Ocean County Leader

The Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation, in collaboration with the Ocean County Department of Veterans Services, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at connecting veterans with the outdoors. The Veterans in Nature Program seeks to enhance well-being among veterans by facilitating their engagement with natural environments.

Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, who is linked to both departments involved, emphasized the health benefits of time spent outdoors. "We often hear that spending quality time outdoors has positive effects on our general health and wellbeing," he noted, adding that veterans can gain significant benefits from outdoor activities as an adjunct to treatments for various disabilities, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. "We are excited to provide this opportunity specifically for our veterans who may not have the chance to get out in nature otherwise," Arace said.

The program will initially feature a series of four activities, with plans to expand to each season. Ocean County Department of Veterans Services representatives will be on hand to offer additional assistance and resource information to participants. John P. Kelly, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, expressed his approval of the initiative, saying, "Ocean County is home to the largest veteran population in New Jersey. I commend the Ocean County Departments of Parks and Recreation and Veterans Services for this partnership that offers our veterans a safe way to enjoy the outdoors."

Starting on April 15, the first series will include an introduction to stand-up paddleboarding, bird watching, photography basics, and kayaking. Details about each event are available in the Ocean County Parks and Recreation spring program guide online at www.oceancountyparks.org.

Participation costs $5 per person. Veterans are allowed to bring one non-veteran guest and must present a military ID when registering. Registration forms are accessible via https://tinyurl.com/22hcyjpw and can be returned to designated county parks. For registration assistance, individuals can contact 732-506-9090.

"Veterans are encouraged to take part in this great opportunity to explore nature and try something new," Arace said. "We look forward to continuing this program in the coming seasons too."