guardian revival Blog
Information & resources about our programs, outdoor adventures, dogs, music, peer support, mental health, and wellness.
Guardian Revival is a non-profit with free programs for guardians (active & retired):
Active Military, Veterans, Reserves, National Guard, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue,
Emergency Medical Services, Dispatchers, Corrections, and Federal Agents.
Suicide Prevention Month
Suicide Prevention Month isn’t just a date on a calendar — it’s a global movement. Every September, organizations, advocates, and communities come together to raise awareness and promote healing.
This month is more than just individual awareness — it’s a time to build connections, show unyielding compassion, and become a force for positive change.
It calls on us to educate ourselves and others about the risk factors, warning signs, and myths surrounding suicide. It encourages us to open our hearts and have stigma-free conversations about mental health. It empowers those who are struggling to seek help and reminds them that they’re not alone.
Walking Together For Those Who Serve: The One Mile Challenge Presented By GOVX
Guardian Revival’s One Mile Challenge is a 30-day virtual event held every September during Suicide Awareness Month.
Participants commit to walking, running, or rolling one mile each day—30 miles in 30 days—to raise awareness and critical funds that support veteran and first responder suicide prevention programs.
This nationwide challenge is open to anyone, anywhere, and helps fuel Guardian Revival’s free programs that build community, provide mental health support, and ensure no guardian walks alone. Sign up today and take the first step toward making a difference.
Join the 2025 One Mile Challenge
We invite (and encourage!) you to join our upcoming annual One Mile Challenge: a movement to support the mental health and well-being of our military, veterans, and first responders, and their families. OMC participants commit to walking, running, or rolling just one mile a day, every day of September. Learn more about the challenge, how to join, and how to help spread the word!
The challenge is simple, flexible, and powerful for you — and every mile helps raise awareness & funds for our free programs for guardians and their families.
The Research Is Clear: Guardians Need Support. We are Here to Help.
The RAND Corporation and Benjamin Center (SUNY New Paltz) surveyed thousands of guardians across New York State. Their studies confirm what many already know — guardians face serious mental health challenges and aren’t getting the care they need. At Guardian Revival, we offer the kind of trusted, barrier-free support these reports recommend for military, veterans, first responders — and their families.
The Putnam County Guardian Dog Park
We’re honored to announce the dedication of the Putnam County Guardian Dog Park — a collaborative project between Guardian Revival, Putnam County, and the PFC Dwyer Vet2Vet Program — designed with compassion, connection, and community in mind.
Located in the Upper Park of Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park, this 50,000 square foot facility was created to provide a space where veterans, first responders, and their dogs can train, play, and connect. The park includes a public dog run for recreation, and a future training course is planned for K9 handlers, Boots & Paws recipients, and local agencies.
2024 Annual Report
We’re excited to share our 2024 Annual Report with you. Reflecting on another successful year across our core programs (Another Summit, Boots & Paws, and Encore), family program (Homefront), Peer Services division, newest location (Hawaii), and athletic fundraisers (Champions), we’re proud to report healthy finances & robust relationships as we wrap up our 5th year as an organization.
How to Run the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon With Guardian Champions
This year, Guardian Champions is providing you with the unique opportunity to run the San Diego Marathon for a great cause, by raising funds and awareness to prevent suicide among veterans and first responders with Guardian Revival.
If you’re ready to take on the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon with Guardian Champions, but you’re unsure of what to expect or how to get ready, this handy how-to guide will give you all the information you need to help you prepare, stay motivated, and make it across the finish line in style.
Revive & Thrive 2024: A Celebration of Connection, Community, and Purpose
On December 5th, 2024, Guardian Revival hosted our inaugural Revive & Thrive — a night dedicated to celebrating resilience, connection, and the incredible work being done to support our guardians. The night’s highlights included the premiere of two impactful short documentaries: the Boots & Paws Short Film and the Another Summit Mini Documentary.
Halloween Safety Tips for Dog Owners
Halloween can be an exciting time for everyone, but for our four-legged friends, the festivities bring some unexpected hazards. From candy to costumes, there are a few precautions that can help keep your dog safe while still enjoying the season.
One Mile Challenge: Good For Our Guardians, Good For You.
Walking one mile a day can significantly impact your mental, physical, and emotional health. By signing up for Guardian Revival’s One Mile Challenge, you can show your support for veterans and first responders and do something great for your well-being at the same time.
What Are Therapy Dogs?
Learn more about therapy dogs and how they can play a unique role in supporting mental health and well-being by providing comfort, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of healing across a variety of settings — from hospitals and schools to long-term healthcare facilities and special groups for trauma survivors.
2023 Annual Report
2023 was a remarkable year of growth & service for Guardian Revival. We served thousands of guardians across the nation, established new capabilities, built substantial partnerships with other non-profit organizations, managed the NYS Outdoor RX Coalition, and more. See more milestones in our 2023 Annual Impact Report.
2023 Recap: A Year of Impact & Growth
We've hit so many measurable milestones this year, and there are countless more meaningful moments we can't quantify — in groups of guardians and one-on-one with individuals. Thank you for your support, for being part of our extended Guardian Revival family, and for helping us improve the lives of our veterans & first responders.
Guardian Champions: TCS New York City Marathon
On November 5th, 2023, over 51,000 athletes from 148 countries came together for the iconic New York City Marathon. Among them were 5 runners competing as Guardian Champions: Mackenzie Burns, Rob Williams, Phil Schwarz, Brendan Melanophy, and Luke Norman — and they collectively raised over $52,000 for our Boots & Paws companion dog program!
2023 Guardian Revival Holiday Gift Guide
Looking for gift ideas for your loved ones, friends, coworkers, adventure buddies, or furry friends? Our holiday gift guide is brought to you by the team at Guardian Revival. Thanks to our wide range of expertise (and hobbies!), we’ve got recommendations for those on a path for self-improvement & exploration, creatives, both aspiring & skilled musicians, outdoor lovers & athletes, and canine companions.
2023 Best Gifts for Dog Lovers
Our Boots & Paws program provides companion dogs to veterans and first responders for the therapeutic benefits of animal companionship. Program Executive Director Rachel Hill and Operations Manager Cassie Hansen have pulled together some of their favorite products for taking care of their personal pups, as well as what we use with our dogs & recommend to guardians.