Walking Together For Those Who Serve: The One Mile Challenge Presented By GOVX
When Navy SEAL Alex Othmer left the military after nine years of service, he returned home without a mission. Like many veterans, he faced depression, isolation, and suicidal thoughts.
“I suffered from mental health issues and had thoughts of suicide at one point,” Othmer admits. “I knew what PTSD looked like — I grew up with it. My dad was a NYC firefighter during 9/11. But knowing the signs didn’t make the struggle any easier.”
Small steps made all the difference. A dog, hiking with friends, and picking up the guitar helped him heal — and inspired him to start Guardian Revival, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring mental health and connection for veterans and first responders.
And from this mission came the idea for the One Mile Challenge — a way to turn daily steps into hope for others.
Why We Walk
In the United States, more guardians die by suicide every day than in the line of duty.
The statistics are staggering, but the reality is personal. Each loss represents a family, a friend, a community left behind.
Walking one mile may seem small, but every mile becomes a statement: that we are present, that we care, and that no one should walk their mile alone.
That is the heart of the One Mile Challenge. Every September, during Suicide Awareness Month, participants commit to walking, running, or rolling one mile a day for 30 days. The challenge is simple—but the message is profound: every step matters.
Taking those steps isn’t just symbolic. It directly supports Guardian Revival’s programs for active military, veterans, and first responders. helping build community and provide the resources they need to thrive.
30 Days. 30 Miles. 1 Mission.
The One Mile Challenge is not about speed or distance. It’s about showing up every day with intention, honoring those we’ve lost, and supporting those who continue to serve.
The best part? Anyone can participate, no matter where they are, and every step contributes to the mission.
Here’s how you can join the mission & gear up
Participation is flexible, with options designed to suit different levels of involvement:
Kits are shipped to U.S. addresses only. No returns or exchanges.
Once you’ve signed up, every mile you walk becomes a visible part of a nationwide effort to bring support and community to our guardians. And even though the challenge is virtual, you’re never walking alone.
A Community Effort With GOVX
The 2025 One Mile Challenge is presented by GOVX, a company committed to serving military, first responders, educators, and medical professionals. Since 2011, GOVX has donated nearly $2 million to nonprofits like Guardian Revival through its GOVX Gives Back initiative.
With partners like GOVX, the One Mile Challenge becomes more than an individual effort—it’s a nationwide movement. Every participant, every mile, and every donation adds up to a collective impact for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
Take the First Step
Join us and experience firsthand how small, consistent actions can transform a life. Guardian Revival exists to ensure that every guardian has access to support, connection, and hope.
This September, you can make a difference. Walk with purpose. Walk with community. Walk so no guardian walks alone.
30 DAYS. 30 MILES. 1 MISSION.
Who We Are
Guardian Revival is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that improves the mental health & well-being of military, veterans, and first responders — our guardians — and their families, at no cost to them.
Another Summit | Outdoor adventures — walking, hiking, backpacking, paddling, and fly fishing
Boots & Paws | Providing dogs for the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship
Encore | Opportunities to learn, write, play, record, and share music
Homefront | Events, support & resources for guardian families
Peer Services | Individual & group peer support for guardians by guardians
RISE | Strength & resilience through fitness & wellness
