“I am a combat veteran of Operation Desert Storm and have PTSD from that experience that I receive treatment for at our local VA treatment center. Many veterans do not trust the VA with their PTSD and need outlets for treatment. Soldier Freedom Outdoors offers services for treating PTSD at no cost to the veteran. During retreat weekends veterans can stay at the ranch at no cost and psychiatric professionals volunteer and assist the veterans in group sessions,” tells Terry Martin Back, associate broker with EXIT Realty Professionals in Gainesville, FL, of why he chose to support Soldier Freedom Outdoors with his Spirit of EXIT initiative.
To support Soldier Freedom Outdoors, Terry participated in a cycling event from Cedar Key, FL to St. Augustine, FL on road and rail trails covering roughly 137 miles. The ride aims to raise awareness of veteran suicide and PTSD while also allowing people to sponsor riders or simply donate. All funds go towards maintaining the ranch and animals. Soldiers Freedom Outdoors allows veterans and their families to enjoy the 350-acre lake with fishing, swimming, paddle boarding and more.
“I’m incredibly proud of the awareness raised and the funds collected to support Soldiers Freedom Outdoors. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of veterans struggling with PTSD and suicidal thoughts,” Terry said.
A portion of every transaction fee received by EXIT Realty Corp. International is applied to its charitable fund. Through the Spirit of EXIT Charitable Program, EXIT offices and associates can raise money for local, approved, registered charities and apply to EXIT’s head office to have those funds matched from the company’s pool of funds. Terry hoped to raise $4,500, which EXIT’s head office was proud to match, however he raised $4606 for a total donation of $9,106 to Soldier Freedom Outdoors.
