OUR MISSION
Our Culture
Patriotic houndsmen of the Pacific Northwest, who love hounds, love hunting and support our Veteran community even more.
Our Commitment
To provide world class hound hunting adventures to American Heroes at no cost to them. Ever. To create a healthy environment to enrich a relationship with the hounds and the outdoors.
Our Values
We believe every Hero we host becomes a part of the hound hunting community. The authentic relationships built during these adventures is valued by each of our volunteers.
Who We Are
In 2016 the Fern Ridge Tree Hound Club partnered with a veteran-based organization that allowed the local hound hunting club to host Purple Heart combat heroes on a week-long hunting expedition at no cost to them. Although this organization provided Purple Heart heroes with an opportunity to experience sports and activities across the country, it lacked a local support to veterans that may not have received a Purple Heart commendation. We felt this was an opportunity for our local hound club to create a nonprofit foundation to honor all heroes- thus Houndsmen for Heroes was created.
What We Do
Since our 501(c)(3) status was granted, and our first fully hosted hunt took place in February of 2019, we have strived to learn and perfect the way these events work. Each hero arrives at the hunt to a hearty meal, crew introductions and an overview of what to expect. For the next 4-5 days they will get little sleep, lots of drive time in the truck with our houndsmen, and hikes in the woods with the dogs. This creates a more intimate atmosphere, allowing for real conversations, real life tales of truth and the adventures of the hunt. With daily check ins back at base camp, they received any and all accommodations needed. From food and toiletries, to hunting apparel they need and gracious gifts from our donors. Whether the hunt results in a harvest or not, our heroes have yet to leave any event feeling “unsuccessful”. With the growth of our organization, we can afford to host a 2nd event this season, allowing us to serve more heroes. Our dedicated board and hunting team of strictly volunteers cannot wait each season to meet, connect and hunt with our heroes.
The Goal
Our goal at Houndsmen for Heroes is to help veterans find hope and healing in the great outdoors, after returning from combat situations, or thanking local heroes for their service and sacrifice as an American patriot. Although we are a young organization, we have high hopes and goals to reach the combat veteran community as well as give thanks to those who have served our communities and country so selflessly. The basis of our organization is to provide a world-class hunting experience at no cost to them. The biggest change; where most organizations would complete their service at the hunting event, we then hope to integrate them within the sportsman community based on their desires, experience and fellowship connections made from their event. We want the outdoor lifestyle to be a place of sanctuary, healing, hope and peace.
As we grow each year, we hope to see the eventual expansion of our events to encompass multiple events, in multiple locations throughout the year.