of artifacts that showcase their perilous missions.

The museum’s purpose extends far beyond presenting exhibits: it ensures and shares the legacy of the world’s premier special operations force. The facility not only traces the history of the Navy SEALs, but it provides visitors with an uncommon perspective of our nation’s constant vigil for freedom spanning more than 70 years. Through their dedication to duty and relentless resolve, SEALs have “paid the bill” for American freedoms for decades.  The museum enlightens visitors as to the cost of elite preparedness.

Gift to National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Since being founded in 2017, Swim With A Mission has enjoyed a great partnership with the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum. Our annual main event features live in-person sea, air and land demonstrations by the SEALs. Thousands of spectators travel to Newfound Lake in Bristol, New Hampshire every year to catch a glimpse of these elite special operators.

From the Patrol Boat Riverines – PBRs – that enabled the Navy SEALs in navigating and dominating the maze of rivers and canals in Vietnam, to a replica of Osama Bin Laden’s compound in Abbottabad Pakistan, the Navy SEAL Museum houses an array of artifacts that showcase their perilous missions.

The museum’s purpose extends far beyond presenting exhibits: it ensures and shares the legacy of the world’s premier special operations force. The facility not only traces the history of the Navy SEALs, but it provides visitors with an uncommon perspective of our nation’s constant vigil for freedom spanning more than 70 years. Through their dedication to duty and relentless resolve, SEALs have “paid the bill” for American freedoms for decades.  The museum enlightens visitors as to the cost of elite preparedness. To learn more about the museum and all it has to offer visit https://www.navysealmuseum.org.

To date Swim With A Mission has donated $1,200,050 to the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum.

Gift to Veterans Count

In 2014, a group of dedicated volunteers in the Lakes Region led by Cynthia Makris, Ken Lull and Tim Callahan gathered community leaders to get the ball rolling to launch a new chapter of Veterans Count! At the first meeting of the Veterans Count Lakes Region Chapter, Siddartha Sosa Rodriguez, an Airman for the New Hampshire Air National Guard, spoke of the struggles he had reintegrating back into his community after returning from deployment to the Middle East in 2009. Since connecting with Veterans Count he has secured a stable living environment, gotten married, completed his bachelor’s degree in psychology and is working on his Master’s degree. He is also giving back to other veterans in his role as a Care Coordinator for Easter Seals Military & Veterans Services. “It’s a beautiful thing when the legacy of a WWII Marine is able to help his fellow veterans in New Hampshire today. I was honored to start the Peter Makris Memorial Run in 2007 to continue my father’s spirit of giving back to his beloved community and fellow veterans. Starting a Lakes Region Chapter of Veterans Count made a lot of sense,” said Cynthia Makris. “There are so many giving and generous people living in the Lakes Region year round and seasonally who care deeply about our veterans and their needs. We are looking forward to being the newest chapter of Veterans Count in New Hampshire!”

Gift to Children of the Fallen Patriots

The Mission of Children of Fallen Patriots is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. They are dedicated to serving the families of service members from all branches of the armed forces who have died as a result of combat casualties, military training accidents, service related illnesses, suicide, as well as other duty-related deaths as ruled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The vision of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is to ensure that every child of a fallen patriot receives all necessary college funding. They believe a college education is the single most important gift they can give these children, it is an important investment in the future of America and ultimately it is one of the best ways we can honor those who died defending our country.

Gift to Children of the Fallen Patriots

In 2018 and 2019 Swim With A Mission donated $25,000 to The Children of the Fallen Patriots. The mission of the organization is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. They are dedicated to serving the families of service members from all branches of the armed forces who have died as a result of combat casualties, military training accidents, service related illnesses, suicide, as well as other duty-related deaths as ruled by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The vision of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is to ensure that every child of a fallen patriot receives all necessary college funding. They believe a college education is the single most important gift they can give these children, it is an important investment in the future of America and ultimately it is one of the best ways we can honor those who died defending our country. To date Swim With A Mission has donated $50,000 to Children of the Fallen Patriots.

Gift to Dan Healy Foundation

In memory of Operation Red Wings Fallen Warriors
The MISSION of The Dan Healy Foundation is to uphold the honor and dedication exemplified by Senior Chief Healy in his heroic efforts by being of service to the Seacoast, NH community through the following resources: (i) scholarships to area students entering the military or a trade school; (ii) aiding Seacoast area veterans in various ways; (iii) offering a grant to deserving single mothers; and (iv) supporting the elementary school children in the Courtesy Matters program.

Senior Chief Petty Officer Daniel R. Healy, US Navy SEAL, BUD/S Class 176, SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team One, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was born on July 17, 1968 in Exeter, NH and KIA in the Hindu Kush mountains of Kunar Province, Afghanistan on June 28, 2005 during Operation Red Wings.Dan Healy

SCPO Healy was lost when the MH-47 helicopter he was aboard on a rescue mission crashed going to the aid of a team of four SEALs on a reconnaissance mission who were embroiled in a battle with a larger force of the Taliban.  When word got back to base about their plight, their fellow SEALs went into action filling two helicopters to go to their aid.  Due to his rank as a Senior Chief Petty Officer, Dan Healy did not have to go on that mission, but he insisted.  Taking men off of the lead helicopter SCPO Healy told the others “Those are my men and my face is going to be the first one they see”.

Gift to Dan Healy Foundation

In the last 3 years, Swim With A Mission donated $40,000 to The Dan Healy Foundation. The foundation was created In memory of Operation Red Wings Fallen Warriors.
The MISSION of The Dan Healy Foundation is to uphold the honor and dedication exemplified by Senior Chief Healy in his heroic efforts by being of service to the Seacoast, NH community through the following resources: (i) scholarships to area students entering the military or a trade school; (ii) aiding Seacoast area veterans in various ways; (iii) offering a grant to deserving single mothers; and (iv) supporting the elementary school children in the Courtesy Matters program.

Senior Chief Petty Officer Daniel R. Healy, US Navy SEAL, BUD/S Class 176, SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team One, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, was born on July 17, 1968 in Exeter, NH and KIA in the Hindu Kush mountains of Kunar Province, Afghanistan on June 28, 2005 during Operation Red Wings.Dan Healy

SCPO Healy was lost when the MH-47 helicopter he was aboard on a rescue mission crashed going to the aid of a team of four SEALs on a reconnaissance mission who were embroiled in a battle with a larger force of the Taliban.  When word got back to base about their plight, their fellow SEALs went into action filling two helicopters to go to their aid.  Due to his rank as a Senior Chief Petty Officer, Dan Healy did not have to go on that mission, but he insisted.  Taking men off of the lead helicopter SCPO Healy told the others “Those are my men and my face is going to be the first one they see”.

To date Swim With A Mission has donated $40,000 to The Dan Healy Foundation.

Vouchers for Veterans

Vouchers For Veterans

There are many Veterans receiving no VA benefits at all through no fault of their own. They may have served during a time not considered a War Time Period, or they make too much money to be considered for health benefits. Then there are the Vietnam Veterans that separated without a documented service-related illness and now, years later, are tasked with proving that it is related prior to treatment. With this said, Vouchers for Veterans wants every Veteran to know, that the County in which they reside in NH, acknowledges their sacrifices and thanks them for their service. Albeit a small token of appreciation in comparison for what they have done for us, Vouchers for Veterans thanks each Veteran for their service by giving them $20.00 in vouchers, each week, in September, for making fresh and nutritious purchases at a designated Farmers Market within their county.

We are currently serving three of the 10 New Hampshire Counties and York County Maine.

Besides the fresh and nutritious foods being offered by local farmers and growers, the clean and healthy atmosphere of a local farmers market tends to be the perfect location to gather Veterans together. They are proudly wearing hats identifying their branch and era. We often see two old Veterans sitting at a table with similar hats. You can tell by their expressions and tears in their eyes, they are telling their story, sometimes for the first time.

The following week when they come back, they are often with their new buddy. Vouchers for Veterans also has someone on hand from Veteran Services in Manchester to help them navigate the VA System and get them headed in the right direction. It’s a day for celebrating our American heroes. When they leave the market, they leave feeling validated and grateful.

The $15,000 received from Swim With A Mission provided 750, twenty dollar vouchers to Veterans attending the markets. It provided $15,000 more revenue to our struggling farmers and the money stays right here in our community. It’s win/win/win or as I call it, a circle of love.

In Strafford County alone we gave out $14,500 dollars in vouchers, and we would like to be in all 10 counties by 2026 . Vouchers for Veterans wants every Veteran living in NH, to know the community in which they reside acknowledges their sacrifice and is thankful for their service.

Vouchers for Veterans is comprised of all unpaid volunteers  trying to make a difference.

Gift to Vouchers for Veterans

Vouchers For Veterans

In 2020, Swim With a Mission donated $20,000 to Vouchers for Veterans. There are many Veterans receiving no VA benefits at all through no fault of their own. With this said, Vouchers for Veterans wants every Veteran to know, that the County in which they reside in NH, acknowledges their sacrifices and thanks them for their service. Albeit a small token of appreciation in comparison for what they have done for us, Vouchers for Veterans thanks each Veteran for their service by giving them $20.00 in vouchers, each week, in September, for making fresh and nutritious purchases at a designated Farmers Market within their county. Vouchers for Veterans is currently serving three of the 10 New Hampshire Counties and York County Maine.

Besides the fresh and nutritious foods being offered by local farmers and growers, the clean and healthy atmosphere of a local farmers market tends to be the perfect location to gather Veterans together. They are proudly wearing hats identifying their branch and era. We often see two old Veterans sitting at a table with similar hats. You can tell by their expressions and tears in their eyes, they are telling their story, sometimes for the first time.

The $15,000 received from Swim With A Mission in previous years provided 750, twenty dollar vouchers to Veterans attending the markets. It provided $15,000 more revenue to our struggling farmers and the money stays right here in our community.

To date Swim With A Mission has donated $35,000 to Vouchers for Veterans.

Equine Immersion Programs

We are proud to collaborate with Equine Immersion Programs.

Equine Immersion Programs (EIP) is a therapeutic program for veterans struggling with the Invisible Wounds of War encompassing Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, Military Sexual Trauma, Moral Injury, Family Discord and other service related issues. Horses are proven catalysts of change and healing among animal assisted therapies that promote mental health and well-being. Seeking alternatives to traditional methods is key to meeting the needs of the veteran community. EIP weekend retreats have provided over 750 veterans a transformative experience. EIP is honored to serve those who have served- all branches, all eras, all family members, all support persons and all care givers at no charge.

Gift To Equine Immersion Programs

In 2018, Swim With A Mission donated $25,000 to the Equine Immersion Programs (EIP). The organization provides therapeutic programs for veterans struggling with the Invisible Wounds of War encompassing Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, Military Sexual Trauma, Moral Injury, Family Discord and other service related issues. Horses are proven catalysts of change and healing among animal assisted therapies that promote mental health and well-being. Seeking alternatives to traditional methods is key to meeting the needs of the veteran community. EIP weekend retreats have provided over 750 veterans a transformative experience. EIP is honored to serve those who have served- all branches, all eras, all family members, all support persons and all care givers at no charge.

Manchester Association of Police K-9s

MAPK9Many of the Manchester Police K-9 Handlers are Veterans. MAPK-9 relies on donations to fund our mission of providing financial assistance for the proper retirement care of the Manchester Police K-9’s as well as burial and memorial of the fallen K-9’s. MAPK-9 strives to provide the means to receive the best possible care and treatment for our retired K-9’s to honor their service and sacrifice. Swim With A Mission’s support allows the MAP K-9’s to effectively carry out their mission.

Manchester Association of Police K-9s

MAPK9

In 2019 and 2020, Swim With A Mission has donated $10,000 to the Manchester Association of Police K9’s. Many of the Manchester Police K-9 Handlers are Veterans. MAPK-9 relies on donations to fund our mission of providing financial assistance for the proper retirement care of the Manchester Police K-9’s as well as burial and memorial of the fallen K-9’s. MAPK-9 strives to provide the means to receive the best possible care and treatment for our retired K-9’s to honor their service and sacrifice. Swim With A Mission’s support allows the MAP K-9’s to effectively carry out their mission. To date Swim With A Mission has donated $20,000 to M.A.P.K9. 

Shadow Warriors Project

Shadow Warriors Project

Shadow Warriors Project

Shadow Warriors Project

In 2019, Swim With A Mission donated $20,000 to the Shadow Warriors Foundation. The goal of the Shadow Warriors Project is to create a better everyday life for as many American contractors and their families as possible. They decided to start SWP when Mark  Geist returned home from an incredibly dangerous operation. He was hurt both mentally and physically and wished there was a system that could have helped.

CreatiVets

Gift To CreatiVets

In 2019 and 2020, Swim With A Mission has donated $30,000 to CreatiVets. CreatiVets’ mission is to empower wounded veterans to heal through the arts and music. To learn more about CreatiVets visit https://creativets.org.

Gift to Bridge House Homeless Shelter

In 2017, Swim With A Mission donated $25,000 to The Bridge House homeless shelter who vows to accept all veterans who contact the shelter – no vet is ever turned away. They provide shelter and help each Veteran access a variety of services, such as job placement, relocation, family unification, and permanent housing.  The Bridge House is also the only shelter welcoming a veteran accompanied by “man’s best friend” – his/her pooch! Veterans come to the Bridge House via a variety of paths.  They may be referred by a welfare officer, VA social worker, SSVF, other shelters, the police, hospitals, local churches, physicians, or they may walk in off the street. Veterans are connected immediately to services through a VA social worker, and a Bridge House case advocate meets with the vet once a week on-site.

Gift to Bridge House Homeless Shelter

The Bridge House vows to accept all veterans who contact the shelter – no vet is ever turned away. In the past 18 months, the Bridge House served 35 veterans – providing shelter and helping them access a variety of services, such as job placement, relocation, family unification, and permanent housing.  The Bridge House is the only shelter welcoming a veteran accompanied by “man’s best friend” – his/her pooch!

Veterans come to the Bridge House via a variety of paths.  They may be referred by a welfare officer, VA social worker, SSVF, other shelters, the police, hospitals, local churches, physicians, or they may walk in off the street. Veterans are connected immediately to services through a VA social worker, and a Bridge House case advocate meets with the vet once a week on-site.

Gift to War Paints

War Paints is devoted to empowering and encouraging veterans in their creative, entrepreneurial pursuits. They help us fuel our nation’s veterans and first responders with the ideas, skills, and motivation to succeed. War Paints provide programs supporting creative disciplines and business practices to develop meaningful skills, inspire community, and provide career opportunities for veterans.

Gifts to War Paint helps to fund veteran webstores that showcase their products and artwork free of cost, sponsor future workshops, and sustain a creative community for service members.

War Paints honors our Veterans by recognizing their strengths – not their scars. Contributions directly support the growth, independence, and endeavors of War Paints growing community.

Gift to War Paints

In 2018 Swim With A Mission donated $5,000 to War Paints. War Paints is devoted to empowering and encouraging veterans in their creative, entrepreneurial pursuits. They help us fuel our nation’s veterans and first responders with the ideas, skills, and motivation to succeed. War Paints provide programs supporting creative disciplines and business practices to develop meaningful skills, inspire community, and provide career opportunities for veterans.

Gifts to War Paint helps to fund veteran webstores that showcase their products and artwork free of cost, sponsor future workshops, and sustain a creative community for service members.

War Paints honors our Veterans by recognizing their strengths – not their scars. Contributions directly support the growth, independence, and endeavors of War Paints growing community.

Gift to Navy Chaplains Fund

Swim With A Mission has donated $2,000 of Walmart Gift Cards to the Navy Chaplains Fund to help active duty families purchase gifts and have a better Christmas.

Gift to Navy Chaplains Fund

SWAM has donated $2,000 of Walmart Gift Cards to the Navy Chaplains Fund to help active duty families have a better Christmas.

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