SHEEP DOG IMPACT ASSISTANCE

Since 2010, Sheep Dog Impact Assistance (SDIA) has empowered 23,724 Sheep Dogs – our nation's veterans and first responders – to 'Get Off The Couch' and rediscover a sense of purpose, camaraderie, and healing. With a mission to engage, assist, and empower military and first responder communities, SDIA serves as a lifeline for those who have bravely served but may now struggle with post-traumatic stress, isolation, or loss of direction. Our 'Get Off The Couch' programming introduces Post-Traumatic Growth in a way that speaks directly to the warrior hearts of Sheep Dogs, inspiring them to reclaim purpose and strength.

SDIA serves a diverse range of Sheep Dogs, including military members, veterans, first responders, and their families, with targeted outreach and programming to meet the unique needs of each group. As the nation faces rising mental health challenges among veterans and first responders, SDIA’s programs provide essential tools for recovery and reintegration, addressing the estimated 30% of veterans and first responders who struggle with PTSD or depression.

Through transformative programs such as Outdoor Adventures (OA), Warrior PATHH, Disaster Response Missions (DRM), and Community Support, SDIA fosters connection and growth while reigniting a passion for service.

Outdoor Adventures (OA): Since its inception, SDIA has hosted over 253 Outdoor Adventures, sponsoring 3,616 Sheep Dogs on life-changing expeditions to iconic destinations like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Mt. Rushmore, and the Buffalo River. Each experience is meticulously planned to encourage Sheep Dogs to step outside their comfort zones, forge peer support networks, and find healing through shared adventure.

Warrior PATHH: SDIA is a top-performing partner with Boulder Crest Foundation, consistently meeting and exceeding expectations while piloting innovative program options to increase reach and capacity. Through this partnership, SDIA offers Warrior PATHH, the nation’s first-ever Posttraumatic Growth-based training program, designed to transform struggle into strength. To date, SDIA has hosted over 60 Warrior PATHH courses, with plans to increase offerings to 15-20 courses per year, serving 180-240 Sheep Dogs annually. Additionally, SDIA is developing Homefront PATHS, a new initiative to extend post-traumatic growth training to spouses, partners, and families of Sheep Dogs.

Heroes Ranch: Located in the heart of Northwest Arkansas, Heroes Ranch is SDIA’s flagship property, serving as a year-round facility for Warrior PATHH, Outdoor Adventures, leadership courses, and family retreats. The ranch’s Tuskegee Hall and planned covered equine arena provide a setting for healing through nature, animal therapy, and peer support. With the equine arena set for completion in 2025, Heroes Ranch will significantly expand its equine therapy program, increasing its capacity to serve more Sheep Dogs and their families.

Disaster Response Missions (DRM): From hurricanes to wildfires, SDIA’s Disaster Response Missions empower Sheep Dogs to continue serving their communities through organized relief efforts. This program also includes daily community support initiatives, assisting homeless veterans, elderly Sheep Dogs, and other vulnerable populations. Since 2010, SDIA has mobilized hundreds of Sheep Dogs for DRM efforts, delivering crucial aid to disaster-affected communities while providing a renewed sense of purpose to those who serve.

Community Support & Continued Service: SDIA promotes ongoing service as a path to healing, with initiatives ranging from holiday outreach to veteran home improvement projects, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and connection. With a commitment to serving those who served us, SDIA’s Community Support program has reached thousands of Sheep Dogs and their families, reinforcing the message that they are not alone in their struggles.

Join us in making a lasting impact. Your support helps us continue to provide life-changing programs that guide Sheep Dogs from struggle to strength, one adventure, mission, and course at a time.