The heart and soul of the Warrior Retreat beats through its remarkable volunteer community. With only one full-time executive director and six part-time staff members, this extraordinary sanctuary for wounded veterans thrives thanks to the dedication of over 1,300 volunteers who contributed their time and talents last year alone.
Volunteer Coordinator Faith Lillemo guides listeners through the thirteen different volunteer pathways that keep the retreat running - from bakers creating homemade treats for guest families to maintenance crews ensuring the 37-acre property remains in pristine condition. The monthly Beautification Days draw up to 125 community members who tackle everything from weeding gardens to testing playground equipment for incoming warrior families.
What makes this volunteer army truly special is that many never meet the warriors they're serving. From quilting guilds crafting handmade blankets to corporate teams like Home Depot Foundation and PenFed providing crucial support, these behind-the-scenes heroes demonstrate extraordinary commitment to veterans they may never encounter face-to-face.
Navy veteran John Wall offers a powerful perspective as someone who experienced the retreat firsthand during his recovery. Initially reluctant to visit, he found not just a beautiful property but a supportive family that helped him reconnect with his wife after a year of separation due to deployment and hospitalization. Today, he volunteers at the retreat, completing a meaningful full-circle journey.
Whether you can commit to weekly service or just a single day each year, the Warrior Retreat welcomes your support. Visit their website to learn about upcoming Beautification Days, schedule a tour to see the impact firsthand, or contact volunteer@willingwarriors.org to discover how your unique skills might benefit wounded warriors and their families. The retreat's impressive 94% pass-through rate ensures your contribution directly supports those who've served our nation.
