Command Post Update
This week’s Mission Brief is landing a little later than usual—it’s Friday, and I missed getting it out on Monday. The truth is, we’ve had a lot going on, and with next week’s schedule, there won’t be a Mission Brief on Monday either. So consider this a combined edition, pulling together what’s been happening and what’s ahead.
One of the reasons for the pause next week is an incredible opportunity we’re honored to be part of. Starting Sunday, Vice President Shaun Olsberg and I will be heading to Washington, D.C., to attend the ATF Peer Support Conference. We first connected with this group at Police Week earlier this year, and it’s inspiring to see that our networking efforts there are already paying off in meaningful ways.
At the conference, we’ll be sharing the mission of Hometown Hero Outdoors with new audiences, learning from other nonprofits and vendors, and engaging with leaders in the mental health space. There’s also the potential to meet with the ATF Director—who also serves as the Secretary of the U.S. Army—which would be a remarkable chance to spread our message even further.
What makes this moment especially meaningful is the timing. September is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, and the ATF’s commitment to supporting their own officers while amplifying the voices of outside organizations like ours shows how powerful collaboration can be. Together, we can connect more heroes with the resources and support they need.
For me, it’s a reminder that our mission is resonating, our networking is working, and our impact is growing. And that’s something worth carrying forward into every trip, every event, and every conversation we have.
Field Report
There’s been a lot of movement across our Adventures and Events pages lately, and it’s exciting to see new opportunities rolling out for our members.
On the trip side, we’ve added some great new experiences:
- A muskie fishing trip on Green Bay in Wisconsin set for October 17.
- The HHO Youth Pheasant Hunt in North Dakota, also coming up in October.
- And today, our South Dakota team is out on the water with 605 Outfitters for a fishing trip.
- 👉 HHO Adventures
These are just a few of the opportunities now live on the website. Be sure to check the Adventures tab for the full lineup and get your applications in.
As we roll out more trips through our website, we’re learning what works and what doesn’t. Those lessons are already in the hands of our web developer, and the system is steadily moving toward being the well-oiled machine we know it can be. On top of that, we’ll soon be launching our online store with a limited pre-sale window for HHO clothing. This launch will include new gear from our partners at Relentless Defender and UNRL, along with some exciting new hat designs.
And on the events side, we’ve made a big change to our Vikings tailgating parties at The Lumberjack in Stillwater—entry is now free. We want to pack the house, create an awesome game-day atmosphere, and give folks a place to tailgate, network, and just enjoy the day together—whether you’re cheering for the Vikings or any other team.
Mission Wins
We’ve had some big wins and exciting momentum to share:
- Grant Applications: Our team is preparing several new grant submissions. Each one represents another opportunity to expand resources and deliver more adventures and support to our members across the country.
- Hero Chronicles Momentum: The buzz around Hero Chronicles is off the charts right now. For those new to the idea—Hero Chronicles is a first-of-its-kind TV series that blends outdoor adventure with the real stories of veterans, service members, and first responders. It’s about showing the healing power of the outdoors while giving voice to the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of those who serve. Episodes will air on TV markets and stream online, giving these stories both local and national reach.
- Twin Cities Market Locked In: We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve secured incredible partners for the Twin Cities market here in Minnesota. Our Title Sponsor will be the Water Street Inn, along with Charlie’s Irish Pub and Papa’s Rooftop Restaurant. We’re also proud to welcome Aqua Wizards, Best Defense Armory and Range, and Curt Johnson Auctioneering on board. These partnerships are a huge show of support not just for HHO, but for the military, veteran, and first responder communities we serve.
- Sponsorship Opportunities: We have several more meetings this week and next with potential sponsors and product partners. The Twin Cities market is one of the most lucrative opportunities for exposure—companies that join us here will see their brand not only broadcast on television but also remain digitally embedded with the episodes online for years to come. If you’ve ever considered supporting Hero Chronicles, now is the time.
Shoot us an email for more information – Info@HometownHeroOutdoors.org
Recon & Intel
September is packed with energy, and we’re rolling right into it.
- Vikings Tailgates at The Lumberjack in Stillwater are now free entry—come enjoy the game-day atmosphere, network, and celebrate with us all season long.
- This weekend, HHO will be at the Lancastle Summer Extravaganza in McLeod County, MN.
- We’ll also be at the Corey Slifko Memorial Softball Tournament, honoring Sergeant Slifko’s life and legacy while supporting nonprofits focused on mental health.
- Field of Bands is coming up soon with the Lower St. Croix Valley Yellow Ribbon group.
- And on the horizon—our National Gala. Mark your calendars for March 28, 2026 in Stillwater, Minnesota. Every year we try to raise the bar, and this one is set to be an absolute banger. Stay tuned for the theme announcement.
Call to Action – Get Involved
As HHO grows, so does our need for passionate people willing to step in and help. There’s a role for everyone:
- Hosting trips as Field Staff
- Volunteering at events
- Taking members fishing or hunting
- Supporting fundraising efforts
- Contributing skills in grant writing, accounting, or communications
- Partnering through corporate or strategic sponsorships
Whatever your skills or passion, there’s a place for you in this mission. Click below to get started, and our Volunteer Coordinator will connect you with opportunities that fit:
