Operation Recovery: Humanitarian Support Empowering Communities

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Ian Patterson brings passionate leadership as Operation Recovery's Executive Director, at The Next Mission Summit, Harvard University, 2025. His commitment to veteran healing and reintegration shines through as he shares insights from the frontlines of post-service support. © Derrick Zellmann

The SHEEPDOG cast engages in a powerful conversation at The Next Mission Summit, exploring the film's themes and the authentic connections forged through storytelling. Their animated discussion reveals the deeper purpose behind their work, creating meaningful bridges between experiences and fostering understanding among veterans and civilians alike. © Derrick Zellmann

Master Sgt. David Schnabel, 8th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron first sergeant, is welcomed home from a deployment by a loved one at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., April 4, 2023. Photo by Senior Airman Callie Norton

Operation Recovery Humanitarian Aid shipment to Ukraine

SHEEPDOG star Dominic Fumusa makes a compelling case for embracing difficult dialogue during his powerful address at The Next Mission Summit, Harvard University, 2025. With conviction and vulnerability, he explores how uncomfortable conversations become essential catalysts for healing and understanding within the veteran community and beyond. © Derrick Zellmann

A dedicated Operation Recovery Emergency Response volunteer works tirelessly among the devastation left by Hurricane Ian in Southwest Florida. Their unwavering commitment shows in every movement as they help clear damaged homes and restore hope to shattered communities. This boots-on-the-ground assistance exemplifies Operation Recovery's mission to provide immediate, practical support during times of crisis, bringing vital relief to Florida residents struggling to rebuild their lives in the hurricane's destructive aftermath.

Afghan families find sanctuary on American soil, their faces etched with both relief and the lingering shadows of what they've left behind. Having escaped the looming threat of reprisals in Afghanistan. Their journey of courage and hope now opens a new chapter on safer shores.

Amidst the chaos of war, these girls find moments of childhood joy at our Ukrainian aid base. Lviv, Ukraine, 2022.

Actor, director, and creator Steven Grayhm shares a heartfelt message with veterans at the Next Mission Summit, held at Harvard University, 2025. His simple gesture of pinning a note captures the spirit of connection and support that defines the gathering, honoring those who have served. © Derrick Zellmann

Therapy dogs bring their healing presence to The Next Mission Summit, offering comfort and unconditional support to veterans and attendees. These three furry companions create a space of calm amidst intense discussions, their gentle interactions providing emotional grounding that words alone cannot achieve. Their important work highlights the summit's holistic approach to veteran wellness and recovery. © Derrick Zellmann

Mission & Vision

We serve our nation’s heroes: veterans, first responders, and their families. We do this by providing awareness and support for veterans and first responders through supplies, training, housing, health services as well as community events, and to provide charitable support for distressed Americans and allies of America located abroad.

Operation Recovery’s vision is to build a community that supports veterans, first responders, and our allies — providing them with the means to create sustainment in their lives and partnering with them to enable their future successes.

About

Operation Recovery is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering veterans, first responders, and their families through innovative programs. The Heroes Wellness Collective provides a secure community platform, promoting mental health, holistic wellness, and adaptive sports. Grow America Farm Corps offers agricultural training and employment to new Americans, addressing labor shortages and fostering cultural integration. The Impacts of War project highlights the sacrifices made by veterans during the Afghan conflict, advocating for support and legislative action. Additional initiatives provide humanitarian aid, trauma therapy, and relocation support in Afghanistan, Ukraine, and crisis zones worldwide.

Our Initiatives

The Heroes Wellness Collective (HWC) is a renewed initiative of Operation Recovery, dedicated to supporting the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of veterans, first responders, and their families. HWC brings our mission back to its roots, building a connected, supportive community where healing is accessible, stigma is challenged, and no one walks their journey alone.

Through a secure digital platform, HWC offers 24/7 peer support, access to licensed professionals, and alternative wellness resources, all designed to meet individuals where they are and help them move forward. Whether it’s trauma recovery, reintegration, or day-to-day resilience, HWC stands as a network of care built by and for those who’ve served.

The video here highlights our recent HWC-sponsored summit at Harvard; a powerful gathering focused on trauma, moral injury, and what’s next for veteran wellness.

Impacts of War is an initiative of Operation Recovery dedicated to documenting the lasting human, emotional, and financial costs of America’s post-9/11 conflicts. This project gives voice to veterans, families, and allies affected by the collapse of Afghanistan and other global operations, capturing stories often left out of the headlines.

The Grow America Farm Corps (GAFC) is an initiative by Operation Recovery aimed at revitalizing U.S. agriculture by connecting new Americans with employment opportunities on farms, particularly in Vermont. Launched in late 2023, GAFC addresses labor shortages in the agricultural sector by fostering collaboration among local farmers, new American families, and supporting partners.

Global & Local Response Initiatives

Operation Recovery has undertaken several international missions to support communities affected by conflict and disaster.

Ukraine Initiative

Operation Recovery launched the Ukraine Initiative to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced individuals and communities. The organization has been involved in delivering essential supplies, medical aid, and support services to those affected by the crisis.

Afghanistan Initiative

Following the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, Operation Recovery initiated efforts to assist Afghan allies and their families who faced threats due to their association with American forces. The organization has worked to facilitate safe passage, provide resettlement support, and offer resources to help these individuals integrate into new communities.

AMCIT Evacuations: Israel

When Hamas attacked Israel and threatened the safety of American citizens, Operation Recovery stepped up to ensure their secure evacuation. The team coordinated with multiple stakeholders, including congressional offices, staffers, and international agencies, to facilitate the safe passage of Americans back home.

Disaster Response: Hurricanes & Wildfires

When disaster strikes at home, Operation Recovery mobilizes fast. From hurricane relief in the Southeast to wildfire support across the West, we provide boots-on-the-ground aid to communities hit hardest. Our teams deliver essentials like food, water, and emergency supplies, often with the help of local partners, veterans, and volunteers. In recent missions, we’ve deployed Starlink systems to restore connectivity in isolated areas, assisted families displaced by flooding, and coordinated with local responders to get resources where they’re needed most.

Through these strategic action initiatives, Operation Recovery demonstrates its ability to adapt and respond swiftly to crises, providing targeted solutions and unwavering support to those in need.

Collaborating Partners

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From Our Community

"As a donor to Operation Recovery, I've witnessed the profound impact they make. Their dedication to veterans and those affected by global crises is truly inspiring. It's gratifying to see my contributions being used effectively to change lives."

"Operation Recovery's support during the crisis in Ukraine has been a beacon of hope for us. The aid they've provided has been crucial in these challenging times. I'm deeply grateful for their unwavering commitment and assistance."

"As an Afghan, the transition to a new life in the US was overwhelming. Operation Recovery provided not just essential resources, but also a sense of community and hope. Their support in navigating this new chapter has been invaluable, and I am forever grateful for their kindness and understanding."

"Dealing with the moral injuries of service was challenging, but Operation Recovery's focus on this aspect truly resonated with me. Their understanding of the complexities we face as veterans, especially in our roles supporting allies, provided me with the specific support I needed. This organization doesn't just offer general help; they understand and address the deeper issues we face. I'm grateful for their comprehensive approach and the difference it's made in my life."