CoBank, a cooperative bank serving agribusinesses, rural infrastructure providers and Farm Credit associations throughout the United States, renewed its No Barriers Warriors program for rural veterans with disabilities.
In partnership with Colorado-based nonprofit No Barriers USA, CoBank sponsors a series of four expeditions each year, covering the full cost of participation for up to 50 veterans. Over the years, approximately 300 veterans have participated in CoBank-sponsored No Barriers expeditions or have taken part in an online curriculum.
“A disproportionate number of men and women in the U.S. armed services come from rural communities,” Thomas Halverson, president and chief executive officer of CoBank said in a recent press release. “In recognition of their service, CoBank and our customers are again partnering with No Barriers to offer meaningful and life-changing experiences for veterans with disabilities. It is one way we can give back to those who have sacrificed for their country through military service.”
Each CoBank-sponsored participant will have the opportunity to experience online learning modules and meetups, followed by an expedition in the Colorado wilderness at the mountain campus in Red Feather Lakes.
A No Barriers Warriors expedition is an engaging experience designed to help veterans tackle personal challenges and create a catalyst for positive change. Expedition leaders guide participants through a series of physically and mentally challenging experiences that can include rafting, rock climbing, hiking and more. Throughout the experience, veterans are asked to reflect on their past, recognize their present situation and explore future possibilities.
No Barriers is dedicated to helping people of all abilities find hope, optimism and resiliency for the future. “The 2023 Warriors program is designed to help veterans with disabilities achieve belonging, identity and purpose,” said Andrea Delorey, No Barriers Chief Operating Officer. “No Barriers is thrilled to once again partner with CoBank as we work collaboratively to provide transformative experiences to veterans with disabilities.”
The program is open to veterans from all eras and branches of U.S. military service, both combat wounded and training injured, with visible and invisible injuries.
CoBank customers may nominate an unlimited number of veterans from their communities to participate in the No Barriers Warriors program. Expeditions for veterans will take place in July, August and September. Applications will be accepted through July 1.
Additional information and program requirements are available on CoBank.com.
Read a heartwarming story about a similar program, Wounded Warriors, featured as our May 2013 Cover Story.