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WHAT IS THE SYMBOLISM BEHIND THE UNBROKEN SPIRIT LOGO?
Our Eagle, Hero, is a symbol of great strength, leadership and vision. When he appears, you are on notice to be courageous and stretch your limits and reach higher and become more than you believe you were capable of. If you are going through a hard time, our Eagle not only signals a new beginning, but provides you with the stamina and resilience to endure your difficulties. Summon our Eagle when you are about to embark on a challenge, a massive life change or a creative endeavor.
Our Infinity Symbol reminds us that we are unbroken and need to seek balance and unity within ourselves and with others. It inspires us to embrace life’s endless possibilities and never give up on our dreams and goals. It serves as a reminder that the sky’s the limit and that anything is possible if we set our minds to it. It inspires us to embrace the ups and downs of life and to find balance, harmony, meaning and purpose in the journey.
WHAT DOES AN UNBROKEN SPIRIT LIFE LOOK LIKE?
A fierce wind has battered us around and we are initially weakened, shaken, and begin questioning our ability to even fly straight and strong ever again. We have been torn, unstuffed and shattered perhaps by unspeakable occurrences, consequences, traumas, injuries, or illnesses. We have been the subject of harshness, indifference, and cruelty.
The fear of the unknown perhaps has debilitated us. In these moments of uncertainty we fight courageously to right ourselves and keep in flight.
Embracing the struggle, we find that hidden light deep inside our souls and are reminded that we have been knocked down before and it hurts. We are vulnerable but courageously step into the arena and find our grit, gumption, resilience, and our belief in something bigger than ourselves and begin to rise up−and that beautiful light moves our wings and we take flight and flourish with all our might.
We commit to deepening our resolve to be contributors, mentors, and leaders. We are compassionate and strong, committed and unyielding in our pursuit to be our best selves. Our struggles do not make us weak, harsh, or unforgiving−we instead use our struggles to fuel our rise.
We begin to soar higher and higher seeking out opportunities to serve others, to become stronger, to better ourselves. We use these moments of darkness to reflect and remember what and who we are, WE are UNBROKEN Spirits.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR OUR PROGRAM?
Any Veteran and Active Duty Military is eligible to apply for our program. We don’t require Veterans to have a disability rating or ask you for proof of military service.
CAN MY SPOUSE ATTEND?
No, the program is specifically designed for Veterans to focus on their personal growth and transformation. This is not just a backpacking trip but an intensive, year-long journey of self-discovery and development.
While the program includes physically demanding activities, many alumni share that the most challenging aspect is Phase 1, which emphasizes:
Committing to meaningful, lasting changes in your life
Investing in your personal growth
Completing required assignments
The program is tailored to help participants grow mentally, emotionally, and physically.
WHAT IS UNBROKEN SPIRIT LOOKING FOR IN AN APPLICANT?
Our program is designed to lead you on a life-changing journey to become your best-self so you can effectively lead yourself, your families, and serve others in their community. When reviewing applications, we are searching for Veterans who have a need and are committed to learning how to live a better life. We are also looking for Veterans who have a positive attitude, sense of teamwork, character, and responsibility. The transformative program we offer lasts almost a year and requires a lot of hard work and commitment, so if you are looking for a quick-fix solution to your needs, our program is not for you.
IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?
No, there is no age limit to participate in the Unbroken Spirit program. However, we do ask you to conduct a self-evaluation to ensure you’re ready for the program’s challenges.
The physical requirements for phase 2 include hiking 22 miles over three days with a 25-30 lb pack in mountainous terrain. While this is physically demanding, many alumni say the most challenging part of the program is phase 1, which focuses on:
Your commitment to making meaningful changes in your life
Investing in personal growth
Completing the required assignments
The program is designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, so we encourage you to consider your readiness to fully commit.
WHO DO I CONTACT IF I NEED ASSISTANCE COMPLETING AN APPLICATION?
For assistance filling out an application, or to request a paper copy, please contact us at info@unbrokenspirit.org
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I SUBMIT AN APPLICATION?
You will receive an immediate email confirmation letting you know that your application has been received and is now in our applicant pool. Your application will be reviewed by one of our staff members and, if selected, we will conduct a follow-up interview with you. You will receive a message to set up a date and time for the interview which is conducted online.
It’s critically important that you be responsive during this early phase. We are all unpaid volunteers and you will do yourself and fellow Veterans a disservice if we have to repeatedly ask for you to respond. After your interview, our staff will review all the information you provided and objectively evaluate your application.
If you are not selected in any step of our onboarding process you will be notified. At any time during this process, you can reach us at info@unbrokenspirit.org to determine your current status.
IF I AM SELECTED FOR THE PROGRAM, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Once selected, you will receive a confirmation email from us and we will shepherd you through the remainder of our onboarding process.
We will screen your application for any obvious medical concerns. We may require you to obtain a Medical Clearance from your Primary Care Physician if we see any concerns. We will email you the form and give you adequate time to have it completed. Once medically cleared, we will send you a welcome packet and all the resources you need to start the course.
While waiting for your medical clearance we want you to get on our website www.unbrokenspirit.org and learn about the symbolism of our Logo and what it means to live an Unbroken Spirit Life. Please review all three phases of our program and all the other information available to get you ready to embark on a life-changing journey. Almost everything you need to know is on our website.
WHAT ARE THE COMPONENTS OF THE UNBROKEN SPIRIT PROGRAM?
We offer you a life-changing, comprehensive program that leads to long-term growth and wellbeing at no cost to Veterans! Our Unbroken Spirit Pyramid of Success™ Program Model was developed through extensive scientific research in positive psychology and leadership development. Our sole focus is to help you reimagine yourself and begin a life-changing journey armed with a new purpose, mindset, and support system.
Our transformative training program is built on a foundation of holistic wellness (Body, Mind, and Spirit) and consists of three separate, but mutually supportive programs: Pre-Deployment, Deployment and Post-Deployment, or Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III
In a few words, Phase I of our program is conducted like an undergraduate/graduate-level course using our Unbroken Spirit Workbook and Pyramid of Success. It places heavy emphasis on self-development, leadership development, and wellbeing. Phase II consists of a physically and mentally tough wilderness team backpacking adventure or an adaptive sports experience depending on the program selected. Phase III consists of a mentorship program, more online training and community service. If you have any questions about our program contact us info@unbrokenspirit.org
WHO LEADS THE DIFFERENT PHASES OF THE UNBROKEN SPIRIT PROGRAM?
Unbroken Spirit was founded by Veterans only for Veterans or Active Duty Military. Many Veteran Service Organizations use a mix of Veteran and Civilian personnel to run their programs. We decided to use mostly Veterans and not just any Veteran−we only partner with Veterans we know and trust. We require them to successfully complete our program.
Our Founders, Colonel (Ret) Peter Champagne and Major (Ret) Marlene Champagne primarily lead the Pre-Deployment and Post-Deployment Phase. Our Program Coordinators Paul Haverstick, Mike Valdez and Kevin Maksudovski lead the Deployment Phase along with other hand-selected, highly qualified Veterans that act as Assistant Expedition Leaders.
DO I HAVE TO BUY OR PAY FOR ANYTHING TO PARTICIPATE?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! We will never ask you to buy anything. Our program is completely free including your travel expenses. The only thing we ask in return is for you to be fully committed to learning, growing, and serving. This is not an easy program to graduate from and it’s not for everyone. You will be expected to work hard and meet all course requirements. In return we invest heavily in you by providing the best gear, equipment, clothing, and resource materials to set you up for success.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN THE PRE-DEPLOYMENT PROGRAM?
Using our exclusive Unbroken Spirit Pre-Deployment Training Program Model and instructor led training we help you achieve whole person or holistic wellness by strengthening your body, mind, and spirit. We empower you to believe in a future that might not exist yet; learn the skills necessary to achieve that goal; and succeed in creating a brighter future of growth, lifelong-fulfillment, and service. We accomplish those goals through our proprietary curriculum that is delivered to you over a 3 month period that includes six online instructor-led seminars using platforms such as Google Meets and Zoom.
During these seminars you will get to meet your team of fellow Veterans and begin building bonds of trust and camaraderie that will lead to the kind of team unity and cohesiveness that we miss from our military experience. Upon selection into the program you will receive an Unbroken Spirit resource package containing the course syllabus, workbook, 5 books, and any other materials you need to successfully complete our program.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE BACKPACKING EXPEDITION OR ADAPTIVE SPORTS PROGRAM IN PHASE II?
During this phase of training your teammates and you will gather together in Asheville, NC for a backpacking expedition in the pristine mountains of Western North Carolina or for an Adaptive Sports Program at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, NC, depending on the program you chose. Both programs create a safe and fun environment that will challenge you and your teammates physically and mentally. These adventures help you feel that sense of camaraderie, teamwork, and mission accomplishment that you loved about the military and provides you with an opportunity to create new social connections with Veterans in a meaningful way that leads to long-term psychological wellbeing.
This part of your training can improve your physical, mental, and spiritual wellness−critical elements and outcomes from our Unbroken Spirit Pyramid of Success. Our Deployment Training Program rests on scientific research that indicates the following benefits:
- Improved mood and is relaxation
- Reduced feeling of stress or anger
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased motivation leading to higher levels of fitness
- Reduced stress, cortisol levels, muscle tension and heart rates
- Restored mental capacities−increased focus and attention
- Provide space to come together and find social connection−reduced loneliness and isolation
- Lowered risk of depression
- Accelerated psychological recovery
The Backpacking Expedition will require you to put a 25-30 lbs. pack on your back and hump it approximately 22 miles over 2.5 days 8-10 miles on a challenging, mountainous trail, with significant elevation changes. We provide you with a safe environment that encourages you to connect with your existing strengths, put into practice newly developed skills, and bond with your fellow Veterans in nature.
The Adaptive Sports Program is more suitable for any Veteran that wants the same great Phase I and III experience, but cannot safely complete our rigorous backpacking expedition. You must weigh under 250 lbs. and know how to swim. This adventure consists of rock climbing, white water kayaking and rafting, high ropes obstacle course, zip lining, and fishing.
Both of these programs have structured exercises that provide time for self-reflection and self-awareness and campfire discussions. Each Veteran is asked to capture those things from their past that are holding them back; their present situation; and look toward the future with positivity.
Both programs conclude with a coin ceremony and celebratory dinner.
If you have any questions about this phase of training contact us at info@unbrokenspirit.org.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE FOR THE DEPLOYMENT PHASE?
You do not have to be an athlete or in peak physical condition to attend either the backpacking expedition or the adaptive sports program, but you do have to be ready both physically and mentally to take on the challenges you will experience during these programs. During the Pre-Deployment phase we will help you prepare for your Deployment or Phase II adventure. Your body needs to be strong, but you must also come with an open mind, willing spirit, and team focus.
- Teamwork – Be ready to be part of a team. Think about other team experiences you have had in the past whether they are military, sports teams, school plays, or business meetings. Come up with a few observations about what has made your teams successful in the past and plan on being a positive contributor during this week.
- Compassion – Compassion is one of Unbroken Spirit’s core values. Be prepared to offer it and expect it from your teammates. You will travel with and rely on a group of Veteran teammates each of whom have different reasons for attending Unbroken Spirit and will come with varying levels of physical and mental strength. You may find that you will need to make compromises in your own expectations to support other members of your team. It is important to remember that in such a small group setting, your attitude and actions affect everyone.
- Group Discussion – Unbroken Spirit delivers learning, in large part, through team discussion. We truly believe that we are Stronger Together and Together Unbroken. Each night during Phase II we plan to have a campfire discussion after dinner. There is tremendous value in listening to your fellow teammates discuss how they are facing the challenges or adversity in their life. No one is going to force you to share your thoughts and feelings, but please be prepared to share your perspective and gain insight from others.
- Physical Exercise – Adopting a daily exercise routine can be daunting and challenging if you don’t already do it. Showing up in Asheville for your Phase II adventure is not the time to get in shape. Every minute you put in to working will pay off once you get out here, especially if it is for your backpacking expedition. During Phase I we can provide you with information that you need to improve your physical wellness including proper nutrition practices. We want you to make healthy and helpful choices in the months leading up to your Deployment. We have certified personal trainers who can also help you. We want you to be a responsible teammate, one who is accountable to the other Veterans on your team. Take that responsibility seriously and do your job to get ready physically and mentally by adopting the below healthy habits:
A great way to prepare physically is to adopt healthy eating habits and focus on being well-hydrated. The following tips may help:
- Arrive in Asheville, NC for your Deployment Phase of Training well rested.
- Reduce consumption of fatty foods, excessive alcohol, and caffeine. As these substances require a lot of water and oxygen to metabolize.
- Eat plenty of unrefined carbohydrates (i.e. whole grains)
- Drink more water than usual; 1/2 to 1 gallon of water per day.
- Stop using tobacco
- Don’t overdo it. Many people, novice and experienced alike, commonly complain of tired and aching bodies; the result of believing that the harder the body is pushed the faster it will improve. In fact, the opposite is true. The more moderately you train, as long as you are increasing your heart rate adequately, the more quickly you will improve.
HOW MANY VETERANS PARTICIPATE ON A TEAM?
Our goal is to create teams consisting of 12 Veterans. Keep in mind that the demand for our program exceeds the number of Veterans we can accept in a given year. That means if you are selected, you must be fully committed and do everything within your control to complete the entire program – all 3 Phases.
DURING THE DEPLOYMENT WHERE WILL I SLEEP AND WHAT WILL I EAT?
Before you even depart your home to travel to Asheville for your deployment you will be given a very detailed operations order that contains everything you need to know to successfully complete this phase of training.
If you are participating in the backpacking expedition you will sleep in a hotel every night when you are not on the trail. While on the trail for two nights you will sleep on the ground on a mattress pad in a tent. While on the trail you will eat nutritious food and snacks including nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, dehydrated meals, fresh fruit, hot chocolate and coffee. If you have any dietary restrictions please let us know when selected for the team.
If you are participating in our adaptive sport program you will always sleep in a bed and have access to showers and restrooms. ACH facilities may or may not be available. All of your breakfast and dinner meals are prepared and cooked for you and box lunches are prepared for your mid-day meal.
WILL I BE EXPECTED TO SHARE MY PERSONAL STORY DURING THE DEPLOYMENT?
As mentioned in Q13, we plan to have team campfire discussions each night (weather permitting). You will never be asked or forced to share your personal story, experience in the military, or challenges you are facing during this time or anytime for that matter. That said, it is our experience that the most healing takes place around the campfire. We really believe that we are Stronger Together and Together Unbroken. Our intent is to surround you with a connected, caring, community. Unbroken Spirit delivers learning, in large part, by discussing course and personal experiences. Be prepared to share your thoughts, feelings, and perspective and also gain insight from others. You will be amazed at how many other Veterans on your team are dealing with the same challenges.
DO I NEED TO BRING ANY CAMPING GEAR, EQUIPMENT, OR CLOTHING?
We only ask that you bring your personal clothes and shoes such as comfortable hiking shoes, pants, tops, fleece, socks, and underwear. You can also bring your own camping gear if you have any. Otherwise, we provide everything and our gear and equipment is top of the line, lightweight, and comfortable. This includes rain gear, headlamps, trekking poles, water filtration system, rain gear, fleece zip jacket, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, pillow, tent, stove, fuel and more. You will receive a complete packing list for your deployment so it will be easy for you to decide what to bring.
CAN I BRING MY SERVICE DOG?
We can discuss the pros and cons of bringing service dogs during your interview. Your dog must meet the ADA definition of service animal (service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities).
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE POST-DEPLOYMENT PHASE OF THE PROGRAM?
This phase of training continues to build your self-confidence and a sense of purpose so you can lead yourself, family or friends, and community effectively as a servant leader. Following one of our Guiding Principles−Leave No One Behind−you will be assigned a Mentor during this Phase of Training to guide you through the Post-Deployment process.
The relationship that develops is expected to be incredibly rewarding and satisfying for both you and your Mentor. Additionally, you will participate in 3 more instructor-led seminars online with your teammates. Each session provides a fun way to reconnect with your team and discuss a special topic that will help your development. These sessions usually last about 45 minutes and no preparation is required.
Finally you will be expected to plan, organize, and conduct a small community service project of your choice.
WHAT ELSE WILL BE EXPECTED OF ME?
We will expect you to work hard and turn in all your assignments on time. The reading and homework assignments are manageable and not overwhelming. They will take approximately two to three hours every two weeks during the Pre-Deployment Phase. Keep in mind, you are investing in yourself and family. Our program requires a lot of self-reflection and we equip you with the skills needed for your journey. We will provide you with feedback for each assignment and you will find that one-on-one communication invaluable. You will be required to participate in a total of 6 online seminars in the evening at 7:00 PM EST over a three month period during Phase I. Everything to keep you on track including the schedule, reading assignments, and homework will be provided to you in the course syllabus.
These seminars and assignments are mandatory and necessary in order for you to stay eligible to graduate from our program. Community Service.
During the Deployment Phase you will normally miss 4 days of work if you are employed (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) depending on your travel plans. Many employers give Veterans this time off . We can provide proof of your enrollment if necessary.
Finally, we will ask you to work with the Mentor that is assigned to you during your Post-Deployment Phase of training. This person will be a resource to you and help further your development. As mentioned in Q19, you will be required to attend three additional online team meetings during this phase of your training. During this phase we will also ask you to conduct some kind of community service activity of your choosing and your mentor will assist you in planning the activity/event and ensure you have the resources you need to be successful.
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY PERSONAL INFORMATION?
We completely understand your concerns about privacy and want to assure you that protecting your personal information is a top priority for us.
As a small organization, we handle all sensitive information with the utmost care. The information you provide on the application form is only shared with our small team of reviewers who are responsible for selecting participants. It is never used for any purpose other than assembling the best teams for our programs.
WHERE CAN I GET ADDITIONAL INFORMATION?
Please contact us at info@unbrokenspirit.org