– The entire week was planned out well.

– The sessions with the TCM staff were extremely beneficial. I feel so much better about myself and the issues I was dealing with.

– I did not know what to expect, I was looking forward to some things, and others…not so much. To my surprise, I enjoyed all of it. I couldn’t understand how I could address the past event without reliving it, but TCM was amazing. I was able to learn how to redirect feelings or thoughts that drained my time and energy. I feel better equipped to dismiss unhelpful thoughts and give my energy and focus to my loved ones and myself.

– Learning pain management through TCM has been the best techniques so far. Using the mind to manage pain in the body will improve my quality of life.

– I’ve always been intimidated by Horses, but I really enjoyed the Equine therapy. The staff from PNH, TCM, and Genesis were all very approachable, welcoming, and helpful.

– It was so great to see my husband try new things. We both enjoyed the people and activities that we did together. I feel, I had a shift in the way I look at many traumatic past issues and I feel very positive and less stressed.

– This retreat was amazing, I learned so much and can utilize these skills at home to relax. I can not remember when I have been so stressed free – the lost time. Having a great time with my husband, thank you so much to the whole team.

– I can not thank you enough for giving my wife and I the opportunity to come back. I will continue to promote and encourage fellow veterans to reach out and attend future TCM/PNH retreats. This is truly a gift that provides an unbelievable alternative to mainstream methods. I have been so lucky to have worked with Brinn. I have used and benefited since my first visit, and I am so excited to enhance that growth going forward. Special thanks to Patty and Bill and Donna who donate all the time they can to Veterans and our families. Blessing to
All! Extra Blessings to Donna

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What was the most beneficial activity for you at the retreat?

“Cash, Cookies and Cortina” if you know, you know.

Equine Therapy was incredible, and everything was perfect build up to TCM being the release ultimate.

TCM – it presented a dynamic opportunity to address trauma and move forward.

TCM – finding my voice and realizing I could not protect myself from the past and I do not have to allow other actions, opinions against me to control my present and future.

Yoga. Keep me loose and relax and put me in a beautiful place mentally every time.

TCM – because it changed my perspective of memories that brought negative emotions.

All activities were beneficial if I had to choose one, it would have to be Carrie.

The Cortina Method was the most meaningful part of this retreat. It allowed me to release some of my serious deep held trauma – including my MST and PTSD without having to relieve it.

TCM – It has helped me to gain skills to manage people and situations going forward.

Loved Sound Healing with Joe and Warrior Art! Thanks,

Testimonial to Project New Hope Inc.

Thank you, Bill, Donna, Patty, TCM. The services and resources you provide are beyond valuable. You truly serve those who served. From my heart, thank you for inviting me to return to trach at these healing retreats! I am extremely grateful to be part of the experience and meeting all the participants is a gift. The more I get to know you all, the more I Love You. Watching the positive transformation over the four days is Amazing!!! You all are doing God’s work. The spaces at Genesis are also so Inspiring and Spiritual. You are very generous and may those offerings ALL be returned to you tenfold. YOU ARE A Blessing! C.A.

I have never felt more comfortable or safe with a group/space so quickly. I immediately fell in love with Donna, Patty… and Bill, too 😊Their passion for PNH and what they do shined through in every moment of the four days. The schedule/agenda was well-planned and thought out. Yoga made my body feel like I could move in ways I have not in years. It gives me hope for getting back to sports/activities that I used to enjoy as a coping mechanism. TCM was like voodoo in the best way. I never felt anything like it, feeling more hopeful overall. This retreat was transformational, and the cookies were to die-for!!

A 5-star experience! I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity offered by Project New Hope. From the beginning to end I felt the love and support given by all the staff. The healing therapy modalities were amazing and the TCM is an incredible experience that exceeded my expectations.

TCM is unlike anything I have ever tried before. I enjoyed the sessions and felt changed for a more positive outlook. I slept peacefully without a single nightmare last night for the first time in years. I am so grateful to have been included in the women’s veterans group May 1-5, 2025. The massage made me feel well cared for and pampered like going to a spa. The reflexology was amazing. Yoga in the mornings and evenings was just what I needed to help alleviate the physical pain. The reiki was quite different, and I have no words to explain, but I feel helped. The food and lodging were wonderful, and everyone was so kind and uplifting. I felt accepted just as I am for the first time.

Oh my Gosh! This is an amazing place and retreat. Everything was so well thought out by the staff, volunteers, and the food every day. I am beyond blessing and grateful for this opportunity to attend this retreat. I appreciate everyone that made this event possible. Much gratitude!!

I came to the retreat to reunite with a long-lost bestie. What I left with was renewed strength (mental) and clarity as well as bonds with a beautiful group of “friends.” I plan to move through the remainder of my life staying connected. This retreat has had a profound impact on my life. I will NEVER forget the people I met here, and me & my bestie will carry these cherished memories with us forever. Aside from that, TCM is something that I feel should spread through Veteran communities in every state. Its cabs help so many people if they just have access to it. God Bless you all for making this retreat available.

I learned through TCM a way to file my past traumatic memories/evets as just emotions from what happened in such a way that I am telling the story as a fact, but without the welling up of emotion and thinking,  I could do nothing to change that. I learned to pay attention to be living in the moment, not dwell on the past (which I can’t change) and not think of the future (which I can’t predict) and live the present knowing I will be able to handle what will come in the future.

Honestly, being transparent and brutal as possible, this retreat was unlike anything I have ever experienced through my healing journey so far. Being a USMC with a history of PTS & MST, chronic pain, unknown medical issues, and multiple concurrent diagnosis, I came here brunt out, physically, emotionally, spiritually and at my last straw of breath. The Cortina Method gave me the space and safety, I needed to finally, so freaking quickly let go of my trauma without being retraumatized (repeatedly so). The facilitator SAW ME and held space with so much honest compassion that finally for once in this complicated life I did not just feel like a diagnosis, I felt like a WHOLE PERSON again. The equine therapy (my Pablo) touched a part of me, I did not even know (I honestly did not) that it also needed to use some healing. The Yoga Nidra, the sound bowls, and all the holistic tools/methods allowed me to feel present and, in my body, again (and in control). That is something I know I have struggled immensely with for years due to trauma and chronic illnesses, (one pandora box was opened). I walked away today, sad to leave, though it was scheduled time to do so. Now with some freaking impressive tools, sisters, friendships, connections, and more than anything else hope. I now can attest that I believe every Veteran (woman or male “or not”), whose carrying some invisible wounds should experience what I just experienced and went through with an honest ab open mind, healing is possible and it can/should begin here – so come and try it.  Thank you, Project New Hope Inc, thank you from the bottom of my (refreshed) heart. You are all truly reminded and shown that I matter and importantly I am not alone.

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Testimonials

During veterans retreats participants learn and practice seven forms of meditation: sitting, walking, writing, eating, working, speaking, and listening. The time together includes extended periods of silence, which supports the process of healing and transformation.

This retreat is a chance to step away from our usual everyday life, focus on ourselves and begin to discover how to make peace with our un-peacefulness. This retreat for veterans and their family members is an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and connect with other veterans who understand and share our journey.

These veterans’ retreats are led by Claude AnShin Thomas, Vietnam veteran, author, peace advocate, and Zen Buddhist monk. Claude AnShin has been navigating the realities of post-traumatic stress and learning to live in the right relation with the consequences of military and combat service for more than 50 years.

This will be my second veterans outreach organization group I attended. Although vastly different from my first retreat, this one being mindful and learning how to meditate allowed me to sit in silence and focus on my breathing and wellbeing.

I enjoyed this retreat and look forward to going on another one with fellow veterans. Being out of my comfort zone is the first step to healing. Being here is a step closer to that direction.

This retreat has been a revelation for me. I have always had an inability to sit still but these new techniques and practices are extremely helpful.

Checking in was a breeze! It was so streamlined, and the staff was wonderful. I look forward to connecting with Donna and Bill at future events and volunteering.

Thank you for letting me share this wonderful experience. As the last remaining member of my family, the support of such kind nonjudgemental people was wonderful. The energy (positive) was exceptional, truly special.

I was not certain what to expect from the retreat but quickly realized it will be beneficial and adding new tools for me to continue my new life journey of peace, Joy, and happiness.

I really like the chance to learn a process/method that I can use to stay in the present moment and feel whatever I feel and make choices that will continue to guide me to a place of peace.

Anshin and the crew were fantastic.

I enjoyed this because I learned to be with my own thoughts. I was able to meet new people and the whole experience was impressive.

Primarily, thank you for everything you are both doing (Donna & Bill) to provide this opportunity to Veterans.

Extremely interested and much appreciated!

It meant a lot to me to have someone say to me “Thank you for your sacrifice.”

This weekend was an amazing experience! Thank you so much! Everyone was extremely helpful and caring. I feel more relaxed.

A Brand-New Poem:
Here at Project New Hope, I learned a unique way to cope.
I was instructed by the best in finding purpose while I rest.
I used my breath to guide my step.
Every time I had to walk, and I tried not to forget when we were not supposed to talk.
A peaceful mindset was revealed simply cause my lips were sealed and when the time came to go home, I had learned a brand-new poem.

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“TCM – felt like I learned tools to get beyond my limiting beliefs and feel empowered going forward.”

“Reflexology – learned so much about my body that I didn’t know before.”

“Learned new alternative therapy like Art, Equine, Yoga, Reiki, Massage, Meditation and Reflexology.”

“Donna and Bill were incredible hosts for the retreat.”

“The agenda was amazing and well structured, all the instructors were incredible and knowledgeable.”

“Michelle was terrific in her TCM expertise.”

“TCM -very focused and it was nice trying some new things.”

“A great experience and a lovely group and glad that I came.”

“Not knowing what to expect, it was amazing experience.”

“Learning how to expose my struggles then cope with them was a huge benefit.”

“What was the most beneficial activity for you and why? TCM because it helped me heal my mind.”

“This experience was so amazing , I gained so many tools to better myself.”

“The compassion, empathy, and acceptance given to myself and other Veterans was amazing from the moment I was greeted by Donna I knew I was in safe space.  The serenity and peace that was provided I just needed to surrender and be a willing participant. Together, I was able to find that and as Sandy said, start from today and move forward.”

“Blessed to be part of the TRIBE.”

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Yoga classes and bonding with everyone was beneficial.

Learning new TCM alternative therapy at retreat.

TCM and Gut Health were amazing and beneficial.

I was struggling with PTS, and I feel like I am managing so much better now.

I did not know what to expect, but I figured it cannot make me any worse. I cannot describe how grateful I am that I found this retreat. The PNH Team of Bill, Donna, Patty, and Debbie was amazing and managed us like champions.

I loved being outside with the horses and learning that I am not as allergic as I thought I was. I also loved Reflexology and Reiki and they were all beneficial to my healing.

I was very hesitant to come after signing up at first. I have not had good outcomes from group therapy, but I found out very quickly that this was not therapy, well not anything like I have been to before.

Everyone was impressed. All the events were so unexpected, and no one had to relive any trauma and we were saying amongst ourselves what happened without reliving anything. Breathing correctly has always been hard, now that I am taking and learning Yoga that will help me along with Reflexology to deal with chronic pain.

TCM was a surprise. The whole concept was very refreshing, and I feel 60% better than when I first got here. That is huge, I am looking forward to learning more.

Reflexology, Donna is the first person I let touch my feet and it was so beneficial.

The new alternative I learned was meditation and Yoga.

Thank you so much, I learned so much about myself and made great long-time friends and connections with the Yoga and Reflexology instructor.

TCM was beneficial and a definite and positive shift.

Project New Hope Inc. has given me an unbelievable gift in this retreat. I am living healthier in both body and brain. I know I am going to look back on this week for years to see this experience as a major pivotal experience in my life.

I do not know what or how it works but it did for me, my nighttime was different than before.

The most beneficial activity was the setting and different holistic modalities. A peaceful, safe, and secure setting provides physical comfort.

The new alternative therapy that I learned and experienced was Reiki.

Connecting with other women Veterans was beneficial and the alternative therapies like Yoga and walking in the woods on the ground.

The Gut Health class was impressive.

I am so incredibly thankful to Bill & Donna and Patty! To be with other female Vets is utterly amazing because we all get it!

I look forward to other PNH Retreats.

The most beneficial activity for me was the one-on-one with Michael. I can move on from issues that I felt were keeping me stuck. PTS issues that were problematic since I was a child have been resolved and I will reach my goals.

I will recommend TCM to other Veterans. Yoga with Clarissa, I cannot say enough positive things about her and the experience and positive contributions, she is amazing.

The Reflexology practioners was definite.

The Massage therapist was friendly and personable, and I enjoyed my massage.

The equine therapy was beneficial and the Gut/Brain connection with Lori was highly informative and beneficial.

The most beneficial part of the retreat was the friendliness and warm energy from the staff. They created a welcoming environment filled with positive activities inside a cozy and safe place.

I will practice the new alternative therapy of Reiki and Reflexology.

Thank you all for this retreat. I had an amazing time here and I am so glad that I stayed and got out of her car because when I first arrived, I was in a bad mood and took an hour and half to make up my mind about staying. All the modalities and activities were wonderful and really got everyone out of their heads and into a better-positive space, including myself.

Thank you all for the wonderful fulfilling week.

Thank you, Bill, Dona, Patty, and Genesis. Incredibly grateful to have been asked to attend and share Yoga. PNH is amazing and provides healing, community, support, a safe place, love, friendship, and a very welcome environment. This helps everyone to feel comfortable to share and be vulnerable.

Thank you, Project New Hope Inc. for making our Veterans feel seen and heard! WONDERFUL.

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Massage helped to ease tension.

Reiki calmed my mind.

Reflexology helped with some issues I did not know I had before.

TCM, can not say enough about what this has done for me. Amazing.

Would like to learn more about Alternative therapies such as Yoga, Massage, Reflexology and Reiki.

TCM, so far, so good.

The most beneficial activity was building relationships, growing close to my spouse, and learning new tools to use in life.

Time off from life every day.

Learned another tool to help deal with anxiety issues.

Had a fun time. TCM is interesting and potentially useful and helpful.

The Reflexology was outstanding! The daily Yoga was a plus.

The most beneficial activity for me was Yoga.

The daily shared experience as a group served to build community of support and self-collective intent.

TCM, the result was amazing, and I am sure it will be life changing.

I learned new Alternative Therapy such as breathing and Yoga.

All was great, the TCM visits were amazing.

I learned new Alternative Therapy such as Yoga and reflexology.

This TCM program was helpful and enlightening. It allowed me to think beyond the norm and work through some issues in a non-standard format.

The most beneficial activity was the TCM visits, opened my eyes to new ways to deal and cope with problems.

I learned new Alternative Therapy methods such as breathing and TCM techniques.

Excellent experience learned a lot about me and healing and communication.

The most beneficial activity was holistic. Needed the time-out and to relax from Stressors of life. TCM addressed things that I did not think still impacted me in a way that was positive and practical.

The new Alternative Therapy I learned was TCM, ways of thinking and addressing things.

I would love to stay involved with Project New Hope Inc. for future events and retreats and would like to volunteer. Thank you for everything you do!

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– The weekend was wonderful.

– All the activities were enlightening and beneficial.

– The Marconic Energy Healing, Reflexology, Yoga and Reiki were beneficial.

– Telling my story.

– Storytelling, plan to incorporate this with my writing group.

– Being with other Vets, sharing and meeting new friends.

– No words can describe how much I enjoy PNH and look forward to retreats.

– I am blessed to call Donna and Bill cherished friends.

– I learned a new Alternative Therapy for authoring my story.

– The weekend was wonderful. All the activities were enlightened and beneficial.

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“My kids and I were not sure what to expect but everyone was welcoming and generous. They kept us occupied and we had a wonderful time, the five days flew by. Thank you all so much for the classes, resources, and support during this retreat.”

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to be able to spend uninterrupted time with my family. Everything Project New Hope did was great; the kids had a wonderful time, and it felt like vacation with family. Thank you so much. Looking forward to the next retreat.”

“Everyone at PNH is amazing.”

“Debbie was extra exceptional with the way she managed the kids, she had so many activities set up such as Movie Night, Ice Cream Sundae Night, Bingo, and my kids enjoyed them all. She was so expressive and welcoming and such fun to be around. Cannot say enough about this retreat and PNH. Looking forward to attending another family retreat.”

“I have never been on a retreat but always wanted to go on one. This was an incredible experience! From the natural surroundings and provided food the activities, ranging from vibrational sound bowls, yoga, reiki, to Candy Bingo, Ice Cream Sundae Night, Movie Night and family games to the amazing childcare and fun provided by Debbie, Mady and Brady, this was phenomenal. It was so needed and beyond what we could have imagined. Props to everyone on the team Donna, Patty, and Bill for being so friendly, communicative, and just overall sweet and great! We look forward to hopefully staying connected and seeing you all again on another retreat.”

“Project New Hope has been incredibly helpful to my family. The family Retreat not only improved our communication within our own family but also allowed us to connect and communicate better with others. The variety of workshops provided us with new tools to manage stress, from yoga and reiki to simply having open conversations. It was phenomenal to meet personnel from different branches of the service and realize how much we have in common.”

“My kids enjoyed the company of others and formed strong bonds with others who shared similar life experiences. I highly recommend Project New Hope Inc. to any Veteran and Military Families. We look forward to staying in touch with our new connections we have made and reuniting soon.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this retreat. I really liked the alternative holistic therapies Reiki, Yoga and Sound Bowls healing. The family events were extremely helpful as well as being able to feel like there was a community to look out for the community to look out for the children while we can work on ourselves was extremely helpful.”

“I did not know what to expect, other than what the camp sites and website showed. The team at PNH really showed up. They were so pleasant to work with, anything we needed they worked to make it happen. They took amazing care of our children during the events where my husband and I needed to attend together.”

What was the most beneficial activity for you at the retreat, and why?

1. The Gut Health, Reiki, and Sound Bowls
2. Ability to spend quality uninterrupted time with my family.
3. Sound Bowls was super relaxing.
4. Getting Out to nature.
5. I cannot choose, everything was great. I loved the mixture of information sessions and meditational experiences, along with the childcare so we could focus on ourselves.
6. Workshop effective communication.
7. Yoga, Sound Bowls, and Reiki.

Did you learn a new Alternative Therapy method to manage your behavioral health at the retreat? If so, what was it?

1. Reiki
2. Thinking before speaking, Getting down to kids’ level
3. Sound Bowls Therapy.
4. Paying more attention to mind gut healing.
5. Yoga and Reiki.
6. Sound Bowls and Reiki.
7. Breathwork

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