Epizelus

Overview

Epizelus is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, national nonprofit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting military veterans and their families. The organization aims to facilitate mental and physical healing for these individuals, enabling them to reengage fully with their communities.

History and Focus

The term "Epizelus" does not appear in historical discussions of combat-related stress. However, the organization's mission aligns with the historical context of combat stress, which has been recognized under various terms throughout history, including Soldier's Heart during the Civil War, Shell Shock in World War I, Battle Fatigue during World War II, and finally as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as officially recognized in 1980[2]. Despite being acknowledged as a significant mental health condition, PTSD remains without a cure, but there is ongoing hope for effective treatments and support[2].

Activities and Events

Epizelus organizes various events to raise funds and community awareness about the challenges faced by veterans. These events include fundraising galas, community gatherings, and partnerships with local businesses to support their efforts. For instance, the organization has hosted events such as the Blue Angels Flight Demo and BBQ, as well as a Friendsgiving Fundraising Gala[1].

Mission and Impact

The mission of Epizelus is centered on providing resources to veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of healing and community reintegration[4]. While the organization does not focus on the terminology used to describe PTSD, it prioritizes ensuring that individuals have access to necessary resources for recovery[3]. This approach highlights the organization's commitment to action over semantics, focusing on tangible support rather than debates over nomenclature[3][5].

Financial Support

Epizelus accepts both one-time and recurring donations to further its mission. These contributions are crucial in facilitating the organization's support services for veterans and their families[3].