Episode 34: Nick Salo, Events Director for Valor & Honor Outdoors, Army Veteran
Welcome to another insightful episode of Tactical Transition! Guest Nick Salo joins hosts Michele Lewis and Cyndi Po to discuss the impactful work of Valor and Honor Outdoors (VHO).
Introducing Valor and Honor Outdoors (VHO): Michele introduces Nick Salo, a fifth-generation outdoorsman, husband, father, and veteran Army Ranger with two decades of service, including 18 years in special operations. Nick, who transitioned from a VHO participant to its Events Director, explains VHO's mission: "to honor and support those who serve and have served by providing awesome and exceptional outdoor experiences that foster physical and mental well-being, strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories". VHO offers diverse outdoor activities from hunting and fishing to scuba diving and parachuting, aiming to help participants reset mentally and be reinvigorated. Their goal is to "be part of the healing" process, addressing the "headspace" of active duty personnel, first responders, and veterans.
A Unique Approach to Healing: Michele highlights VHO's non-traditional approach, noting that there's "no requirement for the participant to share their feelings or to give their... bonafides," humorously summarized as "no butt sniffing required". Nick explains that the power lies in changing the environment to allow individuals to reconnect with a new, non-judgmental peer group. VHO "seek[s] to create the environment of the team room or the locker room or that squad bay that... you didn't have to hold back," allowing for authentic connection and support. This holistic approach extends to families, recognizing their silent burdens and providing opportunities for them to heal and reconnect as well.
Nick's Personal Journey and the Power of Connection: Nick shares his experience, contrasting a prior "assembly line" veteran event with his profoundly positive first VHO duck hunting trip. He was welcomed without judgment, loaned equipment, and instantly felt a strong connection, which led to a "smile on [his] face" and "a little bit more pep in [his] step." His involvement with VHO was also a strategic part of his military transition, helping him maintain his identity and connection to the military community, underscoring the idea that "you don't miss the circus, but you miss the clowns." Michele shares a poignant story about a young pitcher she hosted who, due to injury, ended up on the US Olympic bobsled team, illustrating that "the detour is the road".
How You Can Get Involved:
Participants: Service members, veterans, and first responders can sign up via www.valorhonoroutdoors.com to attend over 150 events annually across 14 states.
Volunteers: VHO welcomes individuals of all skill levels, from experienced guides to those who want to "flip burgers" or help with logistics.
Donors & Sponsors: As a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)(3) organization, VHO relies on donations. It costs approximately "$1,000 per person" to cover expenses like travel, lodging, licenses, and equipment for participants.
In-Kind Donations: Equipment from firearms to fishing gear is greatly appreciated.
Land Access: Donating or offering discounted use of land for hunting, fishing, or camping is crucial, as it's a significant expense. Michele assures listeners that donated land is treated with the "highest regard and respect."
Cyndi and Michele express their excitement and confidence in partnering with VHO, as the organization's focus on self-care and life balance aligns perfectly with Tactical Transition's emphasis on pre-career change.
Donate: Pathrinders Horizon Collaboration Project
Your donation supports both VHO and 374 Consultants in our efforts to enrich the lives of our service members.