Heroes on the Water (HOW) is proud to collaborate with the Life
Enrichment Center (LEC) at the Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center in
Topeka, Kansas, to support veterans on their mental health recovery
journeys. Through the healing power of outdoor recreation and
skill-based therapy, HOW offers veterans’ innovative ways to manage
mental health challenges, build confidence, and reintegrate into
their communities.
The LEC is a Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Recovery Center
(PRRC) providing intensive outpatient care for veterans. By
partnering with HOW’s Topeka VA Therapeutic Program, the LEC
integrates traditional behavioral health care with recreational
therapy, offering veterans diverse pathways to recovery.
Recreation therapy programs like kayak fishing and skill-based
workshops help veterans focus on mindfulness, build social
connections, and experience personal achievement. HOW programs are
intentionally designed to adapt to individuals of all skill levels
and abilities - the goal is to give veterans an avenue to manage
stress and support their reintegration into the
community.
Last winter, HOW introduced a rod-building workshop at the LEC
in Topeka, providing veterans an opportunity to learn a new skill
while staying engaged during the fishing off-season. This hands-on
activity offers more than just a finished product—it builds
confidence and reinforces coping skills learned in
therapy.
“We had veterans who didn’t think they could build a fishing
rod, but they did,” said Katie Elkins, LMSW. “The pride they felt
was incredible. It’s not just about building a rod—it’s about
building confidence.”
For many veterans, the rod-building program became a way to
reconnect. “Veterans are learning new skills and practicing them
outside the program. They’re expanding their comfort zones and
immersing themselves in the community instead of isolating and
suffering in silence,” said Katie.
“This skill-based approach differs from traditional therapies in
that it allows veterans to socialize with others, meet new friends,
and increase self-esteem,” said Mario R. Lopez, LSCSW, LEC Program
Manager.
“For some veterans, this hands-on work is more powerful than
traditional psychotherapy,” said Mario. “For those with deep
depression or post-traumatic stress, this is the ticket to get
outside of that. It keeps your mind busy and focused on one
thing.”
Veterans who participated in the winter rod-building workshop
are now putting their custom-built rods to use on the water,
continuing their journey of healing and growth with the HOW Topeka
VA Therapeutic Program.
Heroes on the Water remains committed to empowering veterans
through recreational therapy, helping them achieve mental health
recovery and community reintegration. For more information, visit
heroesonthewater.org.
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Founded in 2007, Heroes on the Water is a 501(c)3 non-profit
that provides recreational wellness experiences to veterans, first
responders and their families. Our primary modality is kayak
fishing which has proven cognitive and emotional benefits. These
programs incorporate structured activities in a pressure-free
environment creating opportunities for community building and
personal healing. Our participants receive much needed camaraderie
and support.
HeroesontheWater.org | Videos | Success Stories
- Rod-building workshop at the LEC in Topeka
- Rod-building workshop at the LEC in Topeka
Faeda Elliott
Heroes On The Water
951-642-8091
faeda.elliott@heroesonthewater.org
