What we offer

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At Esprit Wellness Foundation, we empower veterans through programs centered on recreation, leadership, and personal growth. These offerings will live at the heart of every Esprit Recreation Center, providing a space where veterans, dependents, and service members can train, connect, and access the support they deserve.

Our programs are designed to build community, strengthen resilience, and open pathways to wellness, purpose, and career success. As we grow, so will the network of services we offer, through expanded partnerships, on-site resource providers, and a national chapter system that reaches across universities and communities.

This is just the beginning. From fitness and mentorship to transition prep and family support, our programs will evolve with the people we serve, always grounded in movement, belonging, and mission.

What It Is:

The Esprit Recreation Center will serve as the home base for our veteran-centered wellness and activity programs. From fitness meetups to adventure outings, these offerings are designed to restore the structure, camaraderie, and purpose that many veterans miss after service.

Activities Will Include:

• Adventure Days – Hiking, kayaking, obstacle courses, ruck marches, and more
   
• Veteran Sports Leagues – Soccer, softball, and other team-based games
   
• Fitness & Wellness Challenges – MURPH Challenge, lifting comps, endurance events
   
• Group Workouts & Meetups – Strength and cardio sessions held at our center
   

Why It Matters:

Veterans often lose access to the teamwork and physical outlet they once had. By offering consistent, community-led programs inside and outside our facility, we bring that spirit back, while building a bridge between civilians and the military community. Every event hosted at Esprit is designed to heal through movement, foster connection, and ignite leadership in a new chapter of life.

• Chapter Meetings & Planning Sessions – Build leadership, organize campaigns, plan events
• Campus Wellness Events – Mental health panels, workout days, de-stress pop-ups
• Veteran & Community Service Projects – Food drives, clothing donations, outreach days
• Fundraising & Builder Campaigns – Help raise funds for EWF programs and Rec Center
• Guest Speaker Series – Hear from veterans, professionals, and community leaders
• Builder Challenges – Compete with other chapters in national service goals
   

Why It Matters:

Esprit University Chapters allow students—veterans, dependents, and allies—to lead meaningful programs that uplift those who served. Chapters give students purpose, leadership experience, and a direct role in building the first-ever Esprit Veteran Recreation & Wellness Center. Every event, dollar raised, and volunteer hour brings us closer to opening our doors in Chicago and expanding across the country.

 Program Overview:

• Week 1 - Civilian Life & Goal Setting
• Week 2 - VA Benefits & Disability Claims
• Week 3 - Resume Building & Job Search
• Week 4 - Interview Prep & Networking
• Week 5 - Entrepreneurship & Financial Planning
• Week 6 - Graduation & Career Fair (Hiring & networking event)

Why It Matters: Transitioning out of the military is challenging—many veterans face uncertainty in careers, VA benefits, and financial stability. This program provides the guidance, resources, and connections needed for a successful civilian life, ensuring veterans don’t navigate the transition alone.

Events:

• Veteran Meet & Greets – Coffee meetups, BBQs, and networking nights
• Game Nights & Movie Screenings – Friendly competition with poker, trivia, and e-sports
• Family-Friendly Gatherings – Picnics, holiday celebrations, and kids' events
• Service & Volunteer Days – Giving back to the community together
• Military Ball - Formal celebration honoring veterans and their service

Why It Matters: Many veterans feel lost or disconnected after leaving the military. This program recreates the camaraderie and brotherhood they had in service while providing a fun, stress-free environment to build friendships.

Support Provided:

• Financial Preparedness – Budgeting basics, understanding military pay, managing expenses, and saving strategies.
• Family Readiness – Preparing loved ones for the transition, ensuring communication plans, and accessing military family resources.
• What to Expect – Breakdown of boot camp, military lifestyle, rank structure, and common challenges.
• Mental & Physical Resilience – Stress management, mindset training, and fitness preparation for basic training.
• Military Benefits Education – Overview of pay, GI Bill, healthcare, housing, and career advancement opportunities.

Why It Matters: Many enlistees enter military service without a full understanding of what lies ahead. Financial struggles, lack of preparation, and uncertainty about expectations can create unnecessary stress. Operation Ready ensures future service members step into this new chapter with confidence, knowledge, and a strong support system—setting them up for success from day one.