We are a diverse community of scientists, physicians, therapists, coaches, veterans, and citizens who have witnessed both the suffering in our society and the possibility of real healing. We came together out of concern for the rising tide of trauma, addiction, and disconnection, and because we have the experience, training, and resolve to help. Each of us has seen firsthand that the crisis of PTSD and substance use, especially among combat veterans, is not simply a medical problem. It is a crisis of isolation, loss of purpose, and broken connection.

Project New Day was born from that understanding. It was inspired by the philanthropic leadership of Mike Sinyard, founder of Specialized Bicycle Components, the world’s largest manufacturer of premium bicycles, and Outride, a nonprofit advancing youth mental health and well-being through cycling programs and research. Drawing on this experience and commitment, we have developed, validated, and now freely share a more human and effective model of recovery. From the beginning, Project New Day has self-funded this work and remains focused on impact, not financial gain.

After completing our multi-year studies and demonstrating the program’s efficacy, we turned our full energy toward expanding its reach, working actively to bring this model to combat veterans at scale at no cost to them.

We have learned from veteran participants that even well-intentioned institutional systems often struggle to foster the authentic connection, trust, and sense of belonging essential for meaningful healing. Large, top-down approaches can unintentionally create distance. Repeatedly navigating complex systems, retelling one’s story to new providers, or being reduced to diagnoses and prescriptions rarely restores the sense of connection, purpose, and community that veterans identify as central to true healing.

We are a grassroots organization driven by a deep commitment to honor the tremendous sacrifices of veterans who have given so much of their lives in service to our country. Our proven, peer-led model seeks out these men and women rather than waiting for them to find us. We bring together our proven program along with combat veterans, trauma-trained coaches, and aligned partner organizations in a coordinated, compassionate effort. Through this approach, we help veterans process trauma, rebuild identity, and reclaim purpose and meaning in their lives.