Outward Bound for veterans helps thousands of returning service members readjust to civilian life through adventure. The program has been around since the 1980's and has been offered to Kern County veterans since 2014.
Veterans have a chance to heal their battle wounds trekking through places like Joshua Tree, white water rafting or dog sledding.
"You have veterans who haven't needed or sought treatment who come off of expeditions realizing that maybe there are some things they want to work on and work through", said Chad Spangler, National Director of Outward Bound.
Outside of Bakersfield, the program has served up to 600 veterans a year, with trips throughout the U.S. and even internationally.
"It tends to be a really powerful experience a group of people with a unique shared experience for folks", said Spangler.
The program is offered locally through a partnership between Outward Bound and The Wounded Heroes Fund. The program is year-round and is entirely free for veterans.
