Rucking for the One Mile Challenge: this year, the second week of the One Mile Challenge (September 7–13) is Carry the Weight Week, powered by GORUCK. The idea behind this week belongs to everyone taking on OMC this year — and rucking is a great physical fitness practice in general, so we wanted to explain what it's really about.

This is the 5th Annual One Mile Challenge — five years of guardians, families, and communities across the country moving for one mile a day for the 30 days of September. At this special five-year marker, we wanted to look back at where OMC came from and the stories & perspectives of two people who've carried it from idea into impactful initiative: Alex Othmer, GR co-founder and former Navy SEAL, and Kim Haight, current GR CEO and civilian — and why it matters so much.

There are many stories behind people's miles, and many reasons people care about our mission of improving the lives of guardians and their families through the free programs and events we offer here at Guardian Revival. As we approach our 5th OMC this September, we wanted to highlight five stories of people who take part and why.

Every day, across the United States, correctional officers step behind secure doors and fortified walls to do a job that most people never see, but that every community depends on. National Corrections Officers Week is an opportunity to change all that. It’s a moment each year that gives a chance to pause and recognize the officers and staff who serve on the front lines of our justice system.

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.

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.

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.

To be human is to struggle. At Guardian Revival, this truth fuels everything we do. We don’t just help guardians and their families overcome hardships; we empower them to heal and rediscover their strength. Every step forward is a testament to the power of community and connection. These moments remind us why we do what we do and inspire us to continue.

This year, Guardian Revival is giving you two ways to ditch the holiday crowds and make a difference, starting with our Opt Outside hike on Black Friday and continuing with our Get Out, Give Back campaign on Giving Tuesday. Together, these two events can help you bring a sense of peace and purpose to your holiday season.

In September, we walk together for the One Mile Challenge to support & honor veterans and first responders affected by trauma and mental health struggles. Learn why we walk and share your own stories & reflections on OMC to help raise awareness and support suicide prevention in our community.

On the anniversary of 9/11, Guardian Revival reflects on the day that changed the lives of many in our community. From veterans to first responders to civilians, we share some of our personal stories in honor of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those lost and the guardians who continue to serve.

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.

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.

The significance of our national anthem isn’t just confined to one historical event — it extends to moments throughout our history that remind us of what it means to be an American, like this heartfelt rendition of the song played by veteran Brian Freeman in honor of the guardians who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of others on 9/11.

It's been a week since we completed our second annual One Mile Challenge, and we're excited to share a review of how the month went. 919 people joined in to walk over 27,000 miles and raise over $115,000!

We just completed our first annual One Mile Challenge! Thank you to the participants who showed up for yourselves, the guardians we've lost, and those still with us. Thank you all for supporting us and helping us help others. It truly makes a difference, and we appreciate it.