Start where you are.
What brings you here?
Explore a program, connect someone with the work, or help support the return. Choose a place to begin, or talk with us about your questions.
Photograph: Matt Johnston (opens in a new tab) · 2026
Start with one question
Which of these describes you?
Veterans and military family
I am seeking a program, a Rite, or a continuing community.
Explore practical preparation, wilderness ceremony, Circles of Return, and continuing community for Initiates and alumni.
Community members and referrers
I want to understand, connect, attend, or make a responsible referral.
Learn how the model works, explore public Circles, understand boundaries, or speak with a real person about fit.
Funders and institutional partners
I want to see the evidence, stewardship, need, and opportunity.
Review measured impact, understand what support carries, and explore a partnership built to bring more Veterans home.
Still not sure?
Talk with a person.
Tell us what brought you here. We will listen and help you find a useful next step.
Your intention has a place
“The intent of the individual is all-important.”
Meredith Little, Wilderness Vision Questing and the Four Shields of Human Nature, 1996 lecture booklet, printed p. 18.
Your questions and your choices belong in the conversation. An Initiate is a person preparing to enter a rite of passage. A Guide helps hold the conditions; the meaning of the passage belongs to the person living it.
Ready for a next step?
There is a person at the other end.
Looking ahead to 2027. The current interest form says 2026 ceremonies are full and lists first available 2027 for both Rite of Return and Roots of Resilience. Interest begins a conversation; it does not guarantee a place.
Express program interest (opens in a new tab)
Opens the existing Veteran Rites interest form in a new tab.