Ryan Woodruff shares his journey from a rootless childhood to finding purpose as CEO of Clear Path for Veterans, an organization dedicated to helping veterans transition from military to civilian life.
• Moving frequently as a child created a desire for community and led to military enlistment at 17
• Deployed to Iraq twice during Operation Iraqi Freedom, facing combat and losing fellow Marines
• Military culture discouraged discussing mental health issues, leading to suppression and unhealthy coping
• Struggled with alcoholism, isolation, and finding purpose after leaving the service
• Found healing through community, spirituality, and Clear Path's service dog program
• Service dogs provide unique support for veterans with PTSD by responding to anxiety signals
• Dogs act as social facilitators, helping veterans connect with the community
• Clear Path offers holistic support, including peer mentoring, career services, and nationally available programs
• Now, as CEO, he focuses on creating stability for his children while expanding Clear Path's impact
If you're a veteran struggling with transition or know someone who is, reach out to Clear Path for Veterans. They offer programs nationally and are working to expand their digital presence to reach more veterans and their families in the USA.
Let's enjoy Ryan's story.
clearpath4vets.com
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https://www.facebook.com/ClearPathForVeterans
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Thank you for listening - Hasta Pronto!