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.
Philadelphia Marathon Weekend 2024 Recap
The Philadelphia Marathon 2024 weekend brought together over 17,000 runners (20 of which were Guardian Champions) to pound the pavement of one of the nation’s most beautiful and iconic marathon courses — and one of the top ten marathons in the U.S. This year’s event sold out, but Guardian Revival proudly secured charity entries for our Champions — and our team delivered an impactful performance.
2024 Year-End Note from Our CEO
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.
2024 Best Gifts for Outdoor Lovers
Finding the best gift for an outdoor enthusiast can be tough — With all the different brands and items to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to find quality gear that provides functionality and speaks to your loved one’s adventurous spirit.
Henri de la Vega (our Another Summit Director of Outdoor Adventure and Education) has put together this holiday gift guide to help you find the perfect gift this holiday season.
With everything from larger gifts to smaller stocking stuffers that won’t break the bank, this list has been curated with nature lovers in mind and has the added benefit of allowing you to support American-owned companies and retailers when you buy.
Top 10 Essentials For Hikers
If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you know that many considerations go into planning a safe and enjoyable hike — you need to pick a destination, plan a route, check the weather, pay attention to trail conditions, and calculate how much food and water you’ll need for your journey.
One of the most important considerations, though, (and one that trips people up the most) is what to pack.
Any time you decide to set off for an outdoor adventure, you need to make sure you have everything you need for a hike that allows you to enjoy all the beauty that Mother Nature has to offer while keeping you out of harm’s way, as well as a few extra items that you hopefully won’t need, but may come in handy during an emergency.
You also need to consider the weight of all your gear, because, after all, you’ll be the one who has to lug all this equipment around on your hike. Narrowing down your gear to the essentials can be frustrating, but fortunately, there’s a tried and tested, decades-old system that will make preparing for your outdoor adventure a snap.
How to Support Veterans & First Responders This Holiday Season
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.
2024 Marine Corps Marathon Recap
The 2024 49th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) brought thousands of runners together in Arlington, VA, and Washington, D.C., to celebrate “A bond that bridges generations – women who serve our Nation and communities.” This year, Guardian Revival was proud to have 13 incredible runners take on The People’s Marathon as Guardian Champions.
Discover the Joy of Fly Fishing with Another Summit
Whether you're brand new to fly fishing or looking to refine your technique, Another Summit invites you to join a year-long journey into the world of fly fishing alongside fellow guardians. This cohort-style course is designed for anglers of all levels.
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.
Hiking Guide: Bull Hill / Mount Taurus
Discover one of the Hudson Highlands State Park's hidden gems. Easily accessible from NYC, this moderately strenuous hike offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Storm King State Park, and, on clear days, even the NYC skyline. Explore two route options and learn essential hiking tips for this scenic trail.
Top 5 Tips For Fall Hiking in New York
Fall can be one of the best seasons for hiking, there are a few things outdoor enthusiasts should keep in mind before dusting off their flannel and hitting the trail.
To help nature lovers ready to lace up their hiking boots and enjoy some of the best fall hikes in New York, Henri de la Vega (our Another Summit Director of Outdoor Adventure and Education) is bringing you his top five expert tips for fall hiking.
One Mile Challenge: Why We Walk
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.
Remembering 9/11: Stories from Our Guardian Revival 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.
Resources For Law Enforcement Spouses and Partners
Being the spouse or partner of a law enforcement officer comes with ups and downs just like any other relationship, but it also comes with a unique blend of characteristics that can be challenging to navigate.
Supporting a loved one who operates in such a high-stakes profession often requires resilience, encouragement, and connection with others who understand the demanding nature of law enforcement life.
Guardian Homefront knows that while you take pride in the work your loved one does, it’s not always easy to balance the law enforcement lifestyle — that’s why we’ve curated this list of essential resources designed to help you and your relationship thrive while you’re on this incredible journey.
Resources For Military Families
If you’re a spouse or family member of a military service member or veteran, you’re part of a community that has to find a balance between civilian life and the demanding nature of service.
To help you find inspiration and guidance while you’re navigating military family life, Guardian Homefront has put together this list of books that can make things easier along the way.
Resources For Law Enforcement Families
If you’re a spouse or family member of a law enforcement officer, finding the right support and resources can go a long way to helping you and your family live a more peaceful life in the face of the stress that comes with having a loved one who puts their life on the line every day.
To provide you with some additional support, Guardian Homefront has compiled this list of books written specifically for law enforcement families.
Resources For Military Spouses & Partners
Military partners and spouses often find themselves juggling the issues that come up in everyday life along with the demanding nature of their spouse’s profession and its impact on things at home
From managing frequent moves to dealing with long deployments that can leave you feeling isolated, it’s essential to have someone in your corner when things get tough.
To provide you with some help while you’re navigating this challenging but rewarding experience, Guardian Homefront has put together this list of essential resources for military spouses and partners
Resources For First Responder Families
Being the family member of a first responder is an experience that requires, strength, understanding, and a lot of support.
To help make this journey easier for first responder spouses and family members, Guardian Homefront has created this list of resources tailored specifically to the unique challenges that come with this lifestyle.
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.
2024 Florida Sea to Sea Expedition Race
Keith, Jon, and Tyler — retired military veterans with over 40 years of combined service — took on the challenge of The Sea to Sea Race: navigating over 300 miles of rugged Florida terrain, from one coast to the other, using only a compass, a map, and their wits to get them to the finish line.