For 25 years Higher Ground (HG) has empowered people of all abilities to have a better quality of life—bridging the gap between disability and belonging.

With headquarters in Sun Valley, Idaho, HG veteran program has been serving veterans nationally, helping transform lives across the country.

Annually HG has served 280 veterans/caregivers with 16-20 veterans/caregivers per weeklong program.

HG has served over 1450 veterans since 2005 and has a waitlist of 2500, a significant number that needs to be provided for.

Recreation Therapy as a healing tool; this modality incorporates the physical elements of engaging in sport, but also the social and emotional benefits of learning or re-learning activities with peers and loved ones.

According to the Hawai‘i VA, in 2023 the veteran population in the State of Hawai’i was roughly 112,000 veterans, or 10.4% of the population; there is an inclusive island culture in Hawai’i recognized by HG which will support the most pronounced pressing need and disrupt the possibility of transgenerational trauma.

Hawai’i’s veterans are largely underserved, and the islands are in dire need of Higher Ground’s programs to address their critical needs, including community reintegration, physical well-being, and social and emotional connections with others.

HG programs will have a long-term impact on Hawai’i’s veterans due to the repeated and dedicated program opportunities that will take place on the Island of Hawai’I, including quarterly multi-day retreats.

HG is committed to serving the veteran and supporter/spouse, understanding that healing can only begin once the family unit’s needs and struggles are addressed.