Ran trips for this organization as a captain. Kelley is great and everyone there has always been great to help veterans CAPTAIN JOHN BATY
I recently had the honor and pleasure of meeting Kelly Kowal, the founder of My Warrior's Place. I chose her organization to which to make a gift of an appliance along with a monetary gift because of my strong belief that she is one of the true helpers in our country. While many of our politicians are in deadlock and vying for media attention, Kelly is taking action and making a difference in the lives of first responders, veterans, and their families. Please support her efforts.
The first time that we camped at MyWarrior’s Place I felt the peace & serenity. Kelly Kowall is an amazing & caring person & always checked in to be sure we were doing alright!! Since that first time we have gone back 4 times & every time is just as amazing as the first. We love you Kelly!!!
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My husband (Vietnam Nam era) & I were there for 3 months, December 28th 2018 until April 5th 2019. I have never been to such a quiet & serene place. The founder, Kelly, long time volunteers, Mike, Rose & Gina are amazing people, they all make you feel like family!! We loved it so much that we are returning this December for 3 months!!
Kelly and team run an outstanding organization for our veteran community. We met her when we first moved to Ruskin. MWP is a gem for our veterans and their families.
My son and I went to a recent event at their new Charlotte county location. The work they do to honor and help heal Veterans and their families is extraordinary. This business relocating to our area is a gift to our community.
This place and Kelly's mission for her son and anyone's sons, husband's, friends ect... is what this world needs more of. We need to be caring for our veterans and their families in every possible way for their ultimate sacrifices. And My Warriors Place does just that.
My Warrior’s Place does amazing work! I know someone that stayed there while battling his PTSD. He has told me numerous times that My Warrior’s Place saved his life. Thank you for all you do!!
Kelley and staff are an amazing group. After my father in law passed( Vietnam Veteran) I was left searching for answers and looking for ways to help veterans. I stumbled across MWP and am so glad I did. I met Kelley, heard her story and knew she was a genuine, caring person. Her relentless pursuit to help those in need is unmatched and her perseverance is inspiring. I wish I had more time to volunteer but I hope one day soon that will be the case. The work they do there is amazing and I’m so grateful to have been a very small part of their history. Thank you Kelly for all you do. Best wishes.
My Warriors Place was there for me and my family in our time of need. The helped provided resources and recreational equipment for us that helped us navigate our circumstances with ease
I am a USMC veteran. I went and stayed out there for the weekend with other miltary veterans. Was such an amazing relaxing weekend. This place truly deserves a lot of reconogization.
I have spent a couple nights at My Warriors Place and I can’t tell enough people how beautiful and amazing this place is. Everyone there is so caring
In 2019 we had the pleasure of staying at MWP for a few days due to a hurricane in Cocoa Florida. MWP was a true Blessing, the place is so Beautiful and Kelly has a Heart of Gold. Then in June of 2021 we got to go back to MWP for my Granddaughter's Birthday. The cabin we stayed in was breath taking.
The love and devotion at my warrior's place is beyond words. The heart and compassion they show veterans is one of kind. I cant sat enough hood things about this wonderful retreat for veterans indeed.
I was totally amazed at this non profit. The help and support given to the veterans and first responders of all kinds is incredible.
This is the most amazing retreat. The amount of programs and help that is give is beyond amazing. I highly recommend My Warrior's Place.
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When I first came to My Warrior’s Place I never realized the impact that this nonprofit would have in my life.
I discovered MWP / MSDP about 1 year and 4 months ago. Since then I have seen miracles happen, people be transformed ( including myself) , and pure joy on the faces of numerous people.
I have realized that volunteering became to having a bond family. These people are essential in my life.
The growth all the programs offered to firefighters, police and service members (active and veterans) is amazing.
I am personally grateful to Kelly Kowall , she personally made some of the most difficult moments in my life so much easier. It is through Kelly’s heart and caring nature that makes My Warrior’s Place the sanctuary it is today.
I believe in my heart that she is the kindest, most amazing lady . She works endlessly for the nonprofit. Kelly has been inspiring and instrumental in my life having more drive and purpose.
My Warrior's Place provided much needed help for an Air Force Vet and his 2 sons. A member of Knights of Columbus Assembly #3418 and a member of St. Stephen Parish in Riverview, FL for many years he had been on a very rocky road in 2019. He was a disabled cardiac patient and his wife had been struggling with cancer for several years before passing in October of 2019. He and his two sons (one going into the seminary and one a senior in High School) were evicted from their home in early November 2019. They were all living in one room at a hotel but the finances for the family were very limited. In December 2019 My Warrior's Place graciously provided temporary housing and his family for over 12 months at little to no cost. I, and the other members of The Knights of Columbus Assembly , are forever grateful to My Warrior's Place for this huge act of kindness to one of our members, who is since deceased.
- Mark Lovejoy
This place is top notch. I am a Desert Storm Veteran. I was able to go hear on a retreat. I have picked up a few things to help me manage my PTSD. The volunteers and Kelly Kowall are awesome in what they do to help veterans.
This place is amazing and so peaceful. I have visited here and didn’t want to leave. The staff is friendly and professional. Love My Warriors Place
CW5 (R) Sonia Rivers
U S Army
This place is amazing. The staff there are awesome. Kelly is the best. Her son is proud of her, with out a doubt. Thank you for making his wish a reality.
My warriors place helped my husband and our family out tremendously in our time of need. It was such a blessed experience!
My Warriors Place is a wonderful, caring refuge for veterans, first responders and their families in times of need. Kelly and her staff unselfishly give of their time and love to help others.
The dedication and purpose of this sanctuary is heartwarming. To have a place where warrior’s can rest and be themselves with no judgement is invaluable.
I donated to MWP by reading their mission statement, then I started to volunteer for them at Cool Today Park and the people representing the organization were so wonderful I wanted to do more. Later I again donated and visited the property of My Warriors Place and met the people who spend day to day there and I was blown away by the gentle, sincere love they give to all. Once you meet Kelly you only want to do more and more to support her. Upon meeting Chad and the wonderful work he does with veterans dogs you realize how impactful all their work changes the lives of veterans. But it does much more than that, it changes you for the better. Whether you spend time volunteering or sending a monetary donation or participating at one of their fundraisers it will change your life while helping others. Pure goodness, that is what I think of everyone I meet from My Warriors Place while driving home after every event❤️
I was there while on a vacation, my cousin took me there. And my husband and I fell in love. The peace and tranquility of this area. The way it is set up for all the military men and women, it is amazing. I love that this is here for them to come to when they need to, and just relax and get away from it all.
From just sitting, to boating,or just taking a kayaking, or using one of the bungalows.
This place is perfect, A definite must place to go to. And being a nonprofit donations help it run.
This place is a sanctuary for active duty, first responders, and veterans. Their mission to make our brave and honorable people has been successful. Many things to do or just sit around the fire. Check this nonprofit organization.
My Warrior’s Place has been a blessing to my grieving friends.
A wonderful ministry to volunteer and to provide a place for veterans and their loved ones in honor of Kelly’s son
I had the pleasure to volunteer there, very Amazing place. Everyone who works there is so positive supporting and have that special sparkle that bring us joy. Definitely will be back to do more hair cuts. Much love
A true non-profit meant to assist those who have stood by their country and those who have sacrificed a loved one for this country! It is my honor to support this organization and I hope you shall find it to be yours as well. There is non better!
GJ Mac
I helped volunteer doing maintenance work at My Warriors Place. It was a time when Kelly was just starting her project.
Since then she has headed up growth and services to veterans that no one else has done. My Warriors Place is a superior service to those in need.
When my wife and I visited My Warriors Place for the first time and met Ms Kelly Kowal I was very moved by what My Warriors Place was and how devoted Ms Kowal was and to her story.
I can with all honesty say I had never heard of My Warriors Place until my wife saw a clip on the local news station. We went and checked out the facilities and spent the night there and chatted with fellow veterans and found out the true meaning of My Warriors Place. I could go into detail of what an awesome place My Warriors Place is but the best advice is to go check it out. My wife and I are Veterans and it was AWESOME to be able to connect with other veterans and talk about our adventures.
I picked My Warriors Place to donate to for my birthday this year and easily exceeded my $200 goal donations!
This is well past a 5 star organization that I highly recommend to check out and enjoy what is offered.
This organization invited me to an event that would benefit my well-being as a military veteran. Not only did the event help me, but I was also impressed by the hospitality and passionate involvement in helping military veterans and first responders.
I've been involved with my warriors place for almost 10 years. Kelly and her team are super hard workers and the place is pretty amazing!
I found out about My Warrior's Place from my girlfriend who knew the area. After our first visit we found out about the amazing story behind the place, and have now made our second visit. All the staff are welcoming and awesome. We had Will as our Captain for our boat trip and he was extremely knowledgeable on the history of the areas we visited and did a great job. I was able to relax after dealing with a lot of stress, and as a Vet, this place is a much needed hidden gem!
I came here as a guest when I needed a place to stay while looking for a new home. The owner and volunteers were extremely gracious and helpful. That was over six months ago and I am still here as a full time volunteer and resident. I have dedicated my life to giving back to a wonderful charity that fills a much needed hole in the veterans experience. I believe in the mission and the properties potential wholeheartedly and will continue to work for its future everyday as I did find a home after all in a great place!!!
I have been volunteering at MWP for over 2 years and it never ceases to amaze me. It is ever evolving and adapting to the needs of the people it is there to support. It takes a special group of people to keep it running but their dedication shows. I have seen and heard countless guests say how much they have enjoyed being there and how they are so thankful to have a place to rejuvenate their mind and body. I have taken advantage of some of the programs offered but I get the most satisfaction from doing my part to enable them to continue to provide much needed services to the community. Here are some photos from past service projects I have been a part of to make MWP a better place.
My husband was able to participate in a retreat. What he experienced and learned was priceless. He came home with many useful techniques to handle stress and a renewed level of self confidence. I am so grateful to My Warriors Place for providing quality programs and a relaxing atmosphere for veterans and first responders. Thank to everyone who is involved.
Last weekend the the honor and privilege to be lucky enough to be invited to attend a retreat at My Warriors Place. Kelly and Irene are amazing ladies providing a extraordinary service to our Veteran’s and First Responders. They are providing valuable emotional support tools to help promote healing of the mind and soul. There is something for everyone to take away from the retreat. Especially if you have already been exposed this type of support system. They offer a lot of different perspectives to the healing process that you may have not of been familiar with, which makes their program very unique. I highly recommend that all my brothers and sisters in the Veteran and First Responder community to look into My Warriors Place and try to attend their next retreat. Thank you Kelly and Irene for your dedication to serving a much needed niche for Florida’s Veterans and First Responders. Well done.
My Warrior’s Place is a gem of a place for me and my family. I recently moved back home to Florida and found this place just 26 minutes away. I’m a 100% disabled retired US Army combat veteran. I suffer from my 4 1/2 years of combat experiences and find My Warrior’s Place to be a tranquil and therapeutic oasis where you can totally relax. It a great safe place to go to where you can forget your troubles and just clear your mind. The tropical landscape and beautiful memorial garden areas are very inviting with many areas you can comfortably sit and hang out. They many other amenities they offer such as affordable cottage rentals, free kayak and canoe use, a pontoon boat four sightseeing tours on the Little Manatee River, a fishing charter boat, and even a few RV sights.. My Warrior’s Place has even more to offer that you’ll have to check out for yourself. I’m especially great full that this place also welcomes First Responders as well.I really can’t describe just how beautiful this little place is and the warmth that embraces you as you explore the grounds. I’m feeling so blessed to have such a great resource nearby to relax and enjoy with my family!
Love this place! Our family has enjoyed many trips and come back home closer than ever!
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Great organization doing impactful work in our region. Collaboration with other nonprofits for the benefit of those they serve is also noteworthy.
I am a Navy Veteran and in July, I needed to go have treatment for alcoholism! One thing holding me back from getting the care I needed was that I had no one to take care of my little 15y/o dog. The VA found My Warrior's Place and the Service Dog program there. They took care of Umi and allowed me the time to get better. They have been so supportive and caring, friendly and kind and I can't thank them enough for what they have done for me and Umi! I was lucky enough to get to attend the Warrior's Retreat offered a few weekends ago and it was amazing and so informative....I learned a lot! I will forever be a volunteer to this amazing group of people and the programs they provide to support Veterans and First Responders!
Postive caring people who do wonderful work for the veteran, Gold Star families, & first responder community.
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A great place for veterans and family to visit . Having stayed there several times within the last few months, has been a pleasant experience. Staff is more that helpful and the amenities offered are amazing ! Plus the location on the water is awesome.
MWP is the real deal of veteran charities. It's very different from WWP and others who take a significant overhead out of donations. Every dollar counts here and they make meaningful use out of what they have.
It’s a great place to unwind. It is quiet and peaceful. Great restaurants nearby. It’s an oasis from life.
This is by far my favorite place to volunteer and to promote. To play even a small part in the mission of MWP is satisfying. I'm also a veteran that uses MWP to disconnect, unwind, and rejuvenate. I find the solitude and atmosphere to be almost healing.
Dedication of all involved makes all the difference. Good people providing a service that so many truly need. Nothing but positive feeling about this place!
My Warrior's Place (MWP) in Ruskin gladly allowed the MacDill Air Force Base Chapel and 6th Air Refueling Wing/COCOM First Sergeants to hold our annual fellowship. In addition, MWP was gracious enough to give us a tour on their pontoon around the bay. Couldn't have asked for more camraderie and patronage.
v/r
MSgt Wesley "Wes" Walker
6 OG First Sergeant
The fund raising by My Warriors Place to provide a sanctuary for Veterans to reflex, compose and relax is exceptional I believe. So much is available to the Veteran and family too.
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My wife and I , both Air Force vets, had the privilege of staying a few days at My Warrior's Place this past June. We had a wonderful time and can attest to the restorative power that the retreat has. We admire the work that Kelly Kowall continues to do for our service members, veterans, and first responders.
Guy & Lorie McDonald
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Wow. What an incredible concept "My Warriors Place" is. From the moment I learned about this place, I have been enamored with it. You see, I lost my son, SPC. Zane McDonald, after he returned from a combat tour in Iraq. The loss of our son has radically changed our lives. We can relate to Kelly and what she has gone through. What Kelly has done to honor her son by helping military members, wounded warriors, veterans, blue star and gold star families, and first responders is inspiring. Kelly gave me a tour or My Warriors Place today. After she showed me around, we just sat for a bit and talked about our sons. I'm blown away by what Kelly and her network of volunteers and donors have been able to accomplish in the last seven years.
This non-profit operates with integrity and kindness and looks out for the well being of our uniformed warriors, all those that serve our country. Providing a place to relax, take a break, enjoy the great outdoors and love on their family. These folks truly care and will go to lengths to serve those who come here for some richly deserved time to breathe. The community is very proud of this non-profit. Down -to-earth good folks!!
Nothing short of a life saver. I came seeking purpose. I needed a peaceful environment to find myself again. I had almost nothing when I arrived. My Warrior’s Place gave me everything I needed to rebuild and hasn’t stopped giving since I arrived. Most importantly, they gave me purpose. They gave me a reason to exist. I feel like I’m part of something important, making a difference, for the first time in a really long time. So thankful I found this place when I did.
Awesome place for veterans, especially those that are. Stressed or in a bad place, great way to reset with like minded people
The folks at My Warriors Place are super friendly and welcoming. The work that they do for Service Members, Veterans and their families is definitely appreciated. I took my boys fishing out there and was able to use their canoes on the river. The boys loved it. Thank you MWP for all you do.
They have given soo much to families with members in the armed forces or emergency services by providing a safe and fun place for families to relax and escape from reality for a little.
22 soldiers committ suicide on average per day... A year ago that number was was 21 because of people like CSM Mike... I can't possibly thank MWP enough. I am alive because of this place I think that should tell you enough.
My Warrior's Place is absolutely wonderful. My family and I were blessed to be sponsored and able to come to this serene location. We were able to fish, ride bikes, kayak, cook s'mores and so much more. My husband was able to see a hypnotist for some personal issues (sleep, etc.). Kelly was a absolute delight to be around. Mike and Kara were so helpful and a joy. We will definitely be returning next year!
This operation serves a HUGE purpose to aid our service men and women who need a way to find a purpose and peace in their lives. It is amazing how tirelessly they work and let no obstacle stand in the way of their mission. OohRah !
I have watched My Warrior's Place from close to the beginning. The things that impress me are that most of the donations go directly to helping wounded warriors and Five Star Mothers and Fathers as most of help and expenses are donated by volunteers. They are motivated because of the effectiveness of helping. They have a quality program helping returning warriors deal with emotional issues they bring home. God bless My Warrior's Place.
My warrior place is a sanctuary for veterans and everyday hero’s police fire fighters etc.... Kelly has truly created a peaceful place to relax and you makes you feel like you belong. ⚓️
My Warriors place truly is an escape for veterans. It’s peaceful and truly a place that a veteran can let down their guard while there. Kelley and Mike are amazing people and what they are trying to do really is special.
I am amazed at the growth and impact MWP has been able to make in such a short period of time! So many lives touched and so many more to come!
I have found a new heroine and an indescribable facility. My Warrior's Place provides a multitude of free and vital services to military and first responders. Kelly Kowall started this project in memory of her son, Corey, who was killed in Afghanistan. I have watched MWP grow for the past 2 years and listened to stories told by those who have received help there. To my knowledge, MWP is the only facility that provides care of this kind for military and first responders. Kelly is my heroine!!
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For the past 9 years my husband and I have conducted a Veteran's Day golf tournament at The Groves Golf & Country Club in Land O Lakes, Florida. This year we were looking for a new charity and were introduced to Kelly Kowall of My Warrior's Place (MWP) in Ruskin, Florida. Kelly gave us a tour of the facility she started in honor of her son, Corey, who was killed in Afghanistan. It is truly an amazing place, "founded in honor of all the brave men and women who wore a military uniform and died while serving...dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our Veterans, Military Service Members, First Responders, and Blue, Silver & Gold Star Families....Giving the gift of hope and healing to those who give us the gift of freedom!" Our goal is to help Kelly install a chairlift for wheelchair bound heroes to access healing services. The property consists of some housing and amenities that include but are not limited to: canoes, kayaks, paddle boat, fishing equipment, fire pit, gas grills, bicycles, .... Kelly and her volunteers are truly dedicated to making our world a better place for many who need to be cared for and thanked for the sacrifices they have made and continue to make for our freedom. Thanks, Kelly!!
My husband is medically retired law enforcement and I am active law enforcement. We stayed at MWP spring of 2019 and it was fantastic!!! Amenities and staff were very accommodating! Kelly was very nice and made herself available when needed! 100% will go back and enjoy the relaxing, peaceful, home away from home type get away!
Kind hearted, well mannered, well received, and loving organization. They received me and my family with open arms and provide excellent and exceptional service. Will return a 100 times.
My group sends cards to MWP! Appreciation is expressed and we feel like we are part of the healing of these Warriors! The interaction on FB by the organization shows an interest in the participants as well as the public! It’s a privilege to be a “part” of it all!
I’m a veteran. When I got out, I fell on serious hard times. I didn’t seek out help. And my warriors place found me through connections. They helped out in ways I can never repay. I’ll have their back until I die. Outstanding nonprofit. Outstanding leaders in their organization.
Outstanding opportunity for what our military, veterans, their families, and Gold Star families need to gain perspective. Kelly strives to offer what our military (past, current, and future - and their families) need to carry on.
A haven for veterans and their families.
A beautiful , serene , waterfront retreat. Statistics show that veterans on the water decrease their anxiety, anger, improved mental illness , and ptsd.
Kelly, a gold star Mother, has provided this inexpensive retreat to our community. Worthy of a visit if you are in the area
They help veterans in their time of need and work with other local businesses to provide other services, as well.
This place is amazing! They have so many different things you can do there and Kelly is amazing. There are places to stay, you can go kayaking, go out on the boat and fellowship with other veterans. They offer all kinds of activities please check this place out!
Love volunteering here, great resource for veterans like no other, peaceful surroundings and support for those who sacrificed the most!
I attended a retreat with them! They r absolutely all abt veterans. U couldn't ask for a better organization. Thank u all for what u do.
My family and I stayed here in July of 2019. We had a wonderful time and enjoyed our reservation very much.

Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
Thanks! Appreciate your review!
The feeling of pure serenity when driving on to this property is amazing!! The work they do for Veterans is beyond words!

Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
I am glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for writing the review!
So happy a place like this exists for Veterans! Their mission is clear and they are truly helping our men and woman who have served our great nation

Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
Thank you Wendy. And thank you for the review!
I personal have never been to My Warriors place in Ruskin Florida yet! But through Returning The favor, I found my hearts place to donate monthly. I Believe in what the founder has made possible & truly LOVE her back story & how this all started. I'm not rich but wanted to find a small way to help, & my heart found my Warrior's Place. I hope to visit next time I'm in Florida. Wonderful people, a truly wonderful place for Gold Star family's to heal!
My Warrior's place is a step above. With open arms they are their for those who need a place to recharge, retreat and find themselves again. With out regard to them selves they give..and give...a d give. Truly heaven sent.

Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
Thanks William. And thank you so much for taking your time to give us a review!
My husband has been really stressed and having issues with anger, we came here and talked to Mike and Kara then went onpaddle boating and kayaking ride he said this is what he needed just to get away and to know people care.

Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
Glad we can be here to help. Thank you for the review!
My husband and I have been volunteering for about a year now. Everything that happens here is by donations and volunteers. There’s something about it that makes you feel about what your doing and I can’t explain but you feel the lost lives are touching you and saying thank you for not forgetting us. It’s really s amazing place that lets men and woman we did not forget about you. Also mAny places to stay at My Warriors Place with boating and fishing and councling when needed It’s a wonderful place where you can come and get used to civilian life again and leave better for it. If you haven’t been there please go and see it. It’s a wonderful place that does wonderful things for the people who sacrificed so much for us and our country.

Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
Lucy... so glad to have you volunteering. And thank you so much for taking your time to give us a review!
I have both a radio and TV show and they have appeared on both. Prior to their appearance, i did my due diligence to be sure they were as the said they were and honestly they are much more. The service they provide for veterans is beyond compare from both a compassion side and economic side. Every dollar given to them goes directly into the multiple programs they manage. Among the local veteran's community, they are held in very high regard. Most if not all of our veterans clubs and organizations support them to one extent of the other with money and volunteers. A dollar given to them is truly a support for a vet in need. see the TV show I did with them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TN6xcdPqL_8&t=1378s
My Warrior's Place is a great place to come and visit. You can fish off the docks, use the canoes and kayaks, or just simply relax and unwind. The cottages are gorgeous and fully furnished. The staff try to be helpful and friendly. I love this place.
My Warrior's Place gives you a sense of Peace when you drive through the entrance. I have seen veterans come out of their shells on a Retreat. One Vet came all the way from Georgia with her dog. Until the day she decided she was coming to Florida, she wouldn't go anywhere but knew she had to come for the Grief Program. I helped at the event but was not in the programs but the difference in this Lady was amazing. That's just one example. There are lots more.
I've never seen an organization as dedicated to their cause as My Warriors Place. Not a penny is wasted. Most support is volunteer. They work 24/7 to improve quality of the premises and programs and are always willing to lend a hand when needed to support military and first responders, whether active or retired. I can't say enough good things about them.
My family and I were homeless and this wonderful lady and her 2 lovely co workers came to the rescue when we had no luck in finding funding, also gave us a place to stay so we could bond as a whole family...ny warriors place is such a wonderful little get away for families ❤️
I have seen first hand how healing My Warrior's Place is for those who come the retreat center. It is truly amazing what has been accomplished in just 5 years. The grounds are so beautiful and so peaceful. You can't really capture how special this place is in words, you have to come and experience it for yourself.
My Warriors Place is truly a one of a kind non-profit organization that really cares about local veterans, active duty military, and first responders. As a student from Gannon University who is getting my doctorate in Occupational Therapy I was given the opportunity to do a fieldwork level 1 with Kelly and learned about all of the different things her organization offers. My Warriors Place has so many levels, not only do they provide affordable lodging in well kept cabins right on the water for a retreat, they offer a place for healing. The love and dedication of the volunteers at My Warriors Place is so touching you can feel the love when you walk on the property! I encourage any veterans to come and check out this organization and it's beautiful well kept property, enjoy the day on the water with some Kayaks or fishing!
We stayed at My Warrior's Place for 10 days in March. It was a wonderful experience. Kelly made every effort for us to enjoy our stay. We enjoyed the peace and quiet. The grounds are absolutely beautiful. We would and have recommended it to any veterans looking for a place to relax. We stayed in a trailer for part of our stay and also stayed in her cottage. Both places had everything we needed - and made a perfect home away from home!
My husband and I stayed for 4 weeks (Feb 7th-March 5, 2016) and found this to be a very relaxing and enjoyable location. Kelly Kowal, the founder/manager, treated us very well. Fishing (and equipment) was available with docks right in front of the housing area. We had access to bikes for riding in the city of Ruskin. There were plenty of restaurants (with good food) and shopping nearby. Kelly provided all the supplies that you need to get started, too. Also, I would like to mention Kelly's assistant, Pam, who even dog sat for us once while we took a day trip! I would really recommend this to other veterans/families for a place to unwind. Thanks Kelly and Pam!! Jack, (oops! no,) Tom & Diane :-)
I met Kelly trough mutual friends when l was moving back to the area and looking for a place to live. I have been here for 3 months now and can't think of anywhere I'd rather live. It's fantastic to see her work for and with the veterans and first responders and their families. It is truly an amazing place. I started volunteering shortly after moving in and now it's become a part of me. To see the veterans come out to relax and enjoy themselves is a joy. We have had boating trips with groups so diverse, from WWll vets to newly enlisted all fishing and sharing their stories.They have given so much to their country and Kelly tries hard to give just a little bit back to them. I am proud to call Kelly my friend and My Warrior's Place my home.
I met Kelly when I was in the middle of moving from Ft Campbell to Tampa. I had been looking for a place to stay when Kelly opened a cabin for me until I could find an apartment. That is when she told me the story and I found her place to be a peaceful and relaxing. Kelly is an amazing woman who puts her heart and soul into making sure veterans have a great way to reduce their stress and just relax. What she does for veterans is amazing and we need more people like her in this world.
Got involved when I met Kelly and heard her story. Had to do what I could to help a Comrade in trouble. I have never seen anyone so dedicated to her mission than Kelly. She has and continues to touch many lives in the Military community and elsewhere. It is an honor and a privilege to work with her and to know her.
I have had the privilege to volunteer for My Warrior's Place. It is a place to bring healing and relief to families who have lost a loved one while serving our Country. I found the director to be committed to this organization and her determination to help others very inspiring. My family had the opportunity to help do some repairs at the place and we have donated to the cause at various times. This is a much needed organization.
Precious Rhea
I have supported My Warrior's Place from the outset, after meeting Kelly Kowall and honoring her as a Gold Star Mother of a 82nd Airborne paratrooper who fell in Afghanistan. Our Tampa Bay Chapter of the 82nd ABN Association have made her a member. She has powerfully contributed to one of our annual projects to give a week of "R & R" to 2 active-duty paratroopers who have encountered combat trauma and lost comrades. She provides then with a fishing/sight-seeing boat trip in Tampa Bay and a kayak adventure in local streams. Very pleased that her "compound" is nearly complete and fully occupied at the moment
This place is awesome! They really care and understand how the death of a brother in arms affects a soldier.
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This place is awesome! It is great to know that the time spent volunteering will make a big difference in the lives of our Veterans, Military Service Members and Families of a Fallen Warrior. It is also nice to be able to do more than just say "thank you for your sacrifice and service" to those brave men and women who serve/served in the military.
I don't have any personal relations with My Warriors place, But I have a friend who was homeless, and her husband was ill, You took them in and gave them a place to stay ..
MY friend talks about this place all the time, and by what she says you deserve to receive an award ..
The pictures are so peaceful looking , Looks like a vacation place ..
Good luck with all your endeavors
The day we moved to Florida my husband Ed, a Viet Nam Veteran had a heart attack. He had his 2nd triple bypass surgery and was not doing good. We were suppose to stay with our son while looking for a place to live but a family dispute had us with no where to go. Kelly took us in and we stayed in one of her trailers while Ed recuperated . We saw first hand the hard work Kelly and her volunteers did for the love of Veterans in honor of her son. We saw them build a fish pond, refurbish trailers, landscape, and going to meetings. My Warriors place has access to The Little Manatee River with a pier for fishing and boat launch. It was the perfect place for my husband to recuperate. These people care about Veterans and deserve to be considered for this award. Ellen Mc Manus
I was introduced to My Warrior's Place through my uncle Patrick Garland. As a family we've donated towards the court of flags and have engraved bricks for all family members that have served since my grandfather had in WWI (with the Irish army).
I had the privilege of visiting My Warrior's Place in May and am so impressed with the work that had been done since. What a wonderful place for our veterans to have and what a amazing woman Kelly is to have the heart to bring this project to fruition in light of all she has been through.
Being a Blue Star Mother of a 100% service connected disabled son, I realize the importance of our wounded and recovering military and their families having a quiet place to recover. Kelly had a dream after her son was killed in action. She has worked hard to make this dream come true. My Warrior's Place has advanced from this dream to a reality. What began as a run down property on a river has become a place of beauty. The dream is not finished.....it has only begun.
My warriors place helps one of the biggest needs our nations troops have. Its a place to come to heal from the devastation of war or the families who have been affected by the loss of a loved one. The program development and work Kelly Kowall has done is truely touching. There is a serene environment and a beautiful water front view. The cottages are peacefull and very relaxing. There is a place to fish, work out and they are working on a conference room for more room for meetings and work shops. A much needed program for people who truley need healing.
I am one of Floridas first certified peer specialists for veterans. I volunteer at My Warrior's Place because there is no substitute for being able to heal in a protected and nurturing environment. The professional training that every member of this organization receives provides the support needed to assist active military, veterans and their families. The mentoring program and waterfront oasis help to transform each guest as they address their individual experiences.
As one of the first veterans to go through the program, I truly believe that the need is real. I believe that this program will evolve into an resource to assist those veterans returning with unresolved issues. If you are out there and need assistance or want to be a part of something positive, this is a rewarding program that you need to look into.
Angel Marin
Retired MSG
US Army
"Bodyguard"
Commander
Latin Soldiers
Veteran motorcycle Association
(LSVMA)
By the time Kelly Kowell finished telling the Apollo Beach Women's Club about "My Warriors Place" I was in tears. She started this wonderful retreat for soldiers, active and veterans, and their families after her son was killed by an IED. She started out alone. Now she has cottages for soldiers and their families on the Little Manatee River where they can relax and stay for a week-end or longer. They can go boating and fishing or just decompress by the river. She has set up a mentoring program to help with their adjustment to civilian life or just talk to others that know what they went thru. The fact that she started this by herself and now has teams of volunteers doing construction, landscaping and planning fundraisers just blows my away. I'm proud to say I help in a small way to do something for our Warriors.
Kelly Kowall 09/18/2019
Thank you so much for taking your time to give us a review!