Built by Veterans, For Veterans

Outdoor Valor exists because we have been there. We understand the weight of service, the challenge of transition, and the power of connection. We refuse to lose another brother or sister to an invisible war, so we fight back with purpose, community, and the healing power of God’s creation.

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Veteran Led

100% Free

Peer Support

Community Funded

How Outdoor Valor Started

In 2016, our founder, Matt Schwanke, a 100% disabled Iraq War veteran, found something life-saving in the outdoors. Offshore fishing, hunting, and long-range shooting gave him space to breathe, decompress, and believe again.

On a trip to the Florida Keys, he invited a few veterans to join him on the water. By the end of the day, they were talking, laughing, and healing. A hobby became a mission.

Just veterans who get it, helping other veterans find their way forward.

Who We Are

We are a faith-based 501(c)(3) restoring hope to veterans with PTSD and depression through outdoor experiences, peer-to-peer connection, and holistic care. Veterans do not have to explain themselves here. They simply belong.

No therapists. No clinicians. Just veterans who understand.

What Veteran-Led Means Here

We refuse to lose another brother or sister to an invisible war.

We fight back with purpose, community, and the healing power of the outdoors.

Peers, Not Paperwork

You will not be pushed through a system. You will be met by people who understand the language, the weight, and the silence that often comes after service.

We Remove Barriers

Getting started is simple. Learn about the programs, apply, and we will reach out within 48 hours to answer questions and help you get registered.

Community That Lasts

This is more than a single day on the water. We build connection, accountability, and follow-through so veterans keep moving forward with people beside them.

Our Programs

All programs are completely free for veterans and designed by veterans.

Choose what feels right for you.

Fishing Program

Guided time on the water to decompress, reconnect, and reset.
Learn More About Fishing Trips

PTSD Peer Support Groups

Consistent, judgment-free peer support that understands.

Find Support That Understands

Operation Fresh Start

Whole-body wellness and accountability for sleep, stress, energy, and mental health.

Take the Next Step in Healing

Vows and Valor

Support for spouses who carry the weight alongside their veteran.

See How We Support Spouses

Give With Confidence

When you support Outdoor Valor, 100% of your donation goes directly to serving veterans.

Zero overhead. Zero paid staff. Just real impact.

Our Promise of Stewardship:

Every program is completely free for veterans
All leadership is volunteer combat veterans
Transparent financials published annually
Direct impact on lives, not administrative costs

Where your gift goes:

Fuel, bait, tackle, and on-water trip costs
Boat maintenance and safety equipment
Meals, gear support, and program materials
Expanding program capacity so more veterans can say yes

Support a veteran

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 33 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Aaron Hackett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had an amazing experience with Outdoor Valor. Went out twice, once on an offshore trip and another time on an inshore trip. Great experiences both times, great conversations about Fishing, the Military, & Healing. Was a major stress reliever. Highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dulce Pacifici 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outdoor Valor is a such an incredible non-profit! The work that they are doing to help our veterans is such a gift for the community of Marion County! If you are a veteran looking for a community of guys that share similar experiences to you in the service, then this is the place to be connected at! You matter and you're not alone!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   JR Roberson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had the privilege of being part of an event supporting Outdoor Valor, and I can honestly say this organization is doing incredible work. Their mission to help veterans reconnect, heal, and build community through outdoor activities is truly inspiring.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Michael Sheflin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outstanding!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Daniel Eckhard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outdoor Valor is a truly incredible organization. What Captain Matt does for veterans is nothing short of remarkable. Through his leadership and dedication, veterans are given a safe and supportive place to turn as they work through the challenges of PTSD.

This organization is about so much more than just taking veterans fishing. It’s about connection, healing, and giving those who have served our country a community that understands and supports them. The impact Outdoor Valor is making in the lives of veterans is powerful and deeply meaningful.

Grateful for everything this organization stands for and the lives it continues to change.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ken R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing experience with an awesome captain. They are doing some amazing work for the veteran community.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bryan Davis 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Truly amazing. The unexpected adventure starts by wiping the sleep from your eyes, to the first sip of your morning coffee, then the short drive to the dock. Then you lay your eyes on one of the coolest boats on the water, in what I can best describe as a floating ww2 P-51 mustang. The moment you touch foot onto the boat you are greeted by some of the the best people god has put in front of us. As the trip proceeds through out the day, the memories shared about time in service and embellished big fish stories creates laughter amongst strangers that echo over the vast oceans as if the ones who have served before us are listening and laughing with us. It’s no longer a fishing a trip, it’s a fellowship, it’s the new camaraderie found. Outdoor valor is family, they give veterans that piece of the puzzle needed to feel like they belong again. The fishing is amazing, but the fellowship and the adventure is what last forever. Thank you outdoor valor, you are saving lives and giving a new perspective of giving back to veterans.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dennis Buse 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went fishing with Outdoor Valor 10years ago and have been fortunate enough to fish with them a few more times over the years. I can honestly say that this is by ear the best non-profit I have ever had a chance to be a part of. I have personally seen this organization grow over the last 10 years and have seen the impact on Veterans of all ages and all backgrounds. They truly put 110% into helping Veterans no matter what they are going through. I have seen the change first hand when they get on one of the boats that Outdoor Valor has to take Veterans on fishing trips that are 100% free for Veterans. To watch the impact of fellow Veterans breathing a sigh of relief from their daily struggles and just enjoy the healing powers of the ocean is remarkable. I personally felt it myself and every time I see Veterans out with Outdoor Valor it brings a smile to my face knowing they have experienced something not everyone has the opportunity to experience. They have helped more Veterans through multiple platforms, whether on the water or in group setting counseling sessions. Nothing but great things from a great organization.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bernardo Medina 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outdoor Valor has been a true blessing in my life. They’ve helped me in more ways than I can express — from taking me deep-sea fishing, to creating brotherhood and connection through Rally Point, to supporting me in becoming certified as a life coach. That journey has helped me strengthen myself while also giving me the tools to help other veterans recognize their struggles, find their strengths, and continue growing. Outdoor Valor is making a real difference, and I’m incredibly thankful for all they do for the veteran community.

No Red Tape. Just Show Up.

If you served, you have earned this. Bring your DD-214 or military ID, and you are on the boat.

No invasive questions. No hoops. Just a team that has got your six.

Apply Now

Leadership

Matt Schwanke

Executive Director, Founder, Boat Captain
US Army Tanker, OIF 05 Veteran

Matt Schwanke is a United States Army combat veteran who deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF-5) in 2007, serving as a tanker. After leaving the military, he channeled that same discipline and drive into competitive shooting, competing in IDPA and USPSA.

When PTSD and depression made the transition home heavier than expected, Matt found something real in the outdoors. Fishing and hunting became more than hobbies they became a reset, a way to breathe again, reconnect, and build strength alongside others who understood.

In 2016, he founded Outdoor Valor to bring that same lifeline to fellow veterans, combining outdoor experiences with peer connection and holistic support to help warriors reclaim hope, purpose, and momentum.

Major Michael Carrasquilla

President
USMC (Retired)

A native Floridian from Plantation, Michael graduated from Florida State University before joining the United States Marine Corps in 2000 as an Artillery Officer. Over the course of his distinguished 20-year career, he served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, along with numerous other undisclosed missions around the globe specializing in advisor assist operations with foreign militaries/governments. He retired in 2020 after two decades of honorable and faithful service to our nation.

Following his military career, Michael became the Chief Executive Officer of Vino Ghvino 21, an international wine import and distribution company owned by his wife, Jamie, a fellow native Floridian and proud graduate of the University of Florida.

Together, they run this woman-owned, veteran-operated company out of Tampa, FL, which continues to earn the title Best of Florida, annually. Michael and Jamie live in Tampa, working side by side at Vino Ghvino 21. They are proud parents of three adult children and grandparents to one granddaughter. As a combat-disabled veteran, Michael remains deeply committed to giving back and supporting fellow veterans.

Kelly White

Vice President

Kelly White is a seasoned marketing leader with more than 30 years of hands-on experience, delivering strategic, results-oriented campaigns across diverse industries. Her impressive client portfolio includes American Salon Magazine, the American Library Association, CHADD, WellCare HMO, VectorLearning, and over 200 residential and commercial real estate professionals.

She excels in both traditional and digital marketing disciplines, with deep expertise in SEO, public relations, email marketing, tradeshow execution, and performance-driven digital advertising. Kelly is known for crafting compelling brand narratives, optimizing online presence, and consistently driving measurable growth through KPI-focused strategies.

Her leadership journey includes pivotal roles such as Director of Corporate Development and Online Brand Management at RE/MAX Premier Realty in Central Florida, where she significantly expanded the brand’s digital footprint over five years. She later served as Marketing and Operations Lead for the Leisure Investment Properties Group (a division of Marcus & Millichap), where she managed a high-performing team of 10 commercial brokers and contributed to underwriting leisure investment sales totaling more than $4.5 billion.

Today, as President of Kelly White Digital (KW Digital), Kelly leads marketing initiatives for over 120 businesses and real estate professionals worldwide (with sources noting figures ranging from 70+ to 120+), delivering customized, high-impact solutions in social media management, Google Business optimization, digital advertising, marketing collateral, and more. She is also a Partner at Cadre Commercial Real Estate Advisors, a nationally recognized firm specializing in medical facilities, assisted living properties, and other commercial real estate assets.

A certified digital marketing professional (including Google and multiple Meta/Facebook certifications), lifelong learner, and strategic thinker, Kelly combines innovation, time management mastery, and a relentless focus on ROI to help brands elevate visibility, deepen engagement, and achieve sustainable success. She remains a dynamic force in both marketing and commercial real estate, empowering clients to thrive in competitive landscapes.

For more details, visit her sites: kellywhitedigital.com or connect via Cadre at cadrecrea.com.

Dr. Larry Schwanke

Treasurer, Founder
Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Larry (Lawrence) Schwanke is a founding member and Vice President of Outdoor Valor. He is the owner and provider at Back to Basics Family Chiropractic located in Ocala Florida. He has been in practice over two decades serving the needs of his patients. He graduated from Life University School of Chiropractic in 1998 with his Doctor of Chiropractic. He also holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of West Florida.

Dr. Schwanke has helped shape the heart of our organization from day one, supporting our veterans with steady leadership and a servant’s mindset. He also volunteers directly with us on the water mission, serving as first mate when needed.

Yahahn Thompson

Director

US Navy Retired

Yahahn is a retired United States Navy Chief Hospital Corpsman who honorably served our nation for 24 years. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Hawaii Pacific University and a Master’s degree in Management from American Public University. Today, he continues his commitment to serving others through his involvement with numerous veteran and community organizations throughout the Tampa Bay area.In addition to his community service, Yahahn is the owner of Never A Stranger Cigars, Tampa Bay’s premier mobile cigar lounge, where the motto is, “Where there’s smoke, there’s Friendships!”Yahahn’s passion for supporting veterans, extensive leadership experience, and dedication to building meaningful relationships make him an outstanding addition to the Outdoor Valor family. We are excited to have him join our Board of Directors as we continue our mission of restoring hope, fostering camaraderie, and changing the lives of our nation’s veterans. .

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