From Jeanna Bouzek, chairperson of Pennsylvania Skill Charitable Giving.
As chair of our charitable giving organization, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact great programs can have on the lives of our nation’s veterans. A powerful example of this is Patriot Pursuit, an initiative in New Stanton, Westmoreland County, dedicated to taking veterans on therapeutic outdoor trips that foster healing, connection, and renewed purpose.
In 2025, during a fishing trip to West Palm Beach, the group tells us they hosted a veteran who had endured unimaginable loss. He had lost half of his platoon in Afghanistan, and in the years that followed, many of those who made it home were lost to suicide. Carrying that weight, he struggled deeply with PTSD, alcoholism, and depression.
What unfolded during that trip is exactly why Patriot Pursuit exists. The leaders of Patriot Pursuit say that through time spent outdoors, meaningful conversation, and the camaraderie of fellow veterans, something began to shift. In an environment free from judgment and full of understanding, he found a path forward. It is no exaggeration to say that without that experience, his story might have turned out very differently.
Today, he is alcohol-free and thriving. When he retires from the Army, he hopes to join Patriot Pursuit to give back and support others in need.
This is so powerful. Veterans helping veterans heal, rebuild, and rediscover purpose. Pennsylvania Skill Charitable Giving is proud to donate to this worthy cause.
You can learn more about this organization here: patriotpursuit.net or join their Facebook group herE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/patriotpursuit
More stories of our charitable giving at pasksill.com/giving.