You are helping veterans heal in Maine

House in the Woods gives veterans and families a place to reset. Retreats put them on the water, in the woods, and around the fire with peers who understand. Guides lead safe, skill-building days. Staff and volunteers handle meals, lodging, and logistics so participants can focus on connection. Confidence returns. Isolation fades. Purpose grows.

Serving Maine Veterans for Over a Decade

House in the Woods is a Maine nonprofit dedicated to veteran healing through outdoor retreats. Founded by Paul and Deanna House in honor of their son, Fallen Hero Sgt. Joel A. House, the program has welcomed thousands of veterans and family members to the lodge in Lee, Maine. Participants gain connection, confidence, and purpose through guided days in the woods and on the water, while trained staff and screened volunteers handle safety, logistics, and support. Your participation keeps these retreats free and accessible year-round.

What your support powers

Your support turns mission into impact. Funds stay in Maine and go where they make retreats possible.

Retreat weeks and skills days
Guided hunting, fishing, paddling, hiking, and campfire programs. Lodging, meals, permits, and program materials included.
Trained guides and staff
Professional guides, safety training, volunteer screening, and insurance so every trip runs safely and smoothly.
Lodge operations and upkeep
Heat, utilities, trail work, accessibility upgrades, gear repair, and seasonal maintenance at the Lee, Maine lodge.
Specialized healing programs
Small-group retreats that build connection, confidence, and purpose for veterans and families.
Transparent drawings and compliance
Audited entry records, published winners, secure checkout, and firearm transfer through a licensed FFL with background check.

How veterans heal here

Arrive and settle
Check in at the Lee lodge. Meet guides, staff, and other veterans. Gear is provided if needed.
Out in the woods and on the water
Guided hunting, fishing, paddling, or hiking. Small groups. Clear plans. Safety first.
Meals and connection
Hot meals around the table and time by the fire. Stories shared. Walls come down.
Skills and confidence
Learn or refresh practical outdoor skills. Build trust, purpose, and momentum.
Support that lasts
Staff follow up after the retreat. Veterans get invitations to future programs and volunteer roles.

Safety first

House in the Woods runs retreats with clear standards and trained staff. Small groups. Briefings before every activity. Guides lead the day, supported by screened staff and volunteers. Gear checks, required PPE, and written emergency plans keep trips predictable and safe. On the water, life jackets. In the woods, hunter orange in season. At the range, certified supervision.

Why it matters

Many veterans carry invisible wounds and a deep sense of isolation. House in the Woods gives them a place to reconnect with peers who understand, rebuild confidence through shared goals, and find calm in the woods and on the water. Time outside, clear plans, and small wins lower stress, lift moods, and restore purpose.

Retreats turn support into tangible change. Meals are shared, skills are learned, and friendships form that last long after the trip. Participants go home sleeping better, communicating more, and engaging with family and community. Your support keeps these retreats free and ready for the next veteran who needs a reset.