On Friday, May 23, The Heroes Project took a monumental step forward—we officially broke ground at Mount Baldy for the future home of our Veteran Retreat Center. This isn’t just a building; it’s a sanctuary. A place where our wounded veterans can reconnect, recharge, and reignite their inner strength.

Mountains demand preparation, resilience, and determination—just like the journey of every hero who has served. The VRC will be a refuge from everyday distractions, a space free from Wi-Fi, city lights, and urban noise, designed to foster physical, mental, and emotional recovery. Here, veterans can find inspiration, support, and the strength to climb their personal mountains—both literal and figurative.

None of this would be possible without YOU. Your unwavering support has fueled this milestone, and together, we will continue building a future that honors and uplifts our heroes.

Let’s keep climbing, together! ⛰️🇺🇸

What Will the VRC Offer?

The VRC will serve as the foundation for our "Expedition for Heroes Program." Previously, this program was limited to veterans in Southern California, but now we are excited to extend it to veterans nationwide. We will provide temporary housing and opportunities to experience the great outdoors, all as part of our transformative journey. These programs are designed to engage the veterans of our nation with nature through therapeutic experiences that can genuinely change lives. While overcoming physical challenges is one part of the journey, the mental preparation for these adventures is equally important. We recognize that the path to recovery is a challenging one, and we are dedicated to helping our veterans explore the depths of themselves and their surroundings, all through using the power of nature. Research shows that nature-based activities, like hiking, camping, and rock climbing, can help veterans in many ways. They can build skills, nurture positive emotions, and improve well-being. They can also support Veterans adjusting to civilian life. By instilling a renewed sense of purpose, achievement, and camaraderie post-service, the VRC plays a crucial role in rebuilding veterans' confidence and self-esteem.

THP is engaged in a collaborative effort with esteemed organizations such as the United States Forest Service, the local community of Mt. Baldy, the West Los Angeles VA, Balboa Naval Hospital, and Camp Pendleton, among many others. Our collective mission is to furnish resources and opportunities that bolster economic, ecological, and social welfare. Central to our objective is fostering connections within the veteran community and with nature, alongside the establishment of a premier facility to cater to injured veterans. Together, we aim to preserve the vitality, diversity, and sustainability of Southern California's forests. We also promote healthy lifestyles and outdoor recreation in natural settings and support the healing of our esteemed veteran community.

Supporting the VRC with donations will improve the welfare of our veteran community. Together, we can create a meaningful impact.

Mountaineering Courses

Rock Climbing Courses

Canyoneering Courses

Mountain Yoga

Map & Compass Courses

Wilderness Survival Classes

Archery

When the area became a national forest in 1908, the U.S. Forest Service began offering 99-year leases on plots of land in Icehouse Canyon for vacation cabins. The Lodge was originally constructed by Clarence Chapman around 1921, the first of the builders in Ice House Canyon. By 1938 there were 105 privately owned cabins and additional cabins at a resort owned by the Chapman family. The Great Flood of 1938 destroyed 16 cabins at the resort and 35 cabins were destroyed by fire and rock/mudslides.

By the 1960s, the Ice House Lodge, at a mile above sea level and roughly two miles north of Mt. Baldy Village proper, had become a popular Friday and Saturday evening night spot for those risking the drive up from the flatlands below. In March 1988 it burned down. Our plans are to keep the history alive by rebuilding in the very same spot as this iconic resort with a Veteran initiative behind it.

Scott Youngren and Youngren Construction have been passionately involved in building as a general contractor for Homes for Our Troops (HFOT) since 2010. The entire Youngren team considers it an honor to serve veterans who have selflessly served their country. Building in San Diego County, Riverside County, Orange County and San Bernardino County has allowed Youngren Construction to do what they do best – get the job done right! Youngren Construction has been pivotal in building many of the homes for our THP alumni. When we searched for a contractor to build our Retreat Center, it was an obvious choice. Welcome to the THP Family!

https://youngrenconstruction.com/

M.W. Steele Group h­as been guided by the vision that the buildings they design make an impact on the cities and communities we’ve come to love. As an award-winning architecture & planning firm, M.W. Steele Group’s portfolio reflects a vision built upon their client’s needs and their extensive experience. Their firm is built on the principle that whether it’s a building they are designing or a plan for a community, it’s only successful if it enhances and supports the lives of people. By partnering with The Heroes Project, we are accomplishing that goal of supporting the lives of our Veteran community.  https://www.mwsteele.com/