2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Ultimate Veteran Adventures Foundation Inc

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Military & Veterans Organizations, Veterans

Mission: To provide hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures to Veterans, currently serving, and gold star families.

Community Stories

68 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

2

GySgt_Y, Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2021

I met the founder of this organization through my previous employer and he took the time to explain what UVA was and is all about, which is veterans helping veterans. I have been fortunate enough to attend 4 events. Each event is unique in its own way. You meet other veterans that are having some of the same issues you are having whether it's service related or personal. UVA has helped me in so many ways and I know they have helped other veterans as well. I "STRONGLY" recommend other veterans to get with this organization. Veterans helping veterans is one of the best ways to deal with some of the issues we have. I'll continue to assist this organization in any way I can. Throughout my time assisting UVA the founder of this organization has become a great friend. This organization is such a great thing that meer words can't describe it.

SMutchler Donor

Rating: 5

11/11/2024

I met the founder and attended their banquet recently and heard stories from others who's lives have been impacted by this great organization! If you or someone you know is a Veteran who is in need or could benefit from having commoradarie with other Veterans that can relate to them please reach out to this amazing organization! They are heroes to our heroes!

Allenk13 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2024

My husband is a former Marine so I know how important these types of organizations are. The founder is so absolutely passionate about what he does and that shows with every interaction I have ever had with him. He does everything that he can to assure the people that he serves can have a great experience and if even just for a few hours forget about what they have been through. I have and will continue to support Joe and his non-profit every chance that I get because I know the donations will be going to a good cause!

ldb7385 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2024

Coming from a military family & seeing what this organization is doing for veterans & their families is truly hard to describe. It’s nothing short of amazing! They are truly a great organization & they’re impacting & changing peoples lives for the better!

ad3harry Client Served

Rating: 5

08/31/2024

I met Chris at a local gun shop I was working at, he told me about the program and how it helps veterans get out and do things they may otherwise couldn't participate in. I was immediately interested, we talked for what felt like hours, sharing stories from life and service. He told me about a coyote hunt they has coming up and I just so happened to be preparing a predator hunting setup so I joined. We had a blast all night sharing war stories, I can honestly say that it felt like I was back with my team. Most people don't understand the lifestyle, for me the rapid change was very difficult. Chris and the guys at UVA are truly an outstanding team that makes veterans feel like they're a part of something again, they're not just an organization they truly do care, they are my brothers and sisters.

corbin_renner Client Served

Rating: 5

08/30/2024

UVA took me and two other veteran friends on a Tennessee duck hunt of a lifetime! To me this hunt was much more than just killing ducks! He was able to get us connected with the locals who were all so welcoming and hospitable! We were treated like one of the guys who belonged there and were already hunting buddies. We all went home with stories of a lifetime abd great memories! A+ UVA!

jgrimes1979 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/30/2024

I had a wonderful time when i got drawn for a fishing trip the group sponsored. I got to meet a few fellow veterans hang out for a while and catch some awesome fish including a catch ohio walleye. They do an awesome job at getting veterans out of the house and doing fun events. I cant wait to go on more events with them.

NavyGoat Client Served

Rating: 5

08/30/2024

Top notch organization. My wife and I are both veterans and were fortunate to be selected for an iguana hunt and peacock bass fishing trip. To be able to meet other like minded veterans and share stories about our time in the military as well as our time out of the service has made a positive impact on our lives. I am very thankful there are organizations like UVA that support our veterans and first responders.

dorin8385 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/29/2024

I am a veteran and was lucky enough to get selected for a goose hunt and a taxidermy class. I cant say enough good things about everyone involved. Fantastic organization that does so much for veterans. Great people and great events they put out.

jwes9 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/29/2024

They continue to go above and beyond to help and serve the veteran community! Continuously growing, and serving more and more veterans. They never seem to stop! Beyond blesses to be able to serve with them!

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Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

This organization has something for all veterans. If hunting and fishing is not your thing, they have some other adventures as well, such as knife forging classes, whitewater rafting trips, etc. All around fantastic organization dedicated to serving those who served!

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jwes92515 Client Served

Rating: 5

08/29/2024

As a veteran and a dedicated volunteer with Ultimate Veteran Adventures (UVA), I can personally attest to the profound impact this organization has on the lives of fellow veterans. UVA’s commitment to helping veterans through immersive outdoor experiences is nothing short of transformative.

Having served in the military, I understand the unique challenges that come with reintegration and coping with the lingering effects of service. UVA’s programs provide more than just a break from routine; they offer a genuine opportunity for healing and personal growth. The carefully curated outdoor adventures foster an environment where veterans can connect with nature and each other in ways that traditional support systems often cannot.

The magic of UVA lies in its ability to create a safe, supportive space for veterans to share their experiences and find camaraderie. The bonds formed during these activities are deeply meaningful, offering a network of understanding and mutual support that extends far beyond the events themselves. I’ve seen firsthand how these connections help veterans regain confidence, find new purpose, and experience a renewed sense of hope.

Volunteering with UVA has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Watching fellow veterans transform through these adventures—seeing them rediscover joy, rebuild their sense of self, and develop lasting friendships—has reinforced my belief in the power of UVA’s mission.

Ultimate Veteran Adventures is making a significant difference in the veteran community, and I am proud to be a part of an organization that is dedicated to this noble cause. Their work is not just impactful; it is life-changing.

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1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

Absolutely fantastic organization! They continue to impress and are constantly doing events to get veterans out into the outdoors and continue their mission! I will continue to support them as long as I'm physically able!

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valorcharters Donor

Rating: 5

08/29/2024

As a proud donor to Ultimate Veteran Adventures (UVA), I have witnessed firsthand the incredible work they do for our veterans. Donating charters to their organization has been one of the most fulfilling contributions I’ve made, knowing that my support directly impacts the lives of those who have served our country.

UVA’s dedication to providing meaningful and restorative outdoor experiences for veterans is truly commendable. The organization’s programs offer more than just recreational activities—they provide a lifeline for veterans grappling with the challenges of reintegration and the effects of PTSD. By facilitating these outdoor adventures, UVA creates a nurturing environment where veterans can find solace, build new connections, and rediscover their sense of purpose.

The charters I’ve donated have enabled UVA to extend their reach and offer more veterans the chance to experience the profound healing power of nature. It’s inspiring to see how these adventures not only help veterans to reconnect with the natural world but also foster a strong sense of community and support among them. The positive testimonials and heartfelt gratitude from participants speak volumes about the difference UVA is making.

Supporting UVA is an investment in the well-being and recovery of those who have given so much for our country. I am honored to contribute to such a worthy cause and proud to stand behind an organization that truly makes a difference in the lives of our veterans.

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1

Donor

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

This is a great organization that really puts forth the effort to try and make our veterans lives better! I can't think of a better way to show them the support that they deserve. I'm always amazed at all the things UVA does with the veterans and the events that they put on. Top notch all the way!

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westy6969 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/29/2024

I am deeply grateful to Ultimate Veteran Adventures for the transformative impact they've had on my husband and our family. After years of battling the effects of PTSD, my husband was struggling to reconnect with the world around him and regain a sense of normalcy. Ultimate Veteran Adventures provided him with an opportunity to heal through the power of nature and camaraderie.

From the moment he joined their programs, it was clear that Ultimate Veteran Adventures truly understands the unique challenges faced by veterans. Their compassionate approach and well-designed outdoor experiences offered my husband a safe space to confront his struggles while embracing the therapeutic benefits of nature. The supportive community they fostered allowed him to connect with fellow veterans who shared similar experiences, creating bonds that were both comforting and empowering.

The adventures were not just activities but carefully crafted experiences that facilitated personal growth and healing. Through hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits, my husband rediscovered his sense of purpose and joy. It was remarkable to see him come alive in ways we hadn’t witnessed in years.

Ultimate Veteran Adventures has been a beacon of hope and recovery for my husband. Their dedication to helping veterans like him reclaim their lives and find solace in nature has made a profound difference. I cannot thank them enough for their unwavering support and for helping my husband navigate his path to healing.




Previous Stories
1

Donor

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

Great volunteer organization that I am proud to be associated with and support. They help our wounded Heroes through outdoor recreational therapy.

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beeker Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/12/2023

As a volunteer for uva( ultimate veteran adventures) I have seen first hand the great work uva has done with veterans and gold star kids. The hunting trips help veterans to reconnect with veterans to regain the brotherhood that was lost!

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1

Client Served

Rating: 5

09/26/2022

Great organization!!! Doing great things for veterans and gold Star families

1

dorin83 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

This organization is fantastic. Great way to meet up with fellow vets and trade stories and just have a good time. Good way to relax and reboot your mind with like minded individuals. The amount of time spent to make each event special is amazing. If you are new to hunting and dont know if this is for you, give it a try and you wont regret it.

1

PAHunterJim Client Served

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

UVA has opened doors to many Veterans! I was honored to be selected for a Bear hunt in Maine. I since volunteered to help out at that Veterans Hunting lodge. I continue to support UVA on their fundraising efforts to help Vets!
Thank you UVA!!

1

LauraKelley Client Served

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

UVA is an awesome organization. I went on my first hunt ever in November of 2021 with them. It was an all female duck hunt in Michigan. It was truly an awesome weekend. I went back home to Colorado and immediately got into waterfowl hunting here. The next year they had the same hunt again and asked if I wanted to come out. I ended up driving a 40 hour round trip to attend, I say this because it was worth that long drive to get to enjoy another weekend hunting with everyone. Joe is definitely passionate about getting veterans together and into the outdoors. I definitely recommend putting in for a trip and supporting this great organization.

1

Valorllc Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

This is a great organization that helps our veterans and Gold Star families. As a volunteer, I look forward to being able to assist them year after year. To see the Veterans who take part in these events forgetting for just one day any problems they may be experiencing is wonderful. The gear that they receive gives them a chance to continue to get out and continue being out in the great outdoors. They also make new acquaintances that can share their experiences and give them additional support.

1

airbornerangergrunt Client Served

Rating: 5

09/22/2023

UVA is an awesome group that do amazing things for our veterans. They are caring and do exactly what they say they will do to help our veterans out! They truly care and will do whatever needs to be done.

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Client Served

Rating: 5

09/14/2022

I’ve been fortunate to attend a few of their events. They’re truly the best out there! Their passion for serving, and dedication to the mission is second to none. Thanks for all you do!

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1

wildfire0429 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/27/2022

UVA took me out for my very first hunt. I didn't grow up around hunting or knew anyone that could teach me. UVA was so open and made my first experience hunting a positive one. I'm so thankful to have met them.

2

FREDHOT Client Served

Rating: 5

09/22/2022

I'm an Army MP Veteran and been a Police Officer ever since my ETS in 1988. I came home from work one night and saw a Social Media post of UVA seeking Veterans to take on a fishing trip with no cost to them which included lodging and meals. My experience had my senses tingling scam scam scam so I did some research about this Organization and discovered they are 100% TRUE. I did what was requested to apply for the chance to attend this trip, even though I am no stranger to the waters to be fished in or the species, and I was selected to go due to last minute drop outs.
I made the 2 hour drive to the destination and was warmly met by the founders and several fellow Veterans, much younger than me of course.
We all know that if you're a Veteran amongst Veterans making friends and developing conversation is effortless.
We had a great evening of food, campfire and camaraderie around a fire ring and I gifted several of my Hand Crafted Hot Sauces to the attending group. ( I created my own small business 9 years ago )
The next day we hit the "Big Pond" as we call it here, Lake Erie and had a great day of fishing followed by a great meal at a nearby restaurant.
This organization immediately jumped to the top of my list and I not only have donated several times to this organization but also promote it out of my own costs through my own businesses to help make them even better known.
UVA is truly the best of any support group I could have ever stumbled across and I support them beyond 100%.

2

ALO77 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/18/2022

I had never been duck hunting before yet I was fortunate to have been selected and attend a duck hunt in Tennessee November 2021. Joe was our contact and laid out a solid plan for us. Not only did he hash out all the logistics for 3 days, he introduced us to some GREAT guides Mason, JD (just to name a few). Mason and his crew took phenomenal care of us. From the heaters (in -2 degree weather) to the food (gained about 7 pounds:) we had nothing to worry about. Thank you Joe for taking time away from your family to make this event happen for us. Thank you UVA for the amazing experience and thank you for taking care of us veterans

2

lexie84 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/15/2022

I attended an all female hunt with UVA. An all female hunt is kind of unheard of so I was skeptical but boy am I glad I applied. This was an amazing experience that I will never forget and I have UVA to thank for it. Everything was well planned out and organized. I never felt like an outsider or like I was out of my element, they made me feel like family. This trip inspired me to continue to explore the outdoors and motivate others to do the same. I’m forever grateful to Joe and Andrew for putting on an amazing trip for my fellow sisters on arms.

1

pastarner Client Served

Rating: 5

09/14/2022

When I was lucky enough to be nominated to go on a deer hunt with Ultimaye Veterans Adventure, I was able to shoot a buck of a lifetime out in Missouri. I was treated like a king, and had the best hunting guides I have ever seen. Ultimate Vetererans Adventure sure knows how to put on a top notch event. I hope alit more veterans get to have the same opportunity and experience that I had, because it helps so much to know that people care about our veterans enough to put on events like this. Thank you Ultimate Veterans Outdoors for a hunting trip of a lifetime.

1

kmiller8057 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2021

Went on a fishing trip with them and had a buddy go on a trip to make knives at a veteran owned forge organization. Great experience both times and great networking a friendship building experience as well! Highly recommend!

1

animal16 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/17/2021

One of the best duck hunting experience I’ve ever had! This organization bent over backwards to make sure we got on some ducks during our 2 day hunting trip! I hope they make this an annual event!

1

usmc16 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/17/2021

Nothing but a great experience with these guys! Gave 100% into ensuring our group of veterans had the best experience possible, I would definitely recommend them to anyone!

2

Fred S.5 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/09/2021

I am no stranger to the outdoors and stumbled across this organization on a last minute post to fill a fishing charter they were seeking Veterans to fill on a social media fishing info page. I have my own boats and skills but decided it would be great to hang out with other Veterans so I followed the instructions and was accepted to attend. It was a great evening of hanging out with GREAT people telling stories and an occasional Branch jab here and there just like the things that us Veterans do. Made some friends and had a great day of fishing out on good ole Lake Erie. Since my discovery and experience I now attempt to obtain donations while running my small business and even had fliers printed up at my own cost to help spread the word to other Veterans and/or supporters of Veterans. I am looking forward to hopefully attending other events in the future and help to keep the enjoyment of the outdoors and Veteran camaraderie going strong !!!!

1

Brian C.10 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/09/2021

Ultimate Veteran Adventures hosted me on a chartered perch fishing trip on Lake Erie. I had a great day reconnecting with nature and meeting other veterans. The management of this organization and the volunteers who made this event happen are some of the most genuine, humble people you could ever meet —truly happy to be doing this for us veterans! It was a great experience that I hope many other veterans get to have.

2

Andy K.2 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/04/2020

Great organization. Participated in many of their events and couldn’t speak any higher of them.

Ed T.1 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/25/2020

My 1st experience with them was a pheasant hunt. I had such a great time.
Ultimate veteran adventurers such a great group of guys.

finsfan10 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/24/2020

Fantastic organization dedicated to helping veterans heal the scars of war. By bringing fellow Vets together on different outdoor adventures they’re able to share in the camaraderie they experienced while in service again which helps ease some of the daily stress veterans may be dealing with in their everyday life. With the epidemic of veteran suicide the nation is dealing with right now the organization Ultimate Veteran Adventures is truly making a difference in the fight to save the lives of America’s finest.

kmiller2362 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/23/2020

I went on a fishing trip with them in OH and it was awesome! The charter boat was free, the fish were cleaned for us while we ate a free lunch. They even gave out free swag from Cabela's! One of the board members was on the trip with us and he was a cool cat and made sure we didn't have to do anything other than have a great time.

whawk9 Donor

Rating: 5

10/15/2020

Once again, these guys go above and beyond for the veteran community! I can’t say enough about their character and desire to serve.

Previous Stories
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Client Served

Rating: 5

10/01/2019

These guys are the real deal! They are genuine, and truly care about the veterans they service! I can’t thank them enough for all they’ve done for the veteran community! Highly recommended!!!!

Daniel R W. Donor

Rating: 5

10/04/2020

Great group of selfless individuals! They go out of their way to focus on the veterans getting the best experience possible and have procedures in place to make this happen. I proudly support this organization and will continue to do so!

Previous Stories
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Client Served

Rating: 5

10/01/2019

Fantastic organization! Their devotion to the veteran community is second to none!

1

Tom C.7 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/03/2020

UVA held a Maine black bear hunt in conjunction with House in the Woods in Lee Maine. I was allowed to attend in September of 2020. This trip was amazing and truly over the top. The staff and volunteers of both organizations were true professionals. I was granted a view behinds the scenes before and after the hunt. The work the volunteers do for months leading up to events, the 18+ hour days during the events and the recovery of the event afterwards is remarkable. Thank you for the opportunity. Thank you Cory Parsons for ensuring that every step of the trip was flawless.

mclever Client Served

Rating: 5

10/03/2020

Ultimate Veteran Adventures has one mission: to help America's veterans heal their invisible wounds and rediscover the camaraderie we had while serving. They do this primarily thru various outdoor events for both vets and their families, and 100% of their funds are put toward that mission. This Iraq vet is grateful for their help. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would!

hockeyfan1983 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/03/2020

I found out about UVA online and after talking with the guys they had a cancellation on a Maine bear hunt and I got the opportunity to go on a hunt with them. They paid for everything on my trip except gas to and from the destination. The trip was amazing and so is this organization. The guys were awesome and I feel like family with them. I came up short on my hunt but that had nothing to do with them or the organization. I did however come home extremely happy I went on this and made friends and memories that will last a lifetime. I highly recommend them to anyone who’s eligible to attend a hunt and meet this great organization ran by stand up guys. I truly thank them from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity and the memories made. I can only hope we get to meet up and hunt again.

Previous Stories

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/13/2019

Great organization ran by some of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. They truly care about helping and healing veterans. Got to go with them on a bear hunt in Maine. While I didn’t get to close the deal on a bear I did get a chance to make some lifelong friends and memories. I couldn’t give these guys more praise. If you get a chance to meet them or donate to them please do yourself a favor and do it. Amazing guys.

smitty1107 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/03/2020

Phenomenal people! They truly care about veterans, and trying to help where and how they can. If you’re looking for a great organization for veterans, by veterans, look no further! Proud to support these guys and gals!

Julia L.1 Donor

Rating: 5

10/08/2019

We had a great benefit for UVA at 2nd street Tavern in Coplay back in June! Raised over $2000 for this organization! They do amazing things for vets!

1

Charles R.1 Donor

Rating: 5

10/03/2019

I've known the founders for a number of years. Very hardworking individuals who truly care about veterans, providing an outlet for recovery and amazing outdoor opportunities. There are other groups around that offer similar experiences , but none that offer the total package like U.V.A.

1

Scott W.6 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/02/2019

Great guys, always helping vets. Well planned hunting trips, and fun people to hang out with

1

Paul W.2 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/01/2019

Ultimate Veteran Adventures is beneficial to the veteran community. They are true and committed to helping veterans like myself. I have seen them work tirelessly to make sure we all were taking care of the entirety of the hunt. They are passionate about their jobs and you can tell they love what they do and that’s taking care of veterans!

1

hockeyy11 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/01/2019

I just want to say a little about Chris Geiser and his entire family. I grew up with Chris and his family. All his family members have served in the Armed Forces! We all played baseball together and our families were very close. Ok now on to the real part of the accolades that Chris should get..Chris and his team do so much for our Veterans and the community. We can't thank them enough for serving our country and doing for these great men and women who have fought for everything that we have in this country!! God bless!!

2

Cory P. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/01/2019

UVA is an organization totally dedicated to giving back. I have been on 2 different adventures with this organization. Both of which were timely in my life. I am not a veteran that has war wounds that are physical, but I think we all who have served have issues dealing with life after the service. The outdoors is a place were we can get "away" and think. The comrodory that happens between anyone involved with UVA is great. Joe Wessner is one of the nicest people one could meet. He is totally dedicated to giving back. He has selected great people as well to serve on his board to help support his cause. If you ever need an adventure ensure to follow UVA and all the events they offer. Semper Fi

1

Andrew C.5 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/01/2019

My god where to begin! I can’t thank this group enough! I’ve never met a group of guys so willing to do anything and everything possible to ensure we had the best experience possible. I have nothing but great things to say about this group. Every penny earned goes right into getting more adventure set up for veterans like myself. This group is truly a blessing. Can’t wait to see more Veterans go on life time experiences like the one I went on.
SEMPER FI!

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