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Veterans create their own ornaments at The Highground during the 2024 retreat

Registration is open for The Highground’s two female veterans’ retreats coming up in June. Veterans are welcome to join one or both retreats free of charge. Transportation to and from the retreat weekend is the responsibility of the veteran. Due to limited space, registration is required.  

The “Courage to Heal” Female Veterans Retreat is a PTSD/MST-focused retreat that will be held June 13-15. With the veteran’s registration, lodging arrangements will be made by The Highground at a motel adjacent to The Highground. The retreat will consist of workshops and activities for female veterans that have been proven helpful in the management of post-traumatic stress (PTS) and military sexual trauma (MST) recovery. Veterans can also enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings and the camaraderie of other female veterans. The activities will combine nature-based physical activities, creative arts, mindfulness and PTS management workshops led by Vietnam Veteran Nurse and PTS/MST advocate Sarah Blum.  

This retreat and activities will be accessible to most veterans with a mobility impairment. Details about confirmed workshops will be published on our website (thehighground.us) soon. 

Veterans and guides enjoy some kayaking during last year’s Ice Age Trail Hike retreat

The “Outdoor Adventures” Female Veterans Retreat, planned for June 20-22, has been organized for the female veterans who enjoy the physical demands of hiking, nights under the stars and other outdoor activities. Spending time in nature is one of the most effective and achievable ways to help heal and manage PTS and to reach goals of better mental health. Attendees and guides will be hiking the rolling terrain of area trails, camping under the stars at The Highground and participating in other outdoor activities such as kayaking. Female Veterans will have the opportunity to learn or hone their outdoor skills as well as techniques for PTS/MST management, boosting their confidence to continue the activities after the retreat. All the basic equipment necessary for this adventurous weekend is provided with the veteran’s registration. 

Registration for these retreats is required by May 30, 2025. To register for one or both retreats and for more information, veterans are invited to email Theresa at museum@thehighground.org or call 715-743-4224. 

Major funding for the 2025 Female Veterans Retreats is provided through a Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) grant. Additional sponsors are Dorothy Evenson, American Legion Aux. Post 208, John Stuhr, Gabe Komanec, Marshfield Elks 665, Harold Schmitt, and Dan & Roseann Rodwell.

For upcoming events and more, visit our Calendar of Events and follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/TheHighgroundVeteransMemorial.

The Highground is located at W7031 Ridge Rd, Neillsville WI 54456. thehighground.us.