Our Mission

The WeUpliftU Foundation is committed to addressing the critical Health Crisis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma among Active Duty Military, Veterans and First Responders. Recognizing the profound impact of these conditions, we dedicate ourselves to fostering holistic healing, promoting self-efficacy, and empowering individuals through education, comprehensive support, and transformative experiences. We provide access to life-changing programs, including Operation Surf, Mustang Medicine – Rewilding, Warrior Rizen, and Open Water, designed to cultivate mental, emotional, and physical well-being. We strive to build resilience, foster community, and facilitate lasting personal growth, empowering those we serve to overcome trauma and lead fulfilling lives. Through education, mentorship, and experiential learning, we equip individuals with the tools essential for self-care and healing, ultimately working to combat the alarming rates of PTSD and suicide within these vital communities.

Inspiration Behind the Foundation

Butch and Karl were inspired to create the WeUpliftU Foundation after witnessing the transformative power of community and charity events. Their dedication to supporting veterans, first responders, and youth stems from their personal experiences and deep connections within these communities. They believe that by bringing people together for a common cause, they can significantly impact and uplift the lives of those in need.

WHY WE DO IT

Post -traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other traumas can have a lasting and detrimental impact on the human body.  Rates of PTSD, suicide and other lingering effects among military veterans and first responders are so alarming that the matter has been classified as a National Health Crisis by the VA and CDC.

An estimated 1 in 3 veterans are diagnosed with PTSD.

Less than 40% seek help.

On average 22 veterans commit suicide daily.

OUR VALUES The 5 F’s

FAITH – We believe in God and the power of putting your faith in action.

FAMILY –  We believe in being as delighted to go to work as we are when we go home. Both Enjoy equal attention led by Love, Honesty, Integrity and Presence.

FRIENDS – We believe in the power of relationships and the power of having the right people in your life supporting each other’s journey.

FITNESS – We believe in keeping your body, mind and spirit connected and having an active life filled with exercise, good nutrition and rest, which will provide each person with high energy to achieve your best self.

FOREGIVNESS – We believe in forgiveness, not just of others, but of ourselves.  Life is a series of learning and growing and it starts with forgiving oneself for any past, current or future challenges.

BONUS

FUN – We believe in going where your celebrated not where you’re tolerated.  We believe Fun is in the emoji.  The best medicine in life is having FUN!

Key Programs and Initiatives

  • Annual Golf Tournament: Held at Hill Air Force Base (HAFB), our golf tournament is a cornerstone event that brings together community members including; Golfers, Sponsors, Veterans, Active Duty Military, and Volunteers for a day of fun, bonding, and fundraising. This event is crucial for raising funds and awareness for our cause.
  • Operation Surf: For 5 years we have worked extremely hard to sponsor participants with Operation Surf to provide Active Duty and Veterans with healing experiences through a week-long surfing events. These events are designed to inspire wellness, reduce PTSD symptom, and increase self-efficacy through the healing powers of the ocean and peer support. To date, we have generously donated over $275K to this amazing organization!
  • Youth Educational Programs: We allocate 10-15% of our annual funding to support youth programs like the Boy Scouts in Kaysville. These programs help build leadership, character, and community service among young people, ensuring a positive impact on future generations.
  • Rewilding Mustang Medicine: Is an immersive experience that combines scientific knowledge and thousands of hours of cross-disciplinary research into classes and activities to help students navigate their emotions, regulate their nervous system, and chart a path to healing and growth. We specialize in support to our veterans, first responders, and their families.
  • Warrior Rizen: Is a 501(c)(3) 6,500 acre Dude Ranch in Morgan, UT for Military and Survivor Families. Inviting veterans and their families to escape their day-to-day and come to the ranch to experience a week-long vacation where we work hard and play hard. Here you will learn to raise animals and grow your own food, push cattle and play cowboy for a week.
  • Open Waters: OpenWater is a Southern California based non-profit organization (registered 501-c3 est. 2020) whose mission is to serve military, first responders, and their families through adventure, fellowship, and unique training programs. Co-founded by Danny Nichols (Huntington Beach surfer) and Kyle Kelly (Texas born Army Veteran), OpenWater was created around a mutual vision for bringing wellness to those who serve both locally and abroad through the medium of water–in particular the ocean, whose healing power they both experienced. Over the past 5 years, OpenWater has grown from serving small groups locally to a nationwide Active Mentorship program, unique training courses designed specifically for working first responders, and family programs; offering transformational breathing, water immersion, team building, and life long skills on the water that promote community, healthy living, personal growth, and healing.

In the Media

IN OUR FAMILY NO ONE FIGHTS ALONE

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