Outdoor Programs for Veterans and First Responders
These programs are designed to offer more than time outside. They create opportunities to connect with others who understand the demands of service, build new relationships, and step away from the pressures of everyday life.
Whether you are an experienced outdoorsman or trying something new, HHO offers opportunities throughout the year for eligible participants across the country.
More Than a Day Outdoors
The outdoors has a way of bringing people together.
HHO experiences give veterans, military members, and first responders a chance to spend time with people who share similar backgrounds and understand the value of camaraderie, connection, and time away.
Some participants come for the fishing or hunting. Others come to learn a new skill, meet new people, or simply enjoy a change of pace. Whatever brings someone to an event, the goal is to create a welcoming environment where participants can relax, connect, and enjoy the experience.
There is no pressure to talk about personal experiences or explain what you have been through. Participants can simply show up, take part, and spend time with people who get it.
See how those connections come together in real HHO stories.
Outdoor Experiences Offered by Hometown Hero Outdoors
Fishing Experiences
Each event listing explains the location, type of fishing, skill level, equipment needs, and any required licences or permits.
Hunting Experiences
The type of game, equipment requirements, required licences or stamps, and expected experience level vary by event. Participants should review the full event description before applying.
Shooting and Skills Events
These may include rifle sight-in events, shooting instruction, equipment education, and other hands-on experiences led by knowledgeable hosts or volunteers.
Hands-On Outdoor Activities
Some programs focus on learning a new outdoor skill or creating something participants can continue using after the event. Examples may include building a fishing rod or participating in other activity-based workshops.
Who Qualifies for Hometown Hero Outdoors Programs?
HHO outdoor programs are available to eligible military members, veterans, and first responders, including:
- Active-duty military members
- National Guard and Reserve members
- Retired military members
- Veterans discharged honorably or under honorable conditions
- Law enforcement officers
- Firefighters
- EMTs and paramedics
- Dispatchers
- Corrections officers
- Other eligible first responders
There are no geographic membership restrictions. You can create an account regardless of where you live, although your ability to participate will depend on the events available near you and your willingness to travel.
There is no paid membership requirement. Participants must create an account and verify their military service or first responder status before applying for events.
How to Participate
Step 1. Create an Account
Verification helps HHO confirm that available programs are reaching the veterans, military members, and first responders they are intended to serve.
Step 2. Browse Available Events
Each listing includes important details such as the location, dates, activity, eligibility requirements, experience level, equipment needs, and what is included.
Step 3. Apply for Events
You may apply for more than one event, provided you meet the requirements listed for each opportunity.
Step 4. Wait for Selection Email
Applicants who are selected will receive additional information about the event and any steps they need to complete before attending.
Step 5. Attend the Event
Step 6. Find More Events
Verified participants can return to browse and apply for additional opportunities as they become available.
What Does it Cost to Participate?
Most HHO experiences are provided at little or no cost to selected participants.
What is included varies by event. HHO, event hosts, and program partners may provide items such as lodging, meals, guides, equipment, ammunition, or other activity-specific resources.
Participants are normally responsible for:
- Transportation to and from the event
- Required hunting or fishing licences
- Required permits or stamps
- Personal expenses identified in the event listing
Every event is different, so participants should carefully review the full description before applying. The listing will explain what is provided and what participants are expected to bring or purchase.
What Should I Expect?
Hometown Hero Outdoors offers experiences for a range of interests and skill levels.
Some events are designed for experienced hunters, anglers, or shooters. Others are created specifically for beginners or people who want expert guidance while trying something new.
Before applying, review the event listing for information about:
- Required experience
- Physical activity or accessibility considerations
- Equipment and clothing
- Licences, permits, or stamps
- Travel and arrival expectations
- Lodging and meals
- Other event-specific requirements
Hometown Hero Outdoors staff, volunteers, hosts, and partners work to make expectations clear so selected participants can arrive prepared and focus on enjoying the experience.
Outdoor Programs Across the Country
HHO works with hosts, volunteers, guides, outfitters, and partners to offer outdoor experiences in different parts of the country.
There are no geographic restrictions for creating an account or applying for programs. However, event availability depends on the season, region, hosts, partners, and available resources.
Because participants are typically responsible for their own transportation, applicants should consider travel distance and related costs before submitting an application.
The best way to find opportunities near you is to create an account and regularly browse the current event listings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay to join Hometown Hero Outdoors?
No. There is no paid membership requirement. You must create an account and verify your qualifying military service or first responder status.
Are HHO events free?
Most HHO experiences are provided at little or no cost to participants. Participants are normally responsible for transportation and any required licences, permits, or stamps. Other costs and included items vary by event.
Am I guaranteed a spot if I apply?
No. Many events have limited capacity, and submitting an application does not guarantee selection. Applicants will be notified if they are selected.
Can beginners participate?
Yes. HHO experiences are open to participants with a wide range of experience levels, including those trying an activity for the first time. Event listings provide the details you need to know before applying, including any equipment, licensing, or preparation requirements.
Do I need my own equipment?
It depends on the event. Some events provide equipment, while others require participants to bring their own. The event description will explain what is included and what you need to bring.
Can I apply for more than one event?
Yes. Verified participants can apply for multiple events that interest them, as long as they meet the requirements listed for each one.
Does HHO offer events in every state?
HHO does not restrict participation based on where someone lives, but events are not always available in every state. Opportunities depend on current hosts, partners, seasons, and program resources.
Can family members attend?
Family participation varies by event. The event listing will explain whether guests, spouses, children, or other family members may attend.
Find Your Next Outdoor Experience
Taking off the uniform can feel like losing a part of yourself—especially the bond with those who had your back. That trust, that shared mission—it doesn’t disappear, but finding it again can feel impossible.
At HHO, that connection lives on. Our peer-led adventures—hunting, fishing, and more—help heroes like you reconnect with those who truly understand.
Create your HHO account, verify your service, and explore upcoming opportunities to connect with fellow veterans, military members, and first responders outdoors.
The toughest battles are fought alone. With HHO, no hero has to.
