This was an amazing experience. The facilitators were great to work with. The topics of talk and all. Chris and Nerita were awesome small group leaders. They were able to get me to share my live I’ve never done berfore.
We have a lovely group of participants. We all were respectful and shared our similar stories, helped one another out and had good talks while sharing resources.
This truly was an overall amazing event for me. I truly look forward to coming back with my man and the support person. I really feel we can benefit for shush a positive 3 day retreat.
Kristina was the best as well. She ensured we stayed on track of our schedule and events. Our food was always delicious and delivered to us. Aside from all that. The event was well put together and orderly.
This is highly recommended to go with your spouse, significant other, best friend, family or whow ever provides yous support. You will learn some new tools and proactively to help you through lovelock & with communication.
What a wonderful program!! This exceeded my expectations. Honestly was a bit nervous in the beginning, but the staff makes everyone feel welcome and every persons situation is as important as the others. The program is so well organized. Every lesson plan and activity are interesting and thought provoking. Some of the realizations I had were quite stunning but so, so needed!! I look forward to making changes in my life using the information I learned and brought home. I cannot say enough good things about this program. I am the support person / caregiver for my veteran husband who has many difficult challenges both mentally and physically due to a severe stroke. I am many times overwhelmed, afraid and tired. But I left there with a new sense of direction in a positive light. My perspective has shifted and I feel like our future journey together is in a positive, brighter light. Thank you to everyone, staff, veterans, and support people. You rock!
I have been married for 22 years and this by far SAVED our marriage. It has been a tough time since my deployment to Afghanistan. I have four teenagers that knew I had PTSD but my girl (wife) came out this weekend with a better understanding and was able to communicate that with our children. If I ever hit the lottery, MRS - Gratitude America will have all the funding they need to continue their mission. The staff was amazing! Best weekend ever! Very grateful for this program!
This experience was above my expectations. The skills my husband and I gained through this weekend will help change the dynamic of our relationship, it’s already started!! We reconnected. We connected on a much deeper level. We faced fears together. Thank you for not giving up on us veterans. I appreciate y’all so much!!
This program is life changing and the information is needed by all veterans. The staff made the experience very special with support and encouragement. Kristy took extra time with us and I am so grateful. It was very difficult to talk about some of my passed but I felt respected and safe. I shared about things I have never been able to talk about and I feel like I am finally beginning to heal. Every veteran should go to this program.
Coming here my partner and I were not in a great place. Because of the disconnect it was hard to communicate. After being here for just a few days. We were given workbooks, opportunity to speak in small groups and express Real concerns. By doing all these activities it helped both of us learn that we were not the Only ones and that there is a better way to deal with things. By the staff being ex participants it made the whole experience easier since they knew what we were going through. While here I notified my family members that are/were in the military that i knew could use the services here to make their day to day lives better.
Gratitude America is truly a great organization. I am truly grateful for being able to be apart of this organization. The retreat was absolutely amazing!!! I truly learned alot about myself. I will definitely encourage other veterans and their support person to go for it. It will definitely help you see perspective in a different light.
Gratitude America’s Military Support Retreat (MSR) deserves its 5-star rating. I felt an overwhelming sense of welcome, understanding, and purpose from the moment I arrived. What sets this retreat apart is its unique approach—it isn’t just about the veteran; it’s a 50/50 focus on the veteran and their support person. Whether it’s a spouse, family member, or close friend, the retreat recognizes that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It acknowledges that those who stand beside us through our struggles also need support, education, and a space to process their experiences.
One of the most impactful aspects of the retreat was how it balanced the needs of veterans and their support persons. We participated in group discussions, but there were also opportunities to break off into separate sessions to focus on our healing. This structure allowed me to gain insight into what my support person experienced while ensuring they had a space to share their feelings and challenges. It strengthened our communication, deepened our understanding of each other, and helped us grow together in ways we never expected.
Beyond the discussions, the retreat incorporated mindfulness exercises, outdoor activities, and scientifically backed therapeutic techniques that made a real difference. The combination of structured healing and informal camaraderie created an environment where I felt safe to open up. The staff, many of whom are veterans or family members of service members, understood our struggles firsthand and created a space filled with trust and empathy.
Another thing I truly appreciate is how accessible this experience is—it is entirely free for participants. Gratitude America ensures that financial concerns don’t stand in the way of healing, making this retreat available to those who need it most. From the high-quality programming to the seamless coordination, every aspect of the retreat reflected the organization’s deep commitment to veteran and family wellness.
Looking back, attending the MSR Retreat was a life-changing experience. It didn’t just help me—it helped my support person, strengthening our relationship. This 5-star program is among the best resources for veterans and those beside them. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to reconnect, heal, and move forward together.
The retreat helped my partner and me challenge ourselves to touch on difficult topics. We grew closer and enjoyed the activities Gratitude America set up for us. We both experienced personal growth by trying new things and gained a sense of appreciation for life.
I’m so happy me and my husband attended this retreat. It was right on time and rejuvenating for us. We learned a lot about each other and how to help each other. The staff was AMAZING and just made up compelled and comfortable to discuss issues even. I’ve never been able to speak about personal things in groups not even discussing issues with family and friends but i was so opened to hearing and sharing my experiences. I will definitely recommend this to soldiers and veterans who need help. I was sad to depart from everyone today .
There was great experiences and tremendous growth that probably wouldn’t have taken place if it wasn’t for the assistance of this non profit. The time and efforts that was taken was very calculated and purposeful in every way. Everything was truly AMAZING!!
Greetings my name is Seneca Mosley, My wife and I had the distinct pleasure of attending the Gratitude America retreat this past weekend. It was an eye opening experience that forces the veteran to reevaluate their view on life and it's circumstances. For anyone that served in any branch of the military,it is hard to express their experiences and they become so cought up in the trauma that they almost disconnect the very thought or consideration that their spouse, family members, and or support person experienced trauma as well. I'm grateful for having the opportunity to meet some extraordinary individuals. The Staff were second to none . They were attentive to the needs of everyone there and were very relatable. The facility was excellent and their staff were great as well. I have already recommended this experience to several individuals I know and I extremely grateful for having the opportunity to attend. My wife and I truly can say we learned a lot. Thanks once again Mr. & Mrs Mosley Together A team provoking change
My wife and I attended the Military Support Retreat at Banning Mills this past weekend. We learned new practices and it focused on bringing us together for the purpose of understanding communication and post traumatic growth. Banning Mills had nice hiking trails and excellent food. The staff is phenomenal. They were patient, caring, and made class material easy to follow. The overall experience has opened our eyes to new possibilities for growth in our relationship and for our future.
Helped me immensely with how to express myself in a positive way. I recommend them to all my military and first responder families.
My husband and I attended a retreat with GratitudeAmerica in October. It was a fantastic experience with caring and knowledgeable staff, wonderful experiences, great information, and a well-planned format. I can't say enough good things about this organization and the work they are doing with veterans and their support.
We were unsure of what to expect when we arrived at our Gratitude America retreat. My husband retired from the USAF after 20 years and 8 deployments. OEF, OIF, and Southern Watch, among others, he has struggled to communicate and connect. This weekend was a Godsend and we are so thankful for the amazing staff and volunteers that worked with us to promote healing in our Post Traumatic Growth, and in our connection to each other!
Thank you!!!
Spent the weekend at this event. I hope this event really helps some veterans, but I found it to be very tedious. On the first night I was ready to check out. Long stretches of lecture that was pretty slow paced and uninspired, days that stretch until 8 pm with so little gained. Connecting with veterans is usually great, but this structure didn't really allow anytime to connect outside of very controlled group sessions. I wish I had my time back. At least it was free...except we were billed for the hotel room, no big deal.
My husband and I, both 100% disabled veterans, were kicked out of the retreat on the third day for needing to take a nap in the late afternoon after spending the morning in the heat. Instead of allowing us to "prioritize self care", Kristi (an employed spouse with the charity) angrily banged on the door of our room as we were napping and demanded we attend or check out immediately. She seemed to think she should order a retired disabled combat veteran around because of "charity" while entirely forgetting the purpose of the retreat.
You do not own the veterans, Kristi, and you have some major anger management problems to work through before you should be allowed to work with disabled veterans again. We were prioritizing self care.
She then had the FULL 3 days of the hotel charged to our personal credit card. Gratitude America should not abuse the veterans. Gratitude America and Dennis Quaid also filmed a very intrusive "documentary" commercial while we were in attendance, so we'll probably be in the commercial even though we had to pay for all 3 nights in the hotel...I feel like there are some very questionable things going on at Gratitude America.
Not one single person from Gratitude America reached out to us after the incident with Kristi...which tells me they condone her behavior, lack of emotional regulation.
Really appreciated this retreat! Helped my husband and I better connect and gave us a good spring board for improvement.
An amazing experience that came at the perfect time for my support partner and I. The counselors and volunteers were the sweetest group of people I've ever met. This retreat taught us to live in the moment, stay grounded and never look in the rear view mirror. The activities were the prefect breathe of fresh air. The curriculum/ guide was very helpful. It almost felt like church and I lived every but of it. Thanks to everyone for the opportunity to learn and grow in love!
Amazing time and it was truly life changing. I will be recommending this to any vet that I know. All of the staff were amazing and very helpful.
I loved my time in Helen Ga. It was an immersive program. There were a lot of open wounds by both our support person and the Vets. It felt like getting rid of an infection not completely but we have the tools to complete get rit of this infection... I can't wait to meet this group again.
I felt hubby and I were on good communication prior to the retreat. Learned he was weighing a lot more than he'd wanted to admit before as 'the less I knew, the better."
We learned more than we thought we would. Goes to show no marriage is perfect. It's all work with perks.
The team was absolutely people I wanna know better and go to more retreats with!
Julie and Jeff McCarthy
This was the first retreat that I attended. The four days that I was there, I participated in sessions with veterans who were experiencing some of the same things that I was. We had in-depth discussions focused on ways to overcome these traumas. In addition, we participated in team building activities which focused on improving self esteem. The retreat, fully funded by Gratitude America, has helped me focus on areas in my life, that needs improvement. I am forever grateful for the advice, encouragement and support the team, as well as, my fellow veterans have given me.
I went as a support person and definitely enjoyed the 4 days being there! The staff was so amazing! I’m visually impaired and I got around just fine. The staff helped me with my fear of water, I went kayaking. The staff helped me with my fear of heights, I ziplined! I also for the first time attended a bonfire and tried a s’more for the first time! I didn’t have to worry about meals, snacks etc! I met a lot of beautiful people, it felt like a family reunion! The lodge was nice and clean! I learned a lot of knowledge information to better my life! Thank you for letting me endure the experience!
The location, the staff and the limited size of participants made this a good learning experience. I rated it 4 stars due to the food quality, most of which was outside of the staffs control (cold food, fast food, junk food) and small organization things. Specifically better signs to the meeting room for the first day. Suggest highlighting it on the map that we are given when we checked in. I have taken away tools to incorporate into my daily life to continue forward in PTG. This is a must retreat.
My husband and I have never attended a veterans retreat before. This whole experience has been an unexpected blessing. Not only did they provided tools and support for the veterans but they also provided space for the veterans support person. This positive experience has brought us so much peace. We have been utilizing what we have learned from this retreat, and that we are very thankful to each, and every person that had donated, volunteered, took charge and led each one of us towards a healthy route. Thank you to each person from this past weekend in Helen, Georgia . We are so grateful for this experience and for this organization. I highly recommend to everyone and I will continue to spread the word about this group. Thank you so much.
My veteran and I came into this retreat on Thursday broken and barely speaking. It was definitely 2 steps forward and 3 backwards most of the retreat, but, with the help of Nicole and her encouragement for me, Sunday morning was the breakthrough for us both. If it wasn’t for this retreat, we would of been just another statistic
I have been through the Military Support Retreat and Warrior PATHH with Gratitude America and they have both been fantastic for several reasons.
1) The staff is extremely knowledgeable and patient with attendees
2) Everything is provided. These retreats really did provide me an opportunity to forget about what I’m going to eat for dinner and focus on myself for a few days.
3) Intentionality of the training. Everything I did on these retreats, from classroom training to outdoor experiences, are designed to promote mental, physical, and emotional wellness.
4) Trauma informed approach. I have never been forced to do anything. Everything this organization does provides me an opportunity to grow. If I choose not to participate in the growth at that moment the staff responds respectfully and kindly.
5) They follow up and provide opportunities to continue learning and growing after the event.
My husband and I attended one of Gratitude America's Military Support Retreats in 2018 and we were immediately impressed with the professionalism and care shown by the staff. We had a great experience and took home new practices which have strengthened our marriage and inspired us to grow as individuals. I can't say enough good things about this organization. If you're considering applying for a retreat, do it. You will never regret attending. And if you are a donor, thank you for supporting this fantastic organization.
This non profit is absolutely incredible me and my wife visited an msr marriage retreat in Georgia with them! Highly recommend them to any military couple or veteran couple absolutely 5 stars I would give 10 if I could!!!!!
I attended the Warrior Pathh program through Gratitude America Fla . October 2023
Going in blind is a scary thing -
Entering a post-traumatic growth retreat ( PATHH ), I carried the weight of past trauma's , everything that comes with a 1st responder life and a Traumatic childhood , unsure of what the future held. Little did I know that within the confines of this retreat, I would find the seeds of resilience and the path to personal transformation, confronted the shadows of my past head-on. I was broken down into pieces and put back together again, The Pathh Guides never left my side, They walked me through every minute of every module and post trauma growth started to take place.
I began to unravel the layers of trauma, acknowledging its impact on my life.
In the safe haven of this Retreat, I embarked on a journey of cultivating resilience. Surrounded by supportive facilitators /Guides and fellow participants, I learned to reframe trauma and experiences as an opportunity for growth, finding strength in vulnerability and resilience.
Through group discussions and shared experiences, I discovered the healing power of human connection. Bonds formed with fellow survivors provided solace and support, reminding me that I was not alone on this journey.
I dove deep into the depths of self-discovery. Through mindfulness practices and reflective exercises, I unearthed hidden strengths, passions, and purpose, reclaiming ownership of my narrative and identity.
, I emerged from the retreat with a renewed sense of hope and optimism for the future.
With coping strategies and a support network of fellow survivors, I embarked on the next chapter of my life with courage and conviction. I will never forget what this place did for me, I was given a second chance at life.
As I reflect on my journey through Warrior Pathh , I am filled with gratitude for the profound impact it has had on my life. From confronting the past to embracing the future, the retreat served as a catalyst for my personal transformation, empowering me to thrive beyond adversity and embrace the fullness of life. Though the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, I walk forward with confidence, knowing that I am stronger, wiser, and more resilient because of the journey I have undertaken.
If your reading this and donate to this organization, Know that this works and the lives saved are real, What they did in 7 days , I could not do in 3 decades with therapies and meds and dr’s . That it’s self is testament to what happens here – TRUE MIRACLES !!!!
My husband went here in MAY and saved his life as well ( 30 year combat Vet)
Attended Military Support Retreat with my best friend in Helen, GA in January. The staff guided us through some difficult conversations. I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to begin my healing journey here with this amazing organization. Thank you GratitudeAmerica!
First, I have to say what an amazing experience this 4-day retreat was, not only for my husband but for myself as well. From the knowledge that was provided, to the large and small group interactions, friendships that were made and the stronger connection with my husband, I feel all Vets should participate in something like this. My husband journey is far from over, but with the help and support of Gratitude America he will continue to improve and be a better person because of the hearts of these amazing people. Thank you for who you are and what you all are doing for our Vets.
This organization have excellent staff, tools, and great resources that can help veterans, their support system. Their retreat is something I recommend to all veterans and their supporters due that will grant you a view as a veteran and/or support on how to manage what everyone is going through.
We had a very impactful weekend learning better ways to deal with post traumatic and grow from it in a positive manner. I would highly recommend any veteran and support member to sign up.
Needed programming GA program does a very good job at guiding veterans in a safe environment mentally and socially. GA turns a group of strangers into friends. Some quicker than others! I would love to come again and again.
They make the veteran and their support person feel special. They allowed us to relax and we got great info and tools to help each other out.
Great program for honorable veterans that served in hostile and combat environments for our country. It's provides a comfortable zone to share what we've gone through without blame or embarrassments. It promotes healing tools along with the input of our care supporter. Classroom discussions and activities within the veteran and supporter range. A GREAT PROGRAM. Please support so this program will continue in healing of ALL Veterans. We SERVED PROUDLY! GREAT Staff to facilitate. 5 plus stars.
Staff is passionate and ensures each participant receives an experience that will serve them toward growth within themselves and their relationships.
This Non profit is well organized and provide excellent leaders and instructors. We were in amazing hands and can't wait to come back. Accommodations were top notch and we were fed well. Only recommendation is maybe taller charts so whole class can see while taking notes
I recently had the honor of attending a retreat facilitated by GratitudeAmerica, and it was an experience that will stay with me for a lifetime. One of the standout moments was our visit to Whispering Meadows Ranch in Flagler Beach, Florida. Surrounded by lush green pastures and towering oak trees, we engaged in a deeply therapeutic equine interaction. The connection we forged with the horses, notably Jackson, Cheyenne, and Lolipop, was profound, showcasing the incredible healing power of these noble creatures.
Whispering Meadows Ranch is not just a venue; it's a beacon of hope and healing. Their unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of those with disabilities and special needs is evident in their equine-assisted programs. With the guidance of PATH Certified Riding Instructors, our session was not only safe but also deeply transformative.
The journey didn't stop there. GratitudeAmerica also introduced us to the wonders of Marineland, where we had a heartwarming dolphin experience. The bond we felt with these intelligent marine beings was beyond words, adding another dimension to our healing process.
In essence, GratitudeAmerica, in collaboration with places like Whispering Meadows Ranch and Marineland, has created a haven for veterans. It's a sanctuary where we rediscover peace, undergo healing, and reignite our sense of purpose. I am immensely grateful for this enriching experience and wholeheartedly recommend GratitudeAmerica to any combat veteran in search of a transformative journey.
I love this organization so much. After attending I believed so much in it that I became a volunteer
We are so grateful and proud to be a part of the GratitudeAmerica Family! GA saved us, and changed us forever. Growth is possible, healing is real, joy is attainable.
My boyfriend has struggled with PTS, Moral Injury, anxiety, and depression for years, before and after he served. When we attended our first Military Support Retreat, he was a shell. He wanted to be better and do better, but didn’t know how. That was seven months ago. Since then he has enrolled in college and is working everyday to grow and heal. This past weekend we attended our second retreat, and got to reunite with our MSR Family. Their support and love has lifted us up even higher. He’s attending Warrior PATHH in a few months, and I am so incredibly proud of him.
The support given to military support persons is unlike anything I have ever experienced. No one can heal alone, and attending a program that puts as much emphasis on my own healing as well as his has changed my life forever. We can move forward in life as a team, lifting each other up as we go.
This smile. It wasn’t frequent on his face just a few months ago. But now, when he talks about the future, he beams. He has found joy, and hope again. We owe it all to the tools and support we have received from GratitudeAmerica. The work is worth it. You are worth it!
Thank you. From the very depth of my (healing!) soul, thank you.
Great organization that helped me and my wife going through some hard times. Went to the retreat in 2020 in Amelia Island FL
As a Advisory Board Member for Gratitude America, I can't say enough about the work that Michael and his team do with their Warrior PATHH and Military Support Retreats. Over the last three years, I have seen first hand the Military Support Retreat programs in action in Sarasota. Every member of their nonprofit from Michael, the Executive Director, to the PATHH Guides and their support team, are exceptional individuals that give 100% to their veteran programs.
I highly recommend Gratitude America to any veteran, family, support person, or first responder that is experiencing trauma and may need critical support, or healing, restorative retreats. I am proud and honored to be part of this amazing nonprofit.
This weekend (November 1-4) was the first veteran oriented retreat I've ever attended. I had been apprehensive about these types of events in the past. However, from the very beginning of the application process, the coordinating staff were very informative, enthusiastic, polite, and accommodating. When we arrived the staff were very friendly and down to earth. They encouraged all of us to commit and enjoy what they had to offer and they did not disappoint. There was no obligation to open yourself up and share your feelings, but they had a way of making you comfortable enough to do so. I believe this is essential to make progress in the healing process. The events were fun. The food was great, and again, the staff was fantastic. Last, and definitely not least, we met the founders. You will never meet a more genuine and patriotic couple who truly want to give back to the veteran community. I am grateful for having the chance to experience what Gratitude America has to offer and I would recommend it to any and all veterans and their caregivers.
My husband Scotty and I were just there for the Amelia Island Beach retreat. I can't say enough how much we learned from the team. Mike, Anne, Tracy, Dillan, Mike, Abbie, Ashley, George, Jack, & the interns...probably forgot several of the members but they were so helpful in a time that was needed in our life. Lewis and Jonie joined us on the River Cruise of historic Amelia Island and it was a delight. Every aspect of the retreat was planned wonderfully. We were able to connect with so many like minded veterans it made a lasting impact to lead to long friendships. We hope to be able to meet up with everyone again. THank you so much for supporting those who need it most.
Atruly wonderful organization that has helped me as a spouse and husband as a soldier. The experiences and counseling received has helped me and my spouse reconnect and strengthen our relationship. Thank you Gratitude America!
My wife and I attended our first retreat at Marineland in April. We were asked to come back for the June retreat in Georgia as the senior couple. I can honestly say we both think Gratitude America has saved our marriage. We have been through several deployments together and have grown apart. I had recently told her I felt like she was my roommate. Gratitude America showed us two things. One was a much better way to communicate and understand each other. Two was that we are still a family even when our kids are not around. The mixture between classroom and outside activities is exactly what we needed. Since then we have gone back to visit a few places we did our activity that. We have also volunteered at one of the Gratitude America 5K races. We are so excited to try the family retreat in November. I have spoken with many of my veteran friends and have urged them to look into going to a retreat.
Pat and I attended the very first Marineland Retreat. It was amazing and very eye opening. It was great for Pat to talk with other vets and understand that he is not alone in his battle with PTSD. Joni and Jordan Lewis are the most compassionate and kind people I had met in a long time. Their story of "why" this organization and mission is exceptional. The outpouring of community support is amazing! We try to help with support whenever possible. This is truly a nonprofit organization and its adminisyators are honestly strictly volunteer. We hope to see it grow and help so many more veterans.
I can’t say enough good things about this organization and the retreat we attended this past weekend in Stone Mountain, GA. Their mission is awesome and you can tell that they really care and put an enormous amount of effort into helping veterans and their support person heal. The organizers and facilitators were awesome and made coming to this retreat fun and exciting, even though it was physically and emotionally hard at times. I would and have recommended this organization and their retreats to many veterans in need already. Thank you for all you do Gratitude America to support veterans and their families!