Connected Warriors Inc

Connected Warriors Inc is a nonprofit organization designated as a 501(c)(3), primarily involved in providing evidence-based trauma-conscious yoga to military personnel, veterans, and their families.

Mission and Purpose

The mission of Connected Warriors is to empower warriors through a journey of healing, growth, and transformation. They focus on a community-based approach by partnering with agencies that support first responders, active-duty servicemembers, veterans, and their families. The organization aims to offer meaningful, life-affirming services at no cost, benefiting individuals, families, and the community at large.

History

Connected Warriors was founded by Judy Weaver, who was inspired to act after witnessing the transformative power of yoga on her student and his family. Initially, classes were started in Florida and later expanded due to growing demand. Today, the organization offers over 125 weekly classes in 24 states and nine countries, including yoga studios, community centers, military installations, and VA Medical Centers.

Programs

The organization provides trauma-conscious yoga training to certified yoga teachers and healthcare professionals. This training is recognized for its therapeutic value, particularly in addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other military-related psychological challenges. Connected Warriors also engages in collaborations with veterans service organizations and the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure the effectiveness of their programs.

Impact

Connected Warriors serves a community of approximately 100 million people, including 21 million U.S. veterans, 1.4 million active-duty servicemembers, and 60-80 million family members. Their classes have been supported by various studies, including those conducted by the University of California, San Diego, and the VA San Diego Healthcare System, to name a few.

Financial Overview

Connected Warriors primarily relies on contributions for its operations, with a significant portion of its revenue coming from donations. The organization's financial transparency and governance practices reflect its commitment to ethical management and accountability.

Governance and Volunteerism

Connected Warriors emphasizes volunteerism as the cornerstone of its success. The organization invites individuals to join their cause and contribute to helping servicemembers and veterans find peace of mind. The board of directors oversees strategic decisions and ensures adherence to governance practices that promote diversity and accountability.