GUIDEPOSTS
Veterans’ Sea Kayak Resiliency Training
Spring 2025 Impact Report
Every season, the Coastal Warriors Sea Kayak Resiliency Training Program continues to affirm what we’ve known all along: time on the water has the power to heal. Our Spring 2025 session was no exception. Our partner Boeing South Carolina understands the power of engagement for our local veterans and funds this work through the Coastal Expeditions Foundation.
Over six full-day expeditions, ten military veterans—joined by two mentors—navigated the blackwater and saltwater trails of the South Carolina Lowcountry. They developed their sea kayaking skills while working through the physical and emotional currents of trauma, connection, and growth.
This cohort included veterans from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, ranging in age from 27 to 63. Across the board, they showed measurable improvement in areas critical to mental health, from emotional regulation to the ability to enjoy the company of others.
What We Do
The structure of the Coastal Warriors program is simple and powerful: immersive outdoor experiences led by skilled guides who are trained to weave resiliency coaching into paddling instruction. Participants not only gain confidence in the cockpit of a kayak, but also begin to understand how those same skills translate into life beyond the water.
It’s not therapy. It’s not a lecture. It’s showing up, putting paddle to water, and learning—sometimes for the first time in years—what it feels like to trust others, to laugh, and to feel steady again.
“This program was the best thing I’ve done for myself in at least 15 years.”
What We Measure
We ask each participant to complete a pre- and post-program self-assessment, ranking their emotional and social well-being on a standardized scale. These assessments help us quantify what we see on the water: real, measurable improvement in the way these veterans relate to themselves and others.
This spring, the biggest improvements came in:
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Emotional Regulation: Participants reported feeling significantly more even-tempered.
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Connection: Warriors noted a greater ability to enjoy the company of others.
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Energy: Feelings of exhaustion and burnout decreased across the group.
These shifts—though represented in data—speak to something deeply human: the return of hope, strength, and self-worth.
“To help someone else you must first save yourself. That goes for kayak rescue, but also life in general.”
The Numbers
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10 Veterans (6 men, 4 women)
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2 Civilian Mentors
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4 Army, 2 Navy, 2 Air Force, 1 Marine, & 1 Coast Guard
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Ages 27–63
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6 Full-Day Kayak Expeditions
Each score on our wellness scale ranges from 14 (most need for growth) to 45 (highest functioning). Across the board, our Spring 2025 cohort moved steadily toward the high end of that scale.
Lasting Impact
We’re proud of the work these Warriors did—on the water and within themselves—and we’re honored to continue supporting their journey. We thank the teaching partners and Boeing SC, who make this program possible.
This isn’t just about kayaking. It’s about transformation. It’s about coming home to yourself—one paddle stroke at a time.
